How to select the best hiking shoes for women

How do you choose between hiking shoes for women (trekking shoes), hiking boots for women and hiking sandals? It seems an impossible task!

Well, hiking shoes for women are the middle ground, offering foot protection and cushioning for your feet over rough or rocky terrain. On the other hand, hiking sandals are more for casual bush walking, as they offer limited support and no ankle protection.

Hiking boots for women offer the best foot and ankle protection, as well as additional support for your ankle. Women’s hiking boots are perfect for backpackers, for long treks or if you tend to turn your ankle easily.

When you are buying hiking gear, it is always a good idea to have a pair of hiking sandals in your wardrobe, as well as a pair of good quality hiking shoes for women (trekking shoes). Whether you include hiking boots for women depends on how much hiking you expect to do in the future, but hiking boots in Australia are very useful, so they are worth considering.

Your hiking shoes make a huge difference to your comfort and enjoyment on the trail. Whether you’re day hiking or thru hiking; in hot desert or snowy alps, having well-fitting and supportive hiking shoes is a must for any trip. Paddy Pallin stocks a wide range of women's hiking shoe brands with options ranging from ultralight trail runners or sturdy leather hiking shoes. You will also have the choice of waterproof shoes (including Gore-Tex shoes) and breathable non-waterproof hiking shoes. We stock a variety of models including wide hiking shoes, narrow hiking shoes, and travel shoes. With all these options you can find the best women’s hiking shoe for Australian conditions or for wherever you’re hitting the trail.

FAQs

What Brands of Women’s Hiking Shoes Does Paddy Pallin Stock?

At Paddy Pallin we stock a wide range of footwear brands so we can offer the best women’s hiking shoes for any pursuit. From Scarpa hiking shoes, to Salomon trail runners - there’s something for everyone. We also stock Merrell hiking shoes, On trail running shoes, The North Face hiking shoes, and even Rab hut slippers for alpine trips!

Can I Try Shoes on In-Store?

Yes! It’s important to make sure your hiking shoes fit comfortably and the best way to do this is by trying them on in store. Paddy’s staff are all trained to assist you and will be happy to help you find the perfect style and size!

What Is Paddy Pallin’s Returns Policy on Footwear?

Paddy Pallin offers a 90 day change of mind return policy on women’s hiking shoes, as long as they are in as-new condition with a proof of purchase. This means you’ll have plenty of time to wear your new shoes inside the house or try them on with your hiking socks to make sure the fit is right for you! Unfortunately shoes that have been worn outside or are no longer in original condition cannot be returned except under warranty.

For more information on our returns policy, click here.

How Do I Choose Between Hiking Shoes and Hiking Boots?

Hiking boots are great for times when you need ankle support, such as when carrying heavy loads or if you know you’re prone to rolled ankles. Hiking boots are the footwear of choice for most multi day hikers. Hiking shoes are a lighter weight, more breathable and offer more freedom of movement than boots. You can use women’s hiking shoes for day hikes, or for ultralight hiking where you’re not carrying too much weight.

What Kind of Hiking Shoe Should I Buy?

The first thing to consider when choosing shoes is what kind of walking you’ll be doing. If you’re going to be multi-day hiking with a heavy pack, you might look for a beefier pair of supportive women’s hiking shoes. If you’re out for day trips or carrying a light pack, you may prefer a pair of lightweight women’s hiking shoes or trail runners. If you’re looking for hiking shoes for travel or for use in the city as well as the bush, you might want to keep aesthetics in mind and go for a versatile pair of women’s leather hiking shoes or stylish trail runners that can be dressed up or down. If you find yourself on lots of technical terrain and are looking for hiking shoes for rock scrambling, a pair of women’s approach shoes will provide the grip and performance you need.

The second thing to consider when buying hiking shoes is the fit. Hiking shoes should fit securely at the heel without slipping, but should provide enough space that you can wiggle your toes without any pressure or pinching. You should also make sure that your hiking shoes aren’t too tight and have room for hiking socks and. Additionally, make sure there is enough room in the hiking shoes in case your feet begin to swell after a long day on the trail.

For more tips on choosing hiking footwear, have a look at our in-depth guide.

Do You Stock Women’s Hiking Shoes for Wide Feet?

Yes! At Paddy’s we stock a range of wide fit hiking shoes for women. For more information on our range of women’s hiking shoes for wide feet, please contact our friendly customer support for some recommendations or come to the store to find the perfect fit.

Do You Stock Women’s Hiking Shoes for Narrow Feet?

Yes! At Paddy’s we stock a range of women’s narrow fit hiking shoes. Scarpa and Salomon hiking shoes both feature a narrower fit or adjustable fit. Narrow women’s hiking shoes will help your footwear stay secure even on technical terrain.

Do You Stock Women’s Waterproof Shoes?

Yes, we stock a range of waterproof hiking shoes for women, including women’s Gore-Tex hiking shoes. From waterproof trail runners to Gore-Tex leather shoes, there are plenty of waterproof women’s hiking shoes to choose from. Paddy’s also stocks a selection of non-waterproof hiking shoes for ultimate breathability in hot and dry conditions.

Do You Stock Women’s Trail Running Shoes?

Yes, Paddy’s stocks Salomon trail runners , On trail running shoes and The North Face trail shoes. If you’re looking for lightweight hiking shoes for trail running or fast and light hiking, these ultralight running shoes can’t be beat. 

How Should I Care for My Hiking Shoes?

Caring for your shoes will extend their life and maintain their performance so you can keep hiking for longer. When you come home from a hike, take the time to clean your shoes of mud with a damp cloth. If your shoes are wet, dry them slowly by removing the insole and filling them with newspaper to absorb moisture. Avoid placing shoes by a fire or a heat source as this can dry them too quickly and damage the material. Leather conditioner is available to keep your leather hiking shoes in top shape to avoid cracking or damage. You can also re-waterproof your hiking shoes using Nikwax, Gear Aid, or Sno-Seal waterproof shoe treatments.

Have a read of our Outdoor Footwear Care guide for tips on caring for your hiking shoes.

What Kind of Socks Should I Wear With My Hiking Shoes?

Your hiking socks should provide cushioning and support while you hike. Merino hiking socks or synthetic hiking socks are ideal as these will dry faster than cotton and are better at regulating temperature, even if they get wet. You can buy summer hiking socks or winter hiking socks that vary in thickness and warmth. When trying on hiking shoes, make sure to try them with the thickest hiking socks you will be wearing on the trail to ensure there is enough room.