Unearth The Voyage
Winter hiking doesn’t have to mean frozen toes or slippery falls. The right pair of women’s hiking shoes can transform cold, wet trails into safe and comfortable adventures. Whether you’re tackling steep mountain paths or enjoying a snowy forest walk, proper footwear makes all the difference between a miserable trek and an unforgettable experience.
1. Icebug Rover 2 RB9X GTX — Best for wet, cold, mixed trails
Wet, sloppy trails meet their match with this innovative shoe. The Rover 2 combines full GORE-TEX waterproofing with Icebug’s famous RB9X rubber, creating a grip that laughs at cold, slick surfaces.
That BOA dial system means no fumbling with frozen laces when your fingers are numb. Just twist and you’re locked in tight. Plus, Icebug uses recycled materials, so you can feel good about your environmental footprint while leaving actual footprints in the snow.
Keep in mind there’s no built-in insulation, so pack warm socks for those really frigid days. At around $199 and weighing roughly 11.8 ounces per shoe, it’s a solid mid-range investment for serious winter walkers.
2. La Sportiva Spire GTX — Best for support and protection
When the trail gets rough and unforgiving, you need a shoe that won’t back down. La Sportiva’s Spire GTX delivers that planted, confidence-inspiring feel hikers crave on technical terrain.
This shoe sits firmly in the “serious hiker” category without crossing into boot territory. GORE-TEX keeps moisture out while serious underfoot protection shields you from sharp rocks and roots hiding beneath snow. Reviewers consistently praise its durability on wet, challenging trails.
Yes, it runs on the firmer side and carries a premium price tag. But for hikers tackling demanding winter routes who want the agility of a shoe with near-boot-level protection, the Spire GTX remains a longtime favorite worth every penny.
3. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX — Best all-round winter day-hiker
Versatility is the name of the game here. Salomon designed the X Ultra 4 GTX with a stable chassis that handles steep, slippery terrain like a champ, making it perfect for unpredictable winter conditions.
The Contagrip outsole grips confidently on wet rocks and icy patches. GORE-TEX keeps your feet dry, and the women’s-specific fit means no more settling for “shrink it and pink it” designs. Multiple long-term testers rave about how this shoe balances stability, water resistance, and all-day comfort.
Just remember it’s not insulated, so when temperatures plunge below freezing, thicker socks become your best friend. For day hikes across varied winter landscapes, this shoe consistently delivers reliable performance.
4. Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX — Best for plush comfort on cold, damp paths
Ever wish your hiking shoes felt more like walking on clouds? Hoka heard you. The Anacapa 2 Low GTX brings that signature soft, rolling ride to winter trails without sacrificing waterproof protection.
Vibram Megagrip outsole tackles wet surfaces confidently, while GORE-TEX Invisible Fit keeps dampness at bay. This shoe shines on long, wet winter walks where comfort matters as much as performance. In-depth reviews consistently describe it as the comfort-first choice for mixed winter conditions.
Don’t expect it to replace crampons on true ice—microspikes are still your friend when things get seriously slippery. But for hikers prioritizing cushioned comfort on cold, damp paths, the Anacapa 2 Low delivers plush happiness mile after mile.
5. Scarpa Rush 2 GTX — Best for fast-and-light hikes in the cold
Speed demons who refuse to slow down when temperatures drop will appreciate this shoe’s protective yet nimble character. Scarpa built the Rush 2 GTX for hikers who move quickly over technical terrain, even in winter conditions.
GORE-TEX keeps moisture out while solid torsional support prevents ankle rolls on uneven, snow-covered ground. Testers consistently favor this shoe for wet, rocky trails where agility and protection must coexist. Recent hands-on reviews highlight its winter-friendly waterproof construction and impressive stability.
One heads-up: the fit runs a bit narrow, so folks with wider feet should definitely try before buying. For fast-paced winter adventurers who value both protection and speed, the Rush 2 GTX hits that sweet spot perfectly.
6. Merrell Moab 3 (Waterproof/GTX) — Best budget-friendly classic
Sometimes the tried-and-true option is exactly what you need. The Moab 3 has earned its reputation as a dependable workhorse that won’t drain your bank account, making quality winter hiking accessible to more adventurers.
That trusted, supportive platform features durable uppers and a Vibram TC5+ outsole that handles slush and snow admirably. Widely available in waterproof versions, it’s easy to find at most outdoor retailers. Recent reviews reinforce its solid traction and excellent value proposition.
Fair warning: it’s heavier than lightweight options and slower to dry after getting soaked. CleverHiker notes these tradeoffs clearly. But for budget-conscious hikers wanting reliable winter performance without fancy bells and whistles, the Moab 3 remains a smart, time-tested choice.
7. Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX — Best for cold-weather grip and structure
Boot-like stability meets shoe-form agility in this burly option from Adidas. The Swift R3 GTX brings serious structure to winter trails, with GORE-TEX blocking moisture and Continental rubber gripping confidently when mercury drops.
Lab tests and field reviews agree: this shoe excels in waterproofing, support, and cold-weather performance. That stiff, warm construction might feel excessive in summer, but becomes a genuine advantage when winter winds howl. Continental rubber—yes, the tire company—delivers reliable traction on chilly, wet surfaces.
Some hikers find it runs warm, which is actually perfect for frigid conditions. If you want a shoe that feels almost as protective as a boot but moves more freely, the Swift R3 GTX offers that rare combination beautifully.
8. The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT — Best lightweight waterproof sneaker-hiker
For hikers who value speed and nimbleness, this shoe feels more like a supercharged trail sneaker than a traditional hiker. The North Face’s FUTURELIGHT waterproof membrane keeps moisture out while that rockered geometry propels you forward over wet boardwalks and muddy singletrack.
Recent teardown reviews and field tests highlight its impressive waterproofing and speed-hike character. That lightweight, nimble feel comes at a small cost: traction is good for trails but doesn’t reach “aggressive winter boot” levels on ice. Microspikes become essential when conditions turn truly slippery.
Think of this as your go-to for fast-paced winter hikes on maintained trails rather than extreme backcountry expeditions. The VECTIV Fastpack delivers waterproof protection without weighing you down.
9. Oboz Katabatic (Low Waterproof / LT Low GTX) — Best fit range (including wide)
Finding hiking shoes that actually fit can feel impossible if your feet don’t match standard sizing. Oboz built its reputation on fit-focused designs, and the Katabatic delivers that promise beautifully across different foot shapes.
The original uses B-DRY waterproofing, while the newer Katabatic LT Low GTX switches to GORE-TEX Invisible Fit for improved breathability. Both versions stay light yet supportive, perfect for winter trails. Trail-tested “best of 2025” picks confirm its waterproofing options and wide-foot friendliness.
Neither version includes insulation, so choose your socks thoughtfully for cold days. But for hikers who’ve struggled to find quality winter shoes that accommodate wider feet or unique foot shapes, the Katabatic opens doors to comfortable winter adventures previously out of reach.
10. Saucony Peregrine ICE+ 3 — Best icy path crossover (trail-runner for winter walking)
What happens when you cross a trail runner with winter-specific rubber? You get this unique hybrid that bridges city sidewalks and snowy trails. Vibram Arctic Grip rubber specifically targets wet ice, making those city-to-trail winter loops safer and more enjoyable.
Multiple reviews cover the ICE+ concept and its real-world tradeoffs. As a trail-running shoe, it offers less underfoot protection than dedicated hikers. Some testers find Arctic Grip’s ice performance inconsistent—microspikes still outperform rubber on serious ice. But for lighter, run-capable winter adventures where you want speed without sacrificing all grip, this crossover shines.
Think morning jogs that turn into impromptu trail explorations. The Peregrine ICE+ 3 handles that versatile winter lifestyle beautifully, even if it won’t replace serious mountaineering footwear.
