The Best Women’s Hiking Boots For the Desert

Top 5 Women’s Hiking Boots For the Desert

1. Under Armour Women’s UA Valsetz RTS Boots

If hiking in the desert, under the hot sun, is your thing, then the Under Armour Women’s UA Valsetz RTS Boots will be your long time desert hike companion.

Under Armour Women’s UA Valsetz RTS Boots

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PROS:
  • The boots have an abrasion-resistant film on the upper part.
  • They are water-resistant
  • The shock absorbency and comfort are excellent.
  • The boots are lightweight and reliable when hiking in the desert

CONS:
  • Some think that the boots are difficult to clean.
  • The boots aren’t waterproof.

Synthetic, extremely lightweight, they have a waterproof mesh upper that will stay durable and breathable all sunny day long. Since they’re not made of leather, you will not have to break in the boots. They’re flexible and mold to your feet, making your hikes more enjoyable. The UA Clutch Fit technology will wrap the ankle with a lightweight “second skin,” which provides comfort and firm support.

The TPU shank is lightweight but very efficient also for offering midfoot support. The build of the boots recommend them for hiking,and the  UA foam (full length) makes the landings padded and turns them into impressive takeoffs.

The boots are water-resistant as they come with DWR water-resistant water upper. After all, there’s not going to rain a lot in the desert. But if you get the boots wet somehow, they will take a couple of drops. They will also take intense wear since the upper part is made with abrasion-resistant and welded film all around the boot.

The fully contoured, compression-molded EVA midsole will cushion your feet, keeping them lightweight.

ArmourGuide® gives useful foot-strike guidance from impact to propulsion, while the ArmourBound® provide extra responsive cushioning.

The shocks at critical impact zones in the heel and forefoot will be absorbed by the ArmourLastic®, giving maximum protection.

Regardless of the inherent issues, the boots stand as a lightweight, comfortable, and dependable choice for hiking in the desert.


2. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Gtx Hiking Boot

If you’re shopping on a tight budget and don’t like to take any chances, you should buy Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Gtx Hiking Boot. The boots are the non-leather option of the famous Moab model, which means they’re lighter and more appropriate for hiking in the desert.

Merrell Womens Moab 2 Mid Gtx Hiking Boot

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PROS:
  • They’re made with synthetic leather and mesh.
  • Waterproofness and breathability are reliable.
  • The traction and stability are also provided
  • The boots are lightweight, flexible, and comfortable

CONS:
  • The style could be improved
  • Some may want more height in the ankle area

The synthetic leather and mesh fabric are used for the upper, which is why the boots are so lightweight. They feature Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, so your feet will stay dry even on a rainy day. Ventilation is adequate too, and the mesh lining allows sweat to escape while blocking sand getting inside the boots. The Bello tongue will also keep debris out, so you won’t have to clean the footwear inside continually.

Hiking is a strenuous activity, so features that protect the foot are essential in hiking boots. These boots also come with a protective toe cap and roomy toe box to make hiking more pleasant. The Kinetic Fit Advanced insole takes the shape of your foot, but you may remove it if you feel it’s too much for you. The heel cushioning is reinforced, so the boots keep the heel snug for the best comfort and stability while hiking. The metal hook classic lace closure will let you find the best fit for the footwear.

The molded nylon arch shank Merrell Air Cushion in the heel ensures shock absorbency, without affecting the stability. To top it all, the boots feature EVA foam midsole, offering lightweight comfort and stability.

Traction is also provided through the challenging and durable Vibram TC5+ and rubber sole, with slip resistance and aggressive grip.

The boots are quiet, supportive, and flexible; you won’t have to break them in nor worry about blisters or hot points. They clean off nicely and come with an attractive price.

The boots are quite the Jack of all trades for the money you pay, and you shouldn’t pay attention to the downsides, as they’re minor.


3. KEEN Women’s Terradora 2, Waterproof Mid Height Hiking Boot

Even if the price will be the first thing to notice on these boots, the KEEN Women’s Terradora 2, Waterproof Mid Height Hiking Boot brings numerous significant things to the table.

KEEN Womens Terradora 2, Waterproof Mid Height Hiking Boot

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PROS:
  • The boots are waterproof and breathable.
  • They’re lightweight and don’t require break in period.
  • Support and traction are always trustworthy
  • The boots provide stability and keep sand away from the inside.

CONS:
  • The toe box is a tad narrow.
  • The footbed is rather slim.

First of all, the boots are waterproof as they’re made with Keen Dry waterproof membrane that doesn’t allow water to get inside the footwear. The membrane’s breathability is highly efficient, so your feet won’t get sweaty while hiking. The mesh upper of the boots is also lightweight, so it’s already apparent that the footwear work very well in the desert.

Support and comfort are also achieved, as the boots come with dual-density EVA footbed with efficient arch support. The mesh lining will keep the sand away from the footwear, but also allow moisture escape since it’s breathable. Let’s not forget to mention the stability shank that will ensure lightweight support on all surfaces.

It would help if you didn’t worry about traction; the 4mm multi-directional lugs will improve traction on and off the trails. The boots feature a Keen All-Terrain rubber outsole, which provides grip and traction at all times.

The boots also come with a Keen KonnectFit heel-capture system, locking the heel for better fit and stability. The footwear design is made especially for women, which explains the narrow and accurate fit.

Cleaning the boots is effortless, and you only need to use a damp and soft sponge for wiping sand or dirt from the surface. A gentle cleanser can be utilized for stains, right after staining.

As for the looks, only positive things to say too. The boots come with nicely colored accents that match the footwear’s color for a more attractive look. Several color combos are available.

A penny saved is a penny served, and these boots will tick most boxes within the category, which should help you place the order.


4. Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 MID GTX W Hiking Boots

When it comes to Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 MID GTX W Hiking Boots, the build and features make them an impressive option for women hikers ready to take the most challenging tasks in the desert.

Salomon Womens X Ultra 3 MID GTX W Hiking Boots

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PROS:
  • The boots are lightweight and made with synthetic upper.
  • They provide support for the ankles and arches.
  • The boots are comfortable and waterproof.
  • They come with a mesh upper for keeping the sand out from the boots.

CONS:
  • Some think that the sole is a tad thin.
  • It would help if you made double knots on the ties.

The design and materials used for the boots make them ready to wear right after taking the footwear out of the box. It’s a 100% synthetic material for the footwear, which explains why you don’t need to break them in. The material also makes the boots lightweight, a fundamental characteristic for boots in the desert.

When you’re hiking in the desert, ankle and arch support, without compromising stability or traction, are fundamental in boots. The boots have a grippy sole that helps you move safely, no matter how the surfaces become. The two types of rubber on the sole are the reason for adequate traction. The patterned zone in the heel will bite into the rough desert, providing you control while hiking.

With support being fundamental in hiking boots for the desert, we understand why these work so great in the desert. The list of features continues with the asymmetrical chassis designed especially for a woman’s anatomy; there’s the proper amount of cushioning and stability in the right places, so hikes are less strenuous. A protective mudguard around the foot’s base will keep your stability on muddy trails, whereas the mesh upper will keep sand from getting inside (it’s anti-debris).

No hiking boots are okay if they’re not comfortable, and these sure tick this box too. The Energy Cell midsole with EVA foam will reduce shock, making hiking less difficult for your feet.

Lightweight and supportive, these boots also tick the aesthetic box. The yellow details work excellent with the yellow-spotted laces, which makes them even more appealing.

Lightweight, supportive, comfortable, and waterproof; these boots will always be an excellent buy for your desert hikes.


5. SCARPA Maverick Gore-TEX Women’s Hiking Boots – AW20

Just because you’re hiking doesn’t mean that you cannot hike in style. The SCARPA Maverick Gore-TEX Women’s Hiking Boots – AW20 will catch your attention as they’re quite feminine and stylish, which doesn’t mean that they’re less functional. On the contrary, the boots come with numerous features that make them great for hiking in the desert.

SCARPA Maverick Gore-TEX Womens Hiking Boots - AW20

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PROS:
  • The boots are waterproof and breathable.
  • The support for ankles is significant and constant.
  • The boots are protective and comfortable.
  • The boots are durable and look so very lovely.

CONS:
  • They’re not the cheapest option.
  • Some may want less padding.

The boots are made with Gore-Text upper, so they’re waterproof and capable of keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. The Gore-Tex upper works perfectly with the Gore-Tex membrane inside the boots so that your feet remain dry throughout the day. The membrane will not allow moisture to enter while ensuring the air to flow in and out. Breathability and ventilation become effective with the boots.

The build of the boots is made with comfort to the mind. Thick material is used in more sensitive areas of your feet, like the heels and toes. This way, your toes, and heels are protected against shock and impact from hiking. The lacing system will ensure a secure and comfortable fit, matching the soft and cushioned tongue. The ankle collar is also padded for extra comfort and protection in the ankle areas.

It’s a high ankle design for the boots, which will protect the ankle and keep sand or debris from getting inside the footwear.

The PU midsole is lightweight but capable of improving protection when hiking in the desert. The midsole will give you consistent performance, reducing the pressure on your joints and the efforts. Shocks are efficiently absorbed before getting in the sole of your foot, so hiking over sharp surfaces won’t be painful.

These boots needed tough outsole for completing their performance in the desert, and the tough rubber outsole is just that. The sole gives traction on various surfaces, taking long time use. The grip is aggressive, and the boots will keep your move steady at all times.

The good outweighs the bad, and the boots will be a trustworthy option for your hikes in the desert, especially if you also care for the looks.


How should you pick the hiking boots for the desert?

If you’re dedicated to hiking, you already know a thing or two about what features hiking boots should have. But what if you’re going on a hike in the desert? Is waterproofness still essential for your footwear? Do you need grippy soles? Keep reading to see what features are the most important for boots when hiking in the desert.

Waterproofness and breathability

You may think that the chances for rain in the desert are null, but we’re not talking about the Sahara desert, but rather the Arizona desert. Rain may also happen, and there’s always a chance for running into puddles when hiking.

Hiking boots that are waterproof (or at least water-resistant) will keep your feet dry at all times, helping enjoy the hike at maximum.

But it’s not enough for boots to keep water from getting inside. You don’t want your feet to get toasty, and, more importantly, remain sweaty while hiking. The risk of getting blisters when your feet are sweaty is high. Therefore, ventilation is also fundamental in hiking boots for the desert. You want moisture and sweat to escape from the footwear so that your feet indeed remain dry while hiking.

Support

The terrains in the desert are rugged, and they can put a lot of strain on your ankles and feet. It’s a rocky surface, with sharp rocks, dry terrain most of the time, so your boots should provide support for the ankles for best comfort.

The design of the boots and some specific features will make the footwear more supportive than others. Enough height for the ankles, cushioned midsole, contoured heel for a snug fit of the heel, and overall build will provide the support you need for hiking in the desert.

An effective lacing system will also allow you to tie the laces as snug/loose you need in various areas to keep the feet snug and comfortable throughout the day.

Lightweight

As hiking in the desert can be challenging, especially when adding the high temperatures in the equation, you want to have lightweight boots for hiking. Look for synthetic leather and mesh materials for the upper part, without sacrificing the ventilation or water resistance.

Even if the sole should be challenging and rugged, it shouldn’t be too heavy, as it’s going to slow you down and tire your feet faster than expected.

Traction

As the surfaces are so various and tricky in the desert, you should also pay attention to your boots’ soles. You want the sole to be challenging (Vibram is the best to name), with patterned lugs that have an aggressive grip and give you stability and traction.

Mesh lining

Mesh lining and features that will keep sand, debris, and gravel from getting inside the boots are always features to have in your hiking boots for desert. Any detail that helps you keep the boots snug to your ankles, without compromising breathability and comfort will make the boot even more appropriate for hiking in the desert.

Some hiking boots come with lined socks or gussets, but you have to make sure that breathability is superior. Sweaty feet are never a good thing when hiking, no matter if you’re on top of the mountains or in the desert.


FAQs

Q: Is hiking in the sand desert different from other types of hiking?

A: Hiking in the sand desert is just what it sound like: hiking in the sand as you’re walking down the beach. However, the sand in the desert takes the dunes’ shapes, which is why walking on the desert sand is a lot trickier than walking on the beach.

If you’re planning to go hiking on the sand desert, keep in mind that sand is thinner, so the chances to get inside your boots are higher. But of course, you may hike in Arizona, which is a bit different in terms of sand, surfaces, and everything else.

Q: Do you need special boots for walking on dunes?

A: Regardless of what you may think, walking on dunes is quite tricky. You will sink in the sand, causing a significant amount of sand to slide down. Soon enough, you will begin to slide together with the sand. Should you try to climb up the dune’s summit, you will need to put a lot of effort. Let’s not forget that sliding sand will try to get inside the boots, no matter what move you make.

Typically, walking on sand is rather tiring, consuming a lot of your energy to fight the sand’s physical resistance. Soon enough, you will get blisters, and stability is a constant problem. Only footwear that keeps sand away from the inside while providing traction and stability will work when hiking/walking in the sand desert.

Q: What’s the biggest problem with hiking in the desert?

A: Even if it’s not the only issue, one of the most important and unusual issues is the sand continually trying to get inside the boots. You don’t want to stop every hour from getting it out of the footwear. At the same time, you don’t want to leave it inside as it will rub against your skin and cause blisters.

Many hiking boots come with gussets and liners between the tongue and the main body, blocking the sand from inside.

Q: Should you always use gaiters when hiking in the desert?

A: The gaiters are covers for the boots that will improve the sand-proof protection for your footwear. They’re great to have just in case when a day-long hike is in the plan.

Q: Which socks work best with hiking boots in the desert?

A: If you’ve been hiking for a while, you know that no hiking boots will be reliable when using the wrong pair of socks. Despite what you may think, wool socks make the best choice for hiking in the desert. Even if they feel a bit thick or hot, they will absorb sweat more efficiently than other socks.

Also, wool socks make an excellent accessory to reduce the risk of blisters. Always pair your hiking boots with a nice pair of wool socks, Merino wool especially.

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