The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Women’s Hiking Gear: Top Picks for 2024

As a seasoned hiker, I know how essential the right gear can be when you’re out on the trail.

Whether you’re embarking on a short day hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, having the right equipment ensures comfort, safety, and an overall better hiking experience.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the best women’s hiking gear for 2024, from boots to backpacks, so you can hit the trails with confidence.

Let’s dive in!

OUR TOP PICKS

1. Best Women’s Hiking BootsFinding the right pair of hiking boots is crucial for tackling challenging terrains while keeping your feet comfortable and supported. I recommend choosing boots based on the type of hiking you’ll be doing—lighter for day hikes, sturdier for multi-day treks.

Best Lightweight Hiking Boots for Women

#1

5/5

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Lightweight Waterproof Shoe Hiking Boot

• For versatile lightweight warmth in mild to severe cold. Our patented Heat Reflective garments are the ultimate body heat management system for outdoor performance. Reflects and retains body heat with breathable comfort, and enhanced warmth.

• OMNI-TECH: For prolonged exposure to moderate rain and snow. Multilayered waterproof protection in a breathable material that releases excess heat and moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable no matter the conditions.

• TECHLITE: For lightweight impact absorption on varied surfaces. Long-lasting cushioning with high energy return.

• OMNI-GRIP: For multi-terrain traction on rock, dirt, and gravel, in wet/dry conditions. Specially formulated compounds and tread design for cross-terrain stability and grip with strategically blended lug patterns.

• HANDY FEATURES: Long days on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this boot’s lightweight build, waterproof-breathable construction, and warm insulation.

Best Heavyweight Hiking Boots for Women

#2

5/5

 KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes

• Waterproof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in

• TRACTION: KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides high traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; Non marking rubber outsoles leaves no trace or imprints when walking indoors

• SUPPORT: External Support Shank delivers balance on uneven surfaces; Contoured heel provides next level stability

• FIT: Low profile upper for comfort and mobility with padded tongue and collar; Iconic KEEN Original Fit gives generous space for toes to spread out

• COMFORT: Removable metatomical footbed design provides excellent arch support and cradles to the natural contours of the foot

2. Best Lightweight Hiking BackpacksA comfortable backpack is essential for carrying your essentials without feeling bogged down. Lightweight backpacks are especially great for women, offering ergonomic designs and adjustable straps to fit comfortably on your back.

Best Lightweight Hiking Boots for Women

#1

5/5

Osprey Hikelite 26L Unisex Hiking Backpack

Traditional panel loader design with convenient zip access to main compartment

Front fabric shove-it pocket

Dual lower compression straps for additional load control

Removable webbing hipbelt

Included raincover made with bluesign approved fabric and treated with DWR made without PFAS, stored in zippered pocket at base of pack

Extra-tall stretch mesh side pockets keep contents secure

Best Heavyweight Hiking Boots for Women

#2

5/5

 Osprey Renn 50L Women’s Backpacking Backpack

Fixed top lid with zippered pocket

Daylite compatible

Dual upper and lower side compression straps

Zippered sleeping bag compartment with floating divider

Removable sleeping pad straps

Dual mesh side pockets

3. Best Hiking Jackets: Waterproof vs. Insulated 

Whether you’re hiking through rainy conditions or cold, windy weather, a reliable hiking jacket is essential. Choosing between waterproof and insulated options depends on the climate you’ll be hiking in.

Best Waterproof Jacket

#1

5/5

MARMOT Women’s Cascade Jacket

• Marmot NanoPro waterproof and breathable fabric membrane keeps you dry

• 100% seam-taped for complete leak proof protection

• Environmentally conscious PFC-Free DWR for premium water repellency to keep you dry

• Zippered hand pockets keep things secure

• Adjustable fixed hood & velcro cuffs to keep cold air out

Best Insulated Jacket

#2

5/5

Columbia Women’s Heavenly Hooded Jacket

100% Polyester

Imported

OMNI-HEAT: Our patented Heat Reflective lining provides the ultimate hand warmth management for outdoor performance. This interior lining consists of our metallic dot pattern designed to retain heat, while the breathable fabric dissipates hand moisture.

100% SYNTHETIC DOWN INSULATION: The down-style baffling is flexible at all the right points, providing additional air-loft, versatile fit, and maximum warmth and enjoyment.

CLASSIC FIT: This women’s water resistant jacket features an active fit for comfortable warmth and protection during active outings.

HANDY FEATURES: Starting with a yummy fleece pile lined collar, an interior security pocket, zippered hand pockets, and comfort cuffs with thumb holes to keep hands really warm on chilly days.

BUILT TO LAST: Columbia’s attention to detail is what sets our apparel apart. Specifying only the highest quality materials, expert stitching and craftsmanship. This is a long-lasting jacket you will enjoy for seasons to come.

4. Best Hiking Snacks and Energy Bars

What’s a hike without snacks? Staying energized on the trail is important, especially on long hikes. Here are some of the best energy-packed options to throw in your backpack.

Best Energy Bar

#1

5/5

CLIF Builders Protein Bars

• HIGH-QUALITY INGREDIENTS: CLIF Builders plant based protein bars are gluten free, made with non-GMO ingredients, and low glycemic to digest slowly for prolonged levels of energy (packaging may vary)
• CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER GOODNESS: Just the right amount of peanut butter and rich chocolate come together in our Chocolate Peanut Butter Flavor protein bar for classic taste with a crunch
• ENERGY FOR TOUGH WORKOUTS: With 20g of complete protein* and additional carbohydrates, CLIF Builders are perfect for fueling recovery and sustaining hardworking bodies after training or competing
• BUILT WITH PURPOSE: Our plant protein bars are crafted with ingredients that are more sustainably sourced like Rainforest Alliance certified cocoa to turn grabbing our bar into raising the bar
• ALL YOUR FAVORITE FLAVORS: Builders bars come in a variety of amazing flavors with a perfectly crunchy texture for gluten free protein bars sure to satisfy any taste.

Best Hiking Snacks

#2

5/5

Country Archer Mini Beef Jerky Sticks

100% GRASS-FED BEEF: Each snack pack contains 28 Mini Beef Jerky Sticks, Original Flavor

HIGH PROTEIN: 4g of protein, 45 calories and 0g sugar

AS GOURMET AS JERKY GETS: Handcrafted with clean, real food

REAL INGREDIENTS: Gluten-free, no nitrates/nitrites, no MSG, no hormones or antibiotics

FOOD FOR DOERS, MADE BY DOERS: A great addition to your Paleo or Keto lifestyle. Whether you are camping, hiking, traveling or just taking a snack break – fuel your adventure

5. Best Women’s Hiking Pants: Convertible vs. Non-Convertible

Comfortable, durable pants are a must for any hike. Convertible pants, which turn into shorts, are ideal for fluctuating temperatures, while non-convertible pants tend to offer more durability for rugged terrains.

Best Women’s Convertible Hiking Pants

#1

5/5

Columbia Women’s Utility Convertible Pant

• OMNI-SHADE — BROAD SPECTRUM: Ultimate protection in moderate to extreme sunlight with superior protection against sunburn. More effective on covered areas than sunscreen with more protection against the broad spectrum of harmful UVA and UVB sun rays.

• OMNI-WICK: Moisture-wicking technology for the outdoors. Omni-Wick pulls moisture from the skin into the fabric where it spreads across the surface to accelerate evaporation—for fast drying, enhanced next-to-skin comfort.

• FROM PANTS TO SHORTS: The ultimate in versatile outdoor wear, these hiking pants instantly transform into shorts with one zip.

• 100% RECYCLED: you’ll feel great knowing these convertible pants are made with 100% recycled polyester with a hint of give for easy movement.

• HANDY FEATURES: Thoughtful touches include articulated knees, a zip-closed security pocket, roll-up hems, and zip-off legs.

Best Women’s Non-convertible Hiking Pants

#2

5/5

Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Pant

• Bluesign certified fabric—ensures safe and sustainable textile production

• StormRepel DWR finish sheds moisture

• FreeShade UPF 50+ sun protection

• Two front hand pockets

• Cargo pocket on left thigh

6. Best Hiking Water Filters and Purifiers

Access to clean drinking water is crucial, especially if you are hiking in remote areas. Portable water filters and purifiers ensure you stay hydrated without carrying heavy water bottles.

Best Hiking Water Filter

#1

5/5

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

Removes Bacteria & Parasites: The Microfiltration Membrane Removes 99.999999% Of Waterborne Bacteria (Including E. Coli And Salmonella), And 99.999% Of Waterborne Parasites (Including Giardia And Cryptosporidium)

Removes Microplastics: Removes The Smallest Microplastics Found In The Environment (Down To 1 Micron), And Reduces Turbidity Down To 0.2 Microns

Rigorous Testing: All Claims Are Verified With Laboratories Using Standard Testing Protocols Set By The Us Epa, Nsf, Astm For Water Purifiers

Long Lifetime: The Microbiological Filter Will Provide 4,000 Liters (1,000 Gallons) Of Clean And Safe Drinking Water With Proper Use And Maintenance

Make An Impact: For Every Lifestraw Product Purchased, A School Child In Need Receives Safe Drinking Water For An Entire School Year.Bpa Free Materials

Best Hiking Water Purifier

#2

5/5

Katadyn Gravity BeFree 10L Water Microfilter

Safely filters harmful organisms such as protozoa and bacteria

0.1 Micron Hollow-fiber filter element

2L per minute output

Large gravity bag for family or group camping

Weighs 10.7oz

7. Best Trekking Poles

Trekking poles provide stability and reduce strain on your knees, especially on steep inclines and declines. Adjustable poles offer flexibility.

Best Adjustable Trekking Poles for Women

#1

5/5

LEKI Lhasa Aluminum Adjustable Poles

Lots with the Lhasa | Versatile, adjustable poles provide rigid support worthy of treks and races alike.

90-125 cm Adjustable | Dual Speed Lock Plus latches allow massive adjustable range and pack down as short as 25.2 inches.

All Alloy | Aluminum construction keeps tough and durable while weighing less than half a pound.

Cork/Cor-tec Grip | Soft grip conforms to your hand’s shape for greater comfort over time.

Specs | [Activities] Trekking, Racing; [Length] 90-125 cm; [Pack Size] 25.2 in; [Weight] 8.7oz; [Material] Aluminum (HTS 6.0); [Diameter] 16 / 14 / 12mm; [Locking System] Speed Lock Plus; [Basket] Racing, Trekking; [Tip] Flex Tip Short (Carbide)

Best Adjustable Trekking Poles for Women

#2

5/5

Black Diamond Women’s Trail Trekking Poles

7075 Aluminum shafts

Soft-touch ergonomic grip top with EVA foam grip and grip extension

Fusion comfort strap for premium support

FlickLock adjustability

Interchangeable tech tip compatible with carbide tech tips included

4 season flex tips with trekking baskets (snow basket compatible)

8. Best Portable Hiking Stove

If you’re planning to cook on the trail, a portable stove is a must-have.

Best Camping Stove

#1

5/5

Coleman Bottletop Propane Camping Stove

UP TO 10,000 total BTUs of Cooking Power

PRESSURE REGULATOR provides consistent performance in extreme conditions

PERFECTHEAT DESIGN ensures efficient cooking with less fuel

1 ADJUSTABLE BURNER allows for precise temperature control; fits an 8 inch pan

WIND BAFFLES shield burner from wind to maintain maximum heat

SPACE SAVER separates burner and base from propane bottle for compact storage

RUNTIME of up to 2.5 hours on high on one 16.4 ounce propane cylinder (sold separately)

Comes with a 3-year limited warranty

Best Camping Stove

#2

5/5

Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove System

Optimized for efficiency, the Jetboil Flash camping and backpacking stove, in Wild, boils water in a lightning-quick 100 seconds, making it the fastest Jetboil ever.

Jetboil’s 1-liter FluxRing cooking cup with insulating cozy makes boiling water—and keeping it warm—a breeze, making the Jetboil Flash personal cooking system the ultimate camping stove for preparing coffee, soup, or dehydrated meals on the trail.

Start heating instantly with the convenient, reliable pushbutton igniter, and verify that the water’s ready with the thermochromatic color-change heat indicator.

Bottom cup doubles as a measuring cup and a bowl.

Compatible Jetboil accessories, such as a coffee press*, hanging kit*, pot support*, skillet*, FluxRing cooking pot*, and utensils* make this a necessity for your next backpacking adventure. *Accessories sold separately.

9. Best Sleeping Bags for Backpacking

A good night’s sleep on the trail depends on the right sleeping bag. Down sleeping bags are warm and lightweight, while synthetic options are often more affordable and perform better in wet conditions.

Best Down-filled Sleeping Bag

#1

5/5

MARMOT Women’s Teton 15° Sleeping Bag

• Recycled shell and lining fabrics for a sustainable choice with certified 650 fill power down with Down Defender to improve water-resistance in wet conditions

• Dual side zippers for easy access with extended zipper flaps to provide extra blanket-like coverage when unzipped.

• Footbox zipper opens when you want extra space and closes for extra warmth.

• Internal stash pocket; stuff and storage sack included

• ISO tested for reliable temperature rating

Best Synthetic Sleeping Bag

#2

5/5

Sea to Summit Synthetic Sleeping Bag

Polyester

30-degree Fahrenheit (-10-degree Celsius) synthetic sleeping bag for 2-season backpacking and travel; relaxed mummy shape features shaped hood and zipper draft tubes for warmth

Synthetic polyester insulation uses WaveLoft construction to maximize loft, expanding the insulation to trap warm air

30D nylon shell with DWR treatment; YKK zippers with full-length left-side zip with two sliders for ventilation and versatility; can be fully unzipped for use as a quilt

Relaxed mummy shape offers room to sleep comfortably; removable straps on the underside attach to a sleeping pad

Long size bag has a max user height of six feet six inches; bag weighs 2.6 pounds; compresses to 9.3 liters with included compression sack

10. Best Hydration Systems for Hiking

Staying hydrated on the trail is critical. When I hike, I carry either a traditional water bottle for shorter hikes, or a hydration bladder that fits into my backpack for longer hikes. 

Best Hydration Bladder for Hiking

#1

5/5

CamelBak 3-Liter Water Reservoir

• Leak-proof cap is easier to open and close
• On/off lever lets you seal your drinking tube shut with one hand
• Big bite valve self-seals after each drink, eliminating annoying drips
• BPA Free
• Ergonomic Shape
• Weight 8.3 ounces

Best Lightweight Hiking Water Bottle

#2

5/5

Hydro Flask Lightweight Water Bottle

Lightweight hydration to keep you going

25 percent lighter than our other 32 oz Wide Mouth bottles

TempShield️ double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold up to 24 hours, hot up to 12

Made with 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel for durability, pure taste and no flavor transfer

Flexible perforated strap and aluminum pivots to minimize weight

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right hiking gear can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures. I hope this guide has helped you narrow down the best options for your next hike!

Remember, always test your gear before heading out to make sure it’s the right fit for your needs.

If you’re ready to upgrade your hiking gear, check out the affiliate links above to shop for some of the best products on the market. By purchasing through these links, you help support The Hiker Babe, allowing me to continue providing you with the best hiking tips and gear recommendations!

Happy hiking!

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