Low, mid or high upper: how to choose?
Upper height is the first criterion to decide on for your hiking shoes. It determines the level of ankle support, freedom of movement and shoe weight.
- Low upper: Ideal for day hikes on marked trails and gentle terrain, with an elevation gain below 300–400 m. Lighter and more flexible, it encourages a dynamic stride and suits summer outings in dry conditions.
- Mid upper: The versatile all-rounder for mountain outings on varied trails, mixed terrain (scree, damp forest paths) or weekends with a moderately loaded pack. It offers better ankle protection without restricting movement.
- High upper: Essential for multi-day trekking with a heavy pack, technical terrain (scree, snowy passages, boulder fields) and all situations where ankle stability is a priority.
What material for your women's hiking shoes?
- Leather: Naturally water-repellent and abrasion-resistant, leather gradually moulds to the shape of the foot. It is the material of choice for Meindl's long-distance hiking models. It requires regular maintenance (conditioning, waterproofing).
- Breathable synthetic materials: Lighter than leather and quick-drying, they are well suited to summer hikes and warm-weather routes. The best choice when lightness takes priority over long-term durability.
- Waterproof-breathable membranes: Our Ultrashell membrane, developed by Cimalp, provides complete waterproofing while wicking away perspiration, keeping you dry whether facing the elements or pushing hard. The Meindl, Scarpa and Lowa models in our catalogue feature a Gore-Tex membrane, the market reference with equivalent performance. A membrane is essential as soon as you hike in rain, on wet or snowy terrain.
Sole, cushioning, lacing: the technical criteria
- The outsole: Vibram is the premium reference for grip on dry rock, loose ground or mixed terrain. Lug depth varies according to the shoe's intended use: deep for muddy terrain, less aggressive for rock. The sole type is specified in each product description.
- Cushioning: It protects the knees, hips and back over long distances and on technical descents. Recommended beyond 800 m of cumulative elevation gain, on hard terrain, or if you have a history of joint problems.
- The lacing system: A traditional lacing system remains the reference for precise adjustment. Some AKU models integrate the Dual Fit system, which allows independent adjustment of the forefoot and ankle. Quick-lace systems make it easy to adjust on the go during hiking.
Shoes designed for the female foot
The female foot has a specific morphology: a narrower arch, a slimmer heel, and a proportionally wider forefoot. A shoe built on a dedicated women's last — not a scaled-down men's last — offers better heel hold, fewer friction points at the forefoot, and superior comfort from the very first hours of walking.
The brands we distribute (Meindl, Scarpa, Lowa, AKU and Asolo) all develop women's lasts distinct from their men's models. Our Cimalp range follows the same logic.
Our women's hiking shoe brands
- Cimalp: our own range integrates the Ultrashell membrane for reliable waterproofing on alpine trails, with women's shapes developed for comfort in mountain conditions. Tested on the trails of the Alps and the Vercors.
- Meindl: Bavarian manufacturer founded in 1683, the reference for full-grain alpine-quality tanned leather. Recommended for long-distance hiking and demanding trekking.
- Scarpa: Made in Asolo (Italy) since 1938, lightweight and technically precise, with Vibram soles and Gore-Tex on most women's models.
- Lowa: European production since 1923, precise fit and recognised versatility, from day hiking to multi-week trekking.
- AKU: Italian innovation with the Dual Fit system, Vibram outsole and Gore-Tex integrated on waterproof versions.
- Asolo: Italian mountain specialist since 1975, hybrid leather/synthetic constructions combining durability and lightness.
Explore our men's hiking shoes.