Bottom Line
The La Sportiva Spire GTX is our favorite waterproof women’s hiking shoe for hikers who prioritize durability, support, and protection over low weight and flexibility. The GORE-TEX Surround construction sheds water exceptionally well while remaining more breathable than many waterproof shoes, and the Vibram outsole provides dependable traction on steep, rocky terrain.
The Spire is also stiff, heavy, and priced at $219. Our tester found it ran about a half-size small, with a narrow forefoot and a somewhat looser heel. The firm ride required a real break-in period and caused foot soreness after about five miles on the first long outing.
For hikers with the right foot shape who want a long-lasting technical shoe for wet and rugged conditions, the Spire is one of the most capable options in our best women’s hiking shoes lineup.
How We Tested
We tested the Spire GTX in northern California’s Mayacamas Mountains on steep climbs, descents, rocky trail, scree-like surfaces, and wet conditions. She also submerged the shoes in water and weighed them to compare advertised and real-world performance.
Quick Specs
- Best for: Waterproof hiking, technical terrain, durability, support
- Waterproof: Yes, GORE-TEX Surround
- Fit: Runs about a half-size small; narrow forefoot with a looser heel
- Outsole / lug depth: Vibram XS Trek with Impact Brake System; lug depth not confirmed
- Rock plate: No dedicated rock plate; TPU inserts add structure
- Available widths: Standard
La Sportiva Spire GTX
Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes
CleverHiker Rating: 4.1/5.0
Price: $219
Weight: 1 lb. 10.2 oz. per pair, manufacturer listed
Pros
- Class-leading traction
- Excellent waterproofing
- Exceptional durability
- Above-average support
- Breathable for a waterproof shoe
Cons
- High price
- Heavy
- Stiff with a longer break-in period
- Fit is narrow in front and looser at the heel
Comfort
Comfort depends heavily on fit. The firm midsole and structured upper feel supportive but not soft, and our tester experienced foot soreness after about five miles on the first outing.
The narrow forefoot and looser heel also require careful sizing and lacing. Once broken in, the Spire is supportive and secure, but it is not a casual slipper-like shoe.
Comfort Score: 4.0 / 5.0
Traction
Traction is a major strength. The Vibram XS Trek outsole and opposing Impact Brake System lugs provide strong braking and climbing grip on steep rock, dirt, and loose terrain.
We did experience some slipping on wet polished rock, but overall the outsole inspires confidence in technical environments.
Traction Score: 4.8 / 5.0
Weight
At about 1 pound 10 ounces per pair, the Spire is heavy compared with trail-runner-style hiking shoes.
The weight reflects its substantial waterproofing, abrasion-resistant upper, structured midsole, and durable outsole. Ultralight hikers will notice it; durability-focused hikers may accept the tradeoff.
Weight Score: 3.8 / 5.0
Durability
The abrasion-resistant upper, TPU protection, Vibram rubber, GORE-TEX system, and burly construction held up extremely well through rocky testing.
We saw no meaningful wear in the field. This is one of the shoes we would choose when longevity and protection matter more than ounces.
Durability Score: 4.8 / 5.0
Weather Resistance
The Spire’s weather protection is outstanding. Water beads and rolls off the upper, and the GORE-TEX Surround system keeps moisture out while venting better than many waterproof designs.
That makes the Spire especially useful in wet mountain environments where waterproofing and durability matter simultaneously.
Weather Resistance Score: 5.0 / 5.0
Should You Buy the La Sportiva Spire GTX?
Yes, if you want a highly durable, waterproof, supportive shoe for rugged terrain and do not mind extra weight or a firm ride. It is especially compelling for narrower feet.
Look elsewhere if you want lightweight flexibility, a wide toe box, or immediate comfort. The Spire needs a more deliberate break-in than most shoes in this guide.
What Other Women’s Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?
Salomon X Ultra 5 Low: Choose the X Ultra 5 Low if you want strong traction and durability in a lighter, more flexible package. It is less waterproof in the standard version but easier to wear for long days.
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low GTX: Pick the Adidas if you want similarly robust waterproofing with more cushion and a roomier toe box. It is also heavy, but the ride is softer than the Spire.
KEEN Targhee IV WP: Consider the Targhee IV if you want waterproof durability with a much roomier, higher-volume fit. It is less technical and less breathable but better for wide feet.
