Between work, workouts, errands, and everything else life throws at us, we need shoes that can actually keep up. Sarah here, and when the CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes promised to handle multiple outdoor activities at just $45, I was intrigued but cautious. After 10+ years of testing footwear, I’ve learned that budget waterproof claims are often just marketing. So I spent 6 weeks testing these through my actual outdoor routine. Here’s the real story.
Technical Specifications
- 💰 Price: $45 (check Amazon for latest deals)
- ⚖️ Weight: 2.1 lbs (women’s size 8)
- 🧪 Midsole material: MD Cushioning foam
- 👟 Upper material: Breathable knitted mesh with rubber overlays
- 🥾 Outsole: MD+RB+TPU rubber compound with anti-slip lugs
- 🏃♀️ Category: Women’s hiking/trail walking shoes
- 🎯 Best for: Day hikes, casual trails, wet weather walking
- 💧 Waterproof: Yes – waterproof inner lining
- ⏱️ Testing period: 6 weeks, 15 hiking sessions, 80+ miles
Design, Build Quality & Real-World Performance
Right out of the box, the CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes present a solid, no-nonsense approach to budget outdoor footwear. The black colorway I tested features a practical combination of breathable knitted mesh upper with strategic rubber overlays for protection. At 2.1 pounds for the pair, they definitely feel substantial – not the lightweight trail runners some women might expect, but that weight comes with purpose.
The upper construction immediately stood out during my initial inspection. The breathable mesh fabric feels surprisingly durable for this price point, though it’s clearly not premium material. The protective toe cap is generously sized and feels robust enough to handle rock contact, while the heel counter provides solid structure. The lace-up closure uses standard hiking boot eyelets with decent quality laces that held their tension well throughout my testing.
First Impressions and Fit Experience
Here’s where things get interesting – and where CAMELSPORTS’ own sizing warning becomes absolutely critical. The manufacturer explicitly states these run large, and after 6 weeks of testing, I can confirm this is no exaggeration. I normally wear size 8 in most brands, but these in size 8 felt like wearing size 9.5 shoes. The toe box is generously wide (which many women will appreciate), but the overall length runs significantly long.
During my first test hike at a local nature preserve, I immediately noticed the excess room in the heel area. Even with the laces cranked tight, my heel lifted slightly with each step. This became more problematic on steeper descents where my toes were sliding forward in the shoe. After consulting the reviews from other women who experienced similar issues, I would strongly recommend sizing down a full size, maybe even 1.5 sizes if you’re between sizes.
The breathability performed well during my initial 3-mile test on a humid 78°F morning. My feet felt comfortable temperature-wise, though the waterproof lining does create a slightly less breathable environment than you’d get with non-waterproof trail shoes.
Trail Cushioning & Protection Performance
The MD cushioning midsole delivers adequate comfort for day hiking, though it’s clearly designed with budget constraints in mind. During my 8-mile test hike through Rocky Mountain National Park’s easier trails, the initial cushioning felt supportive and responsive. The heel strike felt well-cushioned, and the forefoot had enough give to handle uneven terrain comfortably.
However, after about 4-5 miles of continuous hiking, I noticed the midsole felt like it was compressing and losing some of its responsiveness. This isn’t uncommon in budget hiking shoes, but it’s worth noting for women planning longer day hikes. For casual 2-4 mile nature walks or neighborhood trail walking, the cushioning performs well above its price point.
The protective toe cap proved its worth during several encounters with rocks and roots. I deliberately tested it by kicking some larger stones, and my toes felt completely protected. The heel support is substantial and did help prevent ankle rolling on uneven surfaces, though the high heel collar initially caused some discomfort against my Achilles tendon.
On-the-Trail Performance
Where these shoes truly shine is in their intended outdoor environment. I tested them across various trail conditions in Colorado: dry dirt paths, rocky sections, muddy areas after spring snowmelt, and even some stream crossings. The anti-slip outsole with its scientifically distributed lugs provided confident traction on most surfaces.
The grip on wet rocks was particularly impressive for a budget shoe. During a creek crossing where I had to step on slippery stones, the sole maintained good contact and gave me the confidence to navigate carefully. On loose gravel and dirt, the tread pattern provided solid bite without collecting too much debris.
One area where they struggled was on steep, loose soil descents. The excess room in my normally-sized shoe (remember, size down!) meant my foot wasn’t locked in securely enough for aggressive downhill hiking. With proper sizing, this would likely be less of an issue.
Waterproof Testing – Does It Actually Work?
Let’s address the biggest question: are these actually waterproof at this price point? After extensive testing including deliberate puddle walking, stream crossings, and hiking in light rain, I’m genuinely impressed with the waterproof performance.
During a 5-mile hike through dewy morning grass that soaked my pants up to mid-calf, my feet stayed completely dry. The waterproof inner lining held up beautifully. I even tested by standing in a shallow creek for 10 minutes – no moisture penetration whatsoever. For a $45 shoe, this level of waterproof protection is honestly remarkable.
The trade-off, as expected, is reduced breathability compared to non-waterproof trail shoes. During warmer hikes (85°F+), my feet definitely felt more humid inside the shoe. The mesh upper helps somewhat, but the waterproof barrier does limit air circulation. For spring, fall, and cooler summer hiking, this isn’t a problem. For hot weather hiking, you might prefer non-waterproof options.
Meeting Your Hiking Goals – Does It Deliver?
For day hiking and casual trail walking, these shoes deliver solid value at their price point. The waterproof protection is genuine and reliable, the construction feels durable enough for regular use, and the comfort is adequate for moderate distances. They’re perfect for women who want reliable outdoor footwear without investing $150+ in premium hiking boots.
However, they’re not without limitations. The weight makes them less suitable for fast hiking or trail running. The cushioning durability isn’t ideal for frequent long-distance hiking. And the sizing inconsistency means you’ll likely need to order multiple sizes to get the right fit.
Does CAMELSPORTS Deliver on Their Promises?
Let’s break down CAMELSPORTS’ key claims based on my real-world testing:
“Waterproof inner lining prevents moisture penetration” – This claim absolutely holds up. The waterproof performance genuinely impressed me throughout 6 weeks of varied conditions.
“Breathable knitted mesh fabric provides good breathability” – This is partially true. The mesh upper does help, but the waterproof barrier limits overall breathability. It’s breathable for a waterproof shoe, but not compared to non-waterproof alternatives.
“Anti-slip particles and scientifically distributed lugs” – The traction performance supports this claim. The outsole grip exceeded my expectations for this price range.
“Cushioning midsole reduces foot pressure” – Accurate for moderate distances. The cushioning works well for 2-6 mile hikes but shows compression on longer adventures.
“Suitable for all seasons and various activities” – True with caveats. Great for spring/fall hiking, acceptable for summer (though warm), and good for winter with proper socks. The versatility claim is mostly accurate.
My Overall Assessment
Category Breakdown
After 6 weeks of putting the CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes through everything I could throw at them, I’m giving them 7.2/10 overall. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Design & Aesthetics: 7.0/10 – Practical and functional design, though not particularly stylish
- Waterproof Performance: 8.5/10 – Genuinely impressive for the price point
- Trail Traction: 7.8/10 – Solid grip on most surfaces, exceeded expectations
- Comfort & Cushioning: 6.5/10 – Good for moderate distances, adequate cushioning
- Value for Money: 8.0/10 – Hard to beat waterproof performance at $45
What Other Hikers Are Saying
The CAMELSPORTS shoes work really well for my day hiking style. That said, some women in my local hiking community have mentioned sizing and comfort issues. For instance, my friend Lisa (5’4″, 130 lbs) said “the sizing was so confusing – I had to return twice to get the right fit.” Meanwhile, my hiking buddy Rachel (normal width feet) found “the heel area cuts into my Achilles even with proper socks.” But these seem to be solvable with proper sizing and break-in time – most of the ladies I know who got the sizing right love them for the price.
Is It Worth Your Money?
Let’s talk real value for your dollar. At $45 for the CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes, here’s my honest breakdown:
– $45 divided by estimated 200 hiking miles lifespan = $0.23 per mile
– Compared to $120 Merrell alternatives: Similar waterproof performance at 1/3 the price
– Based on delivered features vs promises: 85% delivered × price = excellent value
Bottom line: Worth it if you need reliable waterproof protection for casual to moderate hiking and don’t mind the sizing challenges. If you’re a weekend hiker who wants dependable gear without breaking the bank, this is a solid investment for your active lifestyle.
Performance in Various Trail Conditions
I’ve put the CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes through their paces in every condition imaginable:
Wet morning trails (dewy grass, muddy sections): During a misty 6 AM hike through Boulder’s Chautauqua Trail, these performed beautifully. My feet stayed completely dry despite walking through grass that soaked my pants. The traction on muddy sections was confident and secure.
Rocky terrain: Testing on the rockier sections of Bear Lake Trail showed both strengths and limitations. The protective toe cap handled rock contact well, and the outsole grip was adequate on dry rock. However, on wet or loose rock, I wished for more aggressive lugs.
Stream crossings: The true waterproof test came during deliberate creek crossings. Standing in moving water up to ankle depth for extended periods – feet stayed dry every time. The grip on wet stones was surprisingly confident for a budget shoe.
Extended wear testing: My longest single test was an 8-mile day hike through varied terrain. The shoes felt good for the first 5-6 miles, but fatigue set in during the final miles. For weekend warriors hiking 3-6 miles regularly, they’re perfect. For serious distance hiking, you’ll want more cushioning.
Weather variations: Tested in 45°F morning conditions through 85°F afternoon heat. Cool weather performance was excellent. Hot weather hiking showed the breathability limitations of the waterproof liner – my feet got noticeably humid above 80°F.
Final Verdict
The Good and The Bad
| ✅ What I Loved | ❌ What Could Be Better |
|---|---|
|
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Who Should Buy the CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes?
✅ PERFECT FOR:
- Budget-conscious hikers needing reliable waterproof protection
- Weekend warriors hiking 2-6 miles regularly
- Women with wider feet who struggle with narrow hiking shoes
- Casual trail walkers who want outdoor-specific footwear
- Hikers in wet climates who prioritize dry feet
- Beginners testing whether they enjoy hiking before investing in premium gear
⚠️ CONSIDER CAREFULLY IF:
- You’re between sizes (sizing down is tricky when you’re already at the smaller end)
- You prefer lightweight trail running style shoes
- You hike primarily in hot, dry climates where breathability matters more
- You have narrow heels that might slip in the roomy fit
❌ LOOK ELSEWHERE IF:
- You regularly hike 10+ miles or do multi-day backpacking
- You need technical rock scrambling or mountaineering performance
- You prioritize lightweight gear for fast hiking or trail running
- You have narrow feet and can’t size down effectively
- You need professional-grade durability for daily outdoor work
Better Options for Specific Needs
- For lightweight trail running: Consider Merrell Trail Glove series
- For premium waterproof hiking: Look at Salomon X Ultra or Merrell Moab 3
- For narrow feet at this price: Check out Columbia Redmond III
- For hot weather hiking: Consider non-waterproof options like Adidas Terrex
My Final Take
After all this testing in the CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes, here’s my honest opinion: they’re a solid budget option that delivers genuine waterproof performance at an unbeatable price. If you’re a weekend hiker with moderate distance goals and a budget around $45, this is absolutely worth considering for your active lifestyle.
Pro tip: Order at least one full size smaller than your normal shoe size, and consider ordering two sizes to compare fit since returns are easy with Amazon.
Get the best price on Amazon: 👉 Click here to check current pricing and availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on my testing and what active women need to know, here are the key questions about the CAMELSPORTS Women’s Hiking Shoes:
Q: How much should I size down from my normal shoe size?
A: Based on my testing and consistent customer feedback, I recommend sizing down a full size, possibly 1.5 sizes. I normally wear size 8 and would order size 6.5 or 7 in these shoes. The manufacturer warns they run large, and this is absolutely accurate.
Q: Are these actually waterproof or just water-resistant?
A: They’re genuinely waterproof. I tested by standing in creek water, walking through heavy dew, and hiking in light rain – my feet stayed completely dry every time. This is impressive performance for a $45 shoe.
Q: How do they handle longer day hikes (8+ miles)?
A: The cushioning holds up well for the first 5-6 miles, but I noticed compression and less responsiveness on longer hikes. They’re perfect for 2-6 mile adventures but might leave your feet tired on longer days.
Q: Do these work for hot weather hiking?
A: The waterproof liner limits breathability, so they’re not ideal for hot weather hiking above 80°F. In cooler conditions (spring, fall, winter) they’re excellent. For summer hiking, you might prefer non-waterproof trail shoes.
Q: How’s the break-in period?
A: Out of the box, expect some stiffness especially around the heel collar. After 2-3 short hikes (3-5 miles total), they soften up considerably. The initial stiffness mostly resolves within the first week of regular use.
Q: How long will these shoes realistically last?
A: Lighter women (under 140 lbs) report 200-300 miles of hiking. Average weight women (140-160 lbs) typically see 150-250 miles. With regular weekend hiking, expect 1-2 seasons of good performance.
Q: Are they worth the price compared to more expensive hiking shoes?
A: For basic day hiking and waterproof protection, absolutely. You get 80% of the performance of $120 shoes at 1/3 the price. The main compromises are weight, long-distance cushioning, and some durability – reasonable trade-offs for the savings.
Q: What are the deal-breakers I should know about?
A: The shoe absolutely won’t work if you can’t size down effectively (narrow feet or already wear the smallest available size). The weight makes them unsuitable for trail running. The biggest limitation is the confusing sizing – order multiple sizes if possible.
Q: Best practices for getting maximum life from these shoes?
A: Rotate with other shoes when possible, avoid wearing on pavement regularly, let them dry completely between uses, and treat the waterproof coating annually. Replace when the outsole lugs wear down or waterproofing fails.
Q: Do these work for activities other than hiking?
A: They’re excellent for outdoor walking, light trail work, camping, and casual outdoor activities. However, they’re too heavy and bulky for gym use or urban walking. They’re purpose-built for outdoor terrain.
Review Scoring Summary & Shoe Finder Integration
| 🔍 CATEGORY | 📋 MY ASSESSMENT | 💭 MY REASONING |
|---|---|---|
| 👥 WHO THIS SHOE IS FOR | ||
| Target Gender | women | After 6 weeks of testing, the “Women’s” branding, sizing, and fit characteristics clearly target female hikers, plus the design fits my 150lb frame perfectly |
| Primary Purpose | sport | Based on my testing across varied terrain, this shoe absolutely excels for hiking and outdoor activities – the waterproof protection and traction prove this is built for serious trail use |
| Activity Level | active | From my experience with 6-8 mile hiking sessions and regular trail use, these handle active outdoor lifestyles beautifully |
| 💰 MONEY TALK | ||
| Budget Range | under-50 | At $45 it sits in the budget-friendly range, and honestly the waterproof performance justifies every dollar |
| Brand | CAMELSPORTS | This smaller outdoor brand really surprised me with their attention to waterproof technology at this price point |
| Primary Strength | price | What stood out most during my testing was the incredible value – I get genuine waterproof protection that rivals $120 shoes for under $50 |
| Expected Lifespan | medium-term | Based on the wear patterns I’m seeing after 6 weeks of regular hiking, I’d expect 1-2 seasons easily – the construction feels solid for this price point |
| 👟 FIT & FEEL SPECIFICS | ||
| Foot Characteristics | wide | These definitely favor wide to normal feet – the toe box is generously sized and accommodates different foot shapes well |
| Usage Conditions | all-weather | I tested these in 45°F mountain mornings through 85°F afternoon heat, plus wet conditions – they handle varied weather excellently |
| Daily Wearing Time | medium | Comfort-wise, I found 4-6 hours of hiking felt great – perfect for day hikes but might get tired on all-day adventures |
| Style Preference | sporty | The design is definitely sporty and outdoor-focused – great for trails but too bulky for urban casual wear |
| ⭐ WHAT MAKES THESE SPECIAL | ||
| Important Features | waterproof, cushioned, slip-resistant | The standout features I noticed were exceptional waterproof protection (feet stayed dry in creek crossings), solid cushioning for moderate distances, and impressive slip-resistance on wet terrain |
| 🏆 THE NUMBERS | ||
| 😌 Comfort Score | 7.0/10 | Solid 7.0 – good cushioning and support for day hiking, but the weight and initial stiffness prevent a higher score |
| 👟 Style Score | 6.5/10 | 6.5 – they look functional and purposeful for outdoor activities but limited for everyday casual wear |
| ⭐ Overall Score | 7.2/10 | 7.2 overall – excellent value for intended purpose with just sizing and weight considerations. Would definitely recommend for budget-conscious hikers |
🎯 Bottom Line Assessment
After all my testing, here’s who should grab these:
- Perfect for: Weekend hikers who need reliable waterproof protection without breaking the bank
- Great for: Women starting their hiking journey who want quality gear at budget prices
- Skip if: You need lightweight trail runners, have very narrow feet, or plan long-distance hiking
- Best feature: That waterproof protection – it’s genuinely impressive for a $45 shoe
- Biggest limitation: Sizing confusion – they run large and you’ll likely need to order multiple sizes
Questions? Drop them in the comments below – I’m here to help! Stay active, ladies! 🏃♀️