In the world of hiking, the quest for the perfect trail shoe is as challenging as the trails themselves, especially for those with wide feet. Enter the Orthofeet Alma, a women hiking shoe that not only promises to meet this niche demand but also dares to redefine comfort on the trail.

With its waterproof design, supportive insoles, and a wide toe box, the Alma aims to be the trusted footwear for hikers who’ve long sought comfort and performance in one package. But does it truly deliver on its promise, or is it yet another contender in the endless search for the perfect hike?

Trail Performance and Design

The Alma represents a tailored approach to trail footwear, designed with an emphasis on accommodating a wider fit. This trail shoe incorporates a variety of features aimed at enhancing the outdoor experience for individuals seeking both comfort and support.

Its design is informed by a keen understanding of the needs of hikers, particularly those who may have found it challenging to secure a shoe that addresses the necessity for a wider fit without sacrificing other essential qualities.

• Waterproof Membrane: The inclusion of a waterproof membrane is crucial for any trail shoe. This membrane ensures that your feet stay dry and comfortable, regardless of wet conditions. This feature is especially beneficial in preventing blisters and other moisture-related discomforts, allowing hikers to focus on the trail ahead without worrying about wet feet.
• Aggressive Rubber Outsole: The shoe’s outsole is designed to tackle a variety of surfaces with confidence. Whether you’re navigating loose gravel or slippery mud, the aggressive tread pattern provides the grip needed to maintain stability and safety. This level of traction is vital for avoiding slips and falls, particularly on uneven or challenging trails.
• Supportive Insoles: The Alma’s insoles offer anatomical arch support, crucial for reducing fatigue during long hikes. This support system helps in maintaining proper foot alignment, which is essential for minimizing the strain on the feet, knees, and back. For hikers covering long distances, this feature can make a significant difference in comfort and endurance.
• Wide Toe Box: A wide toe box is a hallmark of the Alma. Offered in women’s widths up to 2E, it is designed to accommodate wider feet, bunions, and hammertoes comfortably. This extra space allows toes to spread naturally, reducing the risk of blisters and pressure points. For hikers with wider feet, this feature is a game-changer, offering a level of comfort that can be hard to find in standard trail shoes.
• Protective Elements: Trail hazards like rocks and debris require a shoe that can offer protection. The Alma’s raised toe bumper and robust heel counter act as shields, protecting vulnerable areas of the foot from impacts and abrasions. These protective elements are essential for navigating rough terrain confidently.

These features collectively make the Orthofeet Alma a standout consideration for women hikers looking for wider toe box. The waterproof membrane and aggressive rubber outsole ensure that feet stay dry and grounded across various conditions. The supportive insoles and wide toe box address common pain points, offering relief and comfort that can last throughout the hike.

Lastly, the shoe’s protective elements provide peace of mind, allowing hikers to tackle challenging trails without hesitation.

Women's Waterproof Hiking Shoe | Alma

The Orthofeet Alma is a waterproof hiking shoe designed for women.

FREE Gift with purchase - one set of custom heat moldable inserts. A $80 value included FREE!

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Pros:

• Comfortable and supportive: Features Ortho-Cushion™ technology with anatomical arch support and cushioning, offering pain relief and comfort on long hikes.
• Waterproof: Seam-sealed leather upper and waterproof membrane keep feet dry in wet conditions.
• Traction: Multi-directional lugs on the rubber outsole provide grip on various terrains, including loose gravel, light mud, and moderate inclines.
• Protective features: Reinforced toe cap, padded tongue, and ankle collar offer protection from trail hazards.
• Wide toe box: Accommodates bunions and hammertoes, providing ample space for comfortable toe splaying.
• Removable insoles: Allow for customization and fit with orthotics.

Cons:

• Limited breathability: Leather upper with waterproof membrane might trap heat and moisture in warmer weather, potentially causing sweaty feet.
• Break-in period: Leather upper might require some time to soften up and conform to your foot shape.
• Not ideal for technical hikes: Moderate tread and ankle support might not be sufficient for demanding terrain requiring high ankle stability and aggressive traction.

Color:

Grey, Khaki

Size:

5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 11, 12

Width:

B, D, 2E

Balancing Positives and Considerations

Feedback from those who have taken the Alma on their hikes paints a picture of its real-world performance.

Positives

Users report several benefits, highlighting the shoe’s design and functionality:

• Effective Grip and Stability: The outsole’s performance on moderate trails is a consistent positive, providing reliable traction that supports varied outdoor activities.
• Comfort Across Conditions: The waterproof feature and the shoe’s overall comfort are praised, particularly in how they adapt to different weather conditions, ensuring a pleasant experience irrespective of the environment.
• Tailored Width Options: The availability of B (Medium), D (Wide), and 2E (Extra Wide) widths ensures a custom fit for a broad range of foot shapes, enhancing the shoe’s appeal to those with unique sizing needs.

Considerations

However, potential buyers should also consider a few points that have been raised:

• Style and Design: While the shoe’s wider fit is a boon for comfort, its bulkier appearance may not appeal to everyone. This aspect is subjective and varies according to personal preference.
• Durability and Wear: A small number of users have noted concerns with durability, which is an important factor to consider for those requiring a long-lasting hiking shoe.

While considering the Alma for your next hiking adventures, it’s important to note that its design is optimized for day-hiking rather than more technical hikes. This distinction is crucial for hikers planning their outings, as the Alma offers the support, comfort, and durability needed for lighter, more casual trails but may not meet the demands of more rigorous, challenging terrains encountered in extreme hiking.

Making an Informed Decision

For those in search of a day hiking shoe that caters specifically to wide feet, the Orthofeet Alma stands out as a strong contender. Its combination of waterproof protection, supportive design, and wide fit directly addresses the core requirements for comfort and performance on the trail. However, it’s equally important to weigh these strengths against considerations like aesthetic preferences and durability expectations.

Did You Know?
Long-distance hiking can exacerbate or reveal underlying joint issues, leading to pain in the knees, hips, and back. Trekking poles and properly fitting shoe can help reduce the impact on joints, while strengthening exercises can improve joint stability.

Final Thoughts

Tthe Orthofeet Alma is recommended for hikers seeking a supportive, wide-fit shoe for light to moderate trails. It’s a testament to Orthofeet’s commitment to combining therapeutic features with outdoor functionality. As with any hiking gear, personal preferences and specific needs will guide the final choice. Consulting with a podiatrist or footwear specialist can provide additional insights, ensuring that the selection not only meets but exceeds expectations for comfort, support, and trail readiness.

Have Questions?

Reach out and contact a DT Footwear fit specialist for personalized assistance via phone, email or text. Our fitment experts are here to guide you towards achieving Happy Feet. With a variety of footwear options available, stepping into comfort and style has never been easier.

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Disclaimer: Educational Information Only

The information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment, including any foot-related concerns. If you have any health issues or questions about your feet, please consult a qualified healthcare professional, like a doctor or podiatrist. Don’t ignore medical advice or delay seeking help based on what you read here or elsewhere. We’re not responsible for any harm caused by using this information. Everyone’s response to treatments can be different, and medical recommendations may change over time. If you experience a medical emergency or serious foot problem, seek immediate medical attention, or call your local emergency services. By using this resource, you agree to these terms and understand the importance of getting personalized medical advice from a qualified professional.