Let’s talk about the NORTIV 8 Women’s Lightweight Hiking Shoe. You’ve probably seen it on Amazon—it’s popular, it’s stylish, and the price point is incredibly tempting. But in the world of outdoor gear, a low price can sometimes be a red flag. Is this a hidden gem for the budget-conscious hiker, or is it a classic case of “you get what you pay for?”
We dove deep into the specs, tested them out, and sifted through hundreds of real-world customer reviews to get you the straight dope. Here’s our brutally honest breakdown.
The Quick Verdict: What You Need to Know
| Category | Our Rating | The Bottom Line |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort & Fit | 3.5 / 5 | Surprisingly comfortable, but sizing is inconsistent and often runs large. |
| Traction & Grip | 4 / 5 | The outsole provides solid, reliable grip on dirt, mud, and moderate rock. |
| Waterproofing | 1 / 5 | Not waterproof. The mesh upper will let water in. Best for dry conditions only. |
| Durability & Value | 4.5 / 5 | For the price, the construction quality and potential lifespan offer excellent value. |
The Straight Dope: A Detailed Performance Breakdown
Comfort and Fit: Good, If You Get the Size Right
Out of the box, the first thing you’ll notice is how lightweight these shoes are. They feel more like a sturdy sneaker than a traditional, clunky hiker. Many users report they are very comfortable for all-day wear with little to no break-in period required. The cushioned insole provides decent support for moderate hikes.
The Heads Up: Sizing is the biggest issue. The most consistent feedback is that these shoes run a full half- to a full-size too big. If you decide to buy, we strongly recommend ordering at least a half-size down from your usual shoe size.
Traction and Stability: Surprisingly Capable
For a budget-friendly shoe, the traction is impressive. The rubber outsole has deep, multi-directional lugs that provide a secure grip on a variety of surfaces. As one customer noted, “They fit like a sneaker but grip like the hikers they are.” We found them reliable on muddy trails, packed dirt, and moderately steep terrain.
The Waterproofing Question: Let’s Be Clear
This is where we need to be brutally honest. Despite some descriptions you might see, these shoes are NOT waterproof. The upper part of the shoe is made of a breathable mesh, which is great for keeping your feet cool on hot days, but it will let water in instantly. If you walk through wet grass, a shallow puddle, or get caught in the rain, your feet will get wet. Think of them as “water-resistant” at best.
The Quick-Lace System: Love It or Hate It
The bungee-style quick laces are a convenient feature that allows you to slip the shoes on and off easily. However, feedback is mixed. Some users love the convenience, while others find it difficult to get a truly snug, secure fit, especially if they have narrow feet. A few long-term reviews also raised concerns about the durability of the plastic toggle.
Who Are These Hiking Shoes ACTUALLY For?
The NORTIV 8 Women’s Hiking Shoe is an excellent choice for a specific type of user:
- The Casual Day Hiker: Perfect for well-maintained trails, park walks, and fair-weather adventures where you need more grip and support than a standard sneaker.
- The Budget-Conscious Buyer: If you’re new to hiking or only go a few times a year, these offer fantastic value and performance for the price.
- Travelers: Their lightweight design makes them a great all-in-one travel shoe for city walking and light trail exploration.
This is NOT the right shoe for serious backpackers, hikers who frequently encounter wet conditions, or anyone tackling highly technical, off-trail terrain. For those activities, you need to invest in a more durable, truly waterproof boot.
Final Verdict: A Great Value, With a Few Catches
The NORTIV 8 Women’s Lightweight Hiking Shoe is a surprisingly solid performer for its price. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and has great traction. As long as you understand its two major limitations—order a size down and do not expect them to be waterproof—we believe they offer outstanding value.
If you’re looking for an affordable, stylish, and capable shoe for your dry-weather adventures, this is one of the best budget options on the market. Just be sure to manage your expectations, and your feet (and your wallet) will be very happy.
