Best Hiking Boots For Women

Editorial Team
Last modified at May 27, 2026
Choosing the right hiking boots can make or break your outdoor experience. Women's hiking boots need to offer a blend of comfort, durability, and support to handle various terrains and weather conditions. Strong options provide secure ankle support, stable footing, and enough cushioning to reduce fatigue on long hikes. They should also be durable enough to withstand rugged conditions while keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Breathability and traction are also key factors, as they help manage moisture and provide grip on slippery surfaces. In this guide, we'll highlight the top hiking boots for women, focusing on their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

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Hoka Kaha 3 GTX Hiking Boots - Women's

The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX is a solid choice for women who need a reliable hiking boot for long trails or challenging terrain. The boot offers excellent stability, thanks to its high ankle collar and Vibram outsole, which grips well on both wet and dry surfaces. The Gore-Tex lining ensures your feet stay dry in rainy conditions while still allowing for decent breathability, so you won’t feel like you’re hiking in a swamp. The cushioning is plush, making it a great option for those who prioritize comfort on extended hikes. However, the fit is on the narrow side, which might be a dealbreaker if you have wider feet. Overall, it’s a well-built boot for serious hikers who need support and weather resistance.
Hoka Kaha 3 GTX Hiking Boots - Women's
Comfort
4.8 / 5
Durability
4.8 / 5
Fit
4.2 / 5
Stability
4.9 / 5
Breathability
4.6 / 5
Traction
4.7 / 5
Weight

16.80 oz

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Upper Material

Leather Working Group Gold-rated waterproof nubuck leather and GORE-TEX Invisible Fit fabric

Midsole Material

Ethylene Vinyl Acetate

podiatry
Drop

8 mm

Lacing System

Lace-up with quick-lace metal top hooks

Warranty

1-year limited warranty against defects in materials/workmanship

GOODS

  • Exceptional stability and support on rugged terrain, thanks to the high ankle collar and Vibram outsole.
  • Waterproof Gore-Tex lining keeps feet dry in wet conditions without sacrificing breathability.

BADS

  • The fit runs narrow, which may not accommodate wider feet comfortably.

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Hoka Kaha 3 GTX Hiking Boots - Women'svsMerrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

The Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof hiking boots are a solid choice for those seeking a balance of comfort and durability. They offer excellent ankle and arch support, making them ideal for long hikes on rugged terrain. The boots are built to last, with a durable construction that holds up well in various conditions, including rain, mud, and rocky surfaces. The waterproof feature ensures your feet stay dry, which is crucial for hiking in unpredictable weather. However, the breathability is somewhat limited, which may cause discomfort in hot weather. The boots are true to size and have a wide toe box, providing a comfortable fit for most foot shapes. Overall, these boots are a great option for women who need reliable support and durability for their outdoor adventures.
Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
4.7 / 5
Fit
4.2 / 5
Stability
4.7 / 5
Breathability
3.7 / 5
Traction
4.6 / 5
Weight

14.45 oz (per shoe)

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Upper Material

Pig suede leather and breathable mesh

Midsole Material

Super Rebound Compound

podiatry
Drop

11.5 mm

Lacing System

100% recycled laces and webbing

Warranty

1-year limited warranty against defects in materials/workmanship

GOODS

  • Excellent ankle and arch support for long hikes on rugged terrain
  • Durable construction holds up well in rain, mud, and rocky conditions

BADS

  • Breathability is limited, which may cause discomfort in hot weather

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Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid WaterproofvsSalomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX

Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX

The X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX is a standout choice for women who need a dependable hiking boot for challenging trails. Its snug fit and cushioned midsole offer excellent support, reducing fatigue during long treks. The GORE-TEX lining ensures your feet stay dry in wet conditions, making it ideal for unpredictable weather. However, this waterproofing comes at the cost of breathability, which might make your feet feel warmer on hot days. The boot's aggressive tread pattern provides solid traction on various surfaces, from loose gravel to muddy paths. Overall, it's a great option for hikers who prioritize comfort and weather resistance over ventilation.
X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX
Comfort
4.8 / 5
Durability
4.3 / 5
Fit
4.7 / 5
Stability
4.7 / 5
Breathability
3.8 / 5
Traction
4.2 / 5
Weight

16 oz (per shoe)

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Upper Material

PU coated leather / Textile

Midsole Material

EnergyCell EVA foam

podiatry
Drop

11 mm

Lacing System

Regular laces

Warranty

2-year limited warranty

GOODS

  • Exceptional comfort and support for long hikes on rugged terrain
  • GORE-TEX lining provides reliable waterproofing in wet conditions

BADS

  • Breathability is somewhat limited due to the waterproof membrane

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Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEXvsColumbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot

The Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot is a solid choice for those who need reliable water resistance without sacrificing comfort. The boots keep your feet dry even in wet and snowy conditions, making them ideal for unpredictable weather. They offer plenty of room in the toe box, so you can wear thick socks without feeling cramped. The tread looks durable and maintains its appearance over time, adding to the overall quality feel. However, the fit can be a bit inconsistent, so you might need to try a few sizes to find the right one. These boots are great for long trails where you need both support and weather protection. If you prioritize dry feet and comfort on rugged terrain, these are worth considering.
Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot
Comfort
4.4 / 5
Durability
4.6 / 5
Fit
3.9 / 5
Stability
4.6 / 5
Breathability
4.9 / 5
Traction
4.6 / 5
Weight

13.8 oz (per shoe)

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Upper Material

Full grain leather and suede

Midsole Material

Techlite™

podiatry
Drop

Not published by Columbia or REI

Lacing System

Lace

Warranty

1-year limited footwear warranty

GOODS

  • Excellent water resistance, keeping feet dry in wet and snowy conditions
  • Comfortable with ample toe room, even with thick socks

BADS

  • Fit may be inconsistent, requiring careful sizing

Compare this product with...

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking BootvsColumbia Women's Transverse Hike Waterproof Boot

Columbia Women's Transverse Hike Waterproof Boot

The Women's Transverse Hike Waterproof Boot is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable hiking companion. Its waterproofing stands out, handling wet trails with ease, while the cushioned sole ensures comfort on long hikes. The boots are built to last, with a sturdy construction that can handle rugged terrain. However, the fit can be a bit tricky—while they offer wide width options, some may still find them too narrow. The boots also have a sleek design that avoids the clunky look of some hiking footwear. If you prioritize durability and water resistance but have wider feet, make sure to try them on before committing.
Women's Transverse Hike Waterproof Boot
Comfort
4.4 / 5
Durability
4.8 / 5
Fit
3.9 / 5
Stability
4.7 / 5
Breathability
3.6 / 5
Traction
4.6 / 5
Weight

11.2 oz (per shoe)

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Upper Material

Leather and mesh

Midsole Material

Techlite

podiatry
Drop

Not published by Columbia

Lacing System

Metal hardware

Warranty

1-year limited footwear warranty

GOODS

  • Excellent water resistance, keeping feet dry in wet conditions
  • Durable construction with a cushioned sole for long trail comfort

BADS

  • Fit can be narrow for some, despite offering wide width options

Compare this product with...

Columbia Women's Transverse Hike Waterproof BootvsMerrell Women’s Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof

Merrell Women’s Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof

The Women’s Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof hiking boots are a solid choice for those who prioritize comfort and weather resistance. The boots feature a cushioned insole that provides excellent support, making them ideal for long trails where fatigue can be an issue. The waterproof design ensures your feet stay dry, even in wet conditions, which is a huge plus for unpredictable weather. The fit is accommodating, with a wide toe box that works well with different sock thicknesses. However, while these boots excel in comfort and durability, they do fall a bit short in stability on rough or loose terrain. If you're looking for a reliable boot for well-maintained trails or moderate hikes, these are a great option, but serious backpackers might want something with a bit more ankle support.
Women’s Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
4.8 / 5
Fit
4.2 / 5
Stability
3.9 / 5
Breathability
3.9 / 5
Traction
4.2 / 5
Weight

12.52 oz (per shoe)

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Upper Material

Waterproof synthetic leather and mesh

Midsole Material

EVA foam

podiatry
Drop

10 mm

Lacing System

100% recycled laces and webbing

Warranty

1-year limited warranty against defects in materials/workmanship

GOODS

  • Exceptionally comfortable with great cushioning, reducing fatigue on long hikes.
  • High-quality waterproof construction keeps feet dry in wet conditions.

BADS

  • Stability could be better on uneven or loose terrain.

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Merrell Women’s Speed Strike 2 Mid WaterproofvsOboz Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots - Women’s

Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots - Women’s

The Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots for women are a solid choice for those who need reliable support and durability on long hikes. The boots offer excellent arch and ankle support, which helps keep your foot stable and secure on uneven terrain. Their durable construction means you can hit the trail right out of the box without worrying about a break-in period. The boots are also designed to hold up well over time, making them a great investment for frequent hikers. However, the fit can be a bit narrow, particularly in the toe box, which might be uncomfortable for those with wider feet. The boots are also waterproof, adding to their versatility in various weather conditions. Overall, they're a great option if you prioritize support and durability, but be sure to consider the fit before making a purchase.
Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots - Women’s
Comfort
4.4 / 5
Durability
4.6 / 5
Fit
3.6 / 5
Stability
4.7 / 5
Breathability
3.8 / 5
Traction
4.3 / 5
Weight

32.4 oz/pair

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Upper Material

Waterproof nubuck leather

Midsole Material

Dual-density EVA

podiatry
Drop

Not published by Oboz or REI

Lacing System

Lace-up

Warranty

1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects

GOODS

  • Excellent arch and ankle support, holding your foot securely on rugged trails.
  • Durable construction that requires no break-in period and holds up well over time.

BADS

  • Narrow fit may feel too tight in the toe box for some.

Compare this product with...

Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots - Women’svsLa Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots - Women's

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots - Women's

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots are a solid choice for women tackling tough trails. They offer exceptional grip and stability, thanks to their aggressive outsole, which handles loose rocks and steep inclines with ease. The Gore-Tex lining ensures your feet stay dry in wet conditions, adding to their all-weather versatility. However, these boots run narrow, which might be a dealbreaker if you have wider feet. The mid-cut design provides good ankle support without sacrificing mobility, striking a balance between protection and freedom of movement. They’re built to last, with durable materials that hold up well over time, making them a great option for serious hikers who need reliable footwear.
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots - Women's
Comfort
3.9 / 5
Durability
4.7 / 5
Fit
2.9 / 5
Stability
4.8 / 5
Breathability
3.4 / 5
Traction
4.9 / 5
Weight

12.5 oz (per shoe)

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Upper Material

Synthetic ripstop

Midsole Material

Dual-density CMEVA

podiatry
Drop

10 mm

Lacing System

Lace-up

Warranty

1-year materials/workmanship warranty for original buyer

GOODS

  • Excellent traction on rugged terrain, making them ideal for challenging hikes
  • Durable construction with Gore-Tex lining for reliable weather resistance

BADS

  • Narrow fit may not accommodate wider feet comfortably

Compare this product with...

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots - Women'svsSalomon Quest Echo GORE-TEX

Salomon Quest Echo GORE-TEX

The Quest Echo GORE-TEX is a solid choice for women who need reliable hiking boots for challenging trails. The stability and traction are top-notch, making them great for rugged terrain and long hikes. The fit is comfortable and supportive, which is crucial for all-day wear. However, the breathability isn't the best, so your feet might get a bit hot during intense hikes or in warmer weather. The GORE-TEX lining provides good weather resistance, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. Overall, these boots are a great option if you prioritize support and durability over breathability.
Quest Echo GORE-TEX
Comfort
4.2 / 5
Durability
3.7 / 5
Fit
4.4 / 5
Stability
4.7 / 5
Breathability
2.6 / 5
Traction
4.7 / 5
Weight

21 oz (per shoe)

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Upper Material

Leather and textiles

Midsole Material

EVA foam with Salomon chassis technology

podiatry
Drop

12 mm

Lacing System

Metal eyelets and fabric with lace locker

Warranty

2-year limited warranty

GOODS

  • Excellent stability and traction on rugged terrain
  • Comfortable fit with good support for long hikes

BADS

  • Breathability is lacking, feet can get hot

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Salomon Quest Echo GORE-TEXvsLa Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX is a solid choice for women tackling long trails or rugged terrain. Its Gore-Tex lining ensures your feet stay dry without sacrificing breathability, making it versatile for different weather conditions. The boot's Vibram sole provides outstanding grip, giving you confidence on slippery or uneven surfaces. However, the fit is on the narrower side, which might be a drawback for those with wider feet. The high ankle support is great for stability on challenging hikes, though it may require some break-in time to feel fully comfortable. Overall, it's a reliable boot for serious hikers who need a balance of support, durability, and weather resistance.
La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
4.1 / 5
Fit
3.4 / 5
Stability
3.9 / 5
Breathability
4.3 / 5
Traction
4.7 / 5
Weight

16.8 oz (per shoe, men's sample)

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Upper Material

Nubuck leather and softshell in high flex areas

Midsole Material

Compression-molded EVA with 0.1 in Polypropylene Stiffener

podiatry
Drop

Not published by La Sportiva

Lacing System

Lace up

Warranty

1-year materials/workmanship warranty for original buyer

GOODS

  • Excellent traction on rugged and slippery terrain
  • Breathable yet waterproof, keeping feet dry in various conditions

BADS

  • Narrow fit may not suit those with wider feet

Compare this product with...

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTXvsTopo Athletic Trailventure 2 WP Women’s

Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 WP Women’s

The Trailventure 2 WP Women’s hiking boots are designed for comfort and support on long trails. They feature a wide toe box that prevents pinching and allows for natural foot movement, which is a big plus for those with wider feet. The boots offer excellent stability and support, with secure ankle tension and good arch support, making them suitable for rugged terrain. Their waterproofing is reliable, keeping your feet dry in light rain and muddy conditions. However, the durability of the materials might not be as robust as some other options, so they may not hold up as well over time with heavy use. Overall, these boots are a great choice for women seeking a comfortable and supportive hiking boot for varied conditions.
Trailventure 2 WP Women’s
Comfort
4.6 / 5
Durability
3.2 / 5
Fit
4.1 / 5
Stability
4.7 / 5
Breathability
3.7 / 5
Traction
4.3 / 5
Weight

13.1 oz (W7)

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Upper Material

Abrasion-resistant mesh

Midsole Material

ZipFoam™

podiatry
Drop

5 mm

Lacing System

Lace-Up

Warranty

Defective product handled through Topo or authorized retailer; no fixed term published

GOODS

  • The wide toe box provides ample room, reducing the risk of pinched toes and enhancing comfort on long hikes.
  • Excellent stability and support, with secure ankle tension and good arch support, making them ideal for rugged terrain.

BADS

  • Durability may be a concern, as the materials might not hold up as well over time compared to other hiking boots.

Compare this product with...

Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 WP Women’svsLa Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX

La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX

The TX Hike Mid GTX is a solid choice for women looking for a reliable hiking boot that can handle long trails and rugged terrain. It offers excellent traction, ensuring stability on various surfaces, and provides good comfort and support for extended hikes. The boot's durability is notable, making it a good investment for frequent hikers. However, while it performs well in many conditions, the breathability is not its strongest suit, which might make your feet feel a bit warmer in hot weather. The fit is generally good, but those with wider feet might need to consider sizing carefully. Overall, it's a well-rounded boot that balances comfort, support, and durability effectively.
TX Hike Mid GTX
Comfort
4.2 / 5
Durability
4.1 / 5
Fit
3.7 / 5
Stability
4.1 / 5
Breathability
3.7 / 5
Traction
4.2 / 5
Weight

14.4 oz (per shoe)

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Upper Material

Recycled AirMesh & No-Sew Upper / Recycled Laces & Nylon® Webbing / Welded TPU Overlays / Microfiber Heel Stabilizer / 3D Flex Ankle System

Midsole Material

Compression EVA with Co-Molded Stabilizing insert

podiatry
Drop

10 mm

Lacing System

Recycled Laces & Nylon® Webbing

Warranty

1-year materials/workmanship warranty for original buyer

GOODS

  • Excellent traction on varied terrain, making it reliable for rugged trails.
  • Comfortable for long hikes with good support and cushioning.

BADS

  • Breathability could be better, leading to slightly warmer feet in hot conditions.

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La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTXvsLOWA RENEGADE GTX MID Ws

LOWA RENEGADE GTX MID Ws

The Renegade GTX Mid Ws is a solid choice for women tackling challenging trails. Its aggressive outsole provides reliable grip on various surfaces, making it ideal for rugged terrain. The high ankle support and sturdy construction offer excellent stability, which is great for carrying heavier loads over long distances. However, the boot's breathability is limited, so your feet might feel warm during hikes in hotter conditions. The fit can be a bit narrow, so those with wider feet might need to size up. Overall, it's a dependable boot for serious hikers who prioritize support and traction over ventilation.
RENEGADE GTX MID Ws
Comfort
4.4 / 5
Durability
3.9 / 5
Fit
3.1 / 5
Stability
4.6 / 5
Breathability
2.6 / 5
Traction
4.3 / 5
Weight

21.1 oz

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Upper Material

high-quality leather

Midsole Material

SUPPORT FRAME, DOUBLE INJECTION

podiatry
Drop

Not published by LOWA

Lacing System

crossed laces with 3 loops on top

Warranty

12-month limited warranty against defects

GOODS

  • Excellent traction on rugged and slippery terrain
  • Superior stability for long hikes with heavy loads

BADS

  • Breathability is lacking, feet can get hot on warm days

Compare this product with...

LOWA RENEGADE GTX MID Wsvsadidas Terrex Anylander Mid Rain.Rdy Hiking Shoes

adidas Terrex Anylander Mid Rain.Rdy Hiking Shoes

The Terrex Anylander Mid Rain.Rdy Hiking Shoes are a solid choice for women who need reliable footwear for long trails or rugged terrain. They offer a good balance of comfort and support, making them suitable for extended wear, even on 16-hour workdays. The material is praised for its durability, holding up well in wet conditions and various environments. However, the fit can be a bit inconsistent, so it's worth trying them on before committing. They perform well in dry and rugged terrains, adding to their versatility. While they may not have excessive cushioning, they still provide adequate support for feet and ankles. Overall, these shoes are a great option for those seeking a durable and versatile hiking boot.
Terrex Anylander Mid Rain.Rdy Hiking Shoes
Comfort
4.1 / 5
Durability
4.4 / 5
Fit
3.3 / 5
Stability
3.9 / 5
Breathability
3.1 / 5
Traction
4.2 / 5
Weight

11.64 oz

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Upper Material

Textile

Midsole Material

EVA

podiatry
Drop

9 mm

Lacing System

Lace closure

Warranty

2-year warranty/RMA eligibility for manufacturing defects (regional adidas official policy; US term not separately published)

GOODS

  • Durable construction handles long hikes and wet conditions without wearing down.
  • Versatile for various terrains, performing well in both dry and rugged environments.

BADS

  • Fit can be inconsistent, with some finding them true to size while others experience a looser feel.

Compare this product with...

adidas Terrex Anylander Mid Rain.Rdy Hiking ShoesvsHoka Kaha 3 GTX Hiking Boots - Women's

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Conclusion & Final Verdict:

When comparing the top options, the Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof stands out for its excellent balance of comfort, durability, and stability, making it a great all-around choice. However, its breathability is limited, which might be a concern in hot weather. The Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot offers superior breathability and water resistance, ideal for wet and snowy conditions, but its fit can be inconsistent. For those prioritizing traction and stability on rugged terrain, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX is a strong contender, though its narrow fit may not suit everyone. The Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots provide excellent arch and ankle support, making them a reliable choice for long hikes, but they also have a narrow fit.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs. If you need a versatile boot that excels in most conditions, go with the Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof. For superior breathability and water resistance, the Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot is the way to go. For challenging trails requiring exceptional grip and stability, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX is the best pick. For reliable support and durability on long hikes, the Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are a solid choice.

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How We Rated These Products

Comfort

How cushioned and pleasant the boots feel during extended wear.

Durability

How well the boots withstand wear, terrain, and repeated use over time.

Fit

How snugly and securely the boots conform to the foot and ankle.

Stability

How well the boots prevent rolling or slipping on uneven ground.

Breathability

How effectively the boots allow airflow to reduce heat and moisture.

Traction

How well the boots grip surfaces, especially in wet or loose conditions.