Month: June 2025

As I write this, I’m in the back seat of a Toyota Land Cruiser, bumping along a dusty road in Kenya on the way to our next lodge. In a few hours, we’ll be on a game drive, hoping to spot lions, rhinos and, if we’re really lucky, one of those elusive leopards.

An African safari has lived at the top of my bucket list for decades. And now, here I am – breathing in the wild air of the savanna, watching elephants move gracefully through the brush, collecting beautiful local art, and feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude that I finally achieve this life goal.

I was reminded of the power of seeing a place with your own eyes years ago, standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon. I had seen photos all my life, but nothing prepared me for the real thing. The scale. The silence. The sheer presence of it. That moment changed the way I saw travel – not as a luxury, but as something essential.

The Power of a Bucket List

A travel bucket list gives purpose to your passions, structure to your dreams, and momentum to your sense of adventure. It’s a reminder that life after 60 can be rich, bold, and expansive.

We all need goals to move forward. It might be the day’s goal of trying that new recipe. Or the weekend’s goal of reconnecting with your oldest friends. Or the year’s goal of finally losing that last 10 pounds.

Or it might be life goals. Those are the ones that stretch us. They ask us to board long flights, embrace different cultures, and open ourselves to the unknown. They wake up our senses and remind us that wonder is still out there, waiting for us.

What Happens When You’ve Checked Off the List?

This was my lifelong travel bucket list:

• Australia – check
• Galapagos – check
• Morocco – check
• Hawaii – check
• Alaska – check
• Norway – check
• Tuscany – check
• Japan – check     
• African safari – check     

That’s right. I’ve finished my bucket list. But I’m not finished traveling. Not by a long shot.

So it’s time to start a new list. China? India? Buy an RV and explore America?

Here are some ideas I’m pondering for my new travel bucket list:

• See the Northern Lights in Iceland or Finland
• Take a train across Canada on the Rocky Mountaineer
• Sail the Amazon River and explore the heart of the rainforest
• Visit Antarctica and step foot on the seventh continent
• Stay in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora or the Maldives
• Eat your way through Thailand on a street food tour
• Explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia
• Take a slow boat down the Mekong River
• Go gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda
• Sleep under the stars in the Wadi Rum desert of Jordan

If an African safari is on your bucket list, you can read about my trip here:

• Capture Kenya African Safari: A Magical African Safari Filled with Wildlife Wonder that Also Uplifts Women and Girls
•  The 5 ‘Fives’ of Africa – the Big, Ugly, Feathered, Special and Small Animals You’ll See in Kenya
• Safari Tips for First-Time Travelers to Africa
• Am I Too Old to Take an African Safari?

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What’s on your bucket list and why? What destinations have you gone to? Have you had to create a new bucket list? I’d love to hear the destinations that call to you – and maybe even add a few to my next round of adventures.

2nd Photo: @guerdydesign

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Click Here to Shop the Same Hoodie in Stock in Grey

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Originally posted at: Kristin Cavallari’s Yellow Zip Up Hooded Sweatshirt and Shorts

Finding the right hiking boots is important for women over 50 to ensure comfort, support, and safety on the trails. As we age, our feet may need more cushioning, better arch support, and reliable traction. The right pair of boots can make hiking more enjoyable and help prevent injuries. Are you heading out for a light day hike or a multi-day trek? The following guide covers ten hiking boots for women over 50 that are designed with performance and comfort in mind.

Top Pick for Hiking Boots for women over 50:

1. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot – Built for stability and long-distance comfort, this leather boot offers excellent ankle support and durability.
2. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof – A favorite for its comfort and affordability, this boot is perfect for moderate trails and all-day wear.
3. HOKA Kaha 3 GTX – Ideal for hikers who need cushioning, this lightweight boot reduces the impact on knees and joints.
4. Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex – Lightweight and agile, this boot is great for technical terrain and quick-moving hikers.
5. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX – Combining breathability with water protection, this boot excels in hot climates and steep hikes.

Continue reading to discover more hiking boots for women over 50 for varied budgets and lifestyles. 

What Features Should I Look for in Hiking Boots?

Before buying hiking boots, here are key features to consider:

• Arch Support: Crucial for preventing foot fatigue and promoting stability.
• Cushioning: Helps absorb shock and reduce strain on joints, especially for longer hikes.
• Weight: Lightweight boots reduce effort and are easier on the legs.
• Waterproofing: Keeps feet dry in wet conditions, helping prevent blisters.
• Traction: A quality outsole gives grip on various terrains, reducing the chance of slips.

Are There Lightweight Options Available?

Yes! Many hiking boots now use advanced materials that offer both durability and lightweight comfort. These designs are perfect if you want to avoid bulky footwear but still need support and protection.

How Important Is Waterproofing in Hiking Boots?

Very. Waterproof boots help keep your feet dry when crossing wet terrain or hiking in rainy conditions. A breathable waterproof membrane (like Gore-Tex) allows moisture to escape while blocking water from entering.

Do I Need High Ankle Support?

Ankle support depends on personal preference and trail difficulty. Mid and high-cut boots provide extra stability and are useful for rocky or uneven trails. If you have a history of ankle injuries, a higher-cut boot is often a safer choice.

Read more: 10 Best Hiking Jackets for Women Over 50.

10 Best Hiking Boots for Women Over 50

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid 

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot is built for serious trail work. Made from nubuck leather, this boot has a sturdy, high-cut design that supports the ankle, making it a great choice for uneven terrain. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry even in soggy weather, and the Vibram Evo outsole delivers excellent grip on rock, dirt, and mud.

This boot is particularly well-suited for older hikers who want serious support without sacrificing comfort. The footbed molds gradually to your foot, offering a customized feel. While it’s a bit heavier than average, the stability and quality are well worth it.

Pros:

• Excellent ankle support
• Gore-Tex waterproofing
• Sturdy Vibram outsole for traction
• Long-lasting leather build

Cons:

• Heavier than other boots
• May need break-in time

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

One of the most beloved hiking boots on the market, the Merrell Moab 3 is praised for its comfort and out-of-the-box wearability. It features a supportive insole, air cushioning in the heel, and a waterproof membrane that holds up in moderate rain or stream crossings.

Its mid-height design gives you enough ankle support for day hikes, and the Vibram outsole offers solid grip. The boot also comes in wide sizes, making it a great pick for women with bunions or arthritis. It’s lightweight, budget-friendly, and dependable.

Pros:

• Affordable and reliable
• Good arch support
• Vibram outsole for grip
• Waterproof membrane

Cons:

• Not ideal for heavy backpacking
• Moderate ankle support only

HOKA Kaha 3 GTX

If cushioning is a priority, the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX hiking boot delivers. Designed with the brand’s signature marshmallow-like cushioning, this boot reduces impact on knees and hips – a huge plus for mature hikers. The Gore-Tex liner provides waterproofing, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole ensures traction even on slippery surfaces.

This boot is an excellent option for women with joint pain, plantar fasciitis, or those who need more softness underfoot. It’s surprisingly light for such a high-cushion boot, and the extended ankle collar adds extra support for long hikes or rough terrain.

Pros:

• Plush cushioning
• Lightweight feel
• Gore-Tex membrane
• Vibram Megagrip outsole

Cons:

• Bulky look
• Premium price

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex

Designed for fast hiking and agility, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid hiking boot is an ideal choice for women who love moving quickly and confidently on the trail. It features a stable chassis that offers motion control and lateral support, making it one of the best options for uneven terrain.

The Gore-Tex membrane keeps moisture out while maintaining breathability. Though it has a narrower fit, it’s perfect for women with low to average-volume feet who want a boot that hugs without squeezing.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Excellent stability tech
• Waterproof and breathable
• Great for uneven terrain

Cons:

• Narrow fit
• Less cushion than others

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

A high-performance boot built with advanced technology, the Nucleo High II GTX combines full-grain leather with Nano-Cell ventilation, creating a breathable yet rugged hiking boot. The Gore-Tex Surround technology lets air flow around your entire foot while blocking water from the outside.

This boot is particularly good for women hiking in hot, humid environments who still need water protection. It offers exceptional grip with a Vibram Nano sole and a snug heel hold for stability on inclines.

Pros:

• Nano-Cell breathability
• Gore-Tex Surround waterproofing
• Great for summer hiking
• Grippy Vibram sole

Cons:

• Pricey
• Requires break-in

Read more: 7 Hiking Trails in the USA for Women Over 50.

Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof

Designed with a wide forefoot and comfortable padding, the Keen Targhee III is perfect for women who need extra toe room. It offers great comfort for light to moderate hikes and the Keen dry waterproof membrane handles puddles and light rain easily.

It’s a solid choice for women who want a balance of comfort, flexibility, and affordability. The footbed offers decent support, and the outsole performs well on everything from loose gravel to muddy trails.

Pros:

• Roomy and comfortable
• Good price point
• Keen dry waterproof membrane
• Moderate weight
• Good grip on various surfaces

Cons:

• Less durable upper material
• Moderate ankle support

Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry

This rugged leather boot stands out for its support and structure. With a molded heel counter and a solid TPU chassis, the Oboz Bridger is made to provide stability over technical trails. The B-Dry waterproof membrane keeps moisture out without overheating your feet.

What makes this boot great for women over 50 is the custom O Fit insole, which delivers extra arch and heel support. It’s a bit heavier than synthetic boots, but ideal for hikers with foot issues or those carrying a pack.

Pros:

• Supportive O Fit insole
• Excellent waterproofing
• Durable leather upper
• Excellent ankle support

Cons:

• Heavier build
• Warmer than synthetic options

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped

Budget-friendly and stylish, the Columbia Newton Ridge boot is great for casual hikers who don’t want to spend a fortune. It offers basic waterproofing and comfort for day hikes and local trails.

The boot is lightweight and has a well-cushioned midsole. The Omni-Grip outsole gives decent traction, though it’s not designed for steep or technical terrain.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Classic style
• Omni-Grip outsole for traction
• Seam-sealed waterproofing

Cons:

• Less durable than others
• Limited support on rugged terrain

Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2

The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is a zero-drop hiking boot that offers lightweight comfort with a natural foot shape design. It features Altra’s signature FootShape toe box, which allows the toes to relax and spread out naturally, making it especially comfortable for longer hikes and for women with bunions or wider feet.

The eVent waterproof bootie keeps your feet dry without compromising breathability. Its mid-height design provides a good level of ankle support while remaining flexible enough for agile movement. The MaxTrac rubber outsole grips well on uneven terrain, making it a solid choice for varied trails and multi-season hiking.

Pros:

• Wide toe box for natural comfort
• Waterproof and breathable eVent lining
• Lightweight and flexible
• Grippy MaxTrac outsole

Cons:

• Less structure than traditional boots
• Zero-drop design may require an adjustment period

Danner Mountain Light Cascade

This iconic hiking boot is a favorite among traditionalists and style lovers alike. Handcrafted in the U.S., the Mountain Light Cascade features a single-piece leather upper and a Vibram Kletterlift outsole.

It’s ideal for women looking for a durable, long-lasting boot that offers both form and function. It performs well on backcountry hikes and has a timeless look that transitions well to urban environments.

Pros:

• Beautiful leather construction
• Handmade quality
• Vibram Kletterlift outsole
• Waterproof and breathable

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires time to break in

For those of us who read the book Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail from author Cheryl Strayed or saw the 2014 movie inspired by the book featuring Reese Witherspoon will recognize the iconic boot. 

Choosing the right hiking boot is all about matching your needs with comfort and durability. For us women over 50, the best hiking boots offer reliable support, protection from the elements, and designs that work with aging feet. Investing in the right pair can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures.

Read more: Exploring the Great Outdoors: 10 Best Hiking Apps.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you own hiking boots? What type of hiking boots are your favorite? Which features do you prioritize when choosing hiking boots? What is your favorite brand of hiking boots for women? Tell us about it in the comments below. 

When I was younger, I never gave much thought to toxins and how they might be affecting my brain. But after watching my mom – and later, my partner Mark’s father – slip into dementia, I started asking hard questions.

Could everyday exposures be quietly chipping away at our memory, focus, and brain vitality? And more importantly… can we do something about it?

Science says, yes. Brain fog, memory lapses, and even increased risk for dementia can be traced back to five common environmental toxins – and once you learn where they’re hiding, you can start clearing them out. And more importantly, make changes where you’re no longer adding more in.

As a Doctor of Naturopathy and lifelong student of natural healing, I do liver and bowel cleanses a few times a year, and once annually, I add a targeted safe (meaning there is enough fiber to encapsulate any stored metals) heavy metal detox to keep my mind sharp and energy high. And to be proactive.

When I dyed my hair (for most of my life) I always did a few days of liver cleansing as well and counseled my clients to do the same. Chemicals like PPD (hormone disrupter), Resorcinol (endocrine disrupter), ammonia (irritates the respiratory system), Phthalates (interferes with thyroid function) seep into the scalp and get stored in the body. A 2019 NIH study showed a potential increased breast cancer risk in women who dye their hair regularly.

Here’s what every woman over 50 should know about these brain-draining culprits:

1. Heavy Metals (Mercury, Lead, Aluminum)

Where They Lurk

• Mercury: Tuna, swordfish, dental fillings, older vaccines
• Lead: Old pipes, pre-1978 paint, some imported makeup or ceramics
• Aluminum: Cookware, foil, deodorants, processed foods

Why It Matters

Heavy metals are neurotoxins. They interfere with neurotransmitters, promote chronic inflammation, and are linked to early-onset Alzheimer’s. Even small, repeated exposures adds up.

What to Do

Support natural chelation with foods like cilantro, chlorella, and spirulina, and consider supplements like alpha-lipoic acid. Sweating through sauna or exercise helps, too.

2. Plastics (BPA & Phthalates)

Where They Lurk

Plastic water bottles, food containers, receipts, makeup, and even some canned goods.

Why It Matters

These compounds mimic estrogen and mess with hormonal balance – essential for memory, sleep, and mental clarity. Studies link plastic exposure to cognitive decline and hormone-driven brain changes.

What to Do

Avoid plastic whenever possible, especially when heating food. Opt for glass or stainless steel, eat cruciferous veggies like broccoli, and support your liver with milk thistle and DIM.

3. Mold Toxins (Mycotoxins)

Where They Lurk

Water-damaged homes, hidden leaks, HVAC systems, coffee, nuts, and grains.

Why It Matters

Mold toxins inflame the brain and trigger symptoms like headaches, brain fog, panic attacks, and poor memory. They can also suppress the immune system.

What to Do

Bind and eliminate mold with activated charcoal, zeolite, and antifungal herbs like oregano and garlic. Remediate any mold in your home immediately.

4. Pesticides & Herbicides (Especially Glyphosate)

Where They Lurk

Conventional produce, grains, backyard weed killers – and yes, even tap water.

Why It Matters

Glyphosate disrupts the gut-brain axis, damages brain-protective microbes and contributes to depression and cognitive dysfunction.

What to Do

Choose organic when possible. Support detox with glutathione, Epsom salt baths, and seasonal liver cleansing.

5. Flame Retardants & VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

Where They Lurk

Mattresses, carpets, furniture, car interiors, cleaning products, air fresheners.

Why It Matters

These toxins release chemicals that interfere with hormones and harm neurons – contributing to sleep disruption and mental fatigue.

What to Do

Air out your home daily, get plants like peace lilies or snake plants, and invest in non-toxic cleaning supplies and air purifiers.

But Can You Really Detox the Brain?

Yes, you absolutely can. Your brain is designed to heal. When we reduce incoming toxins and support natural elimination pathways – especially the liver, lymph, and gut – inflammation goes down, energy goes up, and clarity returns.

I see it all the time in my community of women over 50 Wise Women of Wellness.

Simple daily actions, done consistently, work wonders.

Extra Brain Detox Tips I Live By

• Hydrate deeply (your brain is 75% water!)
• Prioritize sleep between 10PM–2AM – that’s prime brain-cleaning time
• Keep moving! Gentle movement + breathwork = lymphatic flow = detox
• Stay curious. A stimulated brain is a youthful brain.
• Consider Dandelion tea or beet powder (I add this daily into my morning drink)

Final Thought

Over 6 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s today, and two-thirds of them are women. While genetics can play a role, toxic load and lifestyle often tip the scales.

Don’t wait for symptoms. Start clearing out the invisible clutter and give your brain the vibrant, healthy future it deserves.

Free Bonus PDF Download: “30 Ways to Reduce Your Toxic Load”

Protect your brain, Balance Your Hormones and Support Whole-Body Wellness. Learn 30 ways to reduce toxins in your home, your kitchen, your beauty products and how to move your lymph system for natural cleansing.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How do you make sure the environment you live in is free of brain-damaging toxins? Do you go organic whenever you can?