Ladies’s Oboz Sawtooth X WP Assessment

Bottom Line

The Oboz Sawtooth X WP are significantly tighter-fitting compared to other models in our lineup. While they run true to size, they are best suited for those with narrow feet.

After hiking in Salt Point State Park in Northern California, our gear analyst found these shoes do require a longer break-in period and are best designed for someone looking for a high heel-to-toe drop and extra support.

Throughout testing, the shoes proved to be waterproof with excellent traction that even shed mud and clay soil very well. Though they are clunkier and heavier than other shoes we tested, overall, these are a decent pair. 

For other top recommendations, check out the rest of our lineup in our best women’s hiking shoes gear guide.

How We Tested

We tested the Oboz Sawtooth X WP hiking shoes while exploring Salt Point State Park, hiking through redwoods, a pygmy forest, and a rugged coastline. We hiked through puddles and mud, crossed creeks over fallen trees, and scrambled over boulders at the coast to determine how these shoes compared in their comfort, traction, durability, and weather resistance. We also weighed each shoe on a kitchen scale to compare them with the rest of the lineup.

Comfort

The Oboz have a snugger fit than other shoe models in our lineup. Although this pair fits true to size length-wise, it has a narrower toe box. Even our gear analysts with narrower feet found the toe box slightly constricting. However, hikers with slimmer feet or who prefer that snug feel may appreciate the shape of the Oboz Sawtooth. 

These shoes have extra arch support and a thicker, firmer sole which may be comfortable for some who are used to features like these; however, those who prefer a more cushy sole or more natural foot shape will likely want to try other footwear options. Ultimately, these shoes feel very stiff when compared to other models and lack a flexible, responsive sole.

Traction

We felt confident with the traction and grip of this pair. Oboz’s Trail Tread Rubber offers excellent slip-resistance on wet and dry surfaces with updated stickier rubber, long-lasting durability, and even boasts the ability to shed mud on the trail.

Compared to many other shoe models, the Oboz didn’t accumulate mud in between the lug. Even when crossing thick gooey clay they performed admirably and left our gear analysts pleased with the results. 

Weight

At just over two pounds, the Oboz Sawtooth X WP is one of the bulkier and heavier options in our lineup. Depending on how they fit your feet, and due to their weight and bulk, these shoes are not the best option for terrain where precision stepping is of utmost importance.

With that being said, this pair justifies its weight in its durability and thicker materials which also make this shoe a viable option for outdoor work environments where your feet need extra protection. This updated model of the Oboz now features increased durability and a modern look that, while beneficial for those who want increased support, doesn’t help to shed any weight.

Durability

This long-lasting shoe is sure to withstand tough terrain and rough use. Due to its thicker materials and heftier build, it is likely to retain its shape over many seasons. These shoes have a high tolerance for bushwhacking, sharp rocks, pokey bushes, and other outdoor elements that you may encounter on the trail.

Although the Oboz Sawtooths are stiffer than other shoe models, once they are broken in, the redeveloped midsole will provide long-lasting reliability for those searching for extra support.

Weather Resistance

The Oboz Sawtooth X WP uses the Oboz B-Dry system to keep your feet dry and prevent water and rain from entering the shoes. We found our feet stayed protected and dry from water crossings and mud. Moisture did absorb more into the leather uppers than in other waterproof shoes from our lineup. However, no water penetrated the material all the way to our socks.

We found the B-Dry waterproofing to be more breathable compared to other proprietary coatings. Our feet still got hot, however we didn’t experience the same level of overheating and hotspots as we did when wearing burlier pairs.

Should You Buy the Oboz Sawtooth X WP?

Hikers with narrow  feet will appreciate the snug fit of the Oboz Sawtooth.

With the Oboz’s stiffness and robust support, this shoe is geared toward hikers looking for more stability in their footwear.

And if your biggest concern is durability and you find the shape of the Oboz comfortable on your feet, then you can’t go wrong with its excellent traction and dependable waterproofing that performs better than some other styles on the market.

What Other Women’s Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?

The Oboz Sawtooth X WP is just one of many that we suggest in our gear guide of the best women’s hiking shoes:

Keen Targhee IV WP Review: Although very similar to the Oboz Sawtooth X in terms of bulk/weight, durability, and weather resistance, the Keens instead offer a roomier fit for those with wider or larger feet. If you like the Oboz, but find you need something with more space, then check out the Keen Targhees.

La Sportiva Spire GTX Review: The La Sportiva Spire offers equally excellent durability as the Oboz and sports a similar slim fit. They are narrow, yet have a slightly larger volume in the toe box than the Oboz. La Sportiva also uses a Goretex membrane which makes their waterproof shoes a bit more breathable.

Merrell Moab 3 Review: These are one of our favorite budget options. They have a similar look to the Oboz Sawtooth X and Keen Targhees. These shoes are lighter weight and require less time to break in while being moderately roomy in the toe box with a bulkier look.