10 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for lightweight hiking, especially if you need reliable water resistance thanks to its waterproof membrane that keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape. It features a combination of pigskin leather and mesh, which balances durability with breathability, and uses recycled materials for the laces and lining, adding an eco-friendly touch. The shoe provides good support and cushioning with its Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole, reinforced heel cushioning, and a molded nylon arch shank, which helps maintain foot stability on uneven ground. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel further absorbs shock, making it comfortable for longer hikes.

Traction is strong due to the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, known for good grip on various surfaces. Fit-wise, the lace-up design and bellows tongue that keeps debris out contribute to a secure and comfortable experience. While it weighs about 2 pounds, which is reasonable for a waterproof hiking shoe, it may feel a bit heavier compared to ultralight trail shoes. Some users might find the leather upper less breathable than full mesh options, but it offers better protection and durability.

This shoe suits hikers who want dependable waterproofing and solid support without sacrificing comfort, making it a good pick for moderate to challenging trails.

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a suitable choice for lightweight hiking enthusiasts. One of its standout features is its weight - it is designed to be light, which can help reduce fatigue during long hikes. The shoe combines pigskin leather and mesh for durability and breathability, with 100% recycled materials used for the laces and webbing, making it an environmentally conscious choice.

Support and cushioning are adequately provided by the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole and the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, which absorbs shock and adds stability. The molded nylon arch shank and lightweight EVA foam midsole further enhance stability and comfort. Traction-wise, the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole offers reliable grip on various terrains.

The fit is tailored for medium support, which should be comfortable for most hikers. The inclusion of a bellows tongue helps in keeping out debris, adding to the shoe's practical design. One potential drawback is the lack of specified water resistance. The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a well-rounded option for those seeking a lightweight, supportive, and environmentally friendly hiking shoe.

The Columbia Mens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for those seeking lightweight hiking footwear with reliable protection and comfort. Thanks to its TECHLITE midsole, these boots offer good cushioning and energy return, which helps reduce foot fatigue on various trail surfaces without adding much weight. The OMNI-TECH waterproof membrane is a standout feature, keeping feet dry during moderate rain or snow while still allowing breathability to avoid overheating. This makes the boot suitable for wet or changing weather conditions.

Its upper combines leather and mesh, balancing durability with some breathability, and the metal hardware adds to its rugged build. For grip, the OMNI-GRIP outsole uses a smart tread pattern and rubber compound that works well on rocks, dirt, and gravel, providing stable traction in both wet and dry environments. The fit focuses on ankle support with a cushioned collar enhancing comfort for longer hikes. While the boot is described as lightweight, it is still a mid-height ankle boot, which might feel a bit bulkier compared to very lightweight trail runners or low-cut shoes. Also, the leather elements may require some break-in time and occasional care to maintain durability over many hiking seasons.

This model is ideal for hikers who want a waterproof, supportive boot that performs well across different terrains, especially when moderate weather protection is needed.