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10 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe, Walnut, 11

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,136
Support and Cushioning
Traction
Fit

Most important from
9178 reviews

Support and Cushioning
The fit is consistent and true-to-size, providing excellent support and comfort.
Traction
The soles are very grippy, providing great traction on various surfaces.
Fit
The fit is consistent and true-to-size, providing excellent support and comfort.
Water Resistance
The shoes are not waterproof, so look for models with a waterproof label if needed.
Durability
These shoes offer great comfort, traction, and durability, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.

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.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,136
Support and Cushioning
Traction
Fit

Most important from
9178 reviews

Support and Cushioning
The fit is consistent and true-to-size, providing excellent support and comfort.
Traction
The soles are very grippy, providing great traction on various surfaces.
Fit
The fit is consistent and true-to-size, providing excellent support and comfort.
Water Resistance
The shoes are not waterproof, so look for models with a waterproof label if needed.
Durability
These shoes offer great comfort, traction, and durability, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.
#2

ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe, Black/Gray, 10

Rating
9.8
Weight
Support and Cushioning
Fit

Most important from
521 reviews

Weight
Lightweight design helps maintain speed and agility, essential for fast-paced trail runs.
Support and Cushioning
These shoes are incredibly comfortable, especially for those with foot pain like plantar fasciitis.
Fit
The wide toe box allows for natural toe splay, enhancing balance and reducing pressure during long runs.
Durability
Durable and worth every penny, these shoes are a fantastic investment for an improved running experience.

The Altra Men's Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe offers several strengths for lightweight hiking enthusiasts. The shoe's design includes a balanced cushioning platform, which helps promote low-impact landings, reducing strain on your feet during longer hikes. Its DuraTread outsole with a multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern provides excellent traction, making it reliable on various terrains.

Additionally, the weather-resistant eVent bootie keeps your feet dry in wet conditions, enhancing comfort and performance in diverse environments. The shoe is made with a lightweight ripstop mesh outer material and rubber sole, contributing to its durability and reducing weight, which is essential for long-distance hikes. However, the shoe weighs around 3 pounds, which may be slightly heavier compared to other lightweight hiking shoes on the market.

The fit is adjustable with a lace-up closure, but some users may find that it needs a break-in period to achieve optimal comfort. The Altra Men's Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe is a solid choice for those who need a durable, supportive, and water-resistant shoe for varied trail conditions, though its weight and initial fit might be a consideration for some hikers.

Rating
9.8
Weight
Support and Cushioning
Fit

Most important from
521 reviews

Weight
Lightweight design helps maintain speed and agility, essential for fast-paced trail runs.
Support and Cushioning
These shoes are incredibly comfortable, especially for those with foot pain like plantar fasciitis.
Fit
The wide toe box allows for natural toe splay, enhancing balance and reducing pressure during long runs.
Durability
Durable and worth every penny, these shoes are a fantastic investment for an improved running experience.
#3

Columbia Mens Crestwood Hiking Shoe, Shark/Columbia Grey, 9 US

Rating
9.6
Support and Cushioning
Traction
Fit

Most important from
9905 reviews

Support and Cushioning
Great all-rounder shoe, offering awesome support for standing over four hours without feeling fatigue.
Traction
Incredibly comfortable with no break-in needed and the soles have excellent traction and grip characteristics.
Fit
The fit is true to size, comparable to Nike casual shoes.
Water Resistance
Despite not being waterproof, it does a nice job of preventing light water splashes from soaking through.
Durability
These sneakers do not slip on my heels and have durably lasted through different types of weather.

The Columbia Mens Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for lightweight hiking adventures. Its combination of suede leather, mesh, and webbing materials ensures durability while keeping the shoe fairly lightweight. The TechLite midsole is designed for all-day comfort, providing superior cushioning and high energy return, which is great for longer hikes where foot fatigue can set in.

The Omni-Grip outsole offers advanced traction, making it reliable on various terrains, though it is particularly noted for being indoor-friendly and non-marking which might not be as aggressive as some outdoor-only designs. The low-top shaft height offers flexibility and ease of movement but may not provide as much ankle support as higher top options. Fit is generally true to size, which should make finding the right fit straightforward for many users.

However, while the shoe is designed with quality materials and craftsmanship, it lacks specific mention of water resistance, which could be a drawback in wet conditions. If durability and comfort are your primary concerns, these shoes are built to last and offer a good balance of performance features for most hiking scenarios. If you are planning hikes in particularly wet or muddy environments, you might want to consider additional waterproofing options or another model with a focus on water resistance.

Rating
9.6
Support and Cushioning
Traction
Fit

Most important from
9905 reviews

Support and Cushioning
Great all-rounder shoe, offering awesome support for standing over four hours without feeling fatigue.
Traction
Incredibly comfortable with no break-in needed and the soles have excellent traction and grip characteristics.
Fit
The fit is true to size, comparable to Nike casual shoes.
Water Resistance
Despite not being waterproof, it does a nice job of preventing light water splashes from soaking through.
Durability
These sneakers do not slip on my heels and have durably lasted through different types of weather.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes

Choosing the right lightweight hiking shoes is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience. The right pair will provide the necessary support, comfort, and durability while being light enough to not weigh you down. When selecting hiking shoes, consider the terrain you'll be hiking on, the distance you'll be covering, and your personal comfort preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing lightweight hiking shoes.
WeightWeight is a critical factor in lightweight hiking shoes. Lighter shoes reduce fatigue and make it easier to cover long distances. Generally, lightweight hiking shoes range from 1 to 2 pounds per pair. If you plan on long hikes or multi-day trips, opt for shoes on the lighter end of the spectrum. For shorter hikes or if you need more support, slightly heavier shoes might be acceptable.
MaterialThe material of the hiking shoes affects their weight, durability, and breathability. Common materials include synthetic fabrics, mesh, and leather. Synthetic and mesh materials are lighter and more breathable, making them ideal for warm weather and dry conditions. Leather is more durable and offers better protection but is heavier. Choose materials based on the climate and terrain you will be hiking in.
Support and CushioningSupport and cushioning are essential for comfort and injury prevention. Lightweight hiking shoes typically have less cushioning than heavier boots, but they should still provide adequate support for your feet. Look for shoes with good arch support and a cushioned midsole. If you have flat feet or high arches, consider shoes with additional support features. For rough or uneven terrain, more cushioning can help absorb impact and reduce strain on your feet.
TractionTraction is important for maintaining stability on various surfaces. The outsole of the shoe should have a good tread pattern to provide grip on rocks, mud, and loose dirt. Shoes with deeper lugs offer better traction on rugged terrain, while shallower lugs are suitable for well-maintained trails. Consider the type of terrain you will be hiking on and choose shoes with appropriate traction to ensure safety and stability.
FitA proper fit is crucial for comfort and preventing blisters. Lightweight hiking shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight. There should be enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes, and the heel should be secure to prevent slipping. Try on shoes with the socks you plan to wear while hiking and walk around to ensure they are comfortable. If you have wide or narrow feet, look for brands that offer different width options.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is important if you plan to hike in wet conditions or cross streams. Some lightweight hiking shoes come with waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex, which keep your feet dry while allowing breathability. However, waterproof shoes can be less breathable and heavier. If you mostly hike in dry conditions, you might prefer non-waterproof shoes for better ventilation. Consider the typical weather and terrain of your hikes when deciding on water resistance.
DurabilityDurability ensures that your hiking shoes will last through many adventures. Lightweight hiking shoes may not be as durable as heavier boots, but they should still withstand regular use. Look for shoes with reinforced areas, such as the toe cap and heel, and high-quality stitching. If you hike frequently or on rough terrain, prioritize durability to avoid having to replace your shoes often.

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