10 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Men's Modern Hiking Shoe is designed with a combination of pigskin leather and mesh, offering a good balance of durability and breathability for lightweight hiking. Its protective toe cap and Vibram TC5+ rubber sole provide reliable traction on various terrains, which is important for safety and grip. The shoe features Merrell’s Air Cushion in the heel and a lightweight EVA foam midsole, delivering cushioning and stability without adding much weight, making it comfortable for longer walks. The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole adds medium arch support and reinforced heel cushioning, suitable for moderate foot support needs. Additionally, the bellows tongue helps keep debris out, enhancing comfort on dusty or rocky trails.

Although the shoe is not fully waterproof, its materials offer some water resistance, but it may not be ideal for very wet or muddy conditions. The use of recycled materials shows an environmentally friendly approach, which is a nice bonus. The fit is generally true to size, but those with wider feet might want to try it on first.

This shoe is a solid choice for hikers seeking lightweight, supportive footwear with good traction and moderate water resistance, but it may fall short for those needing full waterproof protection or heavy-duty support.

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.

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.