10 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes 2025 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 KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Low Height Hiking Shoes offer a blend of durability and comfort, making them a solid choice for hikers. They are made with a waterproof breathable membrane, which does an excellent job of keeping your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, crucial for all-day comfort during hikes. The direct-attach construction promises lasting cushioning and reduces the risk of the footwear falling apart over time, which is great for those who frequently hit the trails.

The shoes feature KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsoles that provide good traction, particularly in muddy or uneven conditions. This feature is crucial for maintaining stability on slippery surfaces. Additionally, the KEEN Original Fit offers generous space in the toe box, allowing toes to splay naturally, enhancing comfort over long distances. The removable Luftcell footbed provides solid arch support, catering to hikers who require extra cushioning.

In terms of fit and protection, the shoes include a bruise plate to protect against sharp objects on rugged trails, along with a high-abrasion rubber toe guard for added durability. However, some might find the shoes a bit heavy for a 'lightweight' category, as the materials used, like leather and rubber, can add to the overall weight. While the wide fit might be ideal for some, it could be too roomy for others, potentially affecting performance if the shoes aren't snug. Though the waterproofing is a significant plus, it might limit breathability slightly in extremely hot conditions. For those seeking a balance of durability, protection, and comfort, these shoes could be a good fit, though they may not be the lightest option on the market.

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.