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 Salomon Men’s XA PRO 3D Gore-Tex shoes are solid for hikers who need a tough, reliable shoe for challenging trails. They are built with a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, which keeps your feet dry in wet conditions while still allowing breathability to avoid overheating. The shoe’s synthetic and textile materials provide a balance of durability and comfort. Its standout feature is the advanced 3D chassis, which offers excellent stability and support, helping control foot movement on uneven terrain. This makes it a great choice if you want extra protection against ankle twists or foot fatigue.

The Contagrip rubber outsole delivers strong traction, giving confidence on mixed surfaces like loose gravel or rocky paths. Additionally, the reinforced toe cap protects your feet from bumps and scrapes on rough trails. While it offers all these protective features, the shoe may feel a bit heavier compared to simpler lightweight hiking shoes because of the added stability and waterproof layers. Fit is secure but might need breaking in for a comfortable feel during long hikes.

If you prioritize waterproofing, support, and durability for demanding outdoor adventures, these shoes are a dependable option. However, if you want an ultra-light shoe mainly for easy or short hikes, you might find lighter alternatives more comfortable.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes are designed to keep your feet dry with the KEEN.DRY breathable membrane, which effectively allows moisture to escape while preventing water from entering. The use of durable premium leather and breathable mesh ensures good longevity and comfort. Additionally, environmentally friendly materials such as Leather Working Group certified tanneries and DWR treatment appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.

The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber soles provide impressive traction with 4mm lugs that offer excellent grip on various surfaces, including muddy and rocky terrains. The non-marking rubber outsoles prevent scuff marks on indoor surfaces. For support and cushioning, these shoes feature an external support shank and a heel cradle for superior stability and balance, and a removable footbed that offers good arch support and cushioning that withstands prolonged use without compressing quickly.

The fit is quite generous, allowing toes to spread out comfortably, which can be beneficial on long hikes. However, the shoes may feel a bit heavy for those specifically looking for extremely lightweight options, as they prioritize durability and support over minimal weight. Additionally, while they are waterproof, the leather may require maintenance with a leather cleaner for tough stains. If you're looking for a well-rounded pair of hiking shoes that balances comfort, support, and durability, the KEEN Targhee 3 could be a good match. If weight is your primary concern, you might want to explore other options.