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 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 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.