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 Columbia Men's Strata Trail Low is designed with lightweight hiking in mind, offering a good balance of comfort and protection. It features a Techlite midsole that provides excellent cushioning and energy return, which helps keep your feet comfortable on longer walks. The mesh and suede upper combined with synthetic leather overlays give a snug fit and decent support without feeling heavy.

For traction, the Omni-Grip rubber sole performs well on different surfaces, giving reliable grip on trails. These shoes are also waterproof thanks to the Omni-Tech breathable construction, which keeps your feet dry while allowing sweat to escape — a big plus for hiking in wet conditions. The gusseted tongue is a thoughtful touch that prevents dirt or rocks from sneaking inside. However, the outer leather material might need some extra care to maintain durability over time, especially with heavy use.

The shoe fits well for most feet, though some might find it a bit narrow if they have wider feet. This model is well suited for hikers looking for lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof footwear for moderate trail conditions.