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Finding The Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes For Your Exploration

Brian Mark
  Sep 22, 2023 12:18 PM

If you’re trying to go easily and flexibly on the trail, then it’s time to invest money on a few nice lightweight hiking shoes. Shedding weight and improving performance, lightweight hiking shoes provide notable traction, a cozy cushion, and a nimble fit. The trouble is how do you find the best lightweight hiking shoes for you?


Review of the best lightweight hiking shoes

#1: Best for men: SALOMON Men's Quest 4 GTX climbing Shoe

  • Department: ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available: ‎ March 6, 2009
  • Manufacturer: ‎ Salomon

The best lightweight hiking shoes are strong and supportive because they were made for lengthy trips and rough terrain. The redesigned chassis targets delicate joints surrounding the foot for added support and give you a lithe stride. QUEST 4 GORE-TEX is certain to provide you with a solid yet comfortable ride on any terrain, regardless of how worn out you are or how much luggage you are carrying. 

These are the best lightweight hiking shoes for keeping your feet dry on the inside and out. The Contagrip TD blends the most durable compound with a deep, strong lug type for optimal traction on uneven terrain and increased durability. The outsole is secured and protected by the 4D chassis, which also offers the proper amount of stability and additional heel assistance when lifting greater loads. 

What we like:

  • Protective of your feet 
  • For long-distance travel, brings softness and durability.

What we don’t like:

  • The design of the shoes needs to be changed a bit to suit the user

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

Finding another lightweight hiking boots for men: Read more

#2: Best sale: Merrell Men's J08871w Hiking Shoe

  • Department: ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available: ‎ October 19, 2016
  • Manufacturer: ‎ Merrell Footwear

These shoes have a little loose fit at first but rapidly mold to your foot, offering fantastic ankle support and just the appropriate amount of cushioning. The best lightweight hiking boots block out moisture and water so you can stay dry while moving. The shoe has a silky feel with a mesh and suede athletic upper that keep you at ease while you move. Shouts, closed-cell foam blades, a safety rubber toecap, and blades that block out moisture and debris. 

What we like:

  • Definitely and make a new design 
  • Skin that is cozy and soft

What we don’t like:

  • Shoes designed not suitable for climbing

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#3: Our Pick: Merrell mens Moab Edge 2 Hiking Shoe, Monument, 10.5 US

  • Department: ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available: ‎ July 12, 2018,
  • Manufacturer: ‎ Merrell

Keeps debris out with a lace-up upper made of mesh and TPU with a classic tongue closure. Its best lightweight hiking shoe's insole conforms to the shape of your foot and offers flexible, intuitive support for coordinated and safe movement. bent nylon arch Moreover, each outsole's M Select GRIP outsole changes each outsole to provide strong traction when and where you need it. Durability is produced by the 5mm lug depth and the strong mesh exterior material. To establish harmony throughout, the sole is made of rubber and the heel height is 2 cm. 

What we like:

  • Moving assistance that is adaptable 
  • Hugging your feet makes you feel secure and safe

What we don’t like:

  • Shoes break too fast

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#4: Best budget: Merrell Men's Moab Adventure Lace Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Dark Earth, 12 M US

  • Department: ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available: ‎ May 11, 2017
  • Manufacturer: ‎ Merrell Footwear

They are the best lightweight hiking shoes, and they have a small tank-like appearance. For everyday use, these shoes provide the best all-around performance. Also, brown is fairly fashionable and fits well with practically any casual clothing. Several buyers have praised the high quality and durability of these sneakers. 

Featuring a waterproof membrane that keeps water out and lets moisture out, and an upper made of full-grain leather and mesh that feels robust and lasts a long time. In particular, the waterproof covering. A replaceable contoured sole for flexible support and a molded nylon arch for comfort over extended distances are both elements of the Kinetic Fit BASE. 

What we like:

  • Superior toughness and comfort 
  • Colors that are soft and simple to match with clothing

What we don’t like:

  • Designed so that the shoe is not secure

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#5: Best overall: ECCO Men’s Track 25 Low GORE-TEX Waterproof Hiking Shoe

  • Department: ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available: ‎ November 5, 2008
  • Manufacturer: ‎ ECCO

To ensure that every shoe is cozy, simple to wear, and fashionable, ECCO creates unique, quality leathers with optimum performance in mind. The comfiest shoes imaginable are made by ECCO using numerous cutting-edge advancements. Every shoe uses direct injection technology to bind the upper and outsole together tightly, flexibly, and lightweight. As a result, the best lightweight hiking shoes have the ideal ratio of flexibility and cushion in each stride. 

The upper is made of tough oiled nubuck and breathable full-grain leather. In damp weather, feet are kept dry and comfy thanks to the GORE-TEX waterproof design. The extra width is offered and has a removable leather inlay sole with ECFS for better airflow.

What we like:

  • A sole that is light, flexible, and incredibly comfortable with excellent traction 
  • The leather component is carefully crafted and of high quality

What we don’t like:

  • The design of the sole makes the foot hurt when walking for a long time

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#6: Best for wide feet: Oboz Sawtooth II Low B-Dry Hiking Shoe - Men's Shadow/Burlap 9

  • Department ‏ : ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available ‏ : ‎ October 31, 2018
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Oboz

It is necessary to provide an additional layer of waterproofing to these muddy and sporadic mountainous stream hiking footwear. With the enhanced comfort of an ankle-friendly asymmetrical collar, breathable mesh vents, and a revised heel counter, you can walk with confidence and cover more ground. The upper structure has been expertly built with particular materials to improve your walking experience. This improves the great breathability already provided by the mesh upper, which ensures ideal airflow. 

Your foot will remain in position and be more stable thanks to the rubber heel counter, making it simpler for you to navigate that difficult terrain. The ankle-friendly asymmetrical collar provides you with unmatched comfort while protecting you in all important places and lowering your risk of injury.

What we like:

  • Offers comfort and padding. 
  • Reduce sweat buildup by keeping shoes aired and feet dry

What we don’t like:

  • Design not suitable for most customers

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#7: Top cheap: THE NORTH FACE Men's Hedgehog Fastpack II Waterproof Hiking Shoes

  • Department: ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available: ‎ September 19, 2019,
  • Manufacturer: ‎ The North Face

The men's waterproof Hedgehog Fastpack II shoe features a waterproof DryVent membrane, CRADLE innovation in the heel, and a sturdy Vibram outsole to provide support and protection. These tough trail running shoes are waterproof thanks to the PU leather top and DryVent membrane, so you can walk, wade, and explore in comfort even in the worst weather. Your feet will stay dryer and cooler with an environmentally friendly recyclable footbed. This footbed has a minimal environmental impact while maintaining performance qualities by combining discarded foam and repurposed rubber. 

Mesh that resists abrasion guards against wear and tear from the trail, while CRADLE technology stabilizes and cradles your heel to assist you as you climb. Enjoy a combination of orthotics and rebound thanks to the ESS midsole and solitary EVA midsole while you confidently hike on a variety of surfaces. 

What we like:

  • A strong resistance to water, offering dry on the go 
  • Withstands inclement weather and offers specific comfort

What we don’t like:

  • The material of the shoes is not good

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#8: Best for travel: adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX Hiking Shoes Men's, Black, Size 11

  • Department: ‎ Womens
  • Date First Available: ‎ December 29, 2020
  • Manufacturer: ‎ adidas Outdoor

This is the best lightweight hiking shoe with water resistance, great support, and a stiffness comparable to a hiking boot. Although it gets high marks from consumers if you plan to use it mostly for hiking, stay off the concrete and asphalt. If there are shoes available with speed laces, use those. They are excellent shoes, and you should use them in place of standard laces. The Adidas design also consistently exudes a sensation of youth, well-being, style, and smoothness. This pair is ideal for trekking vacations and pairs well with many different types of clothing. 

What we like:

  • The sole is made with comfort in mind. 
  • Thick lining for durability

What we don’t like:

  • The quality of the shoes is not as expected

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#9: Also great: Vasque Men's Talus at Low UD Hiking Shoe, Brown Olive/Ginger, 9 Medium

  • Department: ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available: ‎ August 3, 2019
  • Manufacturer: ‎ Vasque

The Talus AT Low Neck, Lightweight UD Hiking Shoe is an excellent option because it's made of waterproof nubuck leather and has a wear-resistant mesh lining that lets your feet breathe and regulates temperature. excellent for trekking. The molded EVA and TPU Shank midsole and dual-density midsole with simple penetration offer the greatest level of underfoot comfort, durability, and stability. 

In order to keep feet dry and comfortable in any setting, the upper portion of the shoe contains an UltraDry watertight seal. In order to provide durable, dry performance and comfort, UltraDry technology combines a humidity lining with water-repellent materials. The outsole of the shoe provides a lightweight, resilient sole and ensures a secure footing on various surfaces with strong traction and toe support.

What we like:

  • Designed with enough toe room and a straight line 
  • Feel more relaxed and more at ease

What we don’t like:

  • Delivery not according to customer's request

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#10: Best value:  adidas mens Terrex Trailmaker Mid Cold.RDY Hiking Shoes, Mesa-core Black-beige Tone

  • Department: ‎ Mens
  • Date First Available: ‎ March 5, 2022
  • Manufacturer: ‎ Adidas

The best lightweight hiking shoes are constructed of 100% synthetic material and have an Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole for a secure fit. Boots for hiking in cold weather that have an insulated textile upper and an EVA support structure. A comfortable feel is provided by the lightweight Traxion outsole and EVA midsole.

What we like:

  • Leaves feet feeling soft
  • Light sole, convenient for long-distance travel

What we don’t like:

  • Not useful for people with flat feet

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#11: Best breathable: Oboz Sapphire Mid B-Dry Hiking Shoe - Women's Huckleberry 9

  • Department: ‎ womens
  • Date First Available: ‎ February 7, 2018
  • Manufacturer: ‎ Oboz

Customers are aware of the unique insole of the shoe. With a fit, feel, and performance that are unrivaled in the industry, this purpose-engineered technology is molded to fit the precise shape and structure of each shoe made. An asymmetrical collar and waterproof nubuck leather offer protection and durability in the women's-specific fit.

The midsole of our Swiftcurrent Women's shoes is incredibly strong, stable, and comfortable. Kick bruising prevention is made possible without compromising flex thanks to the combination of a TPU frame, an ESS plate, and an EVA midsole designed specifically for women. With lugs that offer sufficient traction for Main Street strolls and enough grip beneath your feet to guide you on the trail, Swiftcurrent offers exceptional durability, stability, and pleasure.

What we like:

  • Aids in avoiding stone bruising without impeding flexion
  • Assists you to sweat while maintaining moisture

What we don't like:

  • It is very difficult to measure the arch accurately when buying online

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

#12: Best for women: Salomon OUTPULSE Gore-TEX Hiking Shoes for Women, Tulipwood/Black/Poppy Red

  • Department ‏ : ‎ womens
  • Date First Available ‏ : ‎ June 28, 2021
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Salomon

A set of hiking boots that are fully charged to help you move forward while you're out in nature. This finest lightweight hiking shoe is flexible and dependable, with many different options to fit your mood. The new Fuze Surge foam composition in the appropriate shoes provides protection, traction, and a midsole with excellent cushioning and energy recovery.

What we like:

  • The soft and airy feel of premium cushioning is provided.
  • Excellent recovery and a strong grip

What we don’t like:

  • Pay attention when choosing the right shoe size for you

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON

All about the top lightweight hiking boots for women: Read more

#13: Best saving: Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-TEX Hiking Shoes for Men, Lunar Rock/Black/Cherry Tomato, 13

  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 3 Pounds
  • Department ‏ : ‎ mens
  • Date First Available ‏ : ‎ February 17, 2021
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Salomon

The X Ultra 4 GTX is one of the best lightweight hiking shoes for accelerating climbs and descents. With the stability, grip, and waterproof protection required for tough climbing, it combines the agility of a trail running shoe with those qualities. This waterproof hiking shoe, which features a revolutionary structure, safeguards delicate joints without restricting movement. Even when it's slick or rainy, the Contagrip MA outsole maintains its grip on the ground.

Salomon makes cutting edge hiking and backpacking shoes and boots for men and women to help you go further, whether you prefer taking short local day hikes or hitting the woods for a multiday trip. Salomon features footwear and gear for kids, men, and women to help you conquer new distances, whether you prefer trail running, hiking, backpacking, or rock climbing.

What we like:

  • Protects sensitive joints without affecting movement
  • Grip the terrain, even when it's wet or slippery

What we don't like:

  • The price is high compared to the general model

CHECK PRICE and read reviews on aMAZON


Compare Products

Showing  11 - 13  in  13 results
11
  • SCORE
    8.6
    AI Score

    G Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Oboz
12
  • SCORE
    9.0
    AI Score

    G Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Salomon
Most Saving
13
  • SCORE
    8.2
    AI Score

    G Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Salomon

Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API


Hiking Boot Comparison Chart

Products 

Weight

Width

( Wide or Standard or narrow)

Waterproof

( Yes/ No)

Upper Material

SALOMON Men's Quest 4 GTX Climbing Shoe

2.5 Pounds

Standard

No

No

Merrell Men's J08871w Hiking Shoe

1.1 Pounds

Standard

No

No

Merrell mens Moab Edge 2 Hiking Shoe

15 Ounces

Standard

No

No

Merrell Men's Moab Adventure Lace Waterproof Hiking Shoe

2 Pounds

Standard

Yes

100% Nubuck Leather

ECCO Men’s Track 25 Low GORE-TEX Waterproof Hiking Shoe

2.2 Pounds

Standard

Yes

No

Oboz Sawtooth II Low B-Dry Hiking Shoe

 

Standard

Yes

100% Cotton

THE NORTH FACE Men's Hedgehog Fastpack II Waterproof Hiking Shoes

2.5 Pounds

Standard

Yes

No

adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX Hiking Shoes Men's

2.4 Pounds

Standard

Yes

No

Vasque Men's Talus at Low UD Hiking Shoe

 

Standard

No

No

adidas mens Terrex Trailmaker Mid Cold.RDY Hiking Shoes

 

Standard

No

100% Synthetic

Oboz Sapphire Mid B-Dry Hiking Shoe

 

Standard

Yes

No

Salomon OUTPULSE Gore-TEX Hiking Shoes for Women

 

Standard

No

No

Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-TEX Hiking Shoes for Men

3 Pounds

Standard

Yes

No


Buying Guides

  • Grip

With different types of terrain that can be rough or slippery, you need shoes that have the right grip. Manufacturers will design lightweight hiking shoes based on this feature. So you have to research it carefully as well as read reviews from people who have bought it.

  • Weight

In addition to the fit, the weight of the shoes is also a significant factor that creates comfort and convenience for the user. You don't have to choose an unnecessarily heavy shoe, but light and sturdy shoe instead.

  • Shoe Sizing

Be cautious with selecting the proper length of the shoe; it is probably prudent to have your ft checked for length, as many human beings robotically suppose they're one length while in truth they're now no longer! Also, be aware of the width, as with taking walks footwear that is as crucial as the general length, and spot our pointers on consolation above.

  • Waterproofing

Waterproofing your trekking footwear is a crucial difficulty and one which you ought to know no longer overlook. You may stumble upon rain and moist ground so that you want your footwear to be waterproof. Of course, all of these at the listing is designed to be so; however, a few have more precautions and specifically designed tongues, so test them cautiously for excellent designs.

  • Durability

Another factor that ties in with all of the above: you now no longer simplest need your footwear to be comfortable, sensibly priced, and waterproof; however, you need them to remain an affordable quantity of time. These are footwear available for a few very tough use, so test the substances they're made with and study the purchaser critiques for delivered information.

Note

Numerous variables must be taken into consideration when selecting the best hiking boots. Your ideal hiking boot should be appropriate for the terrain and style of your hikes. Prior to knotting, you must ensure that they fit precisely. You can pick the ideal shoes for your vacation with the help of the reviews below. Many of our customers have expressed their appreciation for our advice. Also, these buying instructions will assist in avoiding errors when completing purchases. To learn more, keep reading!


FAQs

What are the best waterproof hiking boots?? 

One of the quality products that we have tested and recommended are: Merrell Men's Moab Adventure Lace Waterproof Hiking Shoe, ECCO Men’s Track 25 Low GORE-TEX Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Oboz Sawtooth II Low B-Dry Hiking Shoe. Please refer to the detailed information in the review section above.

Are hiking shoes supposed to be tight?

Boots for hiking should be snug everywhere, tight nowhere, and have room for your toes to move about. When your feet have had time to swell, try them on at the end of the day while wearing the socks you intend to. Recognize your size. The best method is to have REI measure the length, width, and arch length of your foot using a properly calibrated fit instrument.

 


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