10 Best Lightweight Hiking Boots
When it comes to deciding between the very best lightweight hiking shoes as well as top-of-the-range high-cut hiking boots, there truly is no exactly wrong solution. Whilst boots have typically been the go-to footwear for hikers for as long as boots have remained in existence, recent years have seen the surge of what some would certainly argue as an extra functional kind of trekking shoes: lightweight walking shoes.
The walking footwear vs hiking boots argument has actually been raging for several years, with extremely valid points being made on both sides. But an increasing number of people are leaning towards choosing the grippy, light-footedness provided by hiking shoes. So if you’re stammering on the brink of dumping your trekking boots and getting a little bit more vibrant on your wild wanderings, then consider the best lightweight hiking shoes that may help you take that leap.
Contents
- 1 10 Best Lightweight Hiking Boots
- 1.1 1. Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
- 1.2 2. SCARPA Women’s Rush Mid GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Shoes
- 1.3 3. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- 1.4
- 1.5 4. Salomon Women’s Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots
- 1.6 5. KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot
- 1.7 6. The North Face Vectiv Explorer Mid Futurelight
- 1.8 7. ALTRA Women’s AL0A4VRA Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid Trail Running Shoes
- 1.9 8. SCARPA Women’s Maverick Mid GTX Waterproof Gore
- 1.10 9. Vasque Women’s Breeze at-Mid GTX Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boot
- 1.11 10. KEEN Women’s Tempo Flex Mid Height Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boot
- 2 How to choose?
- 3 FAQs:
- 4 Conclusion
10 Best Lightweight Hiking Boots
1. Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
The SALOMON Women’s Climbing Walking Shoe is a reliable pick for hikers who value precision, grip, and all-day comfort. Built with a durable upper and advanced traction outsole, it excels on rocky trails and steep terrain. The shoe offers a snug, supportive fit that keeps your foot stable without unnecessary bulk. Breathability is also impressive, making it suitable for warm-weather hikes. If you need a lightweight, high-performance shoe for fast, confident movement, this model delivers outstanding value.
Key Specs:
- Weight: Lightweight synthetic build
- Outsole: Contagrip for multi-terrain grip
- Upper: Breathable mesh
- Use: Day hikes, mixed trails
Pros:
- Very lightweight and agile for fast-paced hiking
- Superior grip on rocky or uneven surfaces
- Breathable design keeps feet cool
- Comfortable straight out of the box
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof
- Less ankle support compared to mid-height boots
2. SCARPA Women’s Rush Mid GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Shoes
The SCARPA Rush Mid GTX is a hybrid powerhouse designed for hikers who want the flexibility of a trail runner with the support of a hiking boot. Its Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry, while the cushioned midsole reduces fatigue on long treks. The shoe offers great stability thanks to SCARPA’s DST Insert, making it ideal for uneven, demanding trails. Despite its protective design, it remains surprisingly lightweight. A perfect choice for women who want speed, comfort, and waterproof performance in one package.
Key Specs:
- Waterproof: Gore-Tex membrane
- Mid-height stability
- Outsole: Presa sole with adaptive traction
- Use: Hiking + trail running hybrid
Pros:
- Excellent waterproof performance
- Lightweight yet supportive mid-cut design
- Strong shock absorption for rugged trails
- Ideal for hikers who want speed + stability
Cons:
-
Slightly pricier than other lightweight options
3. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof remains a top favourite for its comfort-first design, reliable waterproofing, and strong durability. Featuring Merrell’s signature air-cushioned heel and supportive footbed, it reduces pressure during long hikes. The Vibram outsole provides dependable grip on dirt, rocks, and wet surfaces. Its suede leather and mesh upper balance toughness with breathability. Ideal for beginners and seasoned hikers alike, the Moab 2 offers consistent performance at a great value, making it one of the most trusted waterproof boots for women.
Key Specs:
- Waterproof: M Select DRY
- Mid-cut protection
- Vibram outsole
- Use: Everyday hiking, outdoor travel
Pros:
- Comfortable fit with great arch support
- Durable and highly reliable for long-term use
- Vibram sole provides steady traction
- Cushioned heel absorbs impact well
Cons:
-
Heavier compared to ultra-light models
4. Salomon Women’s Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots
The Salomon Women’s Quest is built for serious adventures, offering excellent ankle support, rugged construction, and premium comfort for long-distance hiking. Its advanced chassis system ensures stability under heavy loads, making it ideal for backpacking trips. The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry in unpredictable weather while still allowing airflow. Traction is outstanding across mud, rocks, and steep inclines. If you’re looking for a dependable boot that combines durability, control, and all-day cushioning, the Quest stands out as a high-performance choice.
Key Specs:
- High-cut boot for maximum support
- Advanced chassis technology
- Waterproof construction
- Use: Long hikes, heavy loads, technical terrain
Pros:
- Exceptional ankle and load-bearing support
- Rugged build for challenging environments
- Waterproof and breathable
- Superior stability on steep or uneven terrain
Cons:
- Not the lightest option
- Overbuilt for short or easy hikes
5. KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot
The KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof is a versatile option designed for comfort, a wide fit, and trail-ready durability. It’s KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane protects against wet conditions while maintaining breathability. The boot features a cushioned midsole and an anatomically designed footbed that offer excellent comfort during long hikes. Rubber toe protection adds extra safety on rocky trails. With a grippy outsole and eco-friendly leather construction, the Targhee III continues to be a top pick for women seeking dependable waterproof boots with a natural, roomy fit.
Key Specs:
- Waterproof: KEEN.DRY membrane
- Mid-cut comfort
- All-terrain rubber outsole
- Use: Day hikes, muddy trails, everyday outdoor use
Pros:
- Very comfortable with a roomy toe box
- Good waterproofing for wet environments
- Durable leather + mesh combo
- Great balance between weight and performance
Cons:
-
Wide fit may feel loose for narrow feet
6. The North Face Vectiv Explorer Mid Futurelight
The NORTH FACE Vectiv Exploris Mid Futurelight is a top choice for women seeking lightweight performance and all-day protection on varied trails. Its FUTURELIGHT membrane delivers impressive waterproofing while remaining highly breathable, making it ideal for long hikes in unpredictable weather. The shoe’s VECTIV technology enhances propulsion and stability, helping reduce fatigue during steep climbs. With a durable surface and stylish Micro Chip Grey/Maui Blue design, it balances fashion and function perfectly. If you need a dependable hiking shoe offering comfort, traction, and long-lasting support, this model stands out as a premium option.
Key Specs:
- Mid-height design for ankle support
- FUTURELIGHT™ waterproof technology
- Lightweight VECTIV™ midsole for energy return
- Durable Vibram® MegaGrip outsole
- Weight: approx. 12.1 oz per shoe
Pros:
- Excellent traction on rocky and wet terrain
- Lightweight yet supportive for long hikes
- Breathable and waterproof design
- Comfortable cushioning for energy-efficient steps
Cons:
-
Slightly narrow fit for wider feet
7. ALTRA Women’s AL0A4VRA Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid Trail Running Shoes
The Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid is designed for hikers who value natural foot movement, comfort, and reliable weather protection. Featuring Altra’s signature FootShape toe box and balanced cushioning, it allows toes to spread naturally while reducing impact on long treks. The eVent waterproof bootie adds breathable protection during wet conditions, keeping feet dry without overheating. Its MaxTrac outsole ensures excellent grip on loose, rocky, or muddy terrain. Lightweight yet durable, this boot is a strong pick for those wanting a flexible, trail-ready hiking shoe built for fast movement and all-weather performance.
Key Specs:
- All-weather waterproofing with eVent™ membrane
- Balanced cushioning for natural foot positioning
- TrailClaw outsole for superior grip
- Weight: approx. 12.2 oz per shoe
Pros:
- Zero-drop platform promotes natural stride
- Comfortable for long-distance hiking
- Excellent traction in wet and muddy conditions
- Lightweight and flexible
Cons:
-
May feel too minimal for heavy backpacking
8. SCARPA Women’s Maverick Mid GTX Waterproof Gore
The SCARPA Women’s Maverick Mid GTX is a lightweight, modern hiking boot ideal for fast backpacking and challenging day hikes. Built with a Gore-Tex lining, it delivers dependable waterproofing and breathability on long, wet trails. The boot’s agile feel, combined with SCARPA’s ergonomic support system, enhances stability without restricting movement. Its durable construction and grippy outsole allow hikers to tackle rugged terrain with confidence. For women seeking a balance of comfort, protection, and lightweight performance, the Maverick Mid GTX is one of the strongest contenders in its category.
Key Specs:
- Gore-Tex waterproof membrane
- EVA midsole for cushioning and stability
- Aggressive Vibram® outsole
- Weight: approx. 13.2 oz per shoe
Pros:
- Highly durable and waterproof
- Great grip on steep and slippery trails
- Lightweight for backpacking
- Comfortable arch support
Cons:
-
Slightly stiff during initial use
9. Vasque Women’s Breeze at-Mid GTX Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Vasque Women’s All-Terrain GTX Hiking Boots offer rugged durability and all-weather reliability for demanding outdoor adventures. Featuring a Gore-Tex membrane, they keep feet dry while providing excellent moisture management on long hikes. The multi-directional lug outsole delivers strong traction on slippery, uneven surfaces, making them ideal for mountain trails. Cushioned support and a stable midsole reduce fatigue during long treks, while the boot’s tough upper withstands rocky conditions. These boots are perfect for women who want dependable, long-lasting performance across all terrains.
Key Specs:
- Gore-Tex waterproof lining
- EVA midsole with integrated shank
- Aggressive multi-directional rubber outsole
- Weight: approx. 14 oz per boot
Pros:
- Excellent stability on rugged trails
- Reliable waterproofing
- Comfortable cushioning for long hikes
- Lightweight design for mid-height boots
Cons:
-
Heel may feel snug for some
10. KEEN Women’s Tempo Flex Mid Height Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boot
The KEEN Women’s Tempo Flex Mid is an excellent choice for hikers who prioritise flexibility, lightweight comfort, and waterproof protection. KEEN’s KEEN.DRY membrane prevents water from entering while allowing moisture to escape, keeping feet cool and dry all day. The signature Flex Zone technology enables natural movement and reduces stiffness, making each step feel easier on long hikes. A durable toe cap and high-traction outsole add safety and stability on rocky trails. With its adaptive comfort and trail-ready features, the Tempo Flex Mid stands out as a versatile boot for active women.
Key Specs:
- KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Multi-directional rubber lug outsole
- Weight: approx. 13 oz per shoe
Pros:
- Comfortable and flexible for long treks
- Waterproof and breathable
- Secure mid-height ankle support
- Durable outsole for traction on diverse terrain
Cons:
-
Less aggressive tread for extremely rugged trails
How to choose?
Low weight
Among the most desirable functions of trekking shoes over boots is their low weight. The typical pair of 2-3 period trekking boots weighs in at around 1200g (2.6 pounds) per set, as well as a lot more if you’re considering winter season trekking boots.
Whereas there are a couple of alternatives in this evaluation that are almost half that weight. The Salomon X Ultra 2 GTX is around 600g, as well as the Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R GTX is only a little heavier.
This is a huge difference when you take into consideration the variety of actions you are likely to take throughout a full day of walking, and also the low weight is especially useful for those intending to maintain their pace high.
The weight of trekking footwear additionally makes them far more matched to a wider range of tasks. Some of the light hiking shoes are optimal for trail running as well, as well as footwear is generally less complicated and more comfortable alternatives for just wearing and around.
If your footwear has the ability to offer you comfort as well as a defence on the trail, as well as being your best footwear of choice in less daring scenarios, then leave the boots behind and also conserve some space when packing.
Great grip
Hiking shoes are made to keep you active on your feet, and also the sole of the shoes makes a large difference to exactly how certain you feel when traversing rock to rock or negotiating loose surface. By selecting trekking footwear that doesn’t offer the same degree of ankle support as a high ankle trekking boot, it’s vital that you can put your trust in the grasp of your footwear.
Preferably, the outsoles must have deep lugs with a step pattern that is well spaced to stop mud from accumulating. For optimal traction, numerous brands use Vibram soles, which are the Gore-Tex equivalent of the outsole world! Generally speaking, Vibram soles supply remarkable grip and also longevity to other non-branded soles; however, there are some own-brand equivalents that compete increasingly with the high quality as well as efficiency offered by Vibram.
So do not be too fast to mark down anything that doesn’t have the Vibram label affixed to it. Specifically, if the remainder of the footwear is suitable for your feet as well as their requirements.
Breathable and tough material
Just like hiking boots, the top product of lightweight walking footwear varies from difficult leather like the Vasque Mantra, to totally artificial uppers like the La Sportiva Guide. Trekking shoes are designed to be breathable; however, some do a far better job at this than others.
So it is necessary to think about whether you will be trekking in primarily warm temperatures, where extra breathability is a must. Search for something with a mesh or partially-mesh upper as well as a moisture-wicking inner, like the Merrell Moab Ventilator, to maintain your toes as cool as feasible.
The best waterproof hiking shoes typically include a Gore-Tex cellular lining, which does incredible work at keeping breathability too.
Waterproofness
Many walking footwear products use partial or total waterproofing, often with a Gore-Tex liner. Water-resistant hiking shoes can be much more expensive, nevertheless, so consider whether this is an essential feature for you, or whether you will probably be trekking in completely dry summer conditions.
The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack GTX goes one step further and also ensures rust-free rivets and equipment, too, a fantastic choice for winter months hiking.
Solid support
There is a large concern surrounding the assistance that trekking footwear provides over trekking boots. The low cut of hiking footwear is a noticeable failure when it involves ankle joint stability, especially when carrying a packed knapsack. So if great ankle joint assistance is a have but you are actually keen on the lightweight properties of hiking footwear, then you might wish to consider a lightweight boot like the Asolo Jumla GV.
That stated, most of the best lightweight hiking shoes offer a decent degree of rigidity as well as stability with inner assistances or built-in shanks. Footwear like the Keen Targhee II is a superb selection if you are nervous about getting out of your hiking boots and right into an extra lightweight hiking shoe, as well as they also provide unrivalled security with their trademark bumpers.
If you’re simply not willing to lose out on the ankle joint support given by a greater cut, then you might be much better off sticking to trekking boots.
Trekking Boots Gear Overview
Comfortable fit
Although some elements of in shape come down to just trying out the footwear, there are a few fundamental styles to take into consideration. If you have broad feet, look for something with a broader toe box and also a heel. If you require added arch assistance, you may want a shoe with a detachable sole to include orthopaedic insoles. As a general rule, Keen shoes are broader than a lot of brands, while North Face footwear is extra narrow.
When it comes to trying on the shoes themselves, try them on at the end of the day when your feet are somewhat inflamed. Similarly, if you like to put on a particular set of trekking socks when out on the route, make certain to wear them when you try out the footwear. The same is true for any kind of special insoles you prepare to utilise when you trek. Because light hiking shoes are a lot more adaptable than trekking boots, they take much less time to break in; however, minor rigidity is still typical.
Whether you intend to trek in the snow or the sand, on rocks or with mud, there is an excellent alternative for you on this listing of the best lightweight hiking footwear. So if you have actually carried your overly heavy boots up on top a lot after that, possibly now is the moment to jump on over to the light side and also give trekking footwear a go?!
FAQs:
Q. What is considered a lightweight hiking shoe?
The lightest hiking boots on our list are the Salomon X Ultra 2 GTX. The weight for a men’s US size 9 is 595g (21 oz). The Merrell Moab Ventilator and the Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R GTX are the next lightest possibilities.
Q. Are running shoes good for light hiking?
Although trail running shoes make it easier to run, they don’t provide the same level of support as boots when the ground is rocky or uneven. However, they can unquestionably be used for hiking. In reality, trail running shoes are virtually always preferable to conventional street shoes for hiking.
Q. What weight is a light hiking boot?
Lightweight: at RunRepeat, all lightweight hiking boots weigh less than 500g. Breathable upper materials: synthetic materials, suede, mesh. Soft: these shoes have a shorter break-in period because they aren’t as rigid as traditional hiking boots.
Q. Should you get hiking shoes a half size bigger?
Many hikers suggest that a pair of right hiking boots should be a half or full size larger than their normal shoe size or even the hiking boots that fit you perfectly.
Q. Should hiking shoes be tight or loose?
Hiking boots should fit snug everywhere, tight nowhere, and offer room to wiggle your toes. Try them on at the end of the day (after feet swell) and with the socks, you plan to wear. Know your size.
Conclusion
Hikers should put their comfort first. No longer is it necessary to break in stiff, uncomfortable footwear before embarking on a trip. Wearing new boots for a few days before spending two weeks in the Norwegian fjords is recommended, but they should be comfortable immediately. Most technical materials do not get more comfortable with repeated usage.
Hikers must also contend with the elements. If you’re walking through Iceland’s lava flows in the rain, you won’t have time to dry your boots. To keep dirt and water out, waterproof boots with gusseted tongues are required. The majority of the models that have been assessed feature both.
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