Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes [2025] Expert Gear Review

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This is a gear review of the Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for backpacking in 2025.

Choosing the right lightweight hiking shoes can completely change your experience on the trail, making every mile more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable. With so many new models and materials available in 2025, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options. As a long-distance hiker and gear tester, I’ve spent thousands of miles putting different shoes through their paces in real-world conditions, from rugged mountain tracks to hot desert paths.

This guide cuts through the marketing hype to bring you honest, experience-based recommendations for the best lightweight hiking shoes this year. Whether you need all-day comfort, reliable waterproofing, a wide fit, or the lightest possible shoe for fast miles, you’ll find a top pick here. I focus on shoes that balance durability, grip, breathability, and support, so you can hike farther with less fatigue and fewer blisters.

If you’re ready to leave heavy hiking shoes behind and enjoy the freedom of lightweight hiking shoes, you’re in the right place.

You might also be interested in looking at the Best Lightweight Hiking Boots or the Best Trail Runners for Hiking.

How We Tested

All the lightweight hiking shoes in this review were thoroughly tested by an author with more than 30 years of long-distance hiking experience and a background managing an outdoor retail store, where he personally fitted countless customers with hiking footwear. Some of the shoes in this review were purchased by the author, and some were supplied by the manufacturer. They have been rigorously tested by the author in all kinds of weather and over thousands of miles of use. The research, testing, and experience of the author have combined to come up with the best lightweight hiking shoes for 2025. Read the Review Policy for further details.

Best Light Hiking Shoes for Backpacking 2025

The best light hiking shoes for backpacking for 2025 are:

Best Hiking Shoes – Overall

Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Hiking Shoe

Weight per pair: 2 lb. 1 oz / 935 grams
Pros:
> Durable leather and suede construction 
> Upgraded rubber outsole for improved traction 
> Merrell Air Cushion in the heels 
> Webbing, mesh, and laces are made with 100% recycled material
Cons:
> These shoes have a higher arch than some other shoes. 

The Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is the updated replacement for the hugely popular Moab 2, which has been one of the leading budget hiking shoes for over a decade.

It provides out-of-the-box comfort and improved features, including recycled material and a newly designed sole. Anyone who liked the previous model will love this one too.

While they are some of the best-priced and most comfortable shoes they are heavier than most of the other shoes in this review. And the combination of comfort and price makes them the best hiking shoe in 2025.

The Merrell Moab 3 comes in waterproof and non-waterproof ventilated versions. The ventilated version offers significantly improved airflow compared to the waterproof model, making it a strong choice for hikers who prioritize breathability and plan to hike in dry, warm climates. This can help reduce the risk of blisters and discomfort caused by excess moisture.

They are a medium to wide fit, and there is also a wide version for those with very wide feet.

The Merrell Moab 3 Vent stands out for desert hiking in 2025 thanks to its breathable mesh upper, which helps keep feet cool in hot conditions, and its robust construction that withstands abrasive terrain. Its weight, at just over 2 pounds per pair, strikes a balance between durability and comfort for most hikers.

Best Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Salomon Men’s X Ultra 4 GTX

Weight per pair: 1 lb. 9.6 oz / 726 grams
Pros:
> Injection-molded EVA midsoles and Ortholite sock liner for comfort 
> Breathable mesh panels wick moisture 
> Asymmetrical chassis for increased stability 
> Outsoles feature strategic lines for better flexibility
> Contragrip MA rubber outsole for good traction
Cons:
> For people with narrow feet only
> Quicklace system can take a bit to get used to

If you’re regularly powering up and down steep hills or technical terrain, the Salomon X Ultra 4 is a great choice. They offer the agility of a running shoe combined with the stability and grip of a hiking boot.

The Contragrip MA rubber outsole grips the terrain, even when slippery or wet. 

The Salomon X Ultra 4 is an upgrade from the previous model and is equipped with SensiFit technology to cradle the feet from the midsole to the lacing system, which provides a secure and snug fit.

The Salomon X Ultra hiking shoe is waterproof and breathable due to the use of Gore-Tex, but it also has a non-waterproof version.  

The Salomon X Ultra 4 is a great lightweight waterproof hiking shoe for medium to narrow-width feet. If you like the fit and feel of Salomon shoes, these will make a great lightweight hiking shoe for thru-hiking or ultralight hikers wanting a quality shoe.

Best Hiking Shoe for Thru Hiking

Altra Lone Peak 9

Weight per pair: 1 lb. 6.4 oz / 635 grams
Pros:
> Rock plate for underfoot protection 
> Updated MaxTrac outsoles with multidirectional lug pattern 
> Super lightweight feel
> FootShape toe boxes for comfort and stability 
> Laser-cut holes for quick drainage
Cons:
> For wider feet

The Altra Lone Peak 9 has been updated this season with a couple of improvements to this very popular lightweight trail runner.

The MaxTrac outsoles have been updated with slightly better traction and wear than the previous model with the trademark foot and toe shape underneath replaced with a more skeleton look. Either way, the traction is slightly improved.

They have a StoneGuard that offers more protection from rocks underfoot without compromising the feel of being on the trail. 

The Altra Lone Peak EGO midsoles have been updated and still provide the famous soft ride that has made these shoes super popular within the thru-hiking community. The Altra Lone Peak 9 keeps the same oversized toe box that allows the toes to relax and spread out naturally and for the big toes to remain in a straight position.

If you want to use a trail runner style shoe for ultralight hiking and backpacking trips then they need to be tough. These are tough enough for most trails but if you are on very muddy trails or planning off-trail hiking trips then a trail runner is not the best option.

The fit of these shoes combined with zero drop means they are not for everyone. For many people, they are a good transition before moving to ultralight minimalist shoes. Having said that, they have a cult-like following among ultralight thru-hikers.

Based on typical usage and trail conditions, most hikers can expect the Altra Lone Peak 9 to last approximately 400–600 miles. The actual lifespan will depend on factors such as terrain, pack weight, and hiking style. For instance, rocky or muddy trails may accelerate wear compared to smoother, well-maintained paths.

I have been using the Altra Lone Peak trail runners for several years including thru-hiking the Te Araroa Trail in New Zealand. I loved the lightweight feel. They are one of the best trail running shoes for thru-hiking. These are my current ultralight hiking shoes of choice that I use for ultralight hiking.

Best Ultralight Hiking Shoe

Hoka Speedgoat 6

Weight per pair: 1 lb. 3.6 oz / 555 grams
Pros:
> Lightweight Foam cushioning 
> Vibram Megagrip rubber outsoles with good traction
> Spacious toe boxes 
> Enhanced midfoot support and stability 
Cons:
> Not durable enough for hiking off-trail.

If it’s ultralightweight, comfort, and support you’re looking for, look no further than the Hoka Speedgoat 6 upgraded running shoe. These trail runners have lightweight foam midsoles for maximum cushioning and excellent absorbing impact.

The updated toe boxes and wider forefoot construction provide a more accommodating fit for enhanced comfort and stability.

The gusseted tongues feature strategic cutouts for added breathability and the breathable textile lining provides abrasion-free wear.

While these shoes offer plush cushioning and support, they still have good traction. The Vibram Megagrip outsole provides good grip in both wet and dry conditions. 

A trail runner like this is best suited to trails that are in good condition and not as well suited to rough terrain or muddy conditions. If heading onto rougher trails, then a stronger hiking shoe might be a better option. Like many of the shoes in this review, most hikers will get around 500 miles out of the Hoka Speedgoat 6 shoes when thru-hiking.

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 features a 5mm heel-to-toe drop, offering a more traditional running shoe feel compared to the Altra Lone Peak 9’s zero-drop platform. The Hoka’s fit is also narrower, which may appeal to hikers with slimmer feet or those who prefer a snugger hold, while the Altra’s wider toe box is favored by hikers with broader feet or those prone to foot swelling

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is great for day hikes, trail running, thru-hiking, or backpacking on nice trails and is one of the best light trail runners for thru-hiking.

Most Durable Light Hiking Shoe

La Sportiva Spire GTX

Weight per pair: 1 lb. 15 oz / 878 grams
Pros:
> Cross between a boot and a shoe 
> Gore-tex surround aeration channels for breathable protection 
> STB Control System integrates ventilation with stability 
> Vibram XS Trek and Impact Brake System provides excellent traction 
Cons:
> A little heavier than other options

The La Sportiva Spire GTX hiking shoe is a great midpoint between a hiking boot and a trail hiking shoe. It features abrasion-resistant mesh uppers and Gore-tex surround aeration channels to offer durability and breathable waterproof protection.

This works alongside the Nano Cell 2.0 Technology to allow maximum aeration and comfort within the footbed and midsole, while the STB Control System integrates ventilation outlets into the midsoles while also providing torsional stability for comfort and a snug fit.

The La Sportiva hiking shoe uses Vibram XS Trek and Impact Brake System outsoles to supply traction and grip, and is aggressive enough for the most rugged of terrains.

The La Sportiva Spire GTX is a little heavier than many other shoes on our list, they’re surprisingly lightweight considering they fit more like a hiking boot rather than a shoe, and provide maximum stability, grip, and confidence on the trail. 

Best Hiking Shoe for Wide Feet

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Shoes

Weight per pair: 2 lb 5 oz / 1060 grams
Pros:
> KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane
> ECO natural odor control 
> Dual-density EVA footbeds for comfort 
> TPU heel-capture system for stability
> Best Shoes for Wide Feet
Cons:
> Heavy 
> Flat footbed with little arch support (but that could be a good thing for some)

The Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Shoes are an industry favorite as they provide traction, durability, and protection.

Those with wide feet often find the Keen Targhee IV’s generous toe box and wide sizing options provide a more comfortable fit than many competitors. However, it’s still important to try on multiple brands to determine which shoe best matches your individual foot shape.

Crafted from environmental leather equipped with KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membranes, this shoe will keep your feet dry while allowing perspiration to dissipate.

They’re treated to provide natural odor control and keep your shoes smelling fresher for longer. While good in theory these shoes will get just as stinky as any other shoe on this list.

The Keen Targhee IV Men’s Hiking Shoes have a removable air-injected insole that provides a good amount of underfoot comfort.

The outsole tread will give you enough traction in all but the slipperiest terrain, and they are durable enough to last a long time. 

The Keen Targhee IV Waterproof is frequently recommended for hikers with wide feet, thanks to its spacious toe box and availability in wide sizes. This design helps prevent toe crowding and discomfort during long hikes, especially for those who experience foot swelling.

The Adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-Tex 2.0 Low is a solid option for hikers who want a tough, protective shoe for mixed terrain and wet conditions. The Continental rubber outsole offers excellent grip on everything from muddy trails to rocky ascents, and the reinforced synthetic upper stands up well to abrasion and rough use. The Gore-Tex lining ensures your feet stay dry in rain, puddles, and shallow creek crossings, making these a strong choice for all-weather hiking.

In terms of fit, the Free Hiker 2.0 Low is roomy in the forefoot and offers a secure lockdown through the midfoot and heel. The lacing system is straightforward and holds well, and the shoe feels comfortable right out of the box for most people. However, the shoe feels noticeably heavier than many other lightweight hiking shoes in this review, and the stiff construction means it doesn’t feel as agile as models like the HOKA Speedgoat 6 or Altra Lone Peak 9. For hikers who prioritize stability and protection over speed, the extra weight is a fair trade-off.

These shoes are ideal for those who need a reliable, waterproof hiking shoe for rough trails, backpacking trips, or long days when durability matters most. If you’re looking to move fast and light, there are better options, but for rugged comfort and grip, the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-Tex 2.0 Low delivers.

Salomon Men’s XA Pro 3D V8 GTX 

Weight per pair: 1 lb. 10.1 oz / 740 grams
Pros:
> Super lightweight 
> Good cushioned stability 
> Molded OrthoLite footbeds
> Wet-traction outsoles 
Cons:
> Runs large, we recommend sizing down ½ size

It’s no surprise that Salomon has made the list again, with another quality trail shoe. The Salomon XA PRO 3D V8 is designed with Seamed SensiFit uppers and molded OrthoLite footbeds to provide comfort without weighing the shoe down. 

The shoe has a stable and cushioned midsole for a secure feel and premium wet-traction outsoles which provide grip even in the worst of conditions. 

The fully waterproof Gore-Tex membranes mean you can ignore the conditions underfoot and concentrate on what’s in front of you.

Plus the Salomon XA Pro is now 20G lighter, featuring thinner, softer materials but the same durability and reliability. 

The Salomon XA Pro is one of the best hiking shoes for narrow to medium-width feet.

Merrell Moab Speed Low

Weight: 1 lb. 6.6 oz
Pros:
> Reasonably priced
> Comfortable
> Waterproof and non-waterproof models available
Cons:
> Not as durable as some other models in this review

The Merrell Moab Speed Low is very much like a lightweight Merrell Moab 3. It looks very much like a trail-running version of the very popular Moab.

While it provides a generous amount of support and is quite durable it is lacking compared to the heavier version that is rated as the best shoe overall. And like the Moab 3, it comes in at a reasonable price which will make it very popular with anyone wanting a lightweight shoe for hiking and backpacking.

Overall, the Merrell Moab Speed Low is a very popular light hiking shoe.

Vasque Breeze LT NTX Low Shoes

Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz / 716 grams per pair
Pros:
> Lightweight
> Waterproof
> Very good traction on the sole
> Good level of cushioning
Cons:
> The suede leather can be hard to clean when it gets dirty

Although the Vasque Breeze LT NTX Low has been discontinued, it remains available at discounted prices from some retailers. If you’re seeking a lightweight, comfortable hiking shoe and can find your size, this model still offers excellent traction and value for its price.

The Vasque Breeze LT NTX Low Shoes are one of the lightest hiking shoes for 2025. When I tried these shoes for the first time I was impressed by their comfort and light feel. They feel more like a stiff-soled pair of trail running shoes.

They feel comfortable right out of the box but over time the suede leather will shape itself to fit your feet perfectly, making these shoes very comfortable.

These shoes also provide the best traction of any shoe in this review. The traction is provided by large lugs that provide a good grip. But that grip will come at the cost of durability. The sole will not last as long as some of the other light hiking shoes in this review.

The Vasque Breeze LT NTX Low Shoes are super comfortable, lightweight, and provide the best traction of any of the shoes in this review.

Other Hiking Shoes

The following list of hiking shoes is also worth considering:

• Danner Trail 2650: The Danner Trail 2650 will be added to the list when the review has been completed.

Hiking Shoe Comparison Table

Materials 

All the best hiking shoes share similar attributes when it comes to the outer materials and uppers.

A lot of hiking footwear uses leather and suede that are highly durable. Once broken in are incredibly soft and comfortable, whereas synthetic materials are less durable but may be better if minimizing the weight of the shoe is your priority. 

Waterproof

Gore-Tex features on many quality waterproof hiking shoes and is a material that offers waterproof protection while remaining breathable.

It’s a must if you’re looking for an all-weather waterproof hiking shoe. 

Breathability

The waterproof membrane inside the light weight shoes does not provide a lot of breathability. And when they are wet and covered with mud they will not be able to breathe at all. In a lot of cases, the breathability of hiking shoes will only really occur in non-waterproof lightweight hiking shoes. In most cases, it is my preference to wear the most breathable shoes possible. This gives my feet the chance to breathe and prevents heat and moisture build-up that can lead to blisters.

Traction and Outsoles

Having a hiking shoe with quality traction is essential for hiking and backpacking.

Most quality hiking shoes will feature a Vibram rubber sole which provides grip on uneven and slippery terrain and in all kinds of weather. 

The tread on most of the hiking shoes in this review should last between 800 – 1000 miles. The tread on trail running shoes will last a lot less with 500 miles or less considered normal.

The sole of a good hiking shoe will wear out at about the same pace as the rest of the shoe. So when the bottom of the hiking shoe is worn out, so is the rest of the shoe.

Weight 

The weight of the hiking shoe will be influenced by how much cushioning the shoe offers, as well as the thickness of the materials used in the shoe. 

The best ultralight hiking shoes are trail runners, however, bear in mind that in order to minimize weight, the shoe may compromise on durability and the amount of protection it offers.

Comfort and support

Hiking involves being on your feet for hours at a time, so hiking shoes should ideally ease the strain on your feet and provide lightweight cushioning. The levels of cushioning you require will also depend on the arch type of your feet. 

For example, those with high arches will need maximum cushioning, whereas those with flat feet will need to prioritize stability, which means that the shoe locks the foot into place and prevents it from rolling. 

When looking for a hiking shoe for long distances you should also pay attention to any shock absorption it provides, particularly in the heel area which takes the brunt of the shock while hiking. 

Sizing: How to Get the Right Fit for Lightweight Hiking Shoes

Selecting the right size is crucial for comfort and preventing blisters or black toenails on the trail. When hiking, your feet will swell after hours of walking, especially in hot weather or on long descents. It’s best to size up from your everyday shoes. Many experienced hikers recommend choosing hiking shoes at least a half size, and often a full size, larger than your regular footwear.

When trying on hiking shoes, always wear the socks you plan to use on the trail. Thicker hiking socks can make a noticeable difference in fit. Here’s a simple way to check if you have enough room:

1. Loosen the laces and slide your foot forward until your toes just touch the front of the toe box.
2. Try to fit your index finger between your heel and the back of the shoe. If it fits comfortably, you have enough space to accommodate swelling and prevent your toes from hitting the front on steep descents.

If you fall between sizes, it’s safer to go with the larger option. Shoes that are too small will cause discomfort and blisters, while slightly larger shoes can be adjusted with thicker socks or insoles.

Toe Box and Foot Shape

The width and shape of the toe box play a major role in comfort, especially on long hikes. Shoes with a wider toe box (like Altra or Keen) allow your toes to splay naturally, reducing the risk of blisters and black toenails.

If you have narrow feet, look for models that offer a snug fit in the forefoot to prevent sliding. Always check whether the brand or model is known for running wide or narrow, and choose accordingly.

Lacing System

The lacing system and the way the shoe laces work have a bearing on how the shoe will fit. They should be done up firmly but not tight. There should be enough room inside without allowing your feet to move around which will not only cause discomfort but can cause blisters.

While the traditional lacing systems with an eyelet and laces work best to fine-tune the shoe on your foot, some manufacturers offer a speed lacing system. They offer a single pull system that stays in place with a toggle or similar. While they work well for a lot of people they do not work for everyone. Salomon is one of the big companies that have moved to this system for a lot of their lightweight shoes. It removes a lot of the fine-tuning in favor of lightweight and simplicity.

Break-in Period

This seems obvious, but whenever you purchase new hiking shoes, it’s a good idea to allow time to break them in before wearing them on an actual hiking trip.

Hiking shoes that feel fine when you try them on can suddenly cause blisters once you’ve worn them for thousands of steps!

For this reason, it’s a good idea to buy your hiking footwear at least a few weeks before any long hiking trips and to wear them as much as you can beforehand.

This way, you’ll give the materials time to soften up and adapt to the shape of your feet, and if you encounter any issues, you can address these issues in the hiking shoe before you head out onto the trail. 

Modern lightweight hiking shoes are designed for immediate comfort and typically require little to no break-in period. If a shoe feels uncomfortable during initial try-on, it’s unlikely to improve significantly with use, so it’s best to choose a model that fits well from the start.

Price

There is no escaping the fact that a good quality pair of light hiking shoes are not cheap. I recommend spending the money to ensure your lightweight shoes for hiking and backpacking trails are the best you can afford. And they are the best fit for your feet.

Socks

It is difficult to talk about the best light hiking shoes without mentioning just how important it is to have good hiking socks. The socks must be not only comfortable but durable enough to withstand hiking trips on muddy trails and many days without being washed. There are also Waterproof Hiking Socks if you are planning on going into areas with lots of water.

Hiking Shoe Insoles

It wasn’t that long ago that the insoles supplied with hiking shoes were of very poor quality. Over the years, they have improved a lot. For most people, there is no need to invest in new insoles. But if you have issues with your feet, knees, hips, or back, then you might need either orthotic inserts prescribed by a qualified podiatrist.

If you have a history of foot discomfort or require additional arch support, upgrading to high-quality insoles can improve comfort and reduce fatigue on long hikes. Many hikers find that aftermarket insoles provide better support and cushioning than the standard insoles included with most hiking shoes.

Conclusion

The Best Light Hiking Shoe for 2025 is in the list below:

Frequently Asked Questions

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