We Tested a Bunch of Lightweight Hiking Boots — These Are Our Favorites

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Staying comfy on a hike or backpacking trip is vital, regardless of the season. As for footwear on the trail, lightweight hiking boots quicken your pace and protect you from dreadful mid-hike woes like blisters and sweaty feet. Plus, they add less weight to your pack than a pair of chunky boots with extra padding.

The best lightweight hiking boots are supportive and responsive, and with some waterproofing, can help you cross streams and creeks. We tested some of the most popular styles from brands like Vasque, Merrell, and Lowa to find the best options for hastening your next hike.

Need more gear for your next outdoor adventure? Check out our picks for the best backpacking backpacks, ultralight camping chairs, and ultralight sleeping bags.

The Best Lightweight Hiking Boots

• Best Overall: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex

• Best Budget: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot

• Most Affordable With Gore-Tex: Merrell Moab Speed Mid

• Best Upgrade: Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid

• Most Cushioned: Hoka Kaha 2 GTX

What to Consider

Weight

Lightweight hiking boots weigh between one and three pounds, and those on the higher end of the scale typically have waterproofing layers and extra padding. Most boots on this list are under two pounds, great for quick scrambles, fast-paced thru-hiking trips, and avoiding fatigue on challenging hikes without sacrificing stability.

Height

Hiking boots come in mid and high styles, protecting your feet from the elements just above or a few inches higher than the ankle bone. Low-cut hiking footwear provides the least protection from moist and grimy conditions designed for trail running or considered a hiking shoe (not a boot). They may be useful for long thru-hikes and relaxed trails with less obstacles, but the average hiker likely needs mid or high hiking boots to protect from rolling your ankle on a bumpy trail.

Material and Fabric

The most lightweight materials for hiking boots are synthetics like nylon and polyester. These are cost-effective, fast-drying wick away sweat to save weight.

Leather is a slightly heavier and often requires break-in before use. In most cases, PU-coated leather is an excellent material for hiking, but it’s heavy. The lightweight leather hiking boots we recommend are partially leather for durability, but use synthetics inside and on the tongue to save weight and help with durability.

Outsoles

Hiking boots’ outsoles are made from rubber and often have lugs that help with traction. The bumpy lugs give the boot slight elevation, and the space between them helps better dig into mud, dirt, and rough terrain. It also makes it easier to clean the grime out between uses.

Wider lug space sheds mud more easily than tighter-spaced lugs. Most boots on this list feature a heel brake, too, which is the drop-off at the end of the outsole’s curved arch closest to the back of the shoe. This part of the boot reduces your chances of slipping and falling on steep hills.

Vibram is a common branded outsole, but don’t nix a shoe because it doesn’t have it—it’s just a proprietary name for outsoles. Plenty of hiking boots without Vibram are just as good as in-house outsoles by, say, Merrell or Keen.

Vibram makes several outsoles with different lug patterns for specific terrain, each with a special name. While each is a good signifier of the type of terrain for which they’re intended, it’s best to read each boot’s product description for a deeper explanation of how each outsole performs best.

Waterproofing

A waterproof membrane is vital for most outdoor adventures, so we recommend several boots with waterproofing here. There is a caveat, however: Waterproofing often makes hiking boots less breathable. If you prioritize breathability in your hiking boots, consider ditching the tech and opt for waterproof socks or boots labeled as water-resistant.

A waterproof membrane stops moisture from penetrating a boot’s interior. This is achieved via a layer of water-tight material sandwiched between the outer upper and inner liner. Waterproof membranes have microscopic pores that are big enough to let water vapor escape but small enough to prevent water droplets from passing through.

Gore-Tex

Many shoe brands use their own waterproofing technology to cut costs, but Gore-Tex, often abbreviated as GTX, is the gold standard in waterproof textiles. Gore-Tex is the most popular, reliable, and expensive waterproofing membrane. Proprietary waterproofing methods often get a bad rap regarding longevity, so reach for Gore-Tex if you’d like your boot’s uppers to withstand water for years.

Still, like all waterproof membranes, Gore-Tex eventually breaks down after lots of use. Chances are that if your boots are falling apart, your Gore-Tex is, too. Per the company’s FAQ, eventually, “all products wear out with time and end use.”

Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Coating

If you’d like to extend the waterproofing of your boots, do your part in maintaining the DWR coating. A waterproof membrane prevents water from seeping into your boots whereas DWR prevents precipitation from saturating them. That saturation can make your boots heavy and waterlogged, sometimes chilling your feet as the excess moisture dries out.

DWR isn’t permanent, and if your boots feel damp when trekking water, it’s time to re-apply via a spray or a wash-in formula. Remember, regular wear and exposure to elements, dirt, detergents, insect repellents, and more all contribute to shortening DWR’s lifespan.

How We Tested

Our approach to finding the best lightweight hiking boots was multifaceted. First and foremost, hands-on experience: As an avid hiker, I’ve tested hiking boots for key factors, including comfort, breathability, waterproofing, and overall quality—I’ve tripped enough in the woods to know how important traction is.

Beyond personal trials, we considered opinions and evaluations from trusted sources, including our peers at Runner’s World. We only looked at models less than three pounds per pair to cater to those prioritizing nimbleness and less fatigue. We also considered a range of budgets, ensuring our picks are accessible to various hikers, from casual to thru-hike champ.

For this story, I tested lightweight hiking boots by putting in miles commuting to work and hiking local trails in the Merrell Moab 3 Mid and Moab Speed Mid, Lowa Innox Pro GTX, and (the ones I’ve worn the most and have gotten the dirtiest) the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX. I asked my colleagues and product testers Adam Schram and Danny Perez for their opinions on two boots included here: the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX and the Vasque Re:connect Here.

For the boots I haven’t tested—the Salomon Quest 4 and Ultra 4, the Danner Mountain 600, and the Vasque Breeze—I relied on critical reviews, previous hands-on experience with each brand, and on rigorously vetted technical specs and style.

X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Lightweight Hiking Boots - Men's

The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is our best overall pick because of its excellent balance of weight, performance, protection, support, and waterproofing. Exceptionally lightweight at just 15.87 ounces per shoe, the X Ultra 4 Mid impresses critics at BikeHikeSafari, who say they feel more akin to sneakers than boots, and our colleagues at Runner’s World, who tout the boot as the best for long hikes due to its grippy, flexible sole that provides all-day comfort.

The X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex boots are great for technical hikes and varied terrains, offering stable support and robust protection from the elements. The grippy outsoles help gain traction on wet, slippery surfaces, while the unique sock liner molds to the shape of your feet as you break in the boots. It also has a protective toecap—vital for hiking on rocky terrain.

These boots run slightly narrow, which may be an issue for those with wider feet. They're surprisingly strong for such a lightweight shoe, with a flexible yet sturdy outsole that makes it feel more like a trail runner than a boot.

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Moab 3 Mid Lightweight Hiking Boots - Men's

Merrell’s Moab 3 Mid lightweight hiking boots are the cheapest without sacrificing safety, comfort, and support. They have plenty of cushioning to absorb shock on the trail, a comfy fit, and a grippy outsole that helps get traction on wet and dry surfaces. The material combines mesh and pig suede leather for better breathability.

It's a boot I've used on and off for the last year, having been a fan of the brand for its comfort and value. The tongue is super cushy and padded, which I appreciate when I tightly lace up my boots, and the mesh upper is highly breathable, making venting sweat easy.

I also recommend the Moab 2 Mids for an even cheaper boot, which I've had experience with before the 3 was released last year. They're still perfectly suited for beginners and hikers on a budget, and since they aren’t the newest model, they’re roughly $50 cheaper, especially if you peek at different colorways on Amazon.

The Moab 3 is well-cushioned and comfort is unmatched at its price. It's a solid all-season boot, though it may not last through years of heavy use. Note that these aren't the waterproofed version, but they're only $20 more if you need them.

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Moab Speed Mid Gore-Tex Lightweight Hiking Boots - Men’s

The most cost-effective shoes that use that highly sought-after Gore-Tex waterproofing come from Merrell. Its Moab Speed Mid hiking boots are the lightest, most affordable boot that uses the tech.

These boots cut the fat off Merrell’s typical Moab boot with thinner materials that give it a sneaker-like build. The mid version of the Moab Speed has a higher collar for superb ankle support, and when I took them on a few hikes, I found these highly cushioned boots incredibly comfortable. They provide enough support to prevent rolling ankles and a nimble stride on the trail.

They hold up well underwater and through streams, and, like the Moab 3, they're fairly breathable. They run hot, though, given that they use a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane.

The Moab Speed Mid Gore-Tex has great styling, too. They’re great for walking and reliable on all terrains. I haven’t worn these long enough to see wear and tear, but the outsole is known to peel after heavy usage.

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Kaha 2 GTX Lightweight Hiking Boots - All-Gender

Hoka is known for footwear with maximum cushioning, and its hiking boots are no exception. Despite an exaggerated outsole and silhouette, the Kaha 2 GTX boots are surprisingly light at just over two pounds per pair.

Though heavier than other entries on this list, the Kaha 2s provide the most plush support compared to any other lightweight hiking boots on the market, softening impact on the trail and further cradling your feet. That pillowy comfort also makes these incredibly easy to wear out of the box, requiring zero break-in.

I have a pair I’ve been hiking in for over two years and they still feel as comfortable as day one. They’ve performed well over on slippery rocks and I’ve used them to cross many streams without its GTX ever failing. They look damn good, too.Reviews editor and fashion-forward colleague Danny Perez also loves his pair of Kaha 2s. “They're supportive from the insoles to the ankle collar,” he says. “The Vibram soles are super grippy on wet surfaces, and the uppers effectively repel water. They're also built sturdy while still being lightweight and comfortable.”

The Kaha 2 GTXs are ultra-supportive, and their two-inch-thick foam midsoles protect against rocks and gravel. They also have a wide toe box with ample room for thick hiking socks, a plus for winter treks. These are best for those who prioritize comfort over weight and nimble performance.

Innox Pro GTX Mid Lightweight Hiking Boots - Men's

Like Salomon’s X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, the Lowa Innox GTX Mids are built like trail shoes with solid ankle support. Comfy out of the box and highly flexible, the Innox GTX Mids have thick midsoles for gravel protection, a cushy ankle collar, and a Gore-Tex lining to ward off moisture.

The lightweight build is ideal for speedy backpacking trips and nimble movement. It also has grippy outsoles that perform well in the snow as much as mud.

These lightweight boots are wrapped in a PU frame, providing extra support without any added bulk. I found them comfortable straight out of the box. They felt durable and tough during the few hikes I’ve worn them on, with a sturdy heel collar to support the ankle and superb softness across the forefoot when laced.

These boots for best on flat paths and trails without debris, as they lack toe and heel caps that lend additional protection against jagged edges.

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Re:connect Here - Mid Lightweight Hiking Boot - Men's

Vasque's all-purpose Here is a cushy mid-ankle boot stylish enough for the city streets yet technical enough for the trail. It has lug outsoles for decent traction on slippy trails, a highly breathable upper with slightly opaque mesh, and a heel collar to keep your foot in place. That heel also has a nifty pull tab to slide it on your feet, and its thin tongue further aids in breathability. These are smart streetwear stompers similar to what'd expect from Nike ACG.

Frustratingly, it doesn't have waterproofing, and its breathable upper is perforated enough to let water pass through it. That's also why these aren't technical—it's clear Vasque made these for city slickers and commuters who prioritize a little more function in their daily walks to work.

But if you're looking for lightweight boots for city stepping and trail use, especially in the warmer months, the Here Mid (also available in Low) is one of the best.

“I’ve had my Vasques for about six months, and I love wearing them on walks around my neighborhood just as much as hikes on the rocky trails around town,” says Adam Schram, assistant editor of commerce at Runner's World. “The upper is incredibly stretchy, which made me think initially that the shoe wouldn’t be very supportive, but the eyelet placement on the heel collar gives me plenty of freedom to lace up tight around my ankles in a way that doesn’t feel constrictive.”

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Mountain 600 4.5" Lightweight Hiking Boot - Men's

Danner's Mountain 600 is a classic mountaineer-styled boot. It sports durable suede and leather, a thickly padded mesh tongue for moisture-wicking and breathability, and metal eyelets for hardy lace support. The Vibram Fuga outsole has a superior grip, providing traction on rocky surfaces and decent underfoot comfort. The interior liner is also perforated throughout to relieve sweaty feet from long treks and thick hiking socks.

They're minimal, too, without many panels, as Danner claims its design's few seams are intended to prevent failure and breakage. There isn't much visible stitching either, giving it a distinct look.

Although missing a heel drop, it's competent enough for mountain hikes and steep trails. It's also supportive, cushy, and comfy for hours-long hikes. However, they're not built tough for technical hikes, and though the outsole is sticky, it won't perform well in very wet conditions. Its waterproofing is excellent, though, and its style is classic, recalling mountaineers of the early days.

Breeze Lightweight Hiking Boot - Men's

Vasque’s Breeze boots feature a nubuck leather and mesh upper, making them a highly breathable pair of lightweight hiking boots. The style may lean classic in appearance, but modern elements still help them perform on the trail: a comfy EVA midsole and footbed, proprietary Vasque waterproofing, ample synthetic padding made with recycled materials, and several mesh panels for extra breathability.

A Gear Junkie reviewer says the Breezes are excellent in snowy, wet conditions, and they didn’t experience pinching or hot spots after a week-long trip through snow, gorges, and marshlands. We found these comfortable despite the short laces that can be annoying to tie.

The Breezes sport a comfortable, supportive fit, and are lightweight and surprisingly breathable. Their waterproofing isn't the best on this list, however, and is best kept away from deep streams and rivers.

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Quest 4 GTX Lightweight Hiking Boots - Men's

The Quest 4 Gore-Tex boots from Salomon are heavy-duty shoes that can survive the most challenging, rugged terrain. Frequently recommended for treacherous hikes and multiday backpacking trips, the Quest 4s have a superb fit and padded interior for supreme comfort. The outsoles provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces while protecting your underfoot from rough, rocky trails.

The bulky silhouette makes these heavier lightweight hiking boots at 2 pounds, 14.4 ounces per pair, but that compromise grants better performance and more stable footing.

The boot is known for great performance in cold conditions and for trekking over mud and snow, though they tend to run hot in warmer temperatures.

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