Lightweight hiking shoes are essential gear for hikers and travelers who want comfort, agility, and dependable traction without the bulk of heavy boots. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails, exploring a new city on foot, or heading out for a day hike, a good pair of lightweight hikers can reduce fatigue and keep you moving confidently.
After comparing top sellers and highly rated options available on Amazon, I’ve selected five lightweight hiking shoes that combine performance, comfort, and durability — all ones I’d personally consider for my own adventur
Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe — Best All-Around Lightweight Hiker
Why I’d Buy:
A trusted classic for hikers of all levels, the Merrell Moab 3 balances breathability, support, and protection in a lightweight design. This waterproof version keeps feet dry in wet conditions without feeling bulky.
Best For:
Day hikes | moderate trails | travel with trail days
Highlights:
- M-Select™ DRY waterproof protection
- Cushioned comfort with good arch support
- Durable outsole with strong grip on varied terrain
A reliable, versatile choice for most hiking and travel needs.
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX — Best for Technical Trails & Stability
Why I’d Buy:
Known for trail-ready performance and stability, the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX is a great pick for hikers who want lightweight agility with secure traction and Gore-Tex waterproofing.
Best For:
Technical trails | wet/muddy terrain | frequent hikers
Highlights:
- Gore-Tex waterproof membrane
- Advanced chassis for stability on uneven ground
- Excellent grip on slick surfaces
- Lightweight yet protective build
Great if your routes include challenging or varied terrain.
Columbia Redmond Waterproof Hiking Shoe — Best Value All-Around Trail Shoe
Why I’d Buy:
The Columbia Redmond is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice performance. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof — making it ideal for day hikes, park trails, and travel.
Best For:
Everyday hikes | trail walks | travel
Highlights:
- Omni-Tech™ waterproof breathable construction
- Lightweight cushioning
- Solid all-terrain traction
- Great price-to-performance ratio
Excellent value pick for hikers who want comfort without a high price tag.
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 7 — Best for Trail Running & Long Days
Why I’d Buy:
If you love soft cushioning and fast movement, the Hoka Challenger ATR 7 blends trail-ready traction with road-like comfort. It’s great for long hiking days where comfort matters most.
Best For:
Long hikes | fast packers | trail-to-town transitions
Highlights:
- Plush cushioning that minimizes fatigue
- Multi-terrain traction
- Breathable mesh upper
- Smooth ride for extended miles
Perfect for hikers who want running-shoe comfort on the trail.
KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Shoe — Best for Support & Trail Protection
Why I’d Buy:
KEEN’s Targhee line is known for comfort and reliable support. The Targhee III Low delivers strong waterproofing, toe protection, and grip — all in a lightweight package that works well for varied terrain and travel.
Best For:
Day hikes | mixed terrain | rocky trails
Highlights:
- KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane
- Reinforced toe cap for protection
- Excellent underfoot stability
- Comfortable fit with good arch support
A great balance of cushioning, protection, and trail confidence.
Personal Note
When I walked the French Way of the Camino de Santiago, I personally wore the Salomon Speedcross 3 — a water-resistant (but not fully waterproof) trail shoe. It was lightweight, flexible, and surprisingly comfortable even after weeks of walking.
The reason I didn’t choose Gore-Tex models at the time is that while they’re great for wet conditions, they tend to feel stiffer and less breathable. When you’re walking 6–8 hours a day for 30+ days, breathability becomes far more important than waterproofing. For long-distance walks, I’ve learned that keeping my feet cool, dry, and blister-free matters more than total water protection.