10 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for Men

Each hiking trail is unpredictable. Through the year, they can go from steep to flat, muddy to dry, and gravelly to dusty. Which is why you need a solid pair of hiking shoes that can get through all of it. And the feature that matters most to me is the weight.

You May Also Like:

• 10 Best Hiking Boots for Men
• 10 Best Hiking Boot for Women
• 10 Best Hiking Boots for Plantar Fasciitis

Hiking shoes are one of the most important items of your hiking gears. They are specially designed for protecting the feet and ankle during outdoor activities such as walking, hiking and trekking. They need to extremely strong, durable, and must have stiff soles to give the ankles support and protection on rough trails.

And these being light just makes it perfect because they provide all the protection and comfort at the minimum weight!

Lightweight shoes have their own advantage as they can save 100-200g of energy every time you move your feet. So, of course, you will save a lot of energy over the course of a day.

Shoes made of synthetic materials are cooler and lighter than leather products. They have much shorter break-in period and also are cheaper than the leather hiking shoes.

And the best lightweight hiking shoes for men offer a great grip for stable footing on any trail. Whether a short hike or a long distance trek, these lightweight hiking shoes help to keep your feet warm, dry and comfortable.

10 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for Men in 2019

10 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for Men Reviews in 2019

Finding the right pair of hiking shoes is one of the most difficult tasks. You need to know about the different brands and what they have to offer while being lightweight.

To help with all these quests for the perfect hiking shoes, here are the reviews of the 10 Best lightweight hiking shoes for men.

1. Salomon Men’s X Ultra 2 GTX Hiking Shoe

Updated with sleek, athletic design details, X Ultra 2 GTX provides stability, weather protection and grip for moderate to the technical terrain which will let you conquer every trail. With running shoe technology mated to a lightweight, protective upper and a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane this lightweight hiker likes to move fast all year long.

To ensure its light, the X Ultra 2 GTX is engineered with durable waterproof GORE-TEX providing greater flex, better cushion and less weight. This gives you a breathable waterproof performance.

The Sensifit cradles the foot from the midsole to the lacing system, providing you with a secure, snug and virtually customized fit all around the foot. This ensures maximum comfort while running with the least possible weight.

The Advanced Chassis provides stability, foot control and protection. It combines an EVA midsole for comfort and less fatigue, a TPU Chassis for stability and a Contagrip outsole for protection and grip.

Features I like:

2. Merrell Men’s Moab Ventilator Hiking Shoe

The men’s Moab Ventilator from Merrell is a breathable hiking shoe that’s lightweight and the perfect fit for hiking or biking trails. This out-of-the-box, long-lasting comfort ensures your feet feel rested, even after a long day of hiking.

This Hiking is made with water-resistant leather and upper mesh featuring a rubber toe bumper and heel counter. This will give you the utmost comfort with the highest durability.

The Long-lasting M Select Fresh prevents sweat and moisture from affecting the freshness of your shoes. Our antimicrobial agents penetrate and disrupt the reproduction of the odour causing microbes in your shoes.

The Air Cushion midsole and Vibram Multi-Sport TC5+ rubber outsole feature Lug patterns that provide stability in all conditions, with no lugs placed under the arch, so your foot flexes more naturally for greater comfort. Sure traction on both wet and dry surfaces in even the most extreme temperatures.

The Compression-molded EVA foot frame makes these protect your feet while enhancing the open-window venting of the breathable mesh upper in these multi-sport men’s athletic shoes.

Features I like:

3. Adidas Men’s AX2 Shoes

Designed for hikers who like to travel light and fast, these men’s hiking shoes, have a breathable Climaproof membrane that keeps water out and a TRAXION outsole for a secure grip on slippery trails. The lightweight shoes feature a durable nylon and ripstop upper with synthetic overlays for added support.

Weighing just 12.5 ounces, these shoes have a nylon and ripstop upper for lightweight breathability and durability. These shoes are highly durable and reliable making them a perfect choice for hiking.

The Adidas AX2 features the Waterproof Climaproof that keeps your feet dry and comfortable even after long hours of hiking. The TRAXION outsole for optimal grip in all directions while the Super High-traction rubber will provide you with optimal grip in wet conditions.

The Molded Sockliner ensures enhanced comfort and fit and the comfortable textile lining will guarantee you a comfortable experience. The AX2 has Synthetic overlays for support and protection and the lightweight EVA midsole offers for long-term cushioning

Features I like:

4. Columbia Men’s North Plains II Hiking Shoe

Rugged, comfortable and waterproof, the men’s North Plains II Waterproof is a performance trail shoe with style, stabilizing and protecting you with rich leather overlays and a waterproof seam-sealed construction. The shoe’s ultralight cushioning combines with a beefy, high-traction outsole to keep you supported and comfortable during long miles on challenging terrain.

Giving you superior cushioning, energy return and stepping comfort, Techlite is one of the greatest footwear innovations from Columbia. Its pattern pending midsole solution provides improved cushioning, impact absorption and high energy return giving you a lively feel.

The Leather and textile upper webbing and the scratch rubber toe cap will assure you durability and protection. Techlite absorbs more energy and a greater percentage of that energy is recoverable as the midsole expands back to its unloaded shape during push off. Its lightweight, durable and it’s cushioning lasts through the life of the shoe.

Trying stuff leads to better trails. Step into it with the lightweight comfort and performance with the Columbia Men’s North Plains II Hiking Shoe.

Features I like:

5. Ahnu Men’s Coburn Low Waterproof Hiking Shoe

The Men’s Coburn Low goes the distance. This breathable, lightweight hiker is made with a rich, waterproof leather and lined with mesh to wick away moisture. The Numentum Hike Technology offers lightweight support, advanced forefoot flexibility, and balanced stability through both lateral and medial midfoot support even when wearing a 40-lb. Pack.

Ahnu engineers vibrant products that meet the active lifestyle needs of those who prefer trails over treadmills by pioneering Numentum Technology; a neutral positioning system engineered to encourage your foot’s natural biomechanics. It centres and guides your foot to promote an efficient, stable and balanced stride.

Whether hiking through the Big Sur Mountains or taking a run through Golden Gate Park, Ahnu products are designed to keep you naturally centred, balanced, and comfortable for miles on end.

Low-cut hiking shoe with waterproof-leather upper featuring double-density compressed EVA midsole and integrated PU shank and arch support. Spider rubber lugs provide excellent grip and traction on uneven trails or any excursion you choose.

Features I like:

6. XIANG GUAN Men’s Outdoor Low-Top Oxford Water Resistant Trekking Hiking Shoes

Lightweight Oxford upper provides the superior breathability and quick drying. It is durable and has slip resistant rubber outsole for a long walking.

The inside material is made of synthetic textile fabrics which will keep the shoes dry and breathable

The sole is a sturdy rubber material that provides support if you were to climb on rocks, yet some flexibility so that you don’t end up twisting your ankle. The inside portion has a nice cushion to keep your feet comfortable all while providing support. The shoe looks nice and is made of breathable material so as to keep your foot cooler.

The sole made of non-slip rubber, suitable for daily leisure life or other outdoor sports, such as hiking, cycling, fishing, camping and so on. You can also use it as riding shoes, fishing shoes, walking shoes, water shoes, beach shoes.

Features I like:

7. Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Hiking Shoe

Move from track to trail and back again in the agile Merrell AllOut Blaze Mem trainer. Featuring a waterproof oily leather and mesh upper, these shoes provide you with a glove-like fit for lightweight durability and natural movement.

This handsome men’s sneaker also features M Select DRY technology that seals out water and lets moisture escape so you can stay dry while on the move. It also features M Select fresh that naturally eliminates sweat and its odour-causing bacteria with reactive, friendly microbes.

Creative lug patterns and rubber compounds that provide stability in all conditions, with no lugs places under the arch, so your foot flexes more naturally for greater comfort in both wet and dry conditions.

Made of an ultra-resilient, soft foam with strategically placed shock pads, the UNI-FLY and soft E-Foam midsole disperses impact and stabilizes for a solid takeoff, while Vibram outsole delivers all the traction, support, and stability you need during your day. Show off your versatile skills with the amazing AllOut Blaze Men by Merrell.

Features I like:

8. Hanagal Men’s Evoque II Hiking Shoe – Good for people with plantar fasciitis and other heel pain problems

The Men’s Evoque II Hiking Shoe is a comfortable and lightweight hiking shoes that offer a great performance at a minimum weight. With the soft leather, breathable mesh and stylish to-the-toe lacing, it will feel as light and comfy as socks.

The Evoque II offers support and protection to your feet. The soft leather uppers ensure durability and flexibility to the shoes and the Rubber Toe Bumper offer abrasion-resistance as well as protection from obstacles both on and off the trail.

The elevated heel for arch support makes it the best hiking shoes for Arch Support and is good for people with plantar fasciitis and other heel pain problem.

The outsole rubbers deliver more reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces while the EVA midsoles supply excellent cushioning. The Toe-to-Toe lacing and bathtub-shaped allow for customized fit and snug feeling when you are hiking.

With the full-length EVA midsole and stiff outsole, you are fully prepared for an adventure into the wilderness at the same time. No matter you want to hike a peak, scramble with aplomb, or just kick around town, this shoe would not let you down.

The Hanagal Men’s Extra pair of shoelaces is included for more stylish choices. The anatomically-shaped POLIYOU footbeds provide extra comfort, ventilation, better dampness absorption and less unpleasant odour.

If you need one pair of shoes for both the city and trail, the Evoque II would be an ideal choice.

Features I like:

9. Columbia Men’s Granite Ridge Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Weighing only 1.1 pounds, Columbia Men’s Granite Ridge Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a combination of leather, textile, mesh and webbing all designed for comfort and lightweight performance.

The Techlite lightweight midsole offers you a long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return. The full length lightweight Techlite midsole with midfoot shank for optimal rigidity and stability is what makes the Columbia Granite Ridge so light.

The granite ridge mid offers extended the upper foot and ankle support. And the waterproof seam-sealed construction keeps feet dry and comfortable through wet spring conditions

The Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber provides great traction on a variety of surfaces allowing you to explore all kinds of terrains.

The Independent lug patterns aid for traction on hard and soft surfaces. The midsole ports for air ventilation and cooling making this shoe light and breathable.

Waterproof materials like suede and textile upper are used to construct the Waterproof breathable membrane in the Granite Ridge. It is constructed with a microfleece lining to give you a fully waterproof boot making this a perfect companion on your hiking trips.

Features I like:

10. Adidas Men’s Terrex Swift R Hiking Sneaker Shoes

Built for fast hiking on rugged terrain, the Adidas Men’s Terrex Swift R Hiking Sneaker Shoes are lightweight, breathable and abrasion-resistant. These shoes are a perfect choice for a lightweight hiking shoes.

The Adidas Terrex is a fast, low to the ground hiking shoe with excellent support and protection. With a ripstop mesh upper, these shoes are highly breathability and lightweight. Featuring a durable ripstop upper and waterproof GORE-TEX lining, ADIPRENE cushioning protects against impact. The TRAXION outsole grips wet and slippery surfaces.

The TPU overlays add to the support, comfort and the durability of these shoes. The Speed lacing construction allows you a fast lacing and a snug fit while the Lace Bungee stows laces to help avoid tangling.

The ADIPRENE under the heel offers you a superior cushioning at impact and the Moulded rubber toe cap gives you that extra protection while you are on the trail. The TRAXION™ outsole assures optimal grip in all directions and the Super High-traction rubber outsole ensures optimal grip in wet conditions.

The superior cushioning, comfort, and durability come at the expense of weight. However, as hikers will triumphantly note, this is a much lighter shoe compared to the traditional hiking boots without giving away too much of the needed performance under such challenging conditions.

Features I like:

Why are Lightweight Hiking Boots Necessary?

Hiking boots are not just great but they are essential. And most of the good shoes that are out there can sometimes be really bulky and heavy.

Personally, I prefer the lighter shoes. They are comfortable and offer the same performance of those big shoes at half the weight.

This reduces your effort and the weight of your shoes while hiking, thus allowing you to hike better for a longer duration.

How to Choose the Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for Men?

Choosing the right hiking boots means first you need to consider the environment in which you will primarily use them. As some boots are designed for use in snow and ice. Others are light and breathable and will keep your feet cool even in the heat of the desert. Some boots are ideal for the hiking in the monsoon, repelling water while wicking sweat.

This brings us to a conclusion that it is impossible to find that one pair of shoes for everyone. Which is why you need to prioritize what you need the shoes for then we can look for comfort, durability, stability, weight, warmth, and water resistance.

After that is picked, here are a few other things you should keep in mind before getting the best lightweight hiking shoes for men.

Get the Right Fit

The first and the most important thing that you need to consider while choosing the hiking shoes is getting the best fit. You should try on footwear with the socks you intend to wear with them. As hiking socks are thicker than normal socks, so it’s important to wear them when in the process of the choosing the right hiking shoes as it may affect the size you may need.

Also, you need to try the shoes in the late afternoon or early evening, when your feet are bit bigger than they usually are. Feet tend to swell a bit while hiking, so be sure that you look for wider toe box if you need them.

Weather Conditions

The weather and other environmental factors will determine if you need a breathable mesh shoe or a waterproof shoes. If you are hiking in and out of the water, you need a water-resistant shoes.

For a truly waterproof shoes, you need to look for either waterproof leather with sealed seams or a shoes with a waterproof liner that also adds extra warmth.

Hike Duration

If you are planning for the long hiking adventure, then there will be the great demand on your body and feet. So, you will require more support from your shoes. Usually, a longer trip involves carrying heavy backpacks, so you need under the foot with a stiffer mid-sole and around the ankle with good heel support.

Material

The wrong fabric can make your feet hot, uncomfortable and cramped. So, you need to find the perfect material for experiencing good hiking adventure. Synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester are easy to break-in, feel light, and dry faster when wet, but at the same time, they are less water-resistant.

The split-grain leather is made with half leather and half synthetics, this material is still very breathable. But, it is not as water-resistant as full-grain leather. Most of the mountaineering boots are made with full-grain leather. It is highly durable and perfect for the rigorous hikers.

Be sure to check them out.

The Best Pick

Before you go about on a hiking trip, you need a good pair of hiking shoes suitable for walking on rocky trails and rough terrain. All the best hiking shoes in the market are waterproof but additionally, they need to be lightweight to feel comfortable while walking.

Your shoes should provide sufficient support to prevent the sprain, particularly if your ankles sprain easily. You need to consider that new shoes which are significantly stiffer than when they are the broke in and properly polished. Which is why my favourite has to be the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 2 GTX Hiking Shoe.

With a sleek, athletic design, the X Ultra is lightweight, durable and waterproof. The Sensifit and the EVA shaped footbed makes it super comfortable to wear and is my go-to boot while hiking. It also comes with multiple protection for the toes and heels and is and wearing these may just change your hiking experience.