When you are preparing for a long hiking trip, you are making a vital shoe choice as your footwear should ensure your safety, comfort, and fun while out on a trail.
Lightweight hiking shoes are great for summer hiking trips that involve steep climbing or even simple trails.
If you are searching for the best lightweight hiking shoes, we have just the thing for you!
We’ve put together a list of products, each with a quick description and Heights (Pros) and Plains (Cons), so you won’t have to look anymore, just choose!
Top 3 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes – Editor’s Pick
In this section, you will find my pick of top products along with info on their materials, sizes, and a direct pathway to making them yours.
Product Name |
Materials |
Size |
Get It AT |
| Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II | Mesh/Leather/Suede | 7 D(M)- 17 D(M) | |
| Uminder Men’s Breathable Lightweight Shoes | Air Mesh/Eco-Friendly Materials | 8 D(M)-14 D(M) | |
| Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift Women’s Hiking Shoes | Synthetic | 6 B(M) – 7 B(M); 10 B(M) |
7. Dream Pairs 160912-W Women’s Outdoor Sandals
Ideal for: Summer hiking
Made with a durable outsole, these shoes are perfect for summer hiking trips through water or on easy trails.
They have a soft, cushioned footbed that keeps your feet comfortable no matter how long you hike.
These shoes are also ideal for walking or other adventures.
The classic style design is perfect, and the lightweight construction is ideal for keeping your feet from hurting after a long hike.
Heights:
- Keeps your feet cool
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Cushioned footbed
Plains:
- Tend to rub on the ankles
6. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Ideal for: All season hiking trips
Waterproof, seam-sealed, lightweight, and cushioning, these hiking shoes are perfect for intense hiking trails over rocks, through streams, or even down into gorges.
The shoes have an Omni-grip traction rubber sole that doesn’t mark anything when walking on flooring.
The leather is coated for water resistance, and the suede and mesh materials provide support as well.
These shoes have adequate cushioning for long walks as well.
Heights:
- Comfortable construction
- High-quality materials
- Waterproof design
Plains:
- Do not have much ankle support
- Narrow fit
Suggested: We have a whole list specially dedicated to waterproof hiking shoes, so don’t forget to check it out!
5. Sibba Men’s Lightweight Water Slip-On Shoes
Ideal for: Walking, running, hiking
Coming in both US and EU sizes, these shoes are a great option for men who enjoy hiking, walking, or just casual wear.
The slip-on design is great for a better fit, and the breathable fabric keeps your feet cool and dry while hiking.
They contain a non-slip sole that provides better grip and softness when walking on slippery surfaces.
These shoes are also durable and fit for longer usage and wear.
Heights:
- Comfortable construction
- Easy to pull on and off
- Stylish design
- Woven fabric is cool
Plains:
- Sizing is slightly off
- Insole might need to be replaced
4. Columbia Men’s North Plains II Hiking Shoe
Ideal for: Hiking, walking
These are the best lightweight hiking shoes for men who need a little extra cushioning while walking along.
They are made with an Omni-grade traction rubber that keeps your feet securely to the ground even in wet weather.
The shoes are made of leather and webbing that make them waterproof.
The sealed seams keep the water out, and your feet dry no matter how long you intend to hike.
The lightweight design is also great for long-distance hiking since they don’t weigh you down.
Heights:
- High-quality materials
- Comfortable fit
- True to sizing
Plains:
- Insert is not ideal for long distances
- Soles are squeaky
Recommended: You can read even more about top hiking shoes of all kinds in this article here, or get informed about some great hiking boots, as an alternative!
3. Uminder Men’s Water Lightweight Shoes
Ideal for: Walking, fishing, hiking
Quick drying, these shoes are ideal for hiking in wet conditions.
The materials are breathable and environmentally friendly, which make them great for hiking.
They have a comfortable arch support that keeps your feet right where they’re supposed to be.
The company has even provided a handy sizing chart to ensure that you get the right fit for your foot.
Whether you need a no lacing shoe or lace-up style, these shoes are ideal for both types of people.
Heights:
- Great price point
- Ideal for wet conditions
- Quick drying design
Plains:
- No half sizes
2. adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift Women’s Shoes
Ideal for: Hiking
With rubber soles for better traction and a comfort footwear lining, these shoes are great for even the most avid hikers.
The shoes are lightweight, but they still have a great level of shock absorption for hiking over rocks.
It has a high traction rubber outsole that has optimal grip even in the wettest of weather.
These are the best lightweight hiking shoes for women who spend a great deal of their time hiking.
Heights:
- Waterproof construction
- Lightweight and low-profile design
- Great grip in wet conditions
- Versatile shoe overall
Plains:
- Sizing is slightly off
1. JARLIF Women’s Breathable Walking Sneakers
Ideal for: Walking, tennis, running, light hiking
Made from a breathable knit, these tennis shoes are ideal for light hiking trails that are easy.
They have an air cushion insole that makes walking in these shoes for hours comfortable and easy to manage.
They come in several different color options, and the design is stylish and flattering.
Overall, these shoes are the best lightweight hiking shoes for women that need a non-slip yet comfortable option for hiking adventures.
Heights:
- Excellent fit
- Comfortable construction
- Comes in multiple color options
Plains:
- Not ideal for wet conditions
- Do not have much ankle support
Conclusion
Hunting for the best lightweight hiking shoes for your trail time can be difficult, especially if you need a certain style or color.
Our list is here to help you do just that, we’ve made it easy for you to compare brands, and find the best pair for your hiking preferences.
Which is of these is your favorite pair? Let us know in a comment below (even if your favorites are NOT on the list)!
Recommended Read: To make sure you have all the equipment you need for your upcoming hike, don’t forget to check our ultimate hiking checklist, info about the best hiking backpacks or hiking pants for women or men alike included!