Your footwear is one of the most important things to consider in your hiking plans. A lot of times we tend to worry about what we have in our backpack when our feet are those that need all the protection from getting seriously hurt. Well, I've never been through any serious injuries in a hike, but when the sole of my shoe literally bid goodbye from the rest of it due to the muddy trail, it seemed funny at first but it really sucked! How could I expect myself to finish the trail with a shoe on one foot and barefoot on the other? Trust me, investing in lightweight hiking shoes is crucial in every hiking activity.
Travel Light With These 10 Lightweight Hiking Shoes
Hikers like to move light and fast with boots that can stand all types of terrain. Modern boots for hiking are getting lighter despite their tough frame. In my opinion, choosing the quality of shoes to wear is the most important thing in hiking. Nothing can ruin a hike faster than having boots not suitable for the hike. There's a greater chance of getting injured if you don't choose your boots well so being able to move easier with lightweight hiking shoes is important. It's critical that you're able to find a good pair of shoes that works for you so here are 10 lightweight hiking shoes you might want to look into.
1. Keen Durand Mid WP
The Keen Durand is tested on changing terrain. These shoes provide excellent ankle support and stability that also keeps your feet dry while carrying a heavy pack. It's a lightweight boot that's suitable for backpacking and hiking activities.
2. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
The Lowa Renegade GTX is a light hiking boot and one of the best-selling boots in the world. The comfort it provides is one of its really cool features. Some say it doesn't really feel like a hiking boot at all and it's more like a trail running shoe. Get yours now!
3. Scarpa R-Evolution GTX
The Scarpa R-Evolution GTX is rugged and sturdy– designed for hill work and mountain treks. These shoes feature the advanced Scarpa fit technology – a continuous piece of black elasticated fabric that runs from the tongue all the way down to the toe box. This feature has a nice vacuum feel around your foot for stability. Looking for a pair? Click here.
4. Arc’teryx Bora2 Mid GTX
These boots might be too expensive but the comfort and protection your foot gets are incomparable. The Arc’teryx Bora2 is also made from Gore-Tex waterproofing and weighs only 2 lbs. It's certainly one of the best boots for rugged terrain.
5. Keen Targhee II Mid
The Keen Targhee II Mid is one of the bestsellers in lightweight and waterproof hiking boots. These boots are so comfortable straight out of the box, unlike other boots where you need to wear 4 to 5 times before actually feeling the comfort. Experience comfort and get yourself a pair here.
6. La Sportiva Synthesis Mid GTX
Also made from Gore-Tex waterproofing, the La Sportiva Synthesis combines mountain running and mountaineering experience for the most versatile hiking footwear. These are designed for all types of weather conditions. Sport yourself a pair of the Sportiva. Click here.
7. Vasque Breeze 2.0 Mid GTX
The Vasque Breeze 2.0 Mid GTX is a great option for day hiking and ultra light backpacking. These waterproof hiking boots have improved ankle reinforcements as well as rubber toe cap to aid your foot in that long trail hike. Make hiking a breeze and get a pair of the Vasque Breeze now.
8. Lowa Innox Mid GTX
The Lowa Innox Mid GTX is a nice and easy flexing shoe. It's very breathable and provides the easy flex of a running shoe as well as the support of a light trail shoe. These are one of the best hybrid shoes out in the market today.
9. Merrell Moab Mid WP
This pair by Merrell is designed for rough and wet environments. The Merrell Moab is also very comfortable for outdoor shoes that will cradle your foot nicely and provides a lot of support.
10. Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX
At 2 lbs in weight, these pair of boots is the ultimate choice for hiking and backpacking. The bottom of the sole resembles a motocross tread which is really cool and should work well in the mud. These are really strong shoes and a favorite for people who frequently hike in the mountains. Get yourself a pair of these boots here!
Watch this quick review of the Salomon Quest 4D GTX Boots by TheGearTester.
You'll always want to feel comfortable on your feet in the great outdoors. Rocks, mud, and streams are some of the elements of nature that make it beautiful as a whole but you'll need footwear that provides stability in all possible conditions. In the trail, a bad pair of boots can make for a miserable outdoor experience–make sure you choose the right one for you.
I hope this list helped you out in choosing!
Click here for buying tips on top-rated hiking boots.
