Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes

by

The trend of the industry is shifting from heavy gear bulk boots to Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes, which are faster, more flexible, and comfortable on trekking trails. While traditionally high-cut hiking boots are preferred, a simultaneous demand arose for the more versatile lightweight hiking footwear.

The light-footed, light feel and grip of the hiking shoes are being inclined to by everyone. These shoes are not sturdy like traditional hiking boots but are comfortable enough for a good hike.

I had checked up on many options before we got you this review of the top hiking shoes with less weight and the best possible features available.

Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 mid GTX

The Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes Ultra 3 GTX is like a trail running shoe. It is flexible, delivers daily requirements, and is lightweight for backpacking and hiking.
The redesigned insoles provide improved traction and excellent cushioning. There is padding in the collar for comfort, and the tread design of the solid rubber outsole at the heel holds deep into the ground.
The Contra Grip rubber outsole performs well in soft mud, hard dirt, and a decent amount of snow travel and will not deteriorate after hiking on granite. The underfoot is flexible, and the low profile midsole and well-stable platform let it well on rocky trails.
Gore-Tex lining offers waterproof technology for the shoes. The synthetic upper material protects the mesh from tears. And due to Salomon’s signature, Quick lace system laces are fit around the foot with a single motion.

Features

  1. Flexible and the comfort of a cushioned and padded insole
  2. Contra Grip and rubber outsole
  3. Gore-Tex lining with waterproof
  4. Quick lace system

Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Weight: 3.8 pounds

Pros

  1. Lightweight performance.
  2. Aggressive and nimble
  3. There is no compromise in comfort or durability.
  4. Planted feel and solid toe and underfoot protection for rough hikes.

Cons

  1. The Gore-Tex version runs pretty warmly.
  2. The Quick lace system is sometimes uncomfortable.
  3. You might need a more protective boot if climbing a technically rough trail.

Merrel Moab Ventilator hiking shoes

The Moab ventilator mid-hiking boots are perfect if you are looking for Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes that can perform daily and night hikes. Being one of the Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes, it offers excellent water resistance, tread, and comfort.
The shock-absorbent air cushion beneath the heel and under the cushioned collar offers excellent comfort to the hiker. The insole provides flexibility, arch support, and traction over rock. The mesh on the upper fabric dries the boots quickly, and as it is waterproof, the feet remain dry the whole time.
The Vibram sole offers the grip required, Hook fixing provides the right fit for the hikers, and the feet are secured. The pair is the best buy when the trail is smooth or not too rugged.

Features

  1. Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes
  2. It offers excellent torsion, resistance, and comfort
  3. Shock absorbing cushion
  4. Waterproof
  5. Vibram sole for grip

Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
Weight: 822 grams

Pros

  1. The sole offers a perfect grip over terrain
  2. The pair has excellent breathability due to GORE-TEX technology
  3. It comes within the budget
  4. The shoes are light-weighted

Cons

  1. The water-resistant feature is not reliable
  2. An average insulator
  3. Not suitable for long and rugged hikes

North Face Ultra 109 GTX

The Ultra 109 GTX gives maximum protection under the feet, stability, and traction when moving on an uneven trek path. It is a trail running shoe with all the features required by a hiker. They didn’t compromise on the quality while adopting lightweight.
They also offer corrective support for pronation when the feet roll during the trek on a steep trail. It has a stable heel, and the shoes use Gore-Tex waterproof lining, durable rubber outsole, and shank for foot protection.
These shoes have rust-free rivets, a narrow fit, and less cushion coverage. The Vibram outsole provides excellent grip and suits hikers with high arches.
The tread has used a new rubber with Vibram that is more aggressive than the previous versions. The mesh lining is also breathable, and there is a toe cap for increased durability.

Features

  1. Gore-Tex lining for waterproof
  2. Breathable membrane
  3. PU leather for support
  4. EVA midsole
  5. ESS mid-foot shank
  6. Rubber outsole

Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5
Weight: 1lb 8.6 oz.

Pros

  1. Great grip and tread
  2. Toe protection and extended support for mid-foot protection and support
  3. Rust free rivets

Cons

  1. Less cushioning
  2. Fit for narrow feet

Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R2 GTX

The Terrex swift is a performer on the trail. The lacing system is similar to Salomon’s signature Quick lacing system but is lighter than the latter.
The toe protection in and around is good, and the Gore-Tex lining offers a waterproof feature. The hiking shoe is stiff and rigid and has a sturdy sole and mesh upper leather fabric.
The shoe fits around well and has no break-in period, nor does it give sore feet or blisters. The traction and durability are impressive compared to the other brands in the same category.
The lugs are deep and well-spaced, and the outsole is of Continental rubber for the tread. The underfoot is more of a hiking boot protecting the other category of shoes.
The protection is also around the toe and foot sides and with a toe cap. The area around the balls of the feet is with more rubber, giving a sense of extra protection layer in and out.

Features

  1. Better lacing system
  2. Gore-Tex liner and breathable mesh
  3. Toe-cap for protection
  4. Continental rubber outsole
  5. Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes and stiff

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
Weight: 1lb 8.6 oz.

Pros

  1. Stiff
  2. The protection enabled
  3. Excessive protection layer around the feet and balls
  4. Waterproof

Cons

  1. It doesn’t have good traction
  2. The shoes eventually wear down faster
  3. You might feel the trail beneath you

La Sportiva GTX Primer low hiking shoes

One of the most expensive shoes on the list comes with some cool features. The Nano-cell technology in the upper fabric allows maximum breathability and waterproof protection.
The Gore-Tex waterproof layer and the Vibram insole offer the required level of comfort and protection to the feet. The footwear provides stability through STB technology by wrapping the midsole and unifying it with the upper fabric for a perfect fit.
The moisture-wicking interior layer allows the feet to remain dry and fresh.

Features

  1. Synthetic fabric utilized
  2. Nano-cell technology in the upper structure
  3. Gore-Tex lining for waterproof
  4. STB technology for stability
  5. Vibram insole
  6. Gusseted tongue to prevent water from entering inside and soaked socks.

Rating: 4.2 stars out of 5
Weight: 824 grams

Pros

  1. Waterproof
  2. Moisture-wicking interior layer
  3. Stable underfoot
  4. Breathable outer fabric

Cons

  1. Expensive
  2. Mesh upper is not too durable

KEEN Targhee II WP hiking shoes

The Targhee II Mid WP from KEEN is an excellent performer. It is made of high-quality leather and rubber soles that are highly durable and comfortable. Moreover, this footwear has exceptional breathability and water resistance.
The footbed is removable, and the midsole EVA foam provides enormous cushioning to the hiker’s feet and is excellent for long and rough treks.
The stability of the hiking boot is too excellent. The upper part of the pair is made of a unique material, and the DRY technique shall keep the feet dry all time. The stable torsion is perfect for climbing rocks, and the mid-cut helps to protect the ankle.

Features

  1. Breathable and offers good resistance
  2. Removable footbed
  3. EVA midsole for cushioning comfort
  4. Made of unique leather
  5. Perfect torsion

Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
Weight: 493 grams

Pros

  1. Affordable as it comes within budget
  2. It provides good traction and stability
  3. Good Toe protection

Cons

  1. Not too durable

Scarpa Zen Pro hiking shoes

The brand known for its comfort is one of the most expensive and quality footwear brands. The soft liner wicks away the moisture and keeps the shoe odor free even after a long hike.
Rubber toe-caps offer protection, and deep lugs keep the tread and stability on rough trails. The upper suede fabric gives a sturdy feel that helps it take over strenuous hikes comfortably.
The upgraded EVA midsole gives the shoe a more extended period, the Vibram outsole offers torsion, and the fabric is abrasion resistant.

Features

  1. EVA midsole for support
  2. Rubber toe caps for additional protection
  3. Vibram outsole for torsional stability
  4. Sock-fit DV technology for a performance fit
  5. Moisture-wicking and odor-control fabric lining

Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
Weight: 965 grams

Pros

  1. Perfect for tough terrains
  2. Comfortable
  3. It offers good stability and torsion

Cons

  1. Not durable

Vasque GTX Mantra 2.0 hiking shoes

For people with low arches, this shoe is a perfect and comfortable way to transition from boots to shoes. The Mantra 2.0 is excellent for hikers on long-distance treks and wanting extra support. The heaviest on the list, the shoe offers comfort, quality, and durability.
It gives you midsoles for stability, and the Vibram Nuasi outsole offers durability for long-distance hikes. The Nubuck and mesh upper fabric raise the durability and comfort of the shoe.
Apart from these are the Gore-Tex waterproof lining technology, water-repellent laces, seam-sealed technology to keep water and moisture out, and the perpetuum that creates comfort fit.

Features

  1. Vibram Nuasi outsoles
  2. Midsole offers stability
  3. Nubuck and mesh fabric for upper
  4. Gore-Tex waterproof lining
  5. Seam-sealed technology

Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
Weight: 1020 grams

Pros

  1. High cut for ankle support
  2. Durable
  3. Waterproof
  4. Offers comfort, quality, and durability

Cons

  1. Heavy

Salomon Odyseey Pro hiking shoes

It provides cushioned comfort throughout the tour and is a perfect choice for non-technical hikes and light, long-distance treks. The midsole is springily giving an athletic feel to the hiker.
The traction is lost in this tight-spaced lug pattern, and the non-aggressive tread didn’t have the grip to hold steep surfaces. The shoe has a broad base, and a tall and rigid heel offers resistance. Odyssey Pro is a non-waterproof design. But the mesh on the upper fabric has fantastic breathability.
Nylon over the mesh makes the hiking shoes more durable. The toe cap protects the toe, and the thick midsole doesn’t allow debris to enter the shoe.

Features

  1. Cushioned inside
  2. Tight-spaced leg pattern
  3. Less stability and traction
  4. Nylon and mesh increase durability
  5. Non-waterproof design
  6. Toe cap for protection

Rating: 3.8 stars out of 5
Weight: 1lb 7.2 oz.

Pros

  1. Very Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes that give a feather a feel
  2. Great cushioning
  3. The shoe is flexible and comfortable
  4. Perfect for non-technical hikes

Cons

  1. Not satisfied with traction on rock and mud
  2. Not stable

Buyers Guide

People interested in casual hiking experiences or amateur hikers usually go for Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes.
Flexible: Even though you want your boots to be lightweight, you cannot compromise on the quality of other features. The shoe must be flexible enough to allow easy movement of the feet.
Plus, durability is another concern with Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Shoes. Make sure you research thoroughly and invest in a good pair.
Efficient: People might compromise on other quality aspects with Lightweight, Waterproof Hiking Shoes. You need to invest in an equally efficient pair. The shoe has to be comfortable while providing maximum support. It has to be a snug fit while allowing the shoe to be breathable. The grip should be proper according to the usage.

Final Verdict

With the introduction and usage of synthetic materials that give similar flexibility and strength to the hiking shoe, it has become the most popular footwear among hikers.

The shoes are selected by the type of trail you will move on and the season. Whatever feature you require is an option for you in the list. So find your hiking shoe and step out for the next adventure.