9 Lightweight Hiking Shoes That Won't Slow You Down

• Comfy for a higher hiking shoe
• Solid Vibram outsoles

• Runs small/narrow

Arc’teryx is a hiking gear fan favorite. This mid-height boot, for example, is lightweight and cushioned like a sneaker but has the ankle stability and protection you'd find in a boot. These are pricey, but you can really feel how well designed they are: a soft midsole with a supportive shank, a roomy toe box, and an overall flexible design that doesn't get in the way of quick, efficient hiking.

• Lateral guidance
• Secure feel

• Only 1 color option

Sure, Salomons are very of-the-moment. But the brand hasn't forgotten where it came from. And that is on the trail. These are the lightest weight hiking shoe Salomon makes with a lighter construction that still goes heavy on a stable, grippy, protective design. They have a cushioned midsole but with a grippy outsole, and extra lateral guidance to navigate tough and uneven terrain.

• Sneaker-level cushion
• A fun shoe to wear

• Not as stable for super rocky trails

First and most importantly, this Merrell SpeedArc is cool as hell. Merrell is known for being an outdoor performance brand. It is also known for being, shall we say, not great to look at. But these? Everything. They have a cool, modern shape, an Air Max-esque midsole, and an easy toggle lace. They do have a high cushion, which makes them very good for long, easier hikes than for rocky or uneven ones.

• Great cushioning for long days
• Shockingly waterproof

• Higher stack height can feel unstable for some

On's Cloudhorizon is a super lightweight waterproof trail sneaker, which is both a lot to say and a lot to design. But the brand took its signature bouncy midsole and put on top of it a shoe that blocks out rain and debris. And on the bottom, a grippy outsole that keeps you from sliding on unexpectedly slippery surfaces. Not only is the outer waterproof, but the membrane is, too.

• GORE-TEX waterproof protection
• Easy to slip on and off

• Not a ton of color options out right now
• Runs narrow

If you’re more of a trail runner, the Nike ACG. Mountain Fly 2 Low is a great option. They are, first of all, cool to look at and easy to wear. The rubber sidewalls are extremely durable, and a breathable upper keeps your feet from overheating. The mountain-bike-tire-inspired outsoles provide ultimate traction. Because they are waterproof and easy to slip on and off, we also like them for daily life in addition to time on the trail.

• Super stable
• Grippy outsole really feels secure

• Not the best looking

Hoka’s Speedgoat ain't the prettiest but it is extraordinarily reliable on slippery or uneven surfaces. Truly, we'd trust that Vibram lug traction with our lives. It’s ultra-stable with some cushioning, but not so much that you ever feel off balance. The gusseted tongue is especially great for keeping dirt and debris from getting stuck in your shoe.

• Great for outdoor adventures
• Well-priced

• Some find the heels a bit too hard

Adidas's Terrex line of hiking gear is a great choice for anyone who wants something well-priced and easy to wear. These Rain.Rdy shoes wear a bit like a high-top sneaker but with the traction and added stability around the ankle and forefoot you'd get from a boot. They're waterproof with a gusseted tongue. And the best part, of course, is that they feel like wearing a pair of Adidas sneakers. They aren't the most durable of the bunch but they are the most affordable.

• Super lightweight
• A bit extra for some needs

• Very pricey

For seriously designed trail running sneakers, Norda is the best. They are expensive, yes, but they really feel it. These are crazy lightweight at 7.5 ounces, made with a super breathable open-mesh upper. They're abrasion-resistant and built to navigate various terrains smoothly, without slowing you down. They are fast, dynamic, and just plain fun to wear.

• Shoe wrapped in protective gusset
• Super stable

• Very trail-looking

Danner—a brand known for its penchant for hiking gear and long-lasting shoes shoes—dropped a lightweight, low-top hiking sneaker with another purveyor of outdoorsy stuff, Huckberry. You can find the same grip and absolute durability you'd get in a Danner boot, but with a lower silhouette and an overall lighter design. With lug soles and added side and toe protection, these are the most durable of the bunch.

Are all hiking shoes waterproof?

No, so you should make sure that a shoe specifies if it is waterproof in the description. Many are water-resistant, which means that they can handle light rain but won’t be able to be fully submerged. You will also want to look for shoes that are abrasion-resistant or have a ripstop composition, for extra durability.

Do hiking shoes run true to size?

In general, all shoes run a little differently size-wise, which is why consulting reviews is important. When shopping for a hiking shoe, consider the fact that you might be wearing a thicker sock and therefore think about going a half-size up.