Not all hiking boots are heavy clod-hoppers. Today's lightweight hiking boots tip the scales around two pounds per pair (men) or less (women). That's significantly lighter than traditional hiking and backpacking boots. Since I've hiked 15,000+ miles the past two decades, I've personally worn most of the best hiking boots on the market. Based on my first-hand experience, the best lightweight hiking boots are the
Each of these lightweights take some weight off your feet without losing all the support of a mid-cut hiking boot. However, they all have unique fits and different recommended uses. Here's how to choose the best lightweight hiking boots for your feet and your hikes:
5 Best Lightweight Hiking Boots
Scarpa Rush 2 Mid
Lightweight Hiking Boot for Rocky Trails
Main Benefits:
Lightweight yet supportive, the Scarpa Rush 2 Mid GTX stands out as one the best lightweight hiking boots. I've been wearing them since 2023. The Rush is surprisingly supportive for such a lightweight hiking boot, thanks to moderately stiff yet comfortable soles that reduce foot fatigue and improve ankle stability for rocky terrain (in spite of its limited ankle collars). In my experience, the Pomoca rubber outsoles have good grip on rock while also having deeper grooves for decent purchase in snow and mud, too. Scarpa doesn't run as narrow as most Italian brands, but this boot runs small (size up a full size). This impressive hiking boot is versatile enough for almost any hiking style, including moderate to difficult day hikes.
For more, see my full Rush Mid Review
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX
Best Lightweight Hiking Boot Overall
Main Benefits:
Replacing the X Ultra 4, the new X Ultra 5 Mid GTX doesn't weigh much more than a trail running shoe but almost matches the support of mid-weight hiking boots. Salomon's best lightweight hiking boot feels firm but moderately flexible underfoot with good multi-terrain traction. It features a GORE-TEX membrane for above average waterproofing and breathability. It's hard to beat Salomon's X Ultra series—I've owned several pairs over the years. Fit-wise, the Salomon X Ultra 4 is available in standard (snug in the heel and a little narrow in the toe box) and wide sizes.
See my full X Ultra 5 Mid review
Topo Athletic Trailventure
Lightweight Hiking Boot with Wide Toe Box
Main Benefits:
The Topo Trailventure 2 is a fastpacking boot with a wide toe box. (If you haven't heard of Topo Athletic, think of Altra but with more support, a more secure fit, and better durability.) Between the extra toe room and zip-foam cushion, this lightweight hiking boot is easy on your feet but tough on the trail, thanks to Vibram outsoles that can handle both mud and technical terrain. The highly breathable eVent waterproofing is another clear plus. I've personally owned three pairs of Trailventures and wore them to win top hiker at Backcountry's Summer Adventure Challenge. Of the lightweight hiking boots on this list, it's the best fit for wide feet.
HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX
Lightweight Hiking Boot with Max Cushion
Main Benefits:
Most lightweight hiking boots skimp on cushion to cut weight—not the Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid. Like other Hokas, the Anacapa is lightweight with max cushion. At the same time, the Anacapa's cushioning is firmer than some Hokas in order to improve its durability and support for hiking (as opposed to running). Performance-wise, the Anacapa has premium Vibram outsoles and waterproof-breathable GORE-TEX membranes. I personally own this hiking boot, which has a standad fit. The Anacapa "Breeze" is the non-waterproof version for men and women who want a more ventilated hiking boot for warm temperatures.
See my full Anacapa Mid review
La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
Lightweight Backpacking Boot
Main Benefits:
La Sportiva’s Nucleo High II GTX has the highest ankle support among lightweight boots. Technically a lightweight backpacking boot, the Nucleo is heavier than the other boots on this list. However, it's still several ounces lighter than the average hiking and backpacking boot. That means it may be a good match for hikers with ankle issues and backpackers who want to save some weight. Made with soft nubuck leather, the Nucleo is a good-looking boot that features GORE-TEX Surround (Gore's most breathable waterproofing) and Vibram Megatrip outsoles, which excel on technical terrain. I had a good experience when I tested this boot in 2021-2022. La Sportivas run narrow and may require you to size up more than normal. However, the new Nucleo II is also available in wide.
See my full Nucleo High review
What's the best lightweight hiking boot for you?
You don't need a trail running shoe or a low-cut hiking shoe to go light. The best lightweight hiking boots only weigh a few ounces more. And they may give you much better foot and ankle protection, waterproofing, and durability than hiking shoes and trail runners. That makes them a tantalizing choice for fast and light hikers, fast packers, ultralight backpackers, and casual hikers who just prefer a lighter boot.
The best lightweight hiking boot for you is one that best fits your feet and best matches where you hike and how you hike. My product descriptions should help you narrow down your choices to find your best fit and best match.
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