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:
best lightweight hiking boots
Scarpa Rush 2 Mid
Top Pick (tie)
Main Benefits:
Lighter and more supportive than most hiking boots on this list, the Scarpa Rush 2 MId GTX stands out as the best lightweight hiking boot. It's surprisingly supportive for such a lightweight hiking boot, thanks to stiff but comfortable soles that reduce foot fatigue and improve ankle stability for rocky terrain (in spite of its limited ankle collars). The Pomoca rubber outsoles have good grip on rock while also having deeper grooves for good purchase in snow and mud, too. Scarpa doesn't run as narrow as most Italian brands; however, most hikers should size up one full size from their everyday shoe size to get the best fit. This impressive hiking boot is versatile enough for almost any hiking style, including moderate to difficult day hikes in alpine environments. It was my primary hiking boot in 2023.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
Top Pick (tie)
Main Benefits:
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid doesn't weigh much more than a trail running shoe. At the same time, it almost matches the support of mid-weight hiking boots. Salomon's best lightweight hiking boot is firm underfoot and features aggressive traction for steep hikes on soft or loose surface. It features a GORE-TEX membrane for above average waterproofing and breathability. It's hard to beat Salomon's X Ultra series if you're looking for lightweight support. In football terms, this boot is the linebacker who runs like a wide receiver. Or the running back who bench-presses as much as a 300 pound lineman. 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.
Topo Athletic Trailventure
Wide Toe Box
Main Benefits:
The Topo Trailventure 2 is the best lightweight hiking 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.) Made for fast-packing, the Trailventure is light and comfortable with a zip-foam cushion. However, offers enough support and traction for moderate to difficult day hikes, too. Trailventures may be moderately priced, but they're packed with premium features, including highly breathable eVent waterproofing (optional) and Vibram outsoles that can handle both mud and technical terrain. This is Topo's only designated hiking shoe/boot, and it's a legit option for day hikers and fast-packers looking for the best lightweight hiking boot.
Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX
Max Cushion
Main Benefits:
Most lightweight hiking boots skimp on cushion to cut weight—not the Hoka Anacapa 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. Its fit runs standard to slightly roomy. Are you into minimum weight and maximum cushion? If so, there's a good chance that the Anacapa Mid GTX would be the best lightweight hiking boot for you. Summer 2023 update: Hoka has added the Anacapa "Breeze"—for a ventilated, non-waterproof option—and the new Anacapa 2 (which is built with more eco-friendly materials).
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II
Narrow Fit + Rock Traction
Narrow Fit + Rock Traction
Main Benefits:
In 2021, La Sportiva released a mid cut version of the Ultra Raptor—their most popular trail runner for hikers. The Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX may be a great choice for hikers who want a lightweight hiking boot with great grip on rocks, a snug and secure fit, and firm feel underfoot. The “GTX” stands for GORE-TEX, which is still the industry standard for reliable and breathable waterproofing for wet weather and soggy trails. The mid-cut Ultra Raptor is also available in wide as La Sportiva (a brand that runs narrow) has started to make its standouts in both standard and wide sizes to fit a broader range of hiking feet. This mid-cut trail running shoe could be the best lightweight hiking boot for serious hikers who mostly hike rocky trails with plenty of scrambling.
La Sportiva Nucleo High II
High-Cut Ankle Support
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 the rare lightweight boot with high-cut ankle support. 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. La Sportivas run narrow and may require you to size up more than normal. However, the new Nucleo II is also available in wide.
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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