Top 6 Best Lightweight Hiking Boots for 2025 | Expert Reviews
Need the best lightweight hiking boots for your next adventure? We’ve reviewed the top picks of 2025 to help you choose the most comfortable, durable, and high-performing boots for your trails.
These ratings are based on our OBJECTIVE testing standards for each hiking boot. As a professional hiking guide with over 12 years of hands-on experience objectively testing hiking boots across a wide range of terrain, I’ve developed a deep understanding of how each boot feels, performs, and holds up in real-world trail conditions.
If you are interested further in our “best of of best” hiking boot articles check out :The Best Hiking Boots Of 2025, & Most Comfortable Hiking Boots of 2025.
Our Verdict
The Hoka Anacapa Breeze stands out for its excellent cushioning and breathability making it the ideal lightweight summer hiking boot. To no one’s surprise the Salomon X Ultra 5 is rated as our best overall lightweight hiking boot due to its ultralight build with outstanding performance and waterproofness.
The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is our LIGHTEST boot we have ever reviewed at 14 oz, to the contrary the lightest boot is NOT our highest rated although it is an effective boot. In fact, the Merrell Moab 3 comes in with a higher score and is dubbed as our best budget lightweight boot.
The Danner Mountain 600 is one of the lightest leather hiking boots of our collection, with an added rocker to make the ride as nimble as a mountain goat. The Kaha 3 offers one of the widest fits available, without sacrificing weight weight by adding excess material.
Our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots Ranked
Salomon X Ultra 5 (Best Overall Lightweight Hiking Boot)
Our best lightweight hiking boot of 2025. Outstanding performance, everything you need at 15 oz per boot!
Hoka Anacapa Breeze 2 (Most Comfortable)
Easily the most comfortable hiking boot of 2025. Best choice for most hikers not wanting to spend top dollar
Merrrell Moab 3 (Best Bang For Your Buck)
Easily the best bang for your buck. Durable and affordable
Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR 2 (Lightest)
The lightest hiking boot of its class. Zero-drop technology to enhance the hiking experience
Danner Mountain 600 (Best Lightweight Leather)
Danner Mountain features premium leather while keeping the weight down. Rockered sole for light ride as well as great out-of-box comfort
Hoka Kaha 3 GTX (Best For Wide Feet)
Our Flagship boot of 2025, everything you need nothing you don't!
Best Overall Lightweight Hiking Boot Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
- Weight 15 ounces
- Stellar support
- Impressive Traction
- Price
- Breathability
- Limited Wide size
Overall Rating: 8.9
Price: $185
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The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is our top pick for the best overall lightweight hiking boot. Salomon knocked it out of the park with this boot, they perfected the balance between weight, stability and performance so it’s good for everything from technical backpacking to day hiking.
Whether you’re hiking through technical terrain or just out for a day hike the X Ultra 5 has you covered. Personally, I tested them on some of the toughest trails Connecitcut and Massachusetts has to offer and they outperformed my expected ratings for them.
The Outsole Features:
- Contagrip TA rubber for great grip on various surfaces
- Hexagonal fashion of lugs with 5mm depth
- Firm grip on mud, snow or dry trails to reduce the risk of slipping
- An upgraded rubber toe cap for added protection against sharp objects and better durability as the X Ultra 4
For waterproofing the X Ultra 5 GTX has a Gore-Tex lining which is waterproof but allows moisture to escape. So your feet stay dry in wet conditions without compromising breathability.
The boot also has more PU leather in the construction, as well as the new carbon-fiber Matryx upper. The new upper adds a “ruggedness” to the boot it was missing with the previous model.
Despite being a robust boot it’s still very lightweight at only 15.91 ounces. I believe this is one of the best constructed hiking boots of the last decade. How Salomon managed to make a boot EVEN more durable than the previous model while also reducing its weight almost feels like an oxymoron.
Priced at $185 the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is excellent value for the performance and upgraded tech specs.
Hikers looking for a versatile and high performing boot will love the X Ultra 5. Its stability, traction, waterproofing and durability make it the our best overall lightweight hiking boot for 2025.
One of the standout features of the X Ultra 5 GTX is the advanced chassis which enhances lateral support and stability. This is particularly useful when hiking on uneven or rocky terrain giving you the confidence to tackle tough hikes.
Best Cushioned Lightweight Hiking Boot – Hoka Anacapa Breeze Mid
- Superior cushioning & Comfort
- Lightweight Feel
- Extremely Breathable
- Non-waterproof
Overall Rating: 9.1
Price: $170
Order The Anacapa 2 Breeze – For The LOWEST VERIFIED PRICE
The Hoka Anacapa Breeze is not a very well known boot, in fact we were considering not reviewing it because of the waterproof cousin the Anacapa 2 GTX. What jumped out to me the most was how cushioned, yet lightweight the Breeze version was.
No joke this boot “moves like a breeze” the Hoka Meta Rocker really aids in your stride making it more efficient and less heavy.
One of the best things about the Anacapa Breeze is its lightweight construction. At 19 ounces it’s super flexible and comfortable for long distances. Perfect for summer hiking where durability and comfort is key.
The shock absorption is top-notch with no sore ankles or joints.
One drawback is the boot is non-waterproof,making it less ideal for hardcore hikers however the breathability is one the of best-in class we rated the breathability a 5/5! If comfort is your top priority on the trail this is the boot for you.
The Anacapa Breeze Mid excels in support making it perfect for moderate trails. It has a Vibram outsole that provides great grip and traction so you’ll be stable on any surface. Whether you’re hiking rocky trails or smooth trails this boot’s traction won’t let you down.
I found the toe box to be very roomy so no toe cramping on long hikes. The heavily cushioned midsole feels like walking on clouds. As a side note, remember this boot is NOT waterproof as I stated before.
Priced at $170 it’s a great value for what you get, I was quite surprised at the price considering how many quality materials this boot features . Overall we give it a 9.1 out of 10. If you’re looking for lightweight hiking boots with great breathability and comfort the Hoka Anacapa Breeze Mid is a top contender. Its support, traction and cushioning make it a great summer hiking option as well.
Best Lightweight Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2
- Ultralightweight
- Foot Shape Fit
- Good Ankle Support
- Durability
- Traction
Overall Rating: 8.2
Price: $120
Order The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR – The LOWEST PRICE
The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is another great option for lightweight hiking boots. Known for its design and comfort, this boot has extra room in the toe box. The footshape design is made for maximum toe box room to reduce blisters and hotspots.
Weighing in at 1.48 pounds or 14 ounces per shoe, the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is the lightest boot we have ever tested.
This lightweight waterproof hiking boot is perfect for fast hikes and long distance treks where every ounce counts. The boot also has a zero-drop platform to promote natural foot position and overall comfort.
Comfort is a big plus for the Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2, with great padding and ankle support for any terrain. Whether you’re hiking rocky trails or smooth trails, this boot keeps your feet comfortable and supported the whole way.
The boot’s lightweight upper is another plus. One drawback is that the boot is made with welded materials that tend to wear much quicker than leather or synthetic, unfortunately this is an inevitable trade-off for making the lightest hiking boot on the market.
Also the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is designed for natural foot movement. The zero-drop platform aligns the heel and forefoot, just like running shoes. This design not only is more comfortable but also reduces the risk of injury by promoting good foot mechanics.
If you want a lightweight and comfortable hiking experience the Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 is a top pick. Its design, support and natural foot position makes it one of the top lightweight hiking boots for 2025.
Best Budget Lightweight Hiker Merrell Moab 3
- Very Good Comfort
- Affordable
- Quality Sock Liner
- Not Great On Technical Terrain
- Ankle Support Average
Overall Rating: 9.1
Price: $110-130
Order The Merrell Moab 3 – The LOWEST VERIFIED PRICE
For a budget option without sacrificing performance or weight the Merrell Moab 3 is the winner. Known for its comfort and value this boot is perfect for day hikes and moderate backpacking.
The Moab 3 is very comfortable right out of the box. We have rated it 8.5 out of 10 for comfort. In my opinion, the sleek sock liner is the best sock liner out of all the boots I have tested. If comfort is your top priority this is a great choice.
Traction wise, the Moab 3 really takes a load off your feet. The outsole is firm and grippy. In addition, I felt the shock absorption is very well distributed throughout the boot for an ideal hiking or backpacking scenario.
Priced at $110-130 this boot is an amazing value for what you get. It doesn’t skimp on quality despite the budget price. The boot is built with high quality materials such as the Vibram megagrip outsole and premium leather so it will last and withstand wear.
One of the best features of the Moab 3 is its waterproofing. It has a waterproof membrane similar to Gore-Tex (Merrell waterproof) that will keep your feet dry in wet conditions. This makes it a great choice for hiking in unpredictable weather or on wet trails.
For support, the Moab 3 Mid provides good support but is moderately heavy. It features a kinetic fit which contours to the shape of your foot aiding in the structural integrity of the boot. The Moab weighed in at 1.03 pounds.
Overall the Merrell Moab 3 is a high performing budget hiking boot. We gave it a total score of 9.1.
Best Lightweight Leather Hiking Boots Danner Mountain 600Â
- Premium Leather
- Resilient Build
- Integrated Rocker
- Price
- Breathability
Overall Rating: 8.3
Price: $220
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If you like the durability and classic look of leather, the Danner Mountain 600 hiking boots are the way to go. These boots combine leather with a lightweight design, perfect for tough trails and rough terrain.
Weighing in at 27 oz the Danner Mountain are quite heavy, however they feature a rockered design that makes them “feel” a lot lighter than they actually are.
Just like the Hoka hiking boots, it’s not always what’s on the scale, it’s how lightweight they feel on the trail. Don’t get me wrong, the Danner Mountain 600 definitely weighs a lot more than the average hiking boot but you absolutely get the perception of them being a lot lighter once they are on your feet.
One of the best features of Danner 600 hiking boots is the fit. The design has two top eyelets to ensure a snug fit, more support and stability on the trail. This is especially important for steep trails and rocky terrain where a snug fit is key to preventing slips and falls.
In addition to the fit, these boots are durable. The full leather uppers will last the trail test while maintaining their structure. This is a reliable boot for backpacking trips and long hikes, the anti-fatigue footbed is also another enticing feature for longer treks.
Despite being rugged, the Danner 600 leather hiking boots are comfortable. They have padded collars and cushioned insoles for a plush feel on long hikes. This combo of durability and comfort makes them a favorite among hikers.
Plus, these boots can handle any trail condition. Whether you’re hiking rocky trails or steep inclines, the Danner Mountain 600 boots have the support and stability for a safe and fun hike. One of their most redeeming qualities is that they can take down any terrain you are up against.
Hikers looking for durability, comfort and performance with a full-grain leather makeup will love the Danner Mountain 600. They score at an 8.3 overall.
Best Lightweight Hiking Boot For Wide Feet Hoka Kaha 3
- Excellent Cushioning
- Wide Toe Box
- Impressive Stability
- Hoka Meta Rocker
- Price
Overall Rating: 9.6
Price: $240
Order The Hoka Kaha 3 – For The LOWEST VERIFIED PRICE
Finding a hiking boot that fits can be tough, especially if you have wide feet. The Kaha 3 solves this problem with its improved fit and design, so it’s a great option for hikers who need extra room in the toe box. I measured the toe box at 3.2 inches which is in the top 5 for the widest toe boxes we have measured.
The boot weighs in at 20 ounces which is not the most lightweight, however just like the Anacapa it features a Meta Rocker helps create a much lighter stride. Personally, my feet felt very cushioned with no fatigue at all, and the lightweight stride helped me push further on daily hikes of over 10 miles.
The stability and support are top-notch. My favorite feature of the Kaha 3 is how well it strikes a balance with its outsole and midsole. They are firm-yet remarkably comfortable. The outsole is extremely firm for traction and stability, while the midsole and insole are extremely plush.
The boot is also durable. It’s made with Nubuck leather which performs well on the trail and will last for a long time. So the Kaha 3 is a great option for hikers who want a durable and comfortable boot.
In terms of ankle support the Kaha 3 has enough torsional stability to prevent injuries on uneven ground and aid in ankle stability. This is great for hikers who hike rough trails and need that top-rated support.
Overall the Kaha 3 is a great option for hikers with wide feet. The roomy toe box, durable construction and support make it one of the best lightweight hiking boots for 2025, as well as our number one rated hiking boot overall of 2025.
Key Features to Consider in Lightweight Hiking Boots
Important features to consider when choosing hiking boots:
- Weight: lighter boots reduce fatigue and makes hiking more enjoyable.
- Materials: affects the durability and weight of the boots.
- Waterproofing: essential to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
- Fit and comfort: so you can hike for extended periods without discomfort.
These features are the basis of our objective rating system to rank the best lightweight boots for you.
Weight
Weight of the boots plays a big role in overall performance and comfort. Lighter construction reduces fatigue, you can hike longer distances with less effort. Boots like Salomon X Ultra 5 are designed to be light, making you faster and more agile on the trail.
For optimal performance, hiking boots should weigh less than 2 pounds (per boot) . This weight range means you won’t feel weighed down. Lighter boots like Trailventure 2 WP are designed to be light and agile, perfect for fast hiking for lightweight hikers.
Choosing lighter boots makes a big difference especially when carrying heavy packs or a heavier pack. Reduced weight helps prevent fatigue and allows you to cover more ground comfortably.
Materials
Materials of the boots affect performance, durability and weight. Common materials for uppers are a mix of leather and synthetic materials, balancing durability and weight. For example Nubuck leather is used in high quality boots like La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX, contributing to their waterproof capabilities and durability.However, leather boots tend to be heavier, which is a built-in limitation when considering weight of boots.
Hiking boots often use mesh and nylon to reduce weight without compromising performance. Some hiking boots also use sustainable materials, recycled materials like recycled polyester, aligns with eco-friendly practices. This is becoming more important for environmentally conscious hikers.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is a big feature for hiking boots especially when hiking in wet climates or multiple creek crossings. Waterproof materials like Gore-Tex are used to prevent water entry while allowing moisture to escape, keeps your feet dry and comfortable in a waterproof boot.
While waterproof boots are great for keeping feet dry, they can sometimes restrict breathability and cause sweat buildup. Lighter models with mesh panels ensure good ventilation while maintaining waterproof performance.
Considerations for waterproof hiking boots include seam-sealed design for added protection and balance between waterproofing and breathability. This means your feet will be dry without compromising comfort.
Fit and Comfort
Fit and comfort is key when choosing hiking boots. Consider these:
- Try on boots with your hiking socks to ensure a proper fit.
- Make sure the toe box has enough space for foot swelling.
- Choose boots that are comfortable for long treks to prevent blisters.
A good lacing system is important as it affects the fit and feel of the boot, prevents hot spots and blisters. Features like zero-drop platforms are an “acquired taste” for hikers and may not fit everyone’s needs.
Testing new boots on short hikes before committing to longer adventures ensures they are comfortable and fit well. This will help you identify any potential issues and have a pleasant day hiking experience and also good for thru hiking. Testing boots also adds to your umwelt, revealing your personal taste and priorities.
Testing Conditions
We tested the boots in various environments to see how they performed in different conditions. For example, I tested the Merrell Moab 3 throughout many Connecticut state parks to ensure thorough, high standard testing rather than just relying on a few trails. From rocky trails to snow covered trails, I put the boots through their paces in real world scenarios.
Testing conditions were met with steep inclines and wet conditions to test the waterproofing of the boots. We wanted to make sure our recommendations were good for a wide range of hiking scenarios.
How We Test and Our Methodology
Mountaineer Journey is a 100% independent publisher with years of testing and reviewing outdoor equipment.
We currently purchase the products we test with our own money, and are not paid by any company or manufacturer to influence our opinions or decisions.
After purchasing the boot, our testing process takes hundreds of hours of hands-on testing through consistent OBJECTIVE testing standards.
Tyler is our resident expert and author of this article, with 12 years of experience as a professional hiker, hiking guide, and mountaineer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Makes The Best Lightweight Hiking Boots?
We have the Salomon X Ultra 5 rated as our best lightweight hiking boots. Overall, as a company Salomon produces lightweight, affordable hiking boots.
Is a Lighter Hiking Boot Better?
No lighter is not always better, however lighter hiking boots tend to have less foot fatigue, more agility and give a better hiking experience overall.
What Do You Consider A Lightweight Hiking Boot?
Generally anything under 20 ounces is considered lightweight(per boot). However, weight is not always the telltale sign. Hiking boots can weigh a lot but still feel “lighter” than less heavier boots. Materials, and how the boots are crafted can change the “lightweight feel” of a boot.
