Best Lightweight Men’s Hiking Boots in 2023

When it comes to exploring the great outdoors, having the perfect pair of hiking boots is crucial, and in the year 2023, lightweight options have become highly sought after among men.

 These boots offer an optimal combination of comfort, durability, and flexibility, enabling hikers to conquer diverse terrains effortlessly.

 Whether embarking on a challenging mountain trek or a leisurely walk amidst nature’s beauty, the finest lightweight hiking boots for men in 2023 deliver exceptional performance and style.

Best Lightweight Men’s Hiking Boots – Our Top 5 Picks

• Best Overall Hiking Boot: Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
• Best Budget Hiking Boot: Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
• Best Backpacking Boot: SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX High Rise Hiking Boots
• Best Ultralight Hiking boot: ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQE Lone Peak 5
• Most Comfortable Hiking boot: KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots

Best Overall Hiking Boot

1.Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Weight: 1.2 lb or 0.54 kg

Waterproof: Yes

As you slip your feet into the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots, you’ll immediately notice their exceptional quality. Made from 100% leather, these boots combine durability with a stylish design. With a waterproof membrane and breathable construction, my feet stayed dry and comfortable throughout the hike.

 The secure lace closure, toe cap, and supportive features like the contoured insole and molded arch shank provided the perfect balance of comfort and stability. The Merrell Air Cushion technology in the heel absorbed shock, making each step feel solid and reducing strain on my joints.

 Whether tackling rugged trails or exploring the great outdoors, the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots proved to be a reliable choice for any adventure.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros:

• Exceptional Quality
• Waterproof Membrane
• Breathable Construction
• Secure Fit
• Supportive Design
• Powerful Shock Absorption

Cons

• Long Break-in Period

Best Budget Hiking Boot

2.Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Weight: 2 lb or 0.9 kg

Waterproof: Yes

The Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.  The pigskin leather and mesh upper provide durability and breathability, enhancing overall comfort. The bellows tongue prevents debris from entering the boots, ensuring a clean and enjoyable hiking experience. The protective toe cap shields your toes from potential hazards along the trail.

 The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole, along with the reinforced heel cushioning, offers medium support for added comfort during long hikes. The molded nylon arch shank enhances stability and balance.

 The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock, reducing the impact on your joints and providing additional stability. The lightweight EVA foam midsole contributes to overall stability and comfort.

 The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole offers reliable traction on various surfaces, providing secure footing during your outdoor adventures.

 Whether you’re exploring rugged terrains or embarking on challenging hikes, the Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a reliable companion that combines durability, comfort, and performance.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros:

• Waterproof Protection
• Durable Construction
• Toe Cap
• Stability Features
• Lightweight Midsole
• Reliable Traction

Cons:

• Less Laces Durability

Best Backpacking Boot

3.SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX High Rise Hiking Boots

 Weight: 3.59 lb or 1.6 kg

Waterproof: Yes

The SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX High Rise Hiking Boots are a great option for backpacking. The GORE-TEX technology ensures waterproof protection, keeping your feet dry even in wet conditions.

 The Contagrip TD outsole offers maximum traction and durability with its deep lug pattern and durable compound, allowing you to confidently tackle mixed terrains.

 The ADV-C 4D Chassis provides ankle protection, stability, and extra heel support, especially when carrying heavier loads.

 The SALOMON Men’s Quest 4 GTX High Rise Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers seeking comfort, protection, and traction on their outdoor adventures.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros:

• Waterproof Performance
• Superior Traction
• Great ankle Protection
• Comfortable Fit
• Exceptional Breathability

Cons:

• Limited Color Options

Best Ultralight Hiking Boot

4.ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQE Lone Peak 5

Weight: 0.69 lb or 0.31 kg

Waterproof: No

The ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQE Lone Peak 5 is a versatile and performance-driven hiking shoe designed to enhance your trail experience. With its thoughtful features, you can stay focused, go further, and get comfortable on your hikes.

 The MaxTrac outsole and multi-directional TrailClaw lug pattern provide exceptional traction, allowing you to confidently navigate various terrains. The Balanced Cushioning platform ensures a natural stride by placing the heel and forefoot at the same distance from the ground, promoting low-impact landings.

 The Altra EGO midsoles offer a responsive and soft ride, while the FootShape toe box allows your toes to relax and spread out naturally, enhancing comfort.

 The updated StoneGuard adds an extra layer of protection against rocks and trail debris. The quick-dry air mesh and laser-cut holes on the upper enable quick drainage, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.

 With the ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQE Lone Peak 5, you can confidently conquer the trails with comfort and performance.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros:

• Superior Traction
• Balanced Cushioning
• Comfortable Fit
• Rock Protection
• Quick-Dry and Breathable

Cons:

• Less Rigidity

Most Comfortable Hiking boot

5.KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots

Weight: 1.14 lb or 0.5 kg

Waterproof: Yes

The KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots are designed to provide reliable performance and comfort on your outdoor adventures. These boots offer a range of features that enhance your hiking experience.

 The KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable by allowing vapor to escape while keeping water out.

 The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides excellent traction on muddy and rocky surfaces, ensuring stability and grip. The non-marking rubber outsole leaves no trace or imprints when walking indoors.

 The external Support Shank and mid-cut height offer ankle support and balance, especially on uneven terrains. The contoured heel provides enhanced stability, reducing the risk of slips and twists.

 The mid-profile upper ensures a secure and comfortable fit, with a padded tongue and collar for added cushioning. The removable metatomical footbed design offers excellent arch support and molds to the natural contours of your foot, enhancing comfort during long hikes.

 With the KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, you can confidently take on the trails with waterproof protection, traction, support, and comfort.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros: 

• Waterproof and Breathable
• Excellent Traction
• Great ankle Support
• Secure and Comfortable Fit
• Enhanced Stability

Cons:

• Slightly Bulky Design

Other Recommended Options

6.Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX  Men’s Hiking Boot

Weight: 3.4 lb or 1.5 kg

Waterproof: Yes

The Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX Men’s Hiking Boot is designed to enhance your performance and agility on any terrain. Its durable yet lightweight outer material, featuring a TPU coating and suede inserts, ensures stability without weighing you down. 

The GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort lining provides reliable waterproofing while maintaining breathability. The unique half-height boot welt construction, combined with the 3F system, delivers a comfortable, supportive, and flexible fit.

 The shock-absorbing EVA midsole offers lasting rebound, while the flexible ankle shaft, heel stabilizer, and rubber toe cap provide added stability and protection. The climbing shoe lacing system allows for precise adjustment on technical terrain.

 The outsole, featuring the Pomoco rubber compound and a tread pattern with deep studs and notches, ensures reliable grip and versatility across various terrain types.

 The Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX is a lightweight and versatile mountain sports shoe suitable for technical hikes and long backpacking trips in all weather conditions.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros:

• Lightweight Design
• Durable and Stable
• Waterproof and Breathable
• Comfortable and Supportive Fit
• Precise Adjustment
• Reliable Grip

Cons:

• Limited Weather Compatibility

7.SCARPA Men’s Zodiac Plus GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Hiking Boots

Weight: 1.25 lb or 0.56 kg

Waterproof: Yes

The SCARPA Men’s Zodiac Plus GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Hiking Boots are designed to excel in mountain travel, offering a unique blend of hiking boot and technical mountain boot features.

 These boots are specifically crafted for rocky scrambles and terrains where traction and responsiveness are crucial. The GORE-TEX Performance Comfort technology ensures reliable waterproof protection while maintaining breathability and durability, allowing you to tackle changing weather conditions with confidence.

 The combination of a rubber rand and a suede upper makes the boots abrasion-resistant, providing added protection and durability.

 The Sock-Fit DV System incorporates water-resistant and breathable Shoeller elastic fabric in the tongue and flex point, delivering a snug and secure fit that hugs the midfoot.

 The Vibram Mont Outsole, made of a firm, sticky, and durable rubber compound, is designed to perform in low temperatures and has been tested on the world’s highest peaks. The SCARPA Men’s Zodiac Plus GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Hiking Boots are a great choice for your hiking trips, especially for the tough ones that require durable boots.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros:

• Versatile Performance
• Waterproof and Breathable
• Abrasion Resistance
• Snug and Secure Fit
• High-Performance Outsole

Cons:

• Limited Ankle Support

8.SCARPA Men’s Kailash Trek GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Lightweight Hiking Boots

Weight:  1.56 lb or 0.7 kg
Waterproof: Yes

The SCARPA Men’s Kailash Trek GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Lightweight Hiking Boots are designed to provide exceptional performance and comfort for day hiking and lightweight backpacking adventures.

 These boots feature a durable leather construction that offers a balance of flexibility and support. The GORE-TEX Performance Comfort technology provides reliable waterproof protection while maintaining breathability, ensuring your feet stay dry in changing weather conditions.

 The Vibram XS TREK outsole delivers reliable traction on various terrains, including steep switchbacks and slick granite slabs. The reinforced molded TPU toe cap adds an extra layer of protection against obstacles on the trail.

 Despite their durability, these boots remain lightweight thanks to the PU midsole, which keeps the overall weight low without compromising on impact absorption. The SCARPA Men’s Kailash Trek GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Lightweight Hiking Boots are perfect for everyday hikes due to their comfortable and lightweight design.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros:

• Comfortable and Flexible
• Waterproof and Breathable
• Dependable Traction
• Toe Protection
• Lightweight Design

 Cons: 

• Limited Ankle Support

9.SCARPA Men’s Terra GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Hiking Boots

Weight: 1.12 lb or 0.5 kg
Waterproof: Yes

The SCARPA Men’s Terra GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Hiking Boots combine a retro-inspired design with modern technology to deliver a stylish and high-performance hiking experience.

 These boots feature a fully waterproof leather upper that not only adds a classic look but also provides lasting support and durability. The GORE-TEX Performance Comfort technology ensures your feet stay dry in changing weather conditions without compromising breathability.

 The Vibram XS TREK outsole offers dependable grip on a wide range of terrains, making it suitable for steep switchbacks and slick granite slabs.

 The full-grain leather upper adds to the boot’s durability and offers immediate comfort right out of the box. The high-cut design of SCARPA Men’s Terra GTX Waterproof Gore-Tex Hiking Boots provides extra ankle support, making these boots ideal for uneven trails or when carrying a fully loaded pack.

Pros & Cons

Here are it’s pros and cons

Pros:

• Stylish and Versatile
• Waterproof and Breathable
• Excellent Traction
• Durable Construction
• Enhanced Ankle Support

Cons:

• Slightly Stiff Sole

Buying Guide For Beginners

Embarking on a hiking adventure requires a reliable pair of hiking boots. As a beginner, choosing the right hiking boots can be overwhelming with the vast array of options available.

 These essential tips will guide you through the process, ensuring you find the perfect pair of boots that offer comfort, support, and durability for your outdoor excursions.

Hiking Needs

Before purchasing hiking boots, assess your hiking needs. Consider the type of terrain you’ll encounter, the duration of your hikes, and the weather conditions.

 Determine whether you’ll be tackling easy trails, rugged mountains, or wet environments. These factors will help you choose boots that match the demands of your hiking adventures.

Hiking Boot Types

Hiking boots come in various types, including hiking shoes, mid-cut boots, and high-cut boots. Hiking shoes are lightweight and ideal for day hikes or less demanding trails. Mid-cut boots offer ankle support and are suitable for moderate terrain.

 High-cut boots provide maximum ankle support and are recommended for challenging and rugged terrain. Understanding the different types will help you narrow down your options.

Durability and Quality

Investing in durable and high-quality hiking boots is essential for long-lasting performance on the trail. Look for boots made from quality materials such as full-grain leather or synthetic fabrics.

 Check for reinforced toe caps, sturdy outsoles, and waterproof features. Research reputable brands known for their commitment to craftsmanship and durability.

Perfect Fit

Finding boots that fit well is crucial for comfort and preventing blisters or injuries. Take accurate measurements of your feet and refer to the sizing charts provided by manufacturers.

 Visit local stores to try on different brands and models, ensuring you have enough space for your toes to wiggle and a secure fit around the heel and midfoot. Consider wearing hiking socks during fittings to replicate actual hiking conditions.

Brands Research

Researching and comparing different brands will give you insights into their reputation and product quality. Read reviews from other hikers to understand their experiences with specific brands and models.

 Look for brands that specialize in hiking boots and have a track record of producing reliable and durable footwear.

Budget Considerations

Establishing a budget for your hiking boots is essential. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, keep in mind that quality boots often come with a higher price tag. 

Consider the long-term benefits and durability of the boots, and strike a balance between your budget and the value you’ll get from the footwear.

Seek Expert Advice

If you’re uncertain about which hiking boots to choose, seek advice from experts. Visit local outdoor gear stores and consult knowledgeable staff who can provide personalized recommendations based on your hiking needs and foot characteristics. Their expertise can help you make an informed decision.

Test the Boots

Whenever possible, try on the boots before making a purchase. Wear them around the store, walk up and down inclines, and mimic hiking movements to assess their comfort and performance.

 Pay attention to any pressure points or discomfort. Testing the boots will give you a better understanding of how they feel and perform in real-life situations.

Proper Maintenance and Care

Once you’ve purchased your hiking boots, proper maintenance and care are essential for their longevity. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and storing the boots.

 Regularly clean off dirt and debris, and apply appropriate waterproofing treatments if required. Inspect the boots for any signs of wear and tear, and address them promptly to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the search for the best lightweight men’s hiking boots in 2023 is filled with numerous options catering to different preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize comfort, durability, or versatility, the key is to find a pair that offers a perfect balance of features.

 Consider the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots, Salomon Men’s Quest 4 GTX High Rise Hiking Boots, ALTRA Men’s AL0A4VQE Lone Peak 5, or KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots as top contenders for your next hiking adventure.

FAQs

Should hiking boots be light?

 While lightweight hiking boots offer advantages like agility and reduced fatigue, the ideal weight depends on personal preference and the intended terrain. Consider factors such as durability, ankle support, and the load you’ll carry to make an informed decision.

Why are lightweight hiking boots better?

 Lightweight hiking boots offer advantages such as improved agility, reduced fatigue, and faster movement on the trails. They provide comfort and flexibility while still offering adequate support and protection.

Are heavier boots better?

 The preference for heavier boots depends on personal preferences and hiking conditions. Heavier boots can provide increased stability, durability, and protection in rugged terrains and when carrying heavier loads. However, they may also result in more fatigue during long hikes.