The New Light Hikers

Why hike light? Light hikers are less meaty than your typical boot, but these shoes still give you the support and grip you need for a steep, rocky trail. Here are some new arrivals that are perfect for your next day hike.

Merrell Proterra Mid Gore-Tex

The new Merrell Proterra Mid Gore-Tex is a great hiking shoe for someone who’s looking for more ankle support than a low profile shoe, while still remaining light and versatile. The gore-tex outer makes this shoe a good option for longer, muddier day hikes, and the durable sole, while still remaining on the lighter side, enables good grip while on sketchy terrain.  With only a four mm drop, this shoe takes on the feel of a light hiker but still packs in the toughness of something more heavy duty. The fit runs almost true to size, but if anything, I would size down. With lots of room in the toe box, these hiking shoes would be a good option for someone who struggles with finding ample room for her piggies! $160; merrell.com – Julie Peirano

KEEN Marshall WP

KEEN’s first non-leather hiking shoe ever, the Marshall takes its cues from running shoes in textile choice and construction. This light, easy-on-easy-off shoe comes in a low and mid height and in both a waterproof and an even lighter, non-waterproof mesh version. I lived in this shoe this summer, taking it both on day hikes and even an easy backpacking trip. I was able to test the waterproofing on my very first jaunt in the Marshall, when we hiked an outrageously muddy trail after a torrential rainstorm here in Boulder. My feet were still dry after two hours, even if my pants weren’t. $130; keenfootwear.com

 

 

Chaco Azula Mid Waterproof

Chacos has finally entered the hiking boot market with the Azula series. The Azula comes in your choice of mid and low heights and waterproof leather and a more breathable leather and mesh combo. The good: this boot has the same wonderful LUVSEAT footbed that you’ve grown to love in all Chaco sandals. It also fit comfortably right out of the box. After a quick three-mile hike, I had no blisters or hotspots. The bad: If brown shoes don’t turn you on, you’re not going to love the Azula. Comfortable and supportive? Yes. Sexy and stylish? Not so much. $125; chacos.com

 

 

Salomon X-Ultra W

The X-Ultra looks like a trail runner on steroids. The lightest hiker of the bunch, this shoe is perfect for short distances on uneven terrain. The protective toe cap keeps your toes from getting chewed up by rocks and the mesh upper keeps you traveling light and fast. The quicklace system mimics a traditional hiking boot system, while allowing super quick entry and exit. Plus, just like your typical running shoe, they feel comfortable immediately out of the box. $120; salomon.com

 

Asolo Ellery

The Asolo Ellery light hiker lives up to its class in weight and provides more ankle support than many other light hiking shoes. The shoe runs slightly long so sizing down might be necessary. The Ellery is a nice option for a woman who needs a wide toe box and a narrower heel. For those who don’t, the lacing system allows for the width to be adjusted up the ankle but starts to high on the shoe to stabilize the ball of the foot. The white/grey color combination is striking. (Note to the ladies who have longer feet–the colors and design visually emphasizes the length. In a size 11, I felt like I was wearing clown shoes.) The new Natural Shape fit, is a good choice if you have embraced the barefoot or minimalist trend in running shoe, but the sole seems a little thin and less supportive compared to some other light hikers on the market. $185; asolo-usa.com – Julie Oelman

Category: Gear, Hiking & Backpacking