Going Wild: Choosing a Light Hiking Shoe

Making the great outdoors just a little bit greater.

Looking to get back to nature without a major lifestyle change? Then light hiking shoes may be just what you’re looking for. And like with Goldilocks on her walk in the woods, I can help ya decide which shoes are “just right”.

First, lightweight hiking shoes are designed for a short day trip (under 8 hours) where you’re not carrying more than 15 pounds in Gorp or other yummy treats on your back. They supply substantially more support than your sneaks but without the cumbersome weight of serious hiking shoes. Most stay under 3 pounds and, thus, are as flexible as that battered-up trail map you borrowed.

Okay, now onto which pair should you lace-up? The pair I grab for a quick trek are the KEEN Targhee II Mid (pictured above). Not only are they comfortable and breathable, but they have a generous toe box allowing my feet to “feel” the trail. And they just look good. But as your mother constantly said, it’s not what’s on the outside that counts, but what’s on the inside. Here’s a few key “inside” features you should look for:

• Wide toe box
• Soft midsole
• Low- or mid-cut profile
• Durable rubber outsole with traction lugs
• A few extras, like a waterproof GORE-TEX® lining

And finally, don’t forget the right pair of socks that are breathable yet supportive with enough cushioning to avoid unwanted blisters – take it from a lesson your uncle Carter learned a long time ago.

There ya have it. Picking women’s hiking shoes and men’s hiking shoes from our outdoor collection can be as easy as a walk in the park.