Best Lightweight Walking Shoes

There’s that expression being light on your feet that denotes grace and agility in movement, and indeed, most people would agree that being weighed down by one’s shoes is never a happy experience.

Moreover, too heavy shoes won’t let you walk far, and may harm your health, so you need the best lightweight walking shoes.
Most people prefer lightweight walking shoes that are light yet sturdy and comfortable.


Table of Contents


Different Types of Lightweight Shoes

Shoes are designed for a broad range of legs based on arch form and pronation.
This list will give you some options depending on your sole type and anatomy so you can choose the best lightweight shoes for flat feet and the best for high arches or normal arches.
You will also find some great selections of Stability or Motion Control shoes depending on the type of pronation you may have, either overpronation or underpronation.


Brands of Lightweight Walking Shoes

A few of the finest brands that make great lightweight shoes are Asics, Nike, Rockport, Merrell, Converse, Mephisto, VivoBarefoot, OluKai, and New Balance.
These brands specialize and are categorized by the particular base type of light shoes they design.
The shoe recommendations below were obtained from various brands so that you can choose your favorite ones easily.


Tip for Finding a Good Lightweight Walking Shoes

Visit a shoe store and speak with a knowledgeable staff member who will analyze your leg type and suggest the best shoes.
You may even bring in your current shoes, as the soles’ wear and tear pattern might help determine what type of shoe you need.
Buy your footwear from a store that permits you to exchange or return your shoes within the first 30 to sixty days.
A pair that feels wonderful on your legs in the store might trouble you when you start walking in your everyday surroundings.


Benefits of Wearing Lightweight Walking Shoes

As many models of walking shoes tend to be more on the heavy side, a more lightweight shoe is always more comfortable and beneficial;

  • Great Summer Options – Heavy and thick shoes can become overheated and uncomfortable in the hot summers. A more lightweight pair of shoes is ideal for summer as it is light and breezy.
  • Prevent Foot Fatigue – A lighter-weight shoe causes less strain and pressure on the joints and muscles than a heavy shoe and can help prevent foot fatigue.
  • Comfortable – Lightweight shoes are generally more comfortable and have a softer and more breathable construction.
  • Control Moisture – With improved breathability and lighter materials such as mesh and textiles, your feet will be better ventilated and stay dry.

Features of a Good Lightweight Walking Shoe

  • Uppers – Look for lightweight, breathable uppers like mesh, leather, or canvas.
  • Midsole and Insole – A foam midsole such as EVA or Gel provides excellent shock absorbency, while a softer cushioned insole and moisture-wicking lining provide excellent comfort.
  • Outsole – Look for a lightweight, durable rubber or synthetic outsole hat with a tread for good traction.
  • Options – Most lightweight walking shoes are available in size, width, and color options depending on the brand and specific model.

Reviews: Best Lightweight Walking Shoes

We hope you love the lightweight walking shoes we recommend!
We may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.


1

Lightweight Running Shoe

The New ASICS GEL-Nimbus uses FluidFit technology, which combines stretch reinforcements and multi-directional stretch mesh to create a perfect fit.
  • This shoe uses GEL-cushioning technology that reduces the shock during impact, allowing for a smooth transition throughout your stride.
  • Forefoot and Rearfoot and GEL-Cushioning framework provide better support for under-pronated foot structure.
  • Excellent shock absorbent and cushioning, making this shoe a very comfortable one.
  • Impact Guidance System (I.G.S) allows the foot to perform more naturally, resulting in a healthier foot motion.

2

Lightweight Running Shoes

The men version weight is only 214 grams(0.47 pound) and the weight of the women’s version is 178 grams(0.39 pound).
  • A great light walkers shoes from an iconic brand.
  • Extremely light and comfortable, it provides excellent value for money.
  • Available in a range of sizes: 6 to 15.
  • The midsole encompasses Hexagon flex grooves to allow a full range of motion.
  • Heel-Toe Offset: 6mm.
  • Available in various colors, solid black and one shade of white.
  • Most users highly regard its lightweight, comfort, and great arch support.

3

Lightweight Running Shoes for High Arches

The New Balance 1080 Men’s version weighs only 294 grams (0.64 pounds), and the Women’s version weighs 247 grams (0.54 pounds).
  • These shoes are perfect for those with a high arch condition.
  • They support the foot firmly, look great with jeans and a T-shirt, and will last you for years.
  • The toe box is spacious, which lets the toes carry more weight – a beneficial way to help ease the pain and weight from the heel for people who suffer and need a good shoe for Plantar Fasciitis support.
  • We also picked this shoe as one of the best for people suffering from high arches.
  • These Shoes have a skeletally engineered upper that provides ultralight support and fit and are considered among the best lightweight running shoes for men and women.
  • It is created by fusing two fragile materials with a no-sew process.

4

Lightweight Trail Running Shoes

The New Balance 10V4 Men version weighs 204 grams (0.45 pounds), and the Women’s version weighs only 161 grams (0.35 pounds)
  • This brand has quite a formidable reputation vis-à-vis their shoes.
  • Comfort is an integral part of the design of any New Balance shoe.
  • The manufacturers take great care to use light but sturdy materials to make their products very comfortable indeed.
  • In keeping with their objective of providing comfort and ease of wearing to the user, These lightweight running shoes are of the sneaker variety. They offer features like interlocking Sure-Laces fastening of shoes.
  • You can pick up a pair of these shoes online at a reasonable price.
  • Like many New Balance shoes, you can pick a wide-toe box shoes in case you have a wide foot.

5

Light Cross Training Shoe

The Reebok Crossfit Nano is an All-in-One Crossfit Training Shoe perfect for cardio and weightlifting workouts.
  • A textile lining for breathability and RopePro protection wrap for durability and protection.
  • The lace-up design provides a snug fit.
  • A cushioned footbed for added comfort and shock absorption.
  • The 4mm heel-to-toe drop improves stability.
  • Forefoot and heel pods for cushioning and shock absorption.
  • A durable outsole provides superior grip and traction.
  • Available in a vast range of colors.

6

Orthopedic Lightweight Walking Shoe

This classic craftsmanship and sophisticated style are the finest quality in a comfortable walking shoe.
  • Designed as a therapeutic shoe, it provides many protective and comfortable features.
  • This shoe has Ortho-Cushion™ Technology that takes a new approach to relieve pain and deliver true comfort.
  • Patented biomechanical features work to change the loads naturally across the knee, helping relieve pain and slow osteoarthritis progression.
  • Flex-OA footwear is clinically proven to reduce the load on the knees by 20% on average.
  • Specially designed Flexure Zones in the outsole of Flex-OA shoes are strategically placed to allow a normal motion.
  • The Ortho-Cushion™ System allows natural movement, barefoot-like movement, graceful movement, and natural flexibility movement typically lost with modern footwear.
  • The effect is a measured and proven reduction in load on your legs and feet.

7

Gel Cushioned Light Walking Shoes

The Asics Gel Quantum and Quickwalk are light and breathable walking shoes.
  • The upper is light and breathable mesh.
  • There are a cushioned insole and supportive shock-absorbing midsole.
  • Gel cushioning in the heel and forefoot provides better shock absorbency.
  • The rubber outsole is durable and ensures good traction.

8

Slip-On Lightweight Walking Shoes

Skechers are quite popular because of their flexibility, lightweight and comfort level.
  • They provide a natural stride when you walk in them.
  • The outsole is made up of rubber and has three-layer protection against any weather.
  • They are extremely light in weight, which is a great thing for walking long distances.
  • They are equipped with a full-length Goga Mat with an energy insole.

9

Lighweight Water Walking Shoes

These water walking shoes offer a stretchable feel to the feet at an affordable price.
  • The Traxion outsole puts these shoes ahead for best performance when walking in wet environments.
  • The Climacool Tooling construction improves breathability and comfort.
  • The Adidas drainage system and a well-designed EVA tongue top render these shoes the best.
  • You can find it in various multi-colored options to choose from, depending on your taste and preference.
  • It is suitable for many activities such as hiking, swimming or even going out for a trip.
  • They get dry within the least time possible and are quite durable.

10

Casual Lightweight Sneakers

A lightweight sneaker in the classic Oxford design and will go with most outfits.
  • Its rubber outsole for a firm grip on all surfaces, an EVA midsole for shock absorption for less foot and leg fatigue, and incorporating ADIPRENE technology make it ideal for walking shoes.
  • The fact that it has a supportive footbed enhances the comfort factor and gives it a personalized fit.
  • Most users find that it fits very well, like a glove, and is extremely comfortable to wear.
  • It is worth every cent of its price.

11

Classic Lightweight Sneaker

This is a pair of sneakers that defined the world’s sneaker design.
  • This shoe is crafted using canvas, which is an extremely light material.
  • The upper narrow ribbed fabric is weaved together, giving the shoe its signature striking look.
  • The shoe is equally impressive in all its over 50 colors.
  • You can expect these light sneakers to become quite a rage.

12

Light Walking Shoes

These are extremely light walking shoes by VivoBarefoot – as the name suggests, you walk lightly, almost with no shoes on.
  • They let your feet behave naturally with the perfect balance of fashion and function.
  • These shoes have a zero-drop midsole design and an Anatomic toe box.
  • A minimalist barefoot feel.
  • Durable and long-lasting outsole.

13

Lightweight Comfortable Slip On Shoes

OluKai Nohea and Pehuea is a stylish shoe for that perfect mix of function and fashion.
  • A contoured footbed offers extraordinary cushioning, support, and resilience.
  • Sizing Tip: They run a bit large, so you should choose a half size down.
  • It is made to be worn with or without socks.
  • Versatile Drop-In Heel: Crafted with a drop in the heel that folds down for extra comfort.

14

Lightweight Casual Dress Shoe

This company claims that they make the “finest walking shoes,” and they don’t exaggerate.
  • Their range of walking shoes, for example, is quite exemplary.
  • Hand-made and exquisitely designed, a pair could set you back by its price.
  • The Mephisto shoe brand is one of our choices for the best orthopedic shoes.
  • These are, of course, well worth the money spent, as they denote class, sophistication and elegance, and above all, great comfort.
  • Needless to say, these can be part of a fashionable wardrobe, given their styling and finish.

15

Lightweight Dress Shoes with Arch Support

Thanks to the Nylon stability shank embedded into the midsole, these exceptional dress shoes provide exceptional cushioning and arch support to create a smoother gait.
  • Full-grain leather upper and stretchy gore allows extra movement.
  • Comfort feel and stability, no more sore feet will after long walks.
  • Many Width sizes to choose from: medium and up to extra-extra-wide (4E); in all sizes.
  • These shoes are an excellent option for those who need arch support in great-looking dress shoes.
  • Though they are for office work or just dressing purposes, these shoes are an absolute lightweight dream to walk in.

16

Theraputic Extra Wide Lightweight Dress Shoes

The Orthofeet Chelsea and Gramercy are lightweight orthopedic dress shoes with a wider fit to accommodate various foot conditions, including Plantar Fasciitis.
  • Anatomical arch support and Orthotic gel insoles with ergonomic cushioning soften every step and provide stability and support.
  • A deeper toe box to accommodate Bunions and hammertoes for a more comfortable fit.
  • The non-binding relaxed fit protects pressure points and reduces friction.
  • A durable and slip-resistant outsole provides excellent grip.

17

Lightweight Flat Feet Dress Shoes

Classic lightweight and comfortable to wear flat feet shoes.
  • The Ortholite® footbed provides cushioning and support.
  • Available colors are black or brown in these shoes.
  • These shoes are very comfortable being one of the best shoes for standing all day at work.
  • These shoes come in extended sizes and extensive widths.
  • Their great style will be a perfect match for everyone who is looking for classic office work shoes.

18

Lightweight Work Shoes

Dr. Martens Gibson will relieve excess pressure on your feet from long-term standing as it is a durable and heavy-duty comfortable work shoe.
  • It is one of the high-quality brands which offer immense comfort to the wearer.
  • The treated leather in these shoes eradicates fungal infections and does not let the moisture crop in.
  • The shoes’ height is perfect to balance a good posture as it will then relieve the excess pressure on the hips, ankles, and knees.
  • It is suited for any heavy use and is slip-resistant in nature.
  • The stitching aspect is also good, and you can replace any part easily without any hassles.

19

Lightweight Hiking Shoes

  • Special SELECT GRIP outsole provides unparalleled stability on various terrains and surfaces.
  • Elastic cords as the laces provide a quick, easy, and more precise fit on your feet.
  • Midsole: Utilizing the specialized M Select FRESH Molded EVA footbed for exceptional cushioning and comfort.
  • Heel: The Merrell Air Cushion absorbs shocks and adds stability for flat footers.
  • Hikers love these shoes as they find them as light as loafers, and this makes the task of climbing a lot less tiring.
  • Note: for some weird reasons, Merrell does not have a women’s version for these hiking shoes – Though many women in the reviews say they buy them 1-2 smaller, and they fit very well and look cute.

20

Ultra Lightweight Hiking Boots

This is a high top ‘sneaker-inspired boot that the French Legion originally used as combat boot in the deserts of North Africa; many professional hikers recommend it:
  • Uppers: Made from light Canvas featuring wrap-around textured.
  • Distinctly casual-looking shoes, made from canvas and a human-made outsole.
  • Colors: Available in many colors: black, white, indigo, green, and more.
  • Outsole: Reinforced toe and a high-walled rubber outsole with deep treads for extra grip.
  • A stylish boot that you can wear with any daily casual outfit.
  • Cleaning the Palladium Pampa is simple – throw them into the washing machine.
  • These boots are more suited for the summer and hot desert weather.
  • In case you need to hike in a wet environment – use the Waterproof Palladium Pampa version.

21

Lightweight Off Road Trail Walking Shoe

  • The Vivobarefoot® Primus Trek is a versatile leather walking shoe.
  • Uppers: Water-resistant leather.
  • Lace-up closure with durable, thick laces.
  • Lightly padded tongue and collar. Soft textile lining offers a great in-shoe feel.
  • Removable thermal insole with Outlast™ insulation.
  • All-terrain non-marking grippy rubber outsole.
  • Weight: 13 oz for a size 46 (US Men’s 12), width D – Medium.

22

Lightweight Sandals for Walking

The Dream Pairs Adventurous is a Lightweight Fisherman-style sandal.
  • The Upper is a soft textile material with a bungee lace-up system for a secure fit.
  • The footbed is cushioned and comfortable with EVA foam, and there is a supportive Midsole.
  • The durable rubber outsole is a lug for slip resistance and traction.
  • You can also select from a few available color options.

23

Slip on Lightweight Walking Shoe

The Go Walk Slip-on shoes from Skechers are light, breathable, and easy to slip on and off.
  • The Upper is 100% breathable and light textile available in many color selections.
  • There are a Cushioned 5Gen midsole and a Goga Max Technology footbed for comfort and shock absorbency.
  • The rubber outsole is durable and ensures excellent traction.
  • The uppers also consist of s soft and light mesh fabric.

24

Lightweight Walking Shoes

The Propet TravelFit is a lightweight sneaker that is ideal for walking.
  • The Upper is a soft and breathable mesh fabric.
  • There are a Flexible sole and a cushioned footbed.
  • The shoe is A5500 medicare coded and ideal for diabetes and similar conditions.
  • There s also a flexible and durable rubber outsole.

In Conclusion

As you can see from our selection, many great shoes are not bulky or heavy that will keep your feet energized and provided lightweight comfort.
These shoes have unique features, making them more lightweight, comfortable, and supportive enough to walk with.


Index Table: Top Rated Lightweight Walking Shoes

No.ShoeMen ♂Women ♀FeaturesBrandScore
1Asics® - Lightweight Running Shoe Nimbus 26 Nimbus 26
  • Gel Cushioning
  • Shock Absorbing
  • Impact Guidance System
Asics97.4
2Nike® - Lightweight Running Shoes Free Run Free 5
  • Flex Grooves
  • Color Variety
  • Lightweight
Nike97
3New Balance® - Lightweight Running Shoes for High Arches 1080v11 1080v11
  • Roomy Toe Box
  • Arch Support
  • Light Fit
New Balance97
4New Balance® - Lightweight Trail Running Shoes MT10V4 WT10V4
  • Lightweight
  • Sturdy
New Balance94
5Reebok® - Light Cross Training Shoe Crossfit Nano 9.0 Crossfit Nano 9.0
  • Cushioned Footbed
  • Protective Wrap
  • Heel Pods
  • Heel to Toe Drop
Reebok98
6Vionic® - Orthopedic Lightweight Walking Shoe Ansel Brisk Miles
  • Ortho-Cushion™
  • Therapeutic
  • Wider Widths
Vionic97
7Asics® - Gel Cushioned Light Walking Shoes Gel-Quantum 90 Gel-Quickwalk 3
  • Rearfoot gel cushioning
  • High Abrasion Rubber
Asics96
8Skechers® - Slip-On Lightweight Walking Shoes Go Walk 6 Go Walk 6
  • Lightweight
  • Goga Mat
  • Energy insole
Skechers95
9Adidas® - Lighweight Water Walking Shoes Duramo Climacool Boat
  • Traxion Outsole
  • EVA Tongue
  • Color Options
Adidas98
10Rockport® - Casual Lightweight Sneakers Chranson Emalyn
  • Rubber Outsole
  • EVA Midsole
  • Adiprene Technology
Rockport96
11Converse® - Classic Lightweight Sneaker Chuck Taylor Chuck Taylor
  • Lightweight Canvas
  • Rubber Sole
  • Large Color Variety
Converse97
12VivoBarefoot® - Light Walking Shoes Ra II Rif
  • Zero-Drop Midsole
  • Anatomical Toe Box
VivoBarefoot97
13OluKai® - Lightweight Comfortable Slip On Shoes Nohea Nohea
  • Cushioned
  • Contoured Footbed
  • Drop In Heel
OluKai96
14Mephisto® - Lightweight Casual Dress Shoe Match Ruby
  • Orthopedic Design
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
Mephisto95
15Dunham® - Lightweight Dress Shoes with Arch Support Blair Origins
  • Stability
  • Width Options
  • Lightweight
Dunham95
16Orthofeet® - Theraputic Extra Wide Lightweight Dress Shoes Gramercy Quincy
  • Wider Fit
  • Arch Support
  • Non-Binding Design
Orthofeet95
17Clarks® - Lightweight Flat Feet Dress Shoes Stratton Brier Dolly
  • Ortholite Footbed
  • Color Options
Clarks95
18Dr. Martens® - Lightweight Work Shoes 1461 1461
  • Padded footbed
  • Rubber bounce sole
Dr. Martens94
19Merrell® - Lightweight Hiking Shoes Chameleon 8 Shift Traveler
  • Stretchable Uppers
  • Removable EVA Footbed
  • Air Cushion Heel
  • Highly slip-resistant
Merrell96
20Palladium® - Ultra Lightweight Hiking Boots Pampa Pampa
  • Ultra Lightweight
  • Reinforced toe
  • High-walled rubber outsole
Palladium94
21Vivobarefoot® - Lightweight Off Road Trail Walking Shoe Primus Treck Primus Treck
  • Lightweight
  • Minimalist
  • Water-Resistant
Vivobarefoot98
22Dream Pairs® - Lightweight Sandals for Walking Adventurous Adventurous
  • EVA Cushioned
  • Flexible
  • Wider Forefoot
  • Adjustable Fit
Dream Pairs98
23Skechers® - Slip on Lightweight Walking Shoe Go Walk Slip On Go Walk Slip On
  • Mesh Uppers
  • Slip On Design
  • Cushioned
  • Shock Absorbing
  • Wider Widths Available
Skechers97.8
24Propet® - Lightweight Walking Shoes Kellen Skate TravelFit
  • Mesh Uppers
  • Flexible Sole
  • Wider Widths Available
Propet97


About the Author

David Alegeta

David is a long-distance hiker, a writer and an editor whose favorite topics include backpacking and trail running. He is an adventure athlete who covered over 20,000 miles. He frequently speaks to groups about the benefits of proper footwear and has written numerous articles on this subject. He lives in Dallas, Texas with his family.