Unearth The Voyage
Fall hiking in November brings crisp air, colorful leaves, and trails that can be unpredictable with wet leaves, muddy patches, and rocky paths. Having the right footwear makes all the difference between an enjoyable adventure and sore, tired feet. Lightweight trail shoes offer the perfect balance of comfort, grip, and agility without weighing you down on long treks. Here are five exceptional options that will keep your feet happy on autumn trails this season.
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
Balance is everything when you’re navigating unpredictable fall terrain. Salomon’s X Ultra 4 GTX delivers exactly that with its grippy outsole that tackles roots, mud, and slick leaves without hesitation.
The mesh upper features protective overlays that shield your feet while keeping weight down. The waterproof GTX version means puddles and damp trails won’t slow you down.
If agility matters to you on technical paths, this shoe responds quickly to changing ground conditions. It’s consistently praised in 2025 guides for good reason—it simply performs when fall weather gets unpredictable and trails get challenging.
Hoka Speedgoat 6
Named “Best Overall Hiking Shoe” in 2025 testing by Switchback Travel, the Speedgoat 6 earned its reputation through serious trail miles. What sets it apart is substantial cushioning that doesn’t feel bulky or heavy on your feet.
Long autumn hikes mean hours on uneven ground, and this model absorbs impact beautifully. Your knees and joints will thank you after a full day exploring rugged paths.
Despite all that cushioning, it remains surprisingly nimble and responsive. Whether you’re scrambling over rocks or cruising smooth stretches, the Speedgoat 6 adapts to whatever November trails throw at you.
Merrell Moab Speed 2
Not everyone needs ultra-technical footwear, and that’s where the Moab Speed 2 shines. Outdoor Life named it “Best Budget” lightweight hiking shoe for 2025, proving quality doesn’t require a premium price tag.
This shoe handles trail variety well—from packed dirt to moderate inclines—with solid traction and comfort. The lighter build compared to traditional boots means less fatigue on long walks.
FloatPro foam cushioning keeps your feet comfortable mile after mile. For fall hikers who want reliable performance without breaking the bank, this option delivers excellent value and won’t disappoint on November adventures.
Oboz Katabatic 2 Low GTX
Autumn trails present unique challenges—wet leaves hide slippery roots, and moderate inclines become trickier when damp. The Katabatic 2 Low GTX handles these conditions with confidence thanks to its stable ride and reliable grip.
Multiple 2025 “best lightweight” lists feature this shoe for good reason. It’s nimbler than traditional boots but doesn’t sacrifice the support serious hikers need.
Comfort holds up through extended treks, and the waterproof construction keeps feet dry when conditions turn soggy. If you want an all-around performer that excels in variable fall weather, this versatile option checks every box beautifully.
Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX
Weight-saving design meets practical waterproofing in the Terrex Swift R3 GTX, recommended by RunRepeat’s 2025 guide for lightweight hiking shoes. When November brings damp conditions and slick terrain, this shoe blends trail-shoe agility with weather-resistant durability.
The GTX membrane keeps moisture out while allowing your feet to breathe during active hikes. Quick footwork on technical sections feels natural thanks to the nimble construction.
Variable fall weather demands versatile footwear, and this option adapts seamlessly. Whether you’re crossing streams or navigating muddy switchbacks, the Swift R3 GTX maintains grip and comfort throughout your adventure.
