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European Outdoor Award Winner: Hanwag LIGHTSTONE LOW

Silver Winner In The Category Hiking

Comfortable, lightweight, and proven to be exceptionally durable on long-distance hikes—this is exactly the balance the Hanwag LIGHTSTONE LOW aims to achieve. The low-cut hiking shoe was developed for demanding multi-day tours and combines a lightweight construction with durable materials and responsive cushioning. The goal: greater efficiency and consistent comfort, even as the days on the trail get longer.

At the center of the concept is the Super Critical Foaming (SCF) midsole technology. Using SCF-applied TPU components, the shoe combines low weight, softness, and high rebound with structural stability and durability. The physically foamed construction creates a balanced cushioning platform intended to maintain comfort over extended use. Suede leather and breathable textile materials further support durability, moisture management, and climate regulation inside the shoe. The LIGHTSTONE LOW was recognized as a European Outdoor Award Winner 2026 for its integration of advanced cushioning technology into a hiking-specific platform.

What convinced the jury:

Running-inspired SCF cushioning
The Supercritical Foam midsole improves energy return and reduces fatigue during long hiking days and has been proven to last 5–11× longer than conventional EVA midsoles.

Exceptional Durability
The durable Lightstone Low outsole offers approximately twice the lifespan of conventional EVA materials.

Lightweight stability
The shoe balances low weight with the support and durability required for demanding terrain.

Jury Statement:

A clear step forward for hiking footwear: the use of supercritical foam brings proven running technology into a new context. The SCF midsole combines energy return, long-lasting cushioning, and low weight, delivering efficient, consistent comfort on demanding multi-day trails.

Product Scoring:

European Outdoor Award Winner: Hanwag LIGHTSTONE LOW hanwag 1

The LIGHTSTONE LOW combines SCF-applied TPU technology with a hiking-specific construction focused on cushioning consistency, durability, and weight reduction. The physically foamed midsole structure delivers softness and rebound while maintaining structural stability during extended use. Combined with durable suede leather and breathable textile materials, the shoe integrates comfort, moisture management, and long-lasting performance into a balanced hiking platform.

Degree of innovation66%

Product Specifications:

  • Category: Technical low-cut hiking shoe
  • Midsole Technology: Super Critical Foaming (SCF)
  • Material: Suede leather and breathable textiles
  • Retail Price: €220
  • Colors:
    • Anthracite/Black
    • Anthracite/Cinnamon
    • Olive/Olive
    • Warm Grey/Electric Blue

Design & Materials

The LIGHTSTONE LOW combines suede leather with breathable textile materials to balance durability, comfort, and climate regulation. The upper construction is designed to support long-lasting use while maintaining airflow and moisture management inside the shoe.

Its SCF-applied TPU midsole components form the technological core of the product. The material combines structural stability with cushioning and high rebound characteristics.

Intended Use

The Hanwag LIGHTSTONE LOW is designed for multi-day hiking and extended trekking use. Its combination of responsive cushioning, breathable materials, and durable construction supports long-distance comfort across varied terrain. The shoe is intended for hikers seeking lightweight performance together with lasting cushioning and reliable climate management during demanding outdoor use.

Ralf Kerkeling

Written by:

Ralf Kerkeling

Ralf Kerkeling is a freelance journalist and storyteller based in Cologne, Germany, specializing in sport, outdoor, and sustainability topics. He began his journalism career after working in the music and TV industries, and today produces well‑researched content for B2B and B2C print and online media, companies, and editorial projects. Kerkeling has served as editor‑in‑chief for titles such as sportFACHHANDEL and aktivLaufen/Leichtathletik, and writes about circular economy, sustainability, and outdoor trends. He is also a podcast host for shows like Made in Green and Green Vision and regularly moderates panels and conferences in the sports and outdoor sector.

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