Hi 
I’m hoping to get some recommendations on some hiking boots. For context, I absolutely hate big, heavy, chunky shoes/boots. I cannot wear them. I am currently hiking in lightweight canvas Doc Martens. I’ve done Mount Baldy in them, Eastern Sierras, Yosemite, Zion, etc., and I’ve never had any issues; they’re super comfortable to me but I’m slightly embarrassed as everyone tells me to get proper boots and I get laughed at on trails 
so any suggestions would be great 
Don’t buy boots because others think you need them.
Trail running shoes are pretty much the more comfortable, valid option for most hiking needs. Well fitting trail runners would probably give you more grip than your current shoes, while still feeling light and nimble.
Some still prefer boots instead, but I wouldn’t go for them. Trail runners line up with your preference better, based on your short post.
The other caveat is true mountaineering boots for high elevation mountaineering, but we’re not talking about that stuff here, clearly.
@Aven
I much prefer a boot over a shoe, however, everything is just so big and bulky and heavy and ugly. I have a pair of Merrill trail runners though, I guess I could transition to those but they’re ugly too 
@Eli
There are trail runner type shoes in the shape of a boot these days. For example, Salomon X Ultra 360, Adidas Terrex AX4 Mid, Hoka Trail Code. They are much lighter than your standard mountain boot.
@Eli
Yeah, I hear you.
I think just keep rocking what you like and what works for you is just fine, definitely.
If you’re curious about getting ‘proper hiking footwear,’ then there are basically two main categories to look into: ‘proper’ boots, and trail runners. Out of these, trail runners line up with your preferences much better.
Some companies make high top versions of these shoes, and they might be an option for you.
Biggest improvement you might notice is the grip. Dry times should also improve, unless you go for a water-resistant model. It’s up to you if that’s worth it for you. Trying out a bunch of options at a shop is free, but I wouldn’t buy anything just because others think you might need it.
@Eli
lol, if you’re looking for a boot that has the attributes of a shoe maybe you’re actually looking for a shoe? But maybe you should look into Altra Lone Peak high tops.
@Eli
Trail runners are the way to go. Go to an REI and have them help you; they are experts! You can try on a bunch of different shoe options and they even have a little boulder/rock type thing to climb on to see how they feel.
@Aven
The thing with shoes is lack of ankle support, especially when hauling a pack over rocky ground. If you roll an ankle, then what? That said, high cuff boots may not catch you 100% of the time either, I guess.
Go to a knowledgeable store (REI?) and discuss your needs.
I also hate big boots and went with a low-cut pair from Oboz. They have a great tread and solid support for my (apparently) weak feet. I also tend to carry more stuff than a UL hiker would. 
Trail runners are great for strong feet/lighter loads.
BTW, which Mt. Baldy did you do? They exist everywhere and multiple times in a single state, too. LOL
@Hadley
And after you discuss your needs, try on every single boot they have. Build in the time to do this because it’s worth it. Fit is everything. You might be surprised to find a good fit from a brand you wouldn’t normally consider.
@Hadley
I had no idea about Baldy, I’m in Southern California
@Hadley
I think it’s considered Cucamonga Wilderness
Eli said:
@Hadley
I think it’s considered Cucamonga Wilderness
Mt Baldy is the nickname, it’s actually Mt. San Antonio. I have done it several times in trail runners. No issues. I would recommend non-waterproof trail runners if that’s local to you.
Wear what feels right for you.
Daryn said:
Wear what feels right for you.
YES!
Altra trail runners
Honestly, you don’t need to listen to what anyone says regarding what you should wear, whether it’s people telling you that you need boots or people telling you to ditch boots and get trail runners.
Go with what’s most comfortable to you; that is by far the most important thing. The second most important thing, though, is grip. If you’re doing hiking with high incline, loose soil, or generally hazardous terrain, I do consider the grip your footwear has to be an extremely important aspect. To me, those are my two main considerations.
Both comfort and grip are important to your safety. Grip for the immediate threat (falling) and comfort because wearing uncomfortable footwear long term absolutely can cause serious damage to your feet.
Whether the shoes that meet these qualifications are ‘real boots’ or whatever doesn’t matter. But to answer your question, maybe look into a company that does boots made with synthetic uppers vs. leather if you’re looking to avoid the chunk. Lots of companies make them; I can’t tell you which to get, but I definitely see them for sale.
@Marcell
Docs it is 
If what you have and currently use is working for you and comfortable, don’t listen to anyone else. Just keep doing what you’re doing. If it ain’t broke, and all that…
Franklin said:
If what you have and currently use is working for you and comfortable, don’t listen to anyone else. Just keep doing what you’re doing. If it ain’t broke, and all that…
VALID, I’m going with this