I was in the market for light hiking boots too. I just bought my first pair of Merrells. I got the Mesa Ventilator II, low tops. I got them at Sportsman's Warehouse. They were $74.99 and I had a $10 of coupon for any purchase over $50. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

They look and feel good. I like the mesh. Here in the desert I'll take all the ventilation I can get. They are nice and light. Time will tell how well they work on the trails.