Hoppy and Light: The Best Summer IPAs Under 150 Calories

There’s something magical about a summer BBQ. The smoke, the lawn chairs, that one guy who always brings way too much potato salad. But nothing ties it all together like a good IPA. Cold, crisp, and hoppy enough to make you say “ahh” out loud. The only problem is a lot of those juicy craft bombs come with enough calories to qualify as a side dish.

But don’t sweat it. You can have your hops and keep it light. There’s a growing crew of IPAs out there that bring the flavor without the calorie count of a corn dog. And they’re perfect for hot days, backyard games, and that fourth brat you definitely didn’t plan on eating.

Here are some MVPs of the light IPA scene, all under 150 calories:

Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty – 95 calories

This one changed the game. It’s a real IPA, not a watered-down imposter. Brewed with monk fruit for sweetness, it’s got tropical vibes without the sugar crash. And yeah, it’s only 95 calories. That’s like two pickle chips.

Lagunitas DayTime – 98 calories

Hoppy, a little piney, and surprisingly full-bodied for something that feels like beer’s version of a refreshing slap to the face. It’s the kind of beer that makes you feel like you’re being healthy even if you’re double-fisting ribs.

Deschutes Wowza! – 100 calories

Low calories, low carb, but not low taste. A little citrusy, a little dry, and very BBQ-friendly. Also fun to yell “WOWZA” while holding one. Bonus points if you do it mid-cornhole game.

Sierra Nevada Trail Pass IPA – 95 calories

Trail pass? Please. This is for porch sitting and grilled corn. Still, it’s got that signature Sierra Nevada hop character, but in a way that won’t make you feel like you need a nap by 2 p.m.

Harpoon Rec. League – 120 calories

Technically a hoppy wheat beer, but it scratches the same itch. Brewed with chia seeds and sea salt because apparently we’re healthy now. Whatever. It tastes good and goes great with grilled chicken, so we’re rolling with it.

Now look, you’re not gonna confuse these with a triple dry-hopped, 10% ABV flavor grenade. But that’s not what summer’s about. It’s about sipping cold ones that don’t weigh you down while you dominate the grill or chase someone’s rogue frisbee.

So next time you’re prepping the cooler, grab something hoppy and light. Your taste buds and your waistband will thank you.

Here’s to beers that play nice with sunshine and seconds.

Cheers.