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10 Best Columbia Hiking Shoes 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Shoe, Charcoal, Scorched Coral, 12

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,457
Fit and Comfort
Material
Waterproofing

Most important from
26025 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfort is impressive right out of the box, with a true-to-size fit that accommodates wide feet and thick socks without feeling tight.
Material
The boots combine sturdy durability with a surprisingly lightweight feel, making them practical for both hiking and everyday wear.
Waterproofing
The waterproof feature performs reliably even when exposed to unexpected water spills, keeping feet dry in wet conditions.
Traction
Traction excels on slippery surfaces like snow and ice, thanks to the Omni-Grip rubber sole with multi-terrain tread patterns.
Support and Stability
Exceptional ankle support makes these boots ideal for those prone to sprains, providing stability and confidence on uneven terrain.
Weight
The boots combine sturdy durability with a surprisingly lightweight feel, making them practical for both hiking and everyday wear.
Breathability
Some users find the boots a bit hot in summer, indicating breathability could be improved for warmer conditions.

The Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for women seeking a reliable, waterproof hiking boot. It features a combination of full-grain leather and mesh, which offers a good balance of durability and breathability—important for comfort during long hikes. The shoe’s waterproof design helps keep your feet dry in wet conditions, and the ankle-high build provides additional support and stability on uneven terrain.

The lightweight midsole ensures cushioning and energy return, making walks less tiring. Traction is a key strength here: the Omni-Grip rubber sole uses a multi-terrain tread pattern especially effective on slippery surfaces like ice and snow, which is great for varied trail conditions. The lace-up design allows for a customizable, secure fit.

It is important to note that although the shoe is described as lightweight, hiking boots with leather tend to be heavier than trail runners, which might be noticeable on longer treks. Also, while mesh panels improve breathability, some users with very warm feet might find it less ventilated than fully synthetic options. This boot is best suited for casual to moderate hiking rather than ultra-light or high-performance mountain trekking. Its style and durable build make it a practical and comfortable pick for outdoor enthusiasts who want dependable waterproof footwear with good traction and decent support.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,457
Fit and Comfort
Material
Waterproofing

Most important from
26025 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfort is impressive right out of the box, with a true-to-size fit that accommodates wide feet and thick socks without feeling tight.
Material
The boots combine sturdy durability with a surprisingly lightweight feel, making them practical for both hiking and everyday wear.
Waterproofing
The waterproof feature performs reliably even when exposed to unexpected water spills, keeping feet dry in wet conditions.
Traction
Traction excels on slippery surfaces like snow and ice, thanks to the Omni-Grip rubber sole with multi-terrain tread patterns.
Support and Stability
Exceptional ankle support makes these boots ideal for those prone to sprains, providing stability and confidence on uneven terrain.
Weight
The boots combine sturdy durability with a surprisingly lightweight feel, making them practical for both hiking and everyday wear.
Breathability
Some users find the boots a bit hot in summer, indicating breathability could be improved for warmer conditions.
#2

Columbia Mens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot, Black/Mountain Red, 9.5

Rating
9.1
Fit and Comfort
Material
Waterproofing

Most important from
1616 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfortable right out of the box with a true-to-size fit makes these boots ready for immediate use.
Material
Lightweight yet durable construction ensures the boots hold up well under daily outdoor use without showing wear.
Waterproofing
Effective waterproofing keeps feet dry while maintaining breathability for all-day comfort.
Traction
Sturdy build with solid traction provides confidence and stability across various terrains.

The Columbia Mens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed for hikers who want reliable protection and comfort on various trails. It features Columbia’s OMNI-TECH waterproofing, which keeps your feet dry even in moderate rain or snow while allowing breathability to prevent overheating. The TECHLITE midsole offers good cushioning and absorbs impact well, making walks on uneven ground less tiring. Columbia’s OMNI-GRIP sole provides solid traction across different terrains, including rocks and dirt, helping you stay stable in both wet and dry conditions.

The shoe is made with durable leather and mesh, and includes metal hardware and a cushioned collar for added comfort and support around the ankle. Its ankle height offers decent stability without restricting movement. While the shoe balances protection and breathability, the leather material and waterproof layers may make it a bit warmer in hot weather. The build is sturdy and meant to last through multiple seasons, though it may feel slightly heavier compared to ultra-light hiking shoes.

This boot is a strong choice for casual to moderate hikers who prioritize waterproofing, good grip, and comfort for day hikes or unpredictable weather.

Rating
9.1
Fit and Comfort
Material
Waterproofing

Most important from
1616 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfortable right out of the box with a true-to-size fit makes these boots ready for immediate use.
Material
Lightweight yet durable construction ensures the boots hold up well under daily outdoor use without showing wear.
Waterproofing
Effective waterproofing keeps feet dry while maintaining breathability for all-day comfort.
Traction
Sturdy build with solid traction provides confidence and stability across various terrains.
#3

Columbia Mens Crestwood Hiking Shoe, Shark, Columbia Grey, 11.5 US

Rating
8.5
Fit and Comfort
Weight
Traction

Most important from
12149 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The shoe fits perfectly, especially for wider feet, offering superb comfort on hikes.
Weight
It strikes an ideal balance between being lightweight and providing solid grip and toe protection.
Traction
The tread is impressively durable and grippy while remaining light enough for extended wear.
Support and Stability
The toe guard effectively protects against stubbing on rocks and roots, enhancing trail confidence.
Waterproofing
It provides reliable warmth and waterproofing for varied conditions, making it suitable for everyday trail use.
Other
The shoe delivers excellent value, costing significantly less than comparable high-end models without compromising quality.

The Columbia Men's Crestwood Hiking Shoe is designed as a versatile, all-purpose shoe suitable for casual hikers who want a comfortable and reliable option. It features a low-top design with a suede leather upper combined with mesh and webbing, offering a good balance between durability and breathability. The leather helps with protection and durability, while mesh adds some airflow to keep your feet comfortable during long walks.

The shoe includes Columbia's TechLite midsole, which is known for providing solid cushioning and energy return, so you can expect decent comfort for all-day wear. In terms of traction, the Omni-Grip rubber outsole is non-marking and provides reliable grip on various surfaces, though it’s geared more toward light to moderate trails rather than extreme off-road conditions. The shoe's lightweight construction makes it easy to wear for extended periods without feeling bulky.

The Crestwood is a solid option if you’re after a comfortable, durable hiking shoe for everyday trail use and moderate hikes, but for heavy-duty hiking or wet conditions, you might want to explore models with added waterproofing and ankle support.

Rating
8.5
Fit and Comfort
Weight
Traction

Most important from
12149 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The shoe fits perfectly, especially for wider feet, offering superb comfort on hikes.
Weight
It strikes an ideal balance between being lightweight and providing solid grip and toe protection.
Traction
The tread is impressively durable and grippy while remaining light enough for extended wear.
Support and Stability
The toe guard effectively protects against stubbing on rocks and roots, enhancing trail confidence.
Waterproofing
It provides reliable warmth and waterproofing for varied conditions, making it suitable for everyday trail use.
Other
The shoe delivers excellent value, costing significantly less than comparable high-end models without compromising quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Columbia Hiking Shoes

Choosing the right hiking shoes is crucial for a comfortable and safe hiking experience. The right pair of shoes can make a significant difference in your performance and enjoyment on the trail. When selecting hiking shoes, consider the terrain you'll be hiking on, the duration of your hikes, and your personal comfort preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking the best hiking shoes for you.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are paramount when choosing hiking shoes. A good fit ensures that your feet are well-supported and reduces the risk of blisters and other foot injuries. Hiking shoes should fit snugly around your heel and midfoot, with enough room to wiggle your toes. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, and wear the socks you plan to hike in to ensure the best fit.
Type of Hiking ShoeThere are different types of hiking shoes, including lightweight hiking shoes, mid-weight hiking boots, and heavy-duty backpacking boots. Lightweight hiking shoes are ideal for day hikes and well-maintained trails. Mid-weight hiking boots offer more support and are suitable for longer hikes and rougher terrain. Heavy-duty backpacking boots provide maximum support and durability for multi-day hikes and carrying heavy loads. Choose the type that matches your hiking needs and the terrain you will be exploring.
MaterialThe material of the hiking shoe affects its weight, breathability, and water resistance. Common materials include leather, synthetic, and mesh. Leather is durable and offers good water resistance but can be heavier. Synthetic materials are lighter and dry faster but may not be as durable. Mesh panels enhance breathability, making them ideal for hot weather. Consider the climate and conditions you'll be hiking in to choose the right material.
WaterproofingWaterproof hiking shoes are essential if you plan to hike in wet conditions or cross streams. Waterproof membranes, such as Gore-Tex, keep your feet dry but can reduce breathability. Non-waterproof shoes are more breathable and suitable for dry conditions. If you hike in varying conditions, consider shoes with removable waterproof liners.
TractionTraction is crucial for maintaining stability on different terrains. The outsole of the hiking shoe should have deep lugs for grip on muddy or loose surfaces. Vibram soles are known for their excellent traction. Consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on and choose shoes with appropriate tread patterns to ensure a secure grip.
Support and StabilitySupport and stability are important to prevent injuries and provide comfort on uneven terrain. Look for shoes with good arch support and a firm midsole. High-cut boots offer more ankle support, which is beneficial for rough terrain and carrying heavy loads. Low-cut shoes are lighter and more flexible, suitable for well-maintained trails. Choose the level of support based on the terrain and the weight of your backpack.
WeightThe weight of the hiking shoe can affect your energy levels and comfort. Lighter shoes are less tiring and more comfortable for long distances, but they may offer less support and durability. Heavier shoes provide more support and protection but can be more tiring. Consider the length and difficulty of your hikes to determine the right balance between weight and support.
BreathabilityBreathability is important to keep your feet cool and dry, especially in hot weather. Shoes with mesh panels or made from breathable materials allow better airflow. However, highly breathable shoes may not be as water-resistant. If you hike in hot and dry conditions, prioritize breathability. For wet or cold conditions, balance breathability with water resistance.

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