Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot Review

My Real Take on the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s is a classic, budget-friendly hiking boot from Columbia, designed for those seeking a reliable and waterproof option without breaking the bank. It’s a best-seller for a reason, promising a blend of traditional mountaineering style with modern comfort technologies.

I’ve spent years advising customers on outdoor footwear, and I’ve seen firsthand how crucial a good pair of boots can be. My main need was to find a durable, waterproof boot that wouldn’t punish my feet on long day hikes.

Unboxing the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s, I was initially impressed by the classic hiking boot aesthetic and reassuring weight. The materials seemed decent for the price point, though the build quality appeared more functional than premium.

I considered the Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof and Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, both popular choices in this category. I chose the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s primarily due to its lower price point and Columbia’s established reputation for waterproof gear.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While these boots didn’t scream high-end quality, they looked like they could handle some serious miles without issue.

Real-World Testing: Putting Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s was a 10-mile hike in the Appalachian Mountains. The trail was a mix of rocky terrain, muddy sections, and stream crossings, providing an ideal testing ground.

The boots performed reasonably well in the varied conditions. They maintained dryness through the stream crossings and provided adequate traction on the rocks and mud thanks to the Omni-Grip outsole.

It took a little while to adjust to the stiffness of the boots and break them in adequately. I also noticed slight rubbing on my heel towards the end of the hike.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including a backpacking trip in the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s held up better than expected. The PU-coated leather and mesh upper showed some scuffing, but no major damage.

The Omni-Grip outsole is showing noticeable wear, but still provides adequate grip. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a brush and some water, though I did apply leather conditioner occasionally to maintain the upper.

Compared to my previous higher-end hiking boots, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s doesn’t offer the same level of comfort or support. However, for the price, they have proven to be a reliable and waterproof option.

Breaking Down the Features of Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Columbia.
• Gender: Male.
• Footwear Type: Boots.
• Footwear Upper Fabric/Material: PU coated leather, suede, mesh upper.
• Midsole Material: Techlite.
• Outsole Material: Omni-Grip.
• Age Group: Adults.
• Men’s Shoe Width: Regular.
• Water Resistance Level: Waterproof.

These specifications contribute to the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s’s overall performance by offering a balance of water resistance, cushioning, and traction. The waterproof construction keeps feet dry, the Techlite midsole provides cushioning, and the Omni-Grip outsole enhances stability on varied terrains.

Performance & Functionality

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s performs its intended job as a waterproof hiking boot reasonably well. It offers decent protection from the elements and provides adequate support for moderate trails.

The boots are strong in providing waterproof protection and decent traction on most surfaces, however they are weaker in providing premium comfort and long-term durability on more rugged terrains. The boots meet expectations for its price point, but it’s not a high-performance boot.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price, using a combination of PU-coated leather, suede, and mesh. They are relatively lightweight for a hiking boot, but not as light as more modern trail runners.

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s requires a short break-in period. Once broken in, they are reasonably comfortable for day hikes.

Durability & Maintenance

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s is expected to last for several seasons of moderate use. With proper care, they can provide reliable service for weekend hikers and occasional adventurers.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring basic cleaning and occasional leather conditioning. Major repairs may not be cost-effective due to the boot’s entry-level price point.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s doesn’t come with a lot of accessories. However, they are compatible with various aftermarket insoles for enhanced comfort.

You can also replace the laces for a more personalized fit and style. The Omni-Grip outsole is a key feature, providing reliable traction in various conditions.

Pros and Cons of Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s

Who Should Buy Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s?

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s is perfect for: casual hikers, weekend adventurers, and anyone needing a reliable, waterproof boot on a budget. This is the perfect boot for someone just getting into hiking and backpacking.

Who should skip this product? Serious hikers tackling challenging terrain, long-distance backpackers, or anyone prioritizing premium comfort and durability should probably consider a more high-end boot.

A must-have accessory is a good pair of hiking socks to improve comfort and reduce blisters. Consider aftermarket insoles for added arch support and cushioning.

Conclusion on Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s is a solid, budget-friendly option for hikers seeking reliable waterproof performance and decent comfort for day trips. While it may not offer the same level of durability or premium features as higher-end boots, it provides excellent value for the price.

The price is certainly justified for what you get. For around $100, you are getting a waterproof boot that can handle moderate trails and keep your feet dry.

I would personally recommend the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot – Men’s to anyone starting out. If you want a good quality boot without breaking the bank, look no further!