Is Columbia A Good Brand For Shoes?

Last Update:
Is Columbia a Good Brand for Shoes

Is Columbia a Good Brand for Shoes? If you are a fitness enthusiast and you’ve heard that you need to get yourself Columbia water shoes, yes, the recommendation is spot on however, the real question: is Columbia a good brand for shoes?

Your shoes get to endure most of the wear and tear for the day. If you happen to buy the wrong shoe, you will inevitably unwind the day with a few excruciating blisters, aching feet, an unwanted morning with the same struggles, and the cycle continues.

This is where the importance of familiarizing yourself with the brand comes in.

Regardless of what the marketing says, the reputation of a brand gives it all. You might be thinking about Nike, Reebok, or Adidas because they are the top brands for hiking or running shoes.

Here are my two cents: While all the above-mentioned brands have a good reputation, they lack certain features that you should look for, especially if you are looking for specs like water and weatherproof protection and stability and traction.

Columbia 1

You will be surprised to learn that Columbia is, in fact, one of the top brands that offer amazing waterproof shoes in competition with brands like The North Face, Timberland, and Vessi.

Therefore, after days of research and testing, here I’ve curated a guide that answers your question: Is Columbia a good brand for shoes in the most honest way possible.

So, here we go!

Popular Columbia Men Shoes

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Columbia Men's Redmond III Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Columbia Men's Redmond III Waterproof Hiking Shoe

  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: The Redmond III Waterproof Hiking Shoe features our Omni-Tech membrane bootie with seam-sealed construction. It combines with our Techlite lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return
  • DURABLE HIKING SHOE: The perfect combination of high function and performance designed into a hiking shoe. This all-purpose hiker will deliver nimble multi-terrain performance
  • ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our signature Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber outsole provides sure-footed grip across a wide variety of trails and surfaces, and yet safe and scuff-free indoors
  • BUILT FOR COMFORT: Synthetic leather overlays provide protection through a mesh and suede upper that provides exceptional fit and enhanced support, while a gusseted tongue helps to keep dust and debris out
  • REINFORCED CONSTRUCTION: Designed for wet travel, we’ve reinforced the toe and heel barriers, and extended the outsole and added a toe overwrap to guard these key wear points, while rugged top metal lacing eyelets secure the fit
Check Price
Columbia Mens Bahama Vent PFG Boat Shoe

Columbia Mens Bahama Vent PFG Boat Shoe

  • OMNI-SHIELD: Go ahead, try and get dirty. Omni-Shield helps you stay clean and dry by resisting the absorption of liquids. Unlike most fabrics that absorb moisture, Omni-Shield repels moisture and dries quickly—avoiding stains and keeping you clean
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Our PFG Bahama Vent Boat Shoes feature breathable construction, a lightweight and durable midsole for long lasting comfort, and our advanced traction rubber sole for slip-free movement on wet ground
  • VERSATILE STYLE: A lightweight and vented casual style shoe designed for great traction on the boat deck or land
  • WET SURFACE GRIP: Our signature Omni-Grip non-marking wet traction outsole with razor siping provides high power grip across a wide variety of slippery wet surfaces
  • STAIN RESISTANT: Combining a canvas and leather upper, with our Blood 'n Guts water and stain resistant treatment, that delivers long-lasting top-side wear. The Techlite vented midsole provides superior cushion, and high energy return for all day comfort
Check Price
Columbia Men's Summertide

Columbia Men's Summertide

  • CASUAL STYLE: A casual water shoe that tells a sustainability story and is functional enough for any kind of summer activity, you’ll love the Columbia Men’s Summertide shoe
  • SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS: Made with sustainable materials and construction methods, the upper includes recycled materials and eco-friendly practices — a neoprene collar with mesh bootie for comfort and fit, and synthetic overlays for durability
  • MIDSOLE COMFORT: OUR Bloom Foam midsole with discreet vents for airflow offers all-day comfort your feet will appreciate
  • WET SURFACE GRIP: Our signature Omni-Grip non-marking outsole is made from recycled content rubber with an optimal wet surface tread pattern
  • BUILT TO LAST: Columbia’s attention to detail is what sets our apparel apart from others We use only the highest quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and durable stitching This is long-lasting footwear you're sure to enjoy for seasons to come
Check Price
Columbia Men's Flow District sneaker

Columbia Men's Flow District sneaker

  • INSPIRED DESIGN: Inspired by the Iconic Columbia Flow Sportswear apparel, the Flow District provides lightweight versatility with classic styling
  • NIMBLE PERFORMANCE: High function and wide ranging capabilities are designed into this agile shoe, built to deliver nimble response wherever you go
  • ADAPTIVE TERRAIN RESPONSE: Our TechLite lightweight midsole offers long lasting support, superior cushioning, and high energy return for all day performance
  • TRAIL READY / INDOOR SAFE: Our signature Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber outsole provides versatility; from trail, to pavement, to indoor use – without worrying floor scuffs
  • BUILT TO LAST: Columbia’s attention to detail is what sets our footwear apart from others. We use only the highest quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and durable stitching. This is an excellent pair of shoes you will enjoy for seasons to come
Check Price
Columbia Men's Tamiami PFG

Columbia Men's Tamiami PFG

  • OMNI-SHIELD: Go ahead, try and get dirty. Omni-Shield helps you stay clean and dry by resisting the absorption of liquids. Unlike most fabrics that absorb moisture, Omni-Shield repels moisture and dries quickly—avoiding stains and keeping you clean
  • MADE TO FISH: For the modern PFG enthusiast who wants a shoe that pairs well with our Slack Tide shirts and fits their everyday style, the Men’s PFG Tamiami Shoes are just the ticket
  • VERSATILE STYLE: This men's stain resistant boat-shoe delivers style and durability with subtle contrasts of treated mesh and synthetic overlays
  • ADJUSTABLE FIT – SECURE GRIP: This shoe features a lace-up closure for a dialed-in fit, while the Omni-GRIP outsole matches specially formulated non-marking compounds and a tread designed with razor siping for maximum wet deck-side traction
  • ALL-AROUND PERFORMANCE: Infused with our Techlite lightweight midsole for long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return, and includes midsole ports for air ventilation and cooling
Check Price

Popular Columbia Women Shoes

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Columbia Montrail Women's COLUMBIA MONTRAIL

Columbia Montrail Women's COLUMBIA MONTRAIL

  • ADAPTIVE TERRAIN RESPONSE: Utilizing Mid-density EVA with our integrated TrailSHIELD protection plate, and layered on top of soft, reactive TPU foam that absorbs uneven terrain while keeping your foot stable.
  • COMFORT MEETS FUNCTION: With the same fit as our original Caldorado, this new iteration is a more responsive trail runner offering the perfect blend of traction, support and breathability.
  • STABLE FOOTING: The Montrail F.K.T. couples an external TPU heel counter to lock you into our new tri- density Trail Reaction System for secure comfort across a wide range of terrain.
  • PERFORMANCE OUTSOLE: The full length rubber outsole is designed with directional lugs for durability and maximum traction on the trail. 4mm lug height provides for great running across gravel, over rocks, in the dirt, and on the street.
  • SOCK LIKE FIT: Created for ultimate cool wearing comfort, these lightweight shoes incorporate a seamless textile upper with welded overlays for durability, its power-mesh sock fit and secondary lace cage forms unparalleled fit and support.
Check Price
Montrail F.K.T. Performance Trail Running Shoes

Montrail F.K.T. Performance Trail Running Shoes

  • ADAPTIVE TERRAIN RESPONSE: Utilizing Mid-density EVA with our integrated TrailSHIELD protection plate, and layered on top of soft, reactive TPU foam that absorbs uneven terrain while keeping your foot stable.
  • COMFORT MEETS FUNCTION: With the same fit as our original Caldorado, this new iteration is a more responsive trail runner offering the perfect blend of traction, support and breathability.
  • STABLE FOOTING: The Montrail F. K. T. couples an external TPU heel counter to lock you into our new tri- density Trail Reaction System for secure comfort across a wide range of terrain.
  • PERFORMANCE OUTSOLE: The full length rubber outsole is designed with directional lugs for durability and maximum traction on the trail. 4mm lug height provides for great running across gravel, over rocks, in the dirt, and on the street.
  • SOCK LIKE FIT: Created for ultimate cool wearing comfort, these lightweight shoes incorporate a seamless textile upper with welded overlays for durability, its power-mesh sock fit and secondary lace cage forms unparalleled fit and support.
Check Price
Columbia Women's Vent Aero

Columbia Women's Vent Aero

  • COMFORT MEETS FUNCTION: Born in performance, designed for the street. Delivering superior breathability, all surface traction, and sock like fit for comfort in all conditions
  • NIMBLE PERFORMANCE: High function and wide ranging capabilities are designed into this agile shoe, built to deliver nimble response wherever you go
  • ADAPTIVE TERRAIN RESPONSE: Our TechLite lightweight midsole offers long lasting support, superior cushioning, and high energy return, with midsole ports for improved air ventilation and cooling
  • STREET READY / INDOOR SAFE: Our signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides versatility – for pavement-ready use, without worrying scuffs during indoor use
  • BUILT TO LAST: Columbia’s attention to detail is what sets our footwear apart from others. We use only the highest quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and durable stitching. This is an excellent pair of shoes you will enjoy for seasons to come
Check Price
Columbia Women's Facet 15

Columbia Women's Facet 15

  • Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber
  • Ballistic textile upper with welded overlays
  • HGS heel stabilizing system for optimal performance on the trail
  • Techlite+ delivers responsive cushioning and stability, without sacrificing comfort.
Check Price
Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus

  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot features our lightweight, durable midsole for long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return as well as an advanced traction rubber sole for slip-free movement on rough ground.
  • HANDY FEATURES: Treacherous days out on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this boot's waterproof full-grain leather and mesh bootie construction and its durable mesh tongue for breathability.
  • ADJUSTABLE FEATURES: The Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot features a lace-up closure for an adjustable, secure fit.
  • FEMININE STYLE: This women's waterproof hiking boot delivers style and durability with its contrasting color combinations and soft mesh exterior.
  • OMNI-GRIP: This multi-terrain traction system matches specially formulated compounds and treads to specific environments. A dual-zone winter tread pattern ensures solid footing on surfaces such as ice and snow.
Check Price

What Are Columbia Shoes?

Columbia shoes offer advanced features at affordable prices, which gives them a competitive edge over the rest. Among the sea of premium brands, you get to see Columbia shining through its way and making sure you are amping up your performance while being under your budget.

They are widely amiable on and off the web, making it easy to buy and get them in just the right sizes you want.

About “Columbia” Brand

Portland, Oregon, Columbia Sportswear was founded in 1938 as one of the best outdoor apparel and footwear companies. They specialize in developing innovative and highly functional items that set the benchmark high in the market.

The brand reflects on the Pacific Northwest heritage and indomitable spirit, which helps countless customers resonate and become part of the Columbia overs. The main reason why its footwear is now a leading brand in the industry is that they offer out-of-the-box features, but they are pretty stylish.

That’s not it; the captivating history behind the brand and the undying zeal for adding value speaks volumes for Columbia and adds value to any ordinary sportswear brand.

It started as a small hat company by two German immigrants and remained a family-owned business run by Tim Boyle, the son of Gert Boyle, also the founder of Columbia.

This factor helps to add character, trust, and more weight or their motto, “It’s perfect, now make it better.”

What Are the Different Types of Columbia Shoes

If you think Columbia only specializes in one type of shoes, think again.

Columbia offers a wide range of shoes that center around a specific purpose to ensure you are equipped with just the features for your intensive foot movement. Here are some of the different types of Columbia shoes the brand offers.

Columbia Shoes 2

1. Hiking Shoes

The hiking shoes by Columbia are known for their Omni-Grip traction sole that helps you plant your feet firmly on the rough trails. Most of them are armed with ankle support that makes it effortless to carry out the extensive foot movement while you are having the life of your hiking.

They are also a bit stiffer than your regular running shoe to help you walk on rocky and wet surfaces. Another thing that gives Columbia a competitive edge over the rest is its lightweight and breathable material, making it easier to walk for hours on hiking.

2. Water Shoes

Buying water shoes is more critical than the rest. All fitness enthusiasts around the world have praised water shoes by Columbia. It is one of the comfier options as it’s high lightweight and comes with added traction and a stable outsole to help you get the ever-needed stability while working out in and out of water.

They have appreciated their grippy outsole and excellent quality, which set them apart from the rest.

The self-draining functionality can make sure you don’t add extra weight to your shoes to deteriorate your performance underwater. They also offer well-built ventilation for fast drying and making sure to keep your feet dry and healthy at all times.

However, the lack of arch support for people who suffer from foot pain means these water shoes may not be the best choice.

3. Winter Boots

Columbia offers a wide range of shoes, but their winter boots are the most specialized ones. They come with different amounts of insulation which come with different temperature ratings to suit your needs.

This helps you personalize your shoes for both men and women to protect you against the slippery snow and cold weather. Like the rest of the Columbia shoes, their winter shoes also feature their signature Omni-Grip to provide outstanding traction in icy conditions.

Benefits of Using Columbia Shoes

If you think that’s enough, wait until you find out what other benefits Columbia shoes offer its customers.

Columbia Shoes Benefits 1

Superb Protection

Without protection, considering the extensive foot movement, you expose yourself to unprecedented risks that can make it difficult to go through every day. They feature shock absorption and energy return to back you up every time you stumble upon an obstacle.

It also allows you to go beyond your comfort zone, challenge yourself in water and hiking activities, and ensure nothing comes between your passion and physical restrictions. The best part? It offers superb protection, all while giving you the ever-needed sleek and sporty look for city wear.

Omni Grip

Omni-Tech is one of the signature features of Columbia. This is what gives your shoes waterproof seam-sealed membrane bootie construction that helps you walk effortlessly in mud terrains like gravel, wet, rocky, and dirt surfaces.

The Omni grip is formulated in threads for cross terrain stability and grip, making it the best choice for your water aerobics and hiking.

Stability and Traction

If you are an adventurer, you must know how important stability is for smooth experiences. Where a rigid and stable shoe can save your life while walking on slippery and rocky surfaces, flimsy shoes can drive your focus away from your favorite activities or, worse, cause serious injuries which can have a lifetime impact.

With Columbia shoes, you get to maximize surface contact with multidirectional lugs while train running, fishing, and cold conditions. It is highly responsive on unpredictable terrain to equip you with any upcoming challenges that come your way.

They are engineered for an optimal balance of traction and durability to make sure they stay with you through thick and thin.

Perfect Blend of Style and Tech

Columbia exemplifies tech and elements of style. Designed to handle slippery surfaces, it makes your transition between your hiking looks to an afternoon coffee with your friends. The quick-drying feels comfy and light to wear and is completely stain-free to add to its long list of perks that make you easier than ever.

Columbia’s fishing-friendly Omni-Shield Blood n’ Guts treatment fluids can help you plant your feet ankle-deep in fish guts.

Waterproof

The durable waterproof shoes are built to give you the flexibility to do whatever, whenever. Therefore, Columbia is the go-to choice for anyone who likes to indulge in easy-to-wear shoes with waterproof material to help you cut.

Why Do People Recommend Columbia Shoes?

If you are new to Columbia, let me tell you that I’m not the only one praising this incredible brand. Columbia’s HUGE fan base is happy to talk about the long success stories of how Columbia elevated their outdoor activities.

According to Big Sky Fishing.com, if spending time wading through the deep snow is a pain, you can never go wrong with Columbia winter shoes armed with warm material and a durable outsole to make walking on snow a seamless journey for you.

That’s not it, another review posted by Outdoor Gear Lab  “This Columbia model [Columbia Redmond] does have a sunny side. It was one of the most breathable models reviewed. The manufacturer got their proprietary waterproof and breathable membrane right, which achieved both goals and helped keep costs down”.

In a nutshell, if advanced tech and stylish shoes that fit your pocket are what you prefer, Columbia takes the lead in offering unique features to help you stay ahead in your outdoor game.

What Does the Research Say?

Studies have shown that hiking shoes are engineered to protect you from harsh surfaces using a stiff rugged outsole. This also helps prevent your feet from stepping on sharp rocks that fiercely pierce through your shoes and cause serious damage to your feet.

Hiking boots also offer adequate ankle support that can be an excellent choice if you have a personal injury history. In fact, the higher the boot ankle, the better support it provides for quick twists and rotation of the ankle.

However, regardless of how much protection these shoes offer, they never guarantee a 100% injury-free journey with the boots. Therefore, along with shoes as supportive as Columbia, you also need to go the extra mile to ensure you are taking precautions to keep yourself secure at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

All in all, now that you are fully equipped with everything Columbia is and isn’t, I’m sure you must have hundreds of swarming questions in your mind right now. Here are the top burning questions answered regarding Columbia to help you make an educated decision.

Do Columbia shoes have good arch support?

Columbia shoes are armed with just the right arch support to help divert the pressure off your knees and spread across the entire foot to dilute it. Therefore, people who have arthritis are recommended to go for shoes with good arch to help them overcome any physical restriction they may have while carrying out their outdoor activities.
Best of all, it is important to have the perfect amount of arch support that isn’t too high nor too low to suit your needs, and this, Columbia understands.

Is Columbia a good brand for shoes?

If you are looking for hiking boots in the market, Columbia is recommended by over 11,000 Amazon customers who can’t get enough of its advanced features like lace-up closure, lightweight, and ankle support to provide a comfortable journey with your shoes. This isn’t just true for their boots; they also offer

Are Columbia boots comfortable?

Nothing can beat Columbia in its comfortable style that never fails to leave you feeling warm and comfy at the end of the day. They come in a range of sizes, so regardless of how wide or narrow your feet are. They feature a lightweight cushioned midsole, high breathability with a self-draining system for water shoes, and increased durability and sturdiness for hiking boots.

Are Columbia shoes waterproof?

Whether you are hitting waterpark, water aerobics, or going through slippery sidewalks, waterproof Columbia shoes are known for their heavy-duty performance and versatility that is great for walking and carrying out your regular workouts.

One of the best things that helps the brand set it apart is its fashionable aesthetics and practicality, making it easier to transition between swimming pools, trails, and regular walks. My years of experience with the brand can certainly vouch for that.

Conclusion

The reason why you spent some solid minutes reading Columbia’s review is because of its increased support and high adaptability that can tackle any challenge you may have with your feet.

They hug your feet just right and come with excellent mid-foot support and structure to do some trial and aqua workouts without changing your shoes whatsoever.

All in all, if I have to sum up the image of Columbia in a few words, it is one footwear brand that you have been longing to break through all the barriers you have to indulge in your favorite outdoor adventures, all while making sure it fits your pocket just right.

Photo of author
AUTHOR
Under training to become your personal trainer of choice. If Nelson is not busy producing awesome content to improve your mental, physical health and wellbeing, he’s probably sweating it out at the gym or watching Arsenal break hearts. A salesman and digital marketer , an avid reader, plays tennis and adventurous. He’s a disciple of self-development and follows everything fitness religiously.