Columbia Crestwood Review

planning to take on more challenging terrains, they might not be the best option.

Our Verdict

The Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes stand out as a reliable and budget-friendly option for beginner hikers or those who enjoy light to moderate trails. With a balance of comfort, support, and a reasonable price, they are perfect for those who aren’t quite ready to invest in premium hiking boots but still want a dependable shoe for everyday outdoor activities. Though they are not the most durable or water-resistant shoes available, the Crestwood excels in comfort and traction on dry, moderate terrain. If you’re a beginner or occasional hiker looking for a practical and affordable solution, these shoes offer great value for your money.

Our Analysis and Test Results

We put the Columbia Crestwood shoes to the test on various types of terrain, including dirt paths, gravel trails, and a few wet sections of the trail. The shoes performed impressively on dry, stable surfaces where traction was crucial. However, when we encountered wet or muddy areas, the shoes began to slide and lost their grip. The lack of full waterproofing also became an issue when walking through streams and puddles, as the mesh upper allowed moisture to seep through.

On the plus side, the shoes were very comfortable and responsive during our test hikes. The midsole cushioning provided adequate support, and we experienced little foot fatigue even after several hours of hiking. The shoes are definitely intended for light to moderate trails, but if you’re planning to take on more challenging terrains, they might not be the best option.

Comfort

One of the Columbia Crestwood’s strongest attributes is its comfort. The lightweight construction and responsive midsole cushioning provide all-day comfort, even on extended hikes. The breathable mesh upper prevents overheating, and the insole is soft yet supportive. We found that our feet didn’t get sore or fatigued, even after several hours of use. For beginners or casual hikers, this shoe offers the ideal balance of comfort without sacrificing performance on lighter trails.

Responsiveness

The Crestwood shoes offer a good level of responsiveness. The midsole cushioning absorbs impact well, helping to reduce foot strain on rocky or uneven ground. While they’re not as responsive as premium models from brands like Hoka or Salomon, the cushioning is adequate for light-to-moderate hiking, and we didn’t feel any discomfort or lack of flexibility on gentle terrain.

Support

While the Crestwood shoes provide decent arch support and a light amount of ankle support, they aren’t as supportive as higher-cut hiking boots or models designed for more challenging conditions. If you’re hiking on smoother trails, they’ll work fine, but if you’re tackling steep or rocky terrain, you may want to consider boots with more ankle coverage and sturdier construction.

Traction

The traction on the Crestwood is good for dry and rocky trails, thanks to its rubber outsole with a multi-directional tread pattern. However, we found that the traction doesn’t perform as well on wet or muddy surfaces, where the tread struggles to maintain grip. If you’re primarily hiking in dry conditions, the Crestwood offers reliable traction, but if you expect to hike in more challenging, slippery conditions, you might want to look at models with more aggressive tread patterns like the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX or Merrell Moab 3.

Stability

The shoes provide a stable and secure feel on moderate terrain, but due to their low-profile design, they don’t offer as much stability as high-top hiking boots. This makes them great for trails that aren’t too rugged or uneven, but not ideal for hikes that involve large rocks, steep inclines, or unstable surfaces.

Water Resistance

The Columbia Crestwood is water-resistant but not fully waterproof. The mesh upper allows moisture to seep through when walking in wet conditions, so it’s not the best option for hiking through streams or wet, rainy environments. However, for dry conditions or light rain, the water resistance should suffice.

Weight

The lightweight design of the Columbia Crestwood is one of its standout features. At just 12.7 ounces per shoe, it’s easy on the feet and won’t cause fatigue over longer hikes. Its lightness also contributes to its comfort, making it a great option for day trips and short hikes where you don’t need the heavy-duty protection of a more rugged boot.

Durability

The Crestwood shoes are made from quality materials, but they are not designed for tough, rugged terrain. After several hikes, we noticed some wear on the mesh upper and the suede leather material, especially after exposure to rocks and rough surfaces. If you plan to do a lot of hiking or trek through difficult environments, the Crestwood may not hold up as well as some higher-end options. However, for lighter use, these shoes offer decent durability for the price.

Value

For the price, the Columbia Crestwood offers excellent value. It delivers solid performance for casual and beginner hikers, with good comfort and a breathable design. While it may not be the most durable or waterproof shoe out there, it’s a great option for anyone looking for an affordable, comfortable hiking shoe. If you’re just starting out and need an entry-level shoe for dry, moderate trails, the Crestwood is a solid investment.

Should You Buy the Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes?

If you’re a beginner or someone who hikes occasionally, the Columbia Crestwood is an excellent option. It’s affordable, comfortable, and works well for light to moderate trails. However, if you’re an experienced hiker or plan to tackle tough terrain, you might want to invest in a more durable, waterproof model like the Merrell Moab 3 or Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX.

What Other Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?

If you’re considering other hiking shoes, the Merrell Moab 3 is durable and waterproof, ideal for tough trails. The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX offers excellent support and stability, especially on rocky paths, and is also waterproof. For a lightweight option, the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX provides comfort and cushioning, with waterproofing for added protection. The Keen Targhee III Waterproof is durable and perfect for various terrains, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. Each shoe has unique features, so choose based on the trails you’ll be hiking and your specific needs.

Where to Buy?

You can purchase the Columbia Crestwood hiking shoes from several online retailers, including:

• Amazon
• Columbia’s Official Website
• REI
• Walmart