Full trail review
In-depth analysis
The budget waterproof hiking boot that needs almost no break-in — reliable grip for moderate trails without flagship boot pricing.
Suited for hiking · trekking
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
Columbia
At a glance
- Weight
- 822 g
- Editorial score
- 8.3/10
What we like
- Affordable price for solid performance
- Lightweight and easy to break in
- Reliable waterproofing for light to moderate use
Trade-offs
- Not ideal for rugged, technical hikes
- Limited ankle support
I wore Salomon and La Sportiva boots on demanding treks, not Newton Ridge. It is the budget waterproof boot I recommend for weekend hikers and first multi-day trips on maintained paths.
My experience on the trail
I have not worn Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II boots on a published HikingWithLee trek — my demanding routes use stiffer Salomon and La Sportiva GTX boots. I have tested Newton Ridge on day hikes and recommend them in beginner boot guides when hikers want waterproof confidence without $200+ pricing.
Out-of-the-box comfort is the headline — little break-in for moderate mileage on maintained trails. Omni-Grip sole handles mud and wet rock adequately for weekend hiking; you feel limits on technical alpine terrain compared with stiffer mountaineering boots.
Trail performance
Comfortable for 10–15 km days on maintained trails with modest elevation — the boot's sweet spot. Waterproofing handles stream crossings and drizzle when membrane is new; re-treat DWR periodically as miles accumulate.
Ankle support is moderate — enough for rolled ankle prevention on groomed paths, not enough for heavy multi-day load hauling on scree. Pair with trekking poles on steep descents if knees and ankles are weak points.
Who it's for
Budget-conscious hikers, occasional weekend walkers, and first boot buyers who need waterproofing for muddy valley trails and light snow — not technical scree or long hut treks with heavy packs on rocky descents.
Strong fit for day hikes and car-camping adjacent trails. Less ideal for Alta Via 1-style rocky descents with full pack where stiffer Salomon Quest or La Sportiva TXS earn their price.
Weather and durability
Three-season waterproofing for typical hiking rain and mud — not extended winter mountaineering immersion. Dry boots slowly after saturated days; stuff with newspaper at huts if leather swells.
Suede requires basic care — brush mud, condition occasionally, expect cosmetic wear faster than full-grain expedition leathers on abrasive rock.
Ready to buy?
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
How it compares
Quest is stiffer and more capable on long rocky hut treks; Newton Ridge wins on price and out-of-box comfort for moderate trails.
Read full reviewsimilar budget waterproof mission — compare fit and sale pricing; both serve beginner to intermediate hikers.
Read full review$274.16indicative on Amazon
TXS is the technical alpine boot in our guides; Newton Ridge is the entry waterproof day-hike boot.
Read full review$161.00indicative on Amazon
runners win on breathability and weight; Newton Ridge wins when ankle support and waterproofing matter on muddy paths.
Read full reviewTrade-offs
- Limited ankle support and torsional stiffness for technical terrain and heavy packs
- Membrane breathability is average — sweaty feet on hot valley days; wear merino socks and accept limits
- Not durable enough for years of daily trail abuse — upgrade when hiking becomes your main sport
- Fashion-forward hikers may want sleeker trail runners or premium European boots
Bottom line
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is the budget waterproof boot I recommend for moderate trails and first boot purchases — know its support limits, maintain the membrane, and upgrade when your routes turn technical.
Ready to buy?
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof
Construction and fit
Upper: Suede and leather with waterproof membrane — classic hiking boot look, moderate ankle support.
Midsole: Lightweight cushioning for comfort on moderate distances — not maximum shock absorption for 20 km descent days with 12 kg packs.
Outsole: Omni-Grip rubber — adequate traction on wet dirt and moderate rock; not Vibram Megagrip aggression.
Sizing: Runs true for many US feet — try with hiking socks and aftermarket insoles if you need arch support.
