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Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoe Review
Looking for a budget-friendly boot that still gets the job done on the trail? In this Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoe review, we take a closer look at how this affordable option performs when it comes to light hiking, comfort, and value.
The Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a lightweight, versatile option built for casual hikers and weekend adventurers. It features a combination of suede leather, mesh, and synthetic overlays in the upper for a balance of durability and breathability. Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproof membrane helps keep your feet dry in light rain and damp conditions, while the Techlite™ midsole adds cushioning and rebound for comfort over moderate distances.
With a grippy Omni-Grip™ rubber outsole and reinforced toe cap, the Crestwood offers decent traction and protection on well-maintained trails. It’s not designed for rugged backcountry terrain, but for day hikes and travel, it delivers solid performance at a very reasonable price point.
Key Specifications
| Weight | 1 lb 15 oz (Men’s pair) |
| Waterproofing | Omni-Tech waterproof membrane |
| Upper Material | Suede leather, mesh, and synthetic overlays |
| Outsole | Omni-Grip™ rubber |
| Midsole | Techlite™ lightweight cushioning |
| Best Use | Day hiking, light trails, budget-friendly outdoor use |
Comparisons
Columbia Crestwood vs. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a step up in comfort, support, and long-term durability. It features a roomier toe box, thicker cushioning, and better underfoot protection, which makes it more suitable for longer hikes and moderate backpacking. However, the Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoe excels in affordability and lightweight construction, making it a great entry-level option. If you’re hiking on easier trails and want to keep costs down, the Crestwood offers solid value. But for more demanding hikes, the Moab 3 is worth the investment.
Columbia Crestwood vs. KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof
The KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed for rugged terrain, with a sturdier build, more aggressive tread, and a wider fit. It also offers better ankle support and more premium materials, making it better suited for tougher trails and longer trips. In contrast, the Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoe is much lighter and more breathable but lacks the same level of protection and traction. For hikers who mostly stick to groomed paths and want an affordable, no-frills option, the Crestwood is ideal. For those who push into rocky or steep terrain, the Targhee III is the better performer.
Pros & Cons Summary
| Feature | Columbia Crestwood | Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP | KEEN Targhee III Mid WP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | ✅ Lightweight (1 lb 15 oz) | ✅ Moderate (2 lbs 4 oz) | ❌ Heavier (2 lbs 6 oz) |
| Comfort | ✅ Decent for short hikes | ✅ Cushioned and roomy | ✅ Plush and protective |
| Waterproofing | ✅ Omni-Tech | ✅ Merrell WP membrane | ✅ KEEN.DRY membrane |
| Traction | ✅ Omni-Grip rubber | ✅ Vibram TC5+ | ✅ KEEN all-terrain lugs |
| Best For | Easy trails, budget-friendly | Day hikes, light backpacking | Rugged terrain, wide feet |
For even more boot choices, visit our Best Hiking Boots guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Columbia Crestwood good for long hikes?
It’s best for short to moderate day hikes. For longer or more rugged trips, a more supportive boot is recommended.
Is the Crestwood waterproof?
Yes, it features Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproof membrane, though it’s best in light to moderate moisture.
How does the sizing run?
It runs true to size for most people. However, it’s not ideal for wide feet.
Is it durable enough for rocky terrain?
It holds up on moderate trails but isn’t built for sharp rocks or aggressive off-trail use.
Is it good for travel?
Yes, its lightweight design and comfort make it a nice option for travel and casual outdoor use.
Final Thoughts
The Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for beginner hikers or those on a budget who still want waterproof protection and trail-ready performance. It’s lightweight, reasonably comfortable, and perfect for day hikes and casual outdoor adventures. While it doesn’t compete with more premium boots on rugged trails, it excels as an affordable, no-nonsense option for getting outdoors without overspending.
