Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Suede Waterproof (Style 1LYC)

In this review of the Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Suede Waterproof hiking boot, the bottom line is simple: this is a dependable, comfortable boot for weekend hikers and daily wet-weather wearers who want durable traction without heavy weight. The reviewer found the boots break in quickly, offer reliable water resistance from the suede and seam-sealed construction, and deliver surprisingly good cushioning from Columbia's lightweight midsole for long outings. If you need a practical hiking boot that balances comfort, grip, and a clean silhouette, this review explains why these deliver on those points and where they might fall short.

Key Features

• Waterproof suede and leather: The upper materials combine to keep feet dry in rain and puddles while maintaining a smart, versatile look for trail or town.
• Lightweight midsole: The midsole provides lasting comfort and noticeable cushioning, helping reduce fatigue on longer walks and day hikes.
• High-traction outsole: The Omni-Grip multi-terrain traction system gives confident footing on mixed surfaces, including wet rocks and muddy trails.
• Seam-sealed construction: Seams are sealed to enhance waterproof performance so water intrusion is minimized during wet-weather use.
• Lace-up closure with metal hardware: The lacing system and metal hardware let you fine-tune fit and stay secure on uneven terrain.
• Dual-zone winter tread pattern: The outsole pattern improves grip on icy or snowy patches for cold-weather outings.

Who It's For

These boots suit recreational hikers, commuters and anyone who wants a rugged but not overly heavy option for rainy conditions. They are best for people who value a comfortable, cushioned midsole and reliable traction on packed trails, wet sidewalks, and light scrambling.

They are less well suited to serious mountaineering, long-distance backpacking with heavy packs, or technical rock climbing where specialized boots and stiffer soles are required. Buyers seeking an ultralight trail runner or a fully insulated winter boot should look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning from the lightweight midsole makes longer walks easier on the feet.
• Waterproof suede and seam-sealed construction keep feet dry in rain and puddles.
• Omni-Grip outsole offers solid multi-terrain traction and a dual-zone tread for winter surfaces.
• Lightweight build and good fit that generally matches sizing for easy purchase decisions.

Cons

• Durability received mixed feedback from owners, with some reporting issues such as lace wear earlier than expected.
• Not designed as a technical mountaineering or heavy backpacking boot.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Upper material	Waterproof suede and leather
Waterproofing	Seam-sealed construction
Midsole	Lightweight cushioned midsole for energy return
Outsole	Omni-Grip high-traction multi-terrain outsole
Closure	Lace-up with metal hardware
Tread	Dual-zone winter tread pattern

Our Verdict

The Newton Ridge Plus II Suede Waterproof is a strong choice for outdoor-minded buyers who want a comfortable, waterproof hiking boot with dependable traction and a lightweight feel. It delivers good value for weekend hikes, wet-weather commuting, and casual winter use, though buyers seeking extreme durability for heavy daily abuse or technical alpine use should consider purpose-built alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots fully waterproof?
Yes, the waterproof suede and seam-sealed construction provide reliable water resistance for rain, puddles, and wet trails.

Do they run true to size?
Customers generally report that the fit matches size specifications, so ordering usual size is appropriate for most buyers.

Are these good for winter conditions?
The dual-zone winter tread improves footing on ice and snow, but these are better for general cold-weather use than for extreme alpine mountaineering.