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

In this review of the Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Suede Waterproof hiking boot, the bottom line is clear: these boots suit hikers who want a comfortable, lightweight waterproof option with dependable traction for wet and mild winter conditions. The Newton Ridge Plus II stands out for its combination of a cushioned, responsive midsole and a multi-terrain outsole that grips packed trails and slick surfaces. Reviewers consistently note the good fit and value for money, making this a practical choice for regular walkers, day hikers, and commuters who face rain, puddles, or light snow.

Key Features

• Waterproof suede and leather: Provides a protective upper that keeps feet drier in rain and puddles while maintaining a traditional boot silhouette.
• Lightweight midsole: Delivers long-lasting comfort and superior cushioning for all-day wear without feeling heavy on the foot.
• High-traction OMNI-GRIP outsole: Matches tread patterns and compounds to multi-terrain conditions to improve footing on wet, muddy, and icy surfaces.
• Seam-sealed construction: Enhances overall water resistance and durability so the boot resists muck and wet trail conditions.
• Adjustable lace-up closure: Ensures a secure, customizable fit for different foot shapes and layered socks in colder weather.
• Metal hardware: Adds durability at stress points so the boot handles repeated use on rougher routes.

Who It's For

The Newton Ridge Plus II is best for men who need a reliable, everyday hiking boot that performs well on wet trails and light winter conditions. It fits hikers who value comfort and traction over technical, alpine-level protection, and it works equally well for urban commuters who encounter rain and slush.

Those who need ultra-rugged mountaineering boots, highly breathable summer trail shoes, or specialized footwear for extended backpacking trips in extreme conditions should look elsewhere; this boot is optimized for moderate trails, day hikes, and casual outdoor use rather than multi-week expeditions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning and lightweight midsole make long walks less tiring.
• Waterproof suede and seam-sealed build repel rain and puddles effectively.
• OMNI-GRIP outsole offers reliable traction on wet, muddy, and mildly icy surfaces.
• Good value for money with a solid combination of features and materials.

Cons

• Durability has mixed reports, with occasional issues such as laces wearing or breaking sooner than expected for some users.
• Not intended for heavy alpine use or very technical, prolonged backpacking trips.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Upper material	Waterproof suede and leather
Waterproofing	Seam-sealed construction
Midsole	Lightweight cushioned midsole for energy return
Outsole	OMNI-GRIP multi-terrain traction
Closure	Lace-up with metal hardware

Our Verdict

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is a sensible buy for hikers and everyday users who need a comfortable, waterproof boot with dependable traction and good value. It combines a cushioned midsole and OMNI-GRIP outsole to handle wet trails and light snow, though those expecting heavy-duty longevity or technical mountaineering performance should consider a more specialized model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots fully waterproof?
They feature waterproof suede and a seam-sealed construction that resists rain, puddles, and light wet conditions, though prolonged submersion is not advised.

Do they run true to size?
Most customers report the fit matches size specifications and the lace-up closure allows adjustment for a secure fit.

Are they suitable for winter use?
The dual-zone winter tread improves footing on ice and snow in light winter conditions, but they are not designed as heavy-duty winter mountaineering boots.