Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Durable

In this review of the Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof hiking shoe the bottom line is straightforward: this is a dependable, thoughtfully built boot for men who prioritize waterproof protection and durable traction on day hikes. The reviewer found the shoe balances a protective exterior with a lightweight midsole, making it a strong pick for hikers tackling wet trails without wanting a heavy mountaineering boot. Comfort and reliability are the primary reasons to buy, especially for repeat weekend outings and variable terrain.

Key Features

• Waterproof mesh and leather exterior: Keeps feet dry when crossing wet trails or hiking in light rain while retaining breathability compared with full rubber uppers.
• Advanced traction outsole: Provides confident grip on loose, muddy, or uneven surfaces to reduce slipping on wet rocks and roots.
• Lightweight midsole: Offers long-lasting cushioning without adding bulk, which helps reduce fatigue on longer day hikes.
• Durable construction: Reinforced stitching and quality materials hold up to repeated use on rough trails and frequent contact with abrasive surfaces.
• Versatile design: Works well for trail walking, scrambling over moderate terrain, and general outdoor use where waterproofing and traction matter.

Who It's For

The Newton Ridge Plus II is best suited to men who hike regularly on day trips and need a waterproof, durable shoe that still feels light underfoot. It is a good match for outdoor enthusiasts who move between muddy forest paths, rocky stretches, and well-graded mountain trails and who value long-wearing materials and solid outsole grip.

Hikers who need heavy alpine boots or insulated footwear for winter mountaineering should look elsewhere, as this model focuses on everyday waterproof protection and comfort rather than extreme cold-weather insulation or technical crampon compatibility.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable waterproof upper keeps feet dry during wet conditions and stream crossings.
• Good outsole traction that performs across a variety of trail surfaces to help prevent slips.
• Lightweight midsole delivers consistent comfort for extended day hikes without feeling bulky.

Cons

• Not intended as a heavy-duty mountaineering or insulated winter boot, so those needs require a different model.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	Newton Ridge Plus II
Gender	Men
Upper	Waterproof mesh and leather
Midsole	Lightweight cushioned midsole
Outsole	Advanced traction outsole
Intended use	Hiking, trail walking, outdoor activities

Our Verdict

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II is a practical, good-value hiking shoe for men who want dependable waterproofing, durable materials, and solid traction without the weight of a heavy boot. It is especially worthwhile for weekend hikers and those who encounter mixed trail conditions and need a comfortable, long-lasting shoe that performs reliably on wet ground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes fully waterproof?
Yes, the combination of waterproof mesh and leather is designed to keep feet dry in wet trail conditions and light rain.

Are they comfortable for long day hikes?
Yes, the lightweight midsole provides sustained cushioning that helps reduce fatigue on longer day hikes.

Can these be used in winter or for mountaineering?
They are not intended for extreme cold or technical mountaineering; choose insulated or specialized mountaineering boots for those uses.