Columbia Women's Strata Trail Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes (Style T39R)

In this review of the Columbia Women's Strata Trail Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes, the bottom line is simple: these are versatile, comfortable trail shoes for day hikes and light backpacking where waterproofing and long-wear cushioning matter most. The reviewer found the shoes to deliver dependable traction on mixed terrain and consistent comfort from the responsive Techlite midsole, making them a strong choice for women who want a single pair that handles wet conditions and rocky trails without the weight or stiffness of a full boot.

Key Features

• Omni-Grip non-marking traction: Provides a confident grip on wet rock and muddy tread so you can scramble and descend with more control.
• Techlite lightweight midsole: Delivers lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return that reduces foot fatigue on long miles.
• Omni-Tech waterproof breathable construction: Keeps feet largely dry in showers or stream crossings while allowing moisture to escape for comfort.
• Mesh and suede upper: Balances breathable support and structure so the shoe conforms well to the foot without feeling overly rigid.
• Synthetic leather overlays and gusseted tongue: Add protection and a natural lock down while keeping debris out for cleaner trail miles.

Who It's For

The Strata Trail Low suits women who hike day trips, tackle mixed terrain, or need a dependable waterproof trail shoe that is lighter than a full boot. Hikers who value arch support, cushioning, and a breathable yet protective upper will appreciate the combination of Techlite foam and the Omni-Tech membrane.

Those who should look elsewhere include backpackers carrying heavy loads over steep alpine terrain or anyone needing aggressive lug depth for extended off-trail scrambling; a stiffer backpacking boot with higher ankle support would be a better match for those use cases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning and good arch support for long walks and varied terrain.
• Waterproof construction with breathable materials that generally keeps feet dry while limiting sweat buildup.
• Lightweight build and attractive appearance that users report still look good after use.
• Reliable Omni-Grip outsole offers secure traction on rocky and uneven surfaces.

Cons

• Sizing can run inconsistent between customers, so trying on or checking return options is advised.
• Some reviewers report mixed results with moisture retention in very wet conditions, so extreme wetness may still allow some seepage.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	Strata Trail Low
Waterproofing	Omni-Tech waterproof breathable construction
Midsole	Techlite lightweight midsole for cushioning and energy return
Outsole	Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber
Upper	Mesh and suede with synthetic leather overlays and gusseted tongue
Intended use	Day hiking, trail walking, light backpacking

Our Verdict

The Columbia Strata Trail Low is a solid value for women wanting a lightweight, waterproof trail shoe with comfortable cushioning and dependable traction. It is best for day hikers and multi-activity users who need protection and comfort without heavy boot weight; those needing heavy-duty ankle support or extreme waterproofing should consider a specialized boot instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes really waterproof?
They use Omni-Tech waterproof breathable construction, so they keep out typical wet trail conditions and light stream crossings, though extremely deep or prolonged immersion may still allow some moisture in.

Do they run true to size?
Sizing appears to be mixed among reviewers; many find them true to size while others report a slightly roomy fit, so trying them on or verifying return options is recommended.

Are they suitable for long hikes?
Yes, the Techlite midsole offers long-lasting cushioning and energy return that supports mile after mile, making them a good choice for day hikes and moderate multi-hour outings.