Columbia Women's Redmond III Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Reliable Trail

Our review of the Columbia Women's Redmond III Waterproof Hiking Shoe finds it best suited to hikers who want dependable protection and cushioned comfort on mixed trails. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of the waterproof Omni-Tech membrane with a Techlite midsole that delivers long-lasting comfort and noticeable energy return, making day hikes and wet-weather outings more comfortable without sacrificing traction. Fit may vary by foot shape, but for those who get the right size this shoe balances support, durability, and breathability in a lightweight package.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: The Omni-Tech bootie with seam-sealed construction keeps feet dry during wet trail conditions while allowing moisture to escape.
• Cushioned midsole: The Techlite lightweight midsole provides resilient cushioning and high energy return to reduce fatigue on long walks.
• All-terrain traction: The Omni-Grip non-marking rubber outsole grips loose and uneven surfaces while remaining safe for indoor wear.
• Protective upper: Synthetic leather overlays, suede and mesh combine for abrasion resistance, breathability, and an improved fit.
• Reinforced wear points: Extended outsole, toe overwrap, and heel barriers guard high-wear areas for longer life on rough trails.
• Secure fit: Rugged top metal lacing eyelets and a gusseted tongue help lock the foot in place and keep debris out.

Who It's For

The Redmond III is aimed at weekend hikers, light backpackers, and anyone who needs a waterproof shoe for mixed-terrain day hikes or wet conditions; its durable toe and heel protection suit rocky paths while the cushioned midsole helps cover miles comfortably. The shoe's lightweight construction and non-marking outsole also make it practical for transitional use from trail to campsite or for travel where one pair needs to do many jobs.

Shoppers who require a very narrow or very wide fit, precision mountaineering footwear, or heavy multi-day backpacking boots with full shank support should look elsewhere, as this model emphasizes versatile day-hike performance rather than specialized fit extremes or technical alpine features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable waterproofing from the Omni-Tech membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
• Comfortable Techlite midsole delivers cushioning and energy return for long walks.
• Omni-Grip outsole offers sure-footed, non-marking traction across varied surfaces.
• Durable overlays and reinforced toe/heel extend the shoe's lifespan on rough trails.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed fit impressions, so trying a pair or checking return options is advisable.
• Not intended as a heavy backpacking or technical mountaineering boot.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Columbia Redmond III is a solid value for hikers who want waterproof protection, comfortable cushioning, and dependable traction in a versatile day-hike shoe. It is especially good for wet or mixed terrain and for anyone who needs a durable, lightweight hiker without moving into technical boot territory. Check sizing guidance before buying to ensure the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes fully waterproof?
Yes. The Omni-Tech membrane with seam-sealed construction is designed to keep water out while allowing breathability.

Do they have good traction on loose or wet trails?
Yes. The Omni-Grip non-marking rubber outsole provides sure-footed grip on a wide variety of surfaces.

Are they suitable for long backpacking trips?
They are best for day hikes and light multi-terrain use; for heavy, multi-day backpacking with large loads, a stiffer, more technical boot is recommended.