Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boot Review

• SHOE TYPE: HIKING BOOT
• GENDER: MENS
• SIZES: 7-17 US NORMAL AND WIDE
• HALF SIZES: YES
• MATERIAL: PU COATED LEATHER, SUEDE, MESH, METAL HARDWARE UPPER
• WEIGHT: 15.9 OUNCES
• SHIPPING WEIGHT: 4 POUNDS
• MIDSOLE: TECHLITE EVA MIDSOLE
• OUTSOLE: NON-MARKING RUBBER OMNI GRIP OUTSOLE
• BOOT SHAFT HEIGHT: 5 INCHES FROM ARCH
• PLATFORM:  0.5 INCHES
• HEEL:  1.5 INCHES
• WATERPROOF: YES
• COLORS: GRAPHITE/ ROYAL, NORI/DARK BANANA, COLLEGIATE NAVY/RUSTY, BLACK, SILVER SAGE/ DARK BANANA, MUD/ SANGUINE, CORDOVAN/ SQUASH,
• ALSO: FULL GRAIN LEATHER AND LIGHTWEIGHT SUEDE CONSTRUCTION/ MESH TONGUE FOR BREATHABILITY/ DURABLE AND WATERPROOF
• MANUFACTURER: COLUMBIA
• FIT AS EXPECTED: 83%
• OUR RATING:  4.3 STARS OUT OF FIVE
• PRICE GUIDE:  $52.99-$119.95

Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus Ii Waterproof Hiking Boot
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Columbia Sportswear have been around since 1938, knocking out first rate sports and hiking gear from Portland, Oregon.

In that time, it would be fair to assume they have picked up a thing or two about producing great boots.

In this review, we go in depth to one of their leading models, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot.

So, if you’re on the lookout for a great boots, which come in a really good variety of sizes (one of the few to span a seven, right up to a seventeen!) then you are in for a treat.

Better still, they come in two fittings, normal and wide, for the true Yetis amongst you!

In fact, we would be very surprised if you were unable to get a pair of Columbia Ridge Plus 2 to fit you!

In terms of fabric, these seem to have a bit of everything thrown into them. You have got the comfort and protection of full grain leather, mixed in with the lightness – and style -of suede.

Waterproofing is all very well, for the outside of the shoe. But what about the inside? Because you want your feet to stay dry, when exposed both to the elements, and your own sweat, if at all possible!

To combat this, the boot has a highly breathable mesh tongue. This ensures that you don’t end up with the dreaded ‘hiker’s sock’ at the end of your travails!

The laces tie securely and should not move around once done correctly. The soles are super grippy and can withstand dirt, mud, water and any other debris that life may want to throw at you!

The Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid construction – with a metal chassis.

It’s not about to let you down in a hurry and there are many reasons why you have chosen it over and again, as one of your favorite Columbia Trekking Boots, if not the best ever Men’s Hiking Boots!

Read on for our reviewer’s personal views!

Columbia Footwear Never Lets Me Down

The only dilemma I had was whether I should choose the Black/Black ones, or the Cordovan/Squash ones.

I was absolutely sure that I would buy these boots, so why bother to check other ones?

From my past experience with wearing Columbia’s boots, I knew that I wouldn’t be let down.

The quality they offer is always first rate, and the prices are fairly reasonable, making their boots worth every dollar.

Of all the traits that hiking boots need to have, Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boots have them all!

• Waterproof
• EVA midsoles (soft feeling with every step)
• Rubber soles

Durable Boot with Lightweight Construction

What we have here is an excellent combination of durable and lightweight construction. Add the traditional hiking design, and you’ve got great boots. 

The design is pretty classic, with minimal adornments, which suits me just fine. I can even wear them at work!

I like to have boots that will keep my feet warm. No cold feet for me! 

Even though I am not the type to go into the deep woods in freezing temperatures, I do appreciate having well equipped boots for all my winter activities. 

Waterproof Leather & Suede, Seam Sealed Construction

The Newton Ridge Plus II are made of PU coated leather, suede, and mesh uppers with waterproof, seam-sealed construction.

All of these materials keep my feet well supported  and dry. These boots have D-caps lace closure, which can be firmly (or loosely) wrapped all the way up to the ankles.

Shoes that I wore as a kid, that had lace closure such as these boots do, were always my favorite.

The padded tongue is soft enough not to burden the upper part of my foot, and at the same time gives me freedom to tie the laces as tight as possible without actually feeling pressure or pain when I walk.

The front part of the boot has the super important toe protection; the rear of the boot is protected with a rubber cap. 

When it comes to comfort, at the end of the day we all look for boots that fit perfectly, and provide us with comfort.

After all, if I’m wearing these all day long (even if I wear them at work solely) I want to feel good while walking in them.

Their full length Techlite midsoles are the reason for the superior cushioning, support, and shock absorption.

On the other hand, the Omni-Grip high traction, non-marking rubber compound outsole provides me with a safe step.

The treads underneath are excellent grippers on any terrain, so I’m confident when I walk on wet, uneven surfaces, or snowy streets.

Thick EVA Foam

Inside there is spongy, almost cloud-like, thick EVA foam. It is about one inch thick, and gives the Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Hiking Boots a well cushioned feel.

These boots can be easily classified as orthopedically correct. When I see the measurements of the outsoles (the heel and the platform) I know that I have made a good choice.

• Shaft measures approximately 5″ from arch
• Heel measures approximately 1.5″
• Platform measures approximately 0.50″

 F.Y.I. When you observe the actual outsole, and see that there is minimal difference between the heel and the platform….an important ratio that assures me a more secure step….you know that you are buying quality! 

Once again Columbia has proven to be an excellent brand.

Pluses And Minuses

PLUS

• Moderately priced
• Lightweight construction and feel
• Completely waterproof
• Grippy and slip resilient
• Used by some troops
• Warm
• Good In Snow
• Good Arch Support

MINUS

• May not stand up to heavy duty, continuous use
• The heel has been an issue for a few users

Questions and Answers

DOES THE TONGUE MOVE IN THESE SHOES?

No. Thankfully this is not an issue with the Columbia Ridge Plus.

Because there are ahem some men’s boots which have more moving tongues than a mountainside of yodelers! And we know how much of a pain in the ass it is to have to keep stopping and re-lacing, when you are on a serious trail!

Our reviewer liked the mesh tongue, which adds to the overall lightweight feel of the boot, as well as stopping us taking a bath in our

CAN THEY BE WORN IN THE SNOW?

Although not marketed for use in snow, we think that these Columbia Waterproof Shoes should hold up just fine.

More to the point, there are plenty of customers who can attest to their durability in a drop of the white stuff!

Rest assured, they are not going to fall apart or let your feet get wet. But do remember that they are not specifically insulated for extreme weather.  However in terms of traction, gradient and waterproofing then they score highly!

DO THESE BOOTS GRIP WELL?

Yes. The superior traction of these Columbia Trekking Boots is one of their main selling points.

IS THE NEWTON RIDGE PLUS A COMFORTABLE BOOT?

Yes. One of the overwhelming responses we have uncovered while reviewing trail shoes is that these are very comfortable.

Even for people who had other issues with them, the comfort – often straight off and out of the box – was first rate.

HOW DO I CARE FOR THESE BOOTS?

Take care to check the care instructions for this boot on Columbia’s own website.

Here they state that care for waterproof materials is an ongoing process.

In other words, it’s up to you to ensure these Newton Ridges will stay as dry as the day they were purchased.

Fortunately, this is not difficult. There are many products for waterproofing trail, trekking, walking boots and sandals with.

Just check before applying that it needs to be done. Simply pour a few drops of water onto the upper of the shoe. Does it repel the water or is it absorbed into the shoe?

If it is absorbed, then this is you cue to begin waterproofing them afresh.

Just make sure that you apply the solution to cleaned and dried footwear.

In terms of simple cleaning, these are a cinch. Even using dish soap or just plain water and towel will do the trick…

Which leads us on to….

HOW SHOULD I DRY THESE BOOTS?

Once again, you should refer to the Columbia website for specific instruction on how to care for your boots.

This clearly states that you should never toss them in the dryer. Or place them on, or too close to a heater or fire. And yes, that includes your campfire too!

Take care also when placing these boots in your vehicle at the end of a long hike. They may catch more sunlight than you realize and this can be in itself very damaging for the longevity of the boot.

WILL THESE COLUMBIA MENS HIKING BOOTS KEEP ME WARM?

Yes. Up until a point, these boots are great in ice and snow. But they have not been fully insulated for total hardcore use.

CAN YOU POLISH THE NEWTON RIDGE PLUS 2 HIKING BOOT?

Um. Sort of. This depends a little on who you ask and just what your definition of ‘polished’ is, though!

It is true that these boots do have a slightly more matte finish than some boots and perhaps don’t shine as well as some others may do.

You can certainly try though!