A Budget Hiking Shoe That Punches Above Its Weight
The Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a lightweight, low-cut trail shoe designed for day hikers, weekend walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want dependable performance without breaking the bank. Priced well under £100, the Crestwood is Columbia’s answer to the budget-conscious hiker who still demands comfort, grip, and durability.
With a Techlite™ midsole, Omni-Grip™ outsole, and a suede leather and mesh upper, the Crestwood blends trail-runner agility with hiking shoe protection. But how does it perform in real-world conditions? We tested the Crestwood across woodland paths, rocky trails, and urban parks to find out.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 380g (Men’s UK 9) |
| Upper Material | Suede leather, mesh, and synthetic overlays |
| Waterproofing | Water-resistant (not fully waterproof) |
| Midsole | Techlite™ EVA for cushioning and support |
| Outsole | Omni-Grip™ non-marking rubber |
| Fit | True to size (available in wide) |
| Drop | 13.7 mm |
| Price | £59–£80 (varies by retailer) |
Design and Build Quality
The Columbia Crestwood is built with a hybrid upper that combines suede leather overlays with breathable mesh panels. This design offers a good balance of durability and ventilation, making it suitable for warm-weather hiking and dry trail conditions.
The toe and heel areas are reinforced with rubber and synthetic materials to protect against abrasion and rock strikes. The Omni-Grip™ outsole features a multi-directional lug pattern for traction on varied terrain, while the Techlite™ midsole provides lightweight cushioning and energy return.
The overall construction feels solid for the price point. While it doesn’t have the premium finish of higher-end hiking shoes, it’s well-assembled and built to last for casual to moderate use.
Comfort and Fit
One of the standout features of the Crestwood is its out-of-the-box comfort. The shoe requires little to no break-in period, and the padded collar and tongue provide a snug, secure fit without pressure points.
The Techlite™ midsole offers a soft, responsive feel underfoot. It’s not as plush as a trail runner, but it provides enough cushioning for day hikes, dog walks, and light backpacking. The heel cup is supportive, and the toe box offers enough room for natural toe splay.
The Crestwood is available in regular and wide widths, making it accessible for a range of foot shapes. Most users find it true to size, though some recommend sizing up by half if you plan to wear thick hiking socks.
Traction and Grip
The Omni-Grip™ outsole is designed for multi-surface traction, and it performs well on:
- Dry dirt trails
- Gravel paths
- Light rocky terrain
- Urban pavements
The 3.2 mm lugs provide decent grip on moderate inclines and descents, though they’re not aggressive enough for muddy or technical terrain. On wet rock, the grip is average—adequate for careful foot placement but not confidence-inspiring in slick conditions.
For most lowland hikes, forest trails, and dry summer walks, the Crestwood offers reliable traction. If you’re heading into alpine or wet environments, a more aggressive outsole may be necessary.
Waterproofing and Breathability
The Crestwood is not fully waterproof, but it does feature water-resistant suede overlays that help repel light moisture and prevent staining. It’s best suited for dry climates or summer hiking, where breathability is more important than full waterproofing.
The mesh panels allow for good airflow, keeping feet cool during warm-weather hikes. However, this also means that water can enter easily in wet grass or puddles. If you need waterproof protection, consider the Columbia Crestwood Mid Waterproof version, which includes a membrane lining.
Durability and Materials
For a shoe in this price range, the Crestwood is impressively durable. The suede leather panels resist scuffs and abrasion, and the rubber toe cap protects against trail debris. The midsole and outsole show minimal wear after several months of use on mixed terrain.
That said, some users report premature wear in the inner lining, especially around the heel collar. This is common in budget hiking shoes and can be mitigated by wearing proper socks and rotating footwear.
The Omni-Grip™ outsole holds up well on dry trails but may wear faster on tarmac or hard surfaces. For occasional hikers or weekend adventurers, the Crestwood should last 1–2 seasons with moderate use.
Performance on the Trail
We tested the Columbia Crestwood on a variety of trails, including:
- Woodland paths in the Peak District
- Rocky bridleways in Snowdonia
- Urban canal towpaths and gravel tracks
The shoe performed best on dry, well-maintained trails, where its lightweight build and flexible sole allowed for a natural stride. It felt stable underfoot, even on uneven ground, and the midsole cushioning absorbed impact well on descents.
On wet or technical terrain, the limitations became more apparent. The outsole struggled on slick rock, and the lack of a waterproof membrane meant wet socks after prolonged exposure to dew or puddles.
Still, for light hiking, travel, and everyday outdoor use, the Crestwood is a solid performer.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Comfortable straight out of the box
- Lightweight and breathable
- Good cushioning for day hikes
- Available in wide fit
- Durable upper materials for the price
Cons:
- Not waterproof (standard version)
- Average grip on wet surfaces
- Inner lining may wear with heavy use
- Not suitable for technical or alpine terrain
Comparison: Columbia Crestwood vs Merrell Moab 3
| Feature | Columbia Crestwood | Merrell Moab 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £59–£80 | £110–£130 |
| Weight | 380g | 460g |
| Waterproofing | No (standard version) | Yes (Gore-Tex or M-Select) |
| Outsole | Omni-Grip™ | Vibram® |
| Best For | Light hiking, dry trails | All-terrain hiking |
The Crestwood is better for budget-conscious hikers and dry conditions, while the Moab 3 offers better waterproofing and traction for more demanding terrain.
Final Verdict: Is the Columbia Crestwood Worth It?
The Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoe is a budget-friendly, comfortable, and versatile option for casual hikers, dog walkers, and weekend adventurers. It’s not built for alpine expeditions or wet-weather treks, but it excels in dry, moderate terrain where comfort and breathability matter most.
If you’re new to hiking or need a reliable pair of trail shoes for occasional use, the Crestwood offers exceptional value without sacrificing core performance. It’s a great entry point into outdoor footwear and a reminder that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the trail.
Rating: 8.5/10 Best for: Day hikers, beginners, and budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts Avoid if: You need waterproofing or plan to hike in technical terrain
