I finally finished my Timberland vs. Columbia hiking boots test. I compared their lightweightness, durability, weather protection, and arch support. Here's my hands-on review.
FYI, prices and ratings are accurate as of time of writing.
1. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II - Best Cushioning
Highlight: Lightweight and comfortable midsole equals amazing cushioning.
Helpful review: Alright, it’s time I let my secret out of the bag and tell the world about my secret weapon when it comes to hiking–my Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge boots. I took these bad boys on a trip to London, and wow, they blew me away. You know how after a long flight, your feet just scream for some comfort? Well, slipping into these boots was like bouncing on a cloud, no lie. I’ve got peripheral neuropathy, which in layman's terms pretty much means my feet often feel like they’re on fire, but these boots–man, oh man, they were a game-changer.
First off, they fit perfectly right out of the box. No break-in period needed, which is rare for hiking boots. I walked the streets of London, Paris, and even climbed up the narrow steps of Cardiff Castle without any discomfort. The grip was fantastic, and I felt stable on all sorts of terrain. It’s funny, my feet usually hate me by the end of the day, but with these boots, I was able to keep going for hours.
These are actually my second pair of Columbia Newton Ridge boots. The first pair lasted me nearly two years, and before you think it’s not that long, trust me when I say this: I put them through the wringer. I walked four to seven miles a day on city streets, and while the soles wore down eventually, the rest of the boot held up beautifully. They were so comfy that even after the heels wore out, I kept wearing them. They became my go-to for urban adventures and light hiking.
One of the most impressive things about these boots is their durability. I took them to Burning Man, and they handled the alkaline dust like a champ. Then, just last week, I wore them to Six Flags Magic Mountain on a rainy day. Yeah, I’m an outdoorsy adventurous type if you can’t tell. We clocked in 21k steps, and my feet stayed dry and comfy the entire time. Not bad for a $75 boot, right? I’ve got wide feet, and the size 8.5 fit perfectly, which is another big plus. It’s hard to find shoes that fit these days, which is part of the reason I’m spouting off about these.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But are they really that good?” Yes, they are! They’re lightweight, durable, and offer amazing support. The midsole is designed for long-lasting comfort, and the cushioning is top-notch. I’ve tried out a lot of hiking shoes, and these just hit the mark on everything I could ever want. It’s like they give me a little energy boost with every step. And the high-energy return is not just marketing fluff. You really do feel a difference.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable pair of hiking boots that won’t break the bank, these Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge should be at the top of your list. They’re perfect for urban explorers, casual hikers, and anyone who values comfort and durability. Not sure if nurses can wear hiking boots, but I bet they’d love these just as much. I can’t recommend them enough. They’ve become my go-to boots for almost everything, and I’m already thinking about getting a third pair. These boots are worth every penny. — Ray Campbell
Get it from Amazon now: $100.00 & FREE Returns
2. Timberland White Ledge - Best Ankle Boot
Highlight: One hundred percent waterproof leather.
Helpful review: These Timberland Ridge boots might just be the most practical shoes I’ve ever owned. I’ve gone through two pairs already, and I use them primarily for fishing off jetties and hiking. They’re tough as nails and keep my feet dry even when submerged in mud. The grip is phenomenal for climbing over wet boulders and tackling long hikes in rough conditions.
When I first got these boots, I was amazed at how comfortable they were right out of the box. They required minimal breaking in, which is a huge plus. I originally bought them from a Payless shoe store about 20 years ago, and I’ve been a loyal customer ever since. Sure, there are higher quality boots out there, but at around eighty dollars a pair, I don’t worry about damaging them or tearing a hole while hiking. If I were to spend four to six hundred on custom boots, I’d be much more cautious. These Timberlands fit my big, wide feet perfectly, even with thick boot socks. I always get the size twelve wide, and they fit like a glove every time.
These boots have become my everyday go-to for around town and outdoor activities. Whether I’m fishing, hiking, or just running errands, they’re always comfortable and reliable. I can’t stress enough how great they are for the price. They’re so freaking comfortable, and honestly provide the best support I’ve ever experienced. I’ve put them through some tough conditions, and they’ve always come through for me.
Living on rural acreage, I need boots that can handle muddy and wet footing. These Timberlands have excellent traction and ankle support, which is essential for the kind of strenuous and stumbly work I do. This is my third pair of these types of boots, and they fit true to size with comfortable support. Each pair has lasted longer than I expected, considering the abuse they endure.
To sum it up, if you need a pair of boots that are practical, durable, and won’t break the bank, the Timberland Ridge is a fantastic option. They’re perfect for anyone who needs reliable footwear for tough conditions, whether it’s hiking, fishing, or everyday wear. I highly recommend giving them a try. They’ve been a staple in my wardrobe for years, and I’m sure they’ll continue to be for many more. — Ray Campbell
Get it from Amazon now: $120.00 & FREE Returns