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Shopping for hiking shoes can feel like choosing a trail in the dark, but testing Merrell and Columbia side by side brings the path into focus. You want comfort that lasts, grip that bites, and waterproofing that doesn’t give up halfway through a rainy climb. We’ve logged miles on mixed courts to find out which pairs really perform and which ones just talk a big game. Ready to put on with confidence and take the guesswork out of it.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid waterproof
You want a boot that feels good as soon as you lace it up, and the Moab 3 Mid Waterproof does that well. The cushioning is plush without feeling sloppy, and the Vibram outsole grips like it does on dry rocks and wet roots. Waterproofing remained reliable despite splashes, while wide fit options made dialing comfort easier.
This model continues to appear in the rankings of the best hiking shoes of 2025 for good reason. Sources tout the out-of-the-box comfort, proven durability and excellent performance, which matches what you feel on the trail. The GreenWashing Index +2 and Wildernesspaths +2 shoutouts highlight its value-driven performance.
If you plan to travel for several days, the support remains stable under a loaded bag. The collar keeps ankles calm on uneven descents, and the toe bumper eliminates heel strain. If you prioritize comfort from the start and solid build quality, this is the Merrell pick to beat.
Merrell Alverstone 2
If you want reliable trail performance without a painful price tag, the Alverstone 2 delivers. The ride is balanced and supportive, with enough cushioning for half-day hikes and relaxed nights. The waterproofing is okay for sudden downpours, although stomping through puddles requires a bit more.
Reviewers often call it Merrell’s best budget boot for 2025, and that label fits. Traction is secure on dirt and crushed granite, and the rod breaks quickly. You get Merrell’s trail heritage without going premium, keeping your wallet friendly.
Consider it a reliable everyday vehicle for local trails and weekend getaways. Lacing is simple, the heel locks, and hot spots are rare once the fit is dialed in. If criteria like value, comfort, and trail prep matter most, this checks them off.
Merrell Desert
When the going gets rough and the pack gets heavy, the Merrell Wilderness makes a strong case. Leather construction brings old-school toughness with modern underfoot support. You feel planted on fields of jagged rocks and scree where lighter boots tremble.
This is the pair to use during difficult multi-day missions and shoulder season missions. Merrell’s reputation for durability can be seen in the fact that the upper resists abrasion and the midsole resists collapse. Wildernesspaths gives the line props for longevity under abuse, reflecting the real-world feel.
Breaking in requires patience, but the result is a boot that adapts to your stride. The waterproofing is solid and the rand adds welcome protection. If your trails are getting serious and you want gear that lasts, this deserves a place in the kit.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II waterproof
Columbia’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof is the practical choice that beats the price. Omni-Tech waterproofing keeps feet dry despite constant drizzle, and the Omni-Grip outsole provides traction on mud and slippery sidewalks. The feel is supportive but not stiff, making longer day hikes accessible.
This model continues to top Columbia lists for 2025, and its value is evident once you put it on. DecentFoot +1 ratings and other reviews report reliable weather protection and comfort. You get useful technology without chasing premium prices, which is refreshing.
If you want a take-anywhere boot for the shoulder seasons, this one shines. The mid-height collar adds confidence on rocky sections and gentle off-trail detours. For everyday hikers looking for predictable performance, it’s a standout in the Columbia lineup.
Columbia Redmond III waterproof
The Redmond III Waterproof combines comfort and control for days on mixed terrain. The upper breathes better than sturdier leather constructions while shedding light rain and splashes. The underfoot cushioning feels great on hard and urban connectors, letting you go from door to trail without changing shoes.
Reviews highlight its solid durability for moderate routes and day hikes. Hiking Insights praises the balance between comfort and cost, making the boot easy to recommend to newcomers. Traction is assured on dirt and gravel, with just enough bite for roots and debris.
If your weekends alternate between easy loops and hills, this is a reliable single-start solution. It’s light enough to keep legs fresh and stable enough to feel confident on descents. You get everyday versatility without overspending or overbuilding.
Columbia Crestwood Mid waterproof
The Crestwood Mid Waterproof is an economical choice for soft terrain and long park loops. It’s lighter on the foot, allowing you to move quickly without feeling bulky. The waterproofing holds up to wet grass and brief downpours, although mountain deluges will test the limits.
This boot often appears on best budget 2025 lists, and it offers a trail feel. Hiking Insights mentions comfort and value, two things you notice immediately. The cushioning makes strides easier while the mid-height collar adds just enough support for uneven paths.
If you prefer comfort and value over heavy-duty armor, this makes sense. This is the pair to go for casual hikes, travel, and light backpacking. Keep expectations aligned with price and you’ll be pleasantly surprised mile after mile.