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What kind of hiking boots are suitable for forest treks?

For over 80 years, Columbia has been creating innovative gear for outdoor adventures. We use industry-leading technologies to provide superb active lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories. Everything we create reflects our heritage, our indomitable spirit, and our love for the outdoors.

Getting outside and enjoying fresh air and natural light provides countless benefits for our mental and physical health. Whether you do this solo or with friends and family, you need to understand which shoes and boots are best to don while hiking on and off a forest trail.

Use our guide to discover which grip is necessary for the types of terrain you will encounter. We will also explore the key features of our footwear. Finally, learn which fit and support are best for a wide range of forest treks. Columbia's premium range of footwear for hiking allows a hiker of any ability to confidently conquer any forest trail.

Understanding terrain

Depending on your location, weather conditions can greatly impact the ground of your hike. Plenty of rain leads to plenty of mud. Light snow can lead to wet ground once it melts. Fortunately, Columbia has designed our hiking boots and shoes to include premium grips for all kinds of terrain.

Many of our models feature soles with Adapt Trax™, an advanced traction rubber designed for both wet and dry trail conditions. The Adapt Trax™ tread pattern enhances trail performance by providing a superior grip for wet conditions.

Other models feature our all-terrain Omni-Grip™ traction. Omni-Grip™ traction includes lug patterns and rubber compounds for stability and versatile grip. Choose Omni-Grip™ for use on rock, loose dirt and gravel during both wet and dry conditions.

Key features

When looking to buy the perfect pair of hiking boots or shoes, you will want to ensure they are waterproof. Nothing is worse than a wet foot when you are out for a long (or short) forest hike. Wet feet inevitably lead to cold feet, no matter how thick your socks are. Columbia offers premium waterproof protection across our range of models.

For moderate to heavy precipitation, some of our styles feature Outdry™ technology. Outdry™ offers total waterproof bonded construction. This construction leaves no space for water ingress between the membrane and the outer shell. Not only that, Outdry™ is breathable, helping you to stay dry and comfortable.

For more mild conditions with light to moderate precipitation, some of our models feature Omni-Tech™, a technology that provides versatility and multi-layered waterproof protection. It also allows excess heat and moisture to escape through the breathable material.

Fit and support

Consider elevation and distances when selecting the most suitable pairs of shoes and boots for a forest trek. Columbia has a range of footwear that is ideal for any type of forest trek.

For flat forest strolls, you can select a shoe or boot of any height – low, mid or high. Consider lightweight, low-cut shoes if you anticipate faster hikes with some elevation. Do you plan to hike on some rockier terrain? Choose footwear that is heavier and has higher uppers to protect each ankle.

Most of our models include Navic Fit™ uppers. Navic Fit's™ design naturally helps keep your heel in place with our lace system. This offers both comfort and stability while hiking on rough terrain.

Many of our midsole options feature different types of our Techlite™ technology, designed for comfort. Some include Techlite™ Plush midsoles. These cushioned midsoles offer elevated comfort for your whole foot – from heel to toe. Techlite™ Plush is a highly durable option for long-distance trails on changing terrain. Other models include Techlite+™ midsoles, featuring enhanced impact absorption and high-energy return. Techlite+™ is our most lightweight cushioning. It provides comfortable performance, ideal for all-day wear on any terrain.

You can rest assured that Columbia has the perfect hiking boots or shoes for your next forest trek. Each pair reflects our dedication and passion for outdoor gear, so you never have to compromise on quality.