Columbia Crestwood Mid Waterproof Review (2026): Light, Affordable Women's Hiker That Runs Small

The Columbia Crestwood Mid Waterproof is a light, affordable women's hiking boot for day hikes, wet trails and everyday walking. It has a waterproof bootie, a cushioned Techlite midsole and a non-marking Omni-Grip outsole, and Columbia lists it at 11.4 oz per shoe in a women's size 7. There's a catch, though. It runs small, and a few owners report leaks and wear.

This review is built from Columbia's published specs, retailer listings, an independent gear test and owner feedback, each noted where it's used. The photos show the boot itself. Fit and wear notes come from other owners and reviewers. See how we research boots.

Columbia Crestwood Mid Waterproof Specs at a Glance

The rating is 4.3 out of 5 from 366 ratings on a retailer listing that carries Columbia's reviews (Walmart, retrieved 2026-10-19). Prices are typical retail prices from Kohl's and Walmart (retrieved 2026-10-19). Amazon pricing moves, so check the current price before you buy.

Specs from Columbia's product pages and retailer listings (Columbia, Kohl's, Zappos, Walmart, all retrieved 2026-10-19). Retailer copy differs slightly between versions and colors, so check the Amazon listing for the exact pair you're buying.

Waterproofing: Does It Keep Feet Dry?

Columbia builds the Crestwood with Omni-Tech, a waterproof and breathable membrane set inside the boot as a sealed bootie. In plain terms, the upper is sewn around a waterproof sock, so water has a harder time getting in through the seams. Columbia says it sheds water and releases excess heat.

Most owners agree. Reviewers on Columbia's site call the boots 100% waterproof, and an independent tester at OutdoorGearLab said the upper kept feet warm and dry (OutdoorGearLab, April 2024). A few owners disagree. At least one reviewer wrote that the boots are not waterproof, and another was unhappy with Columbia's waterproofing (Columbia and Zappos reviews, retrieved 2026-10-19).

What this means for you:

• For rain, wet grass, puddles and muddy trails, it should do the job.
• Don't count on it for standing in deep water. The collar is low and the boot isn't a waders-style design.
• Test them in the shower or a wet yard soon after you get them, so you can return a pair that leaks.

Wondering how membranes compare to waterproof leather? Our guide to GORE-TEX vs waterproof leather boots explains the difference. For more dry-feet picks, see our best waterproof boots.

Comfort, Cushioning and Weight

Comfort is the Crestwood's main selling point. The Techlite midsole is a light foam that Columbia says absorbs impact and returns energy. OutdoorGearLab's testers found the boot comfortable right out of the box, with flexible materials and a lightweight feel underfoot. They also noted a minimal insole and said it handled rocky trails with good shock absorption (OutdoorGearLab, April 2024).

At 11.4 oz per shoe in a women's size 7, it's light for a waterproof mid boot. That's why it suits day hikes, travel and walking around town better than long backpacking trips. If you want more arch support or cushioning, the footbed is removable, so you can swap in your own. Our guide to hiking boots for flat feet covers what to look for in support.

Traction and Terrain

The Omni-Grip outsole is non-marking rubber with a tread pattern Columbia says adapts to different surfaces. OutdoorGearLab liked the dual tread patterns and said they gave confidence on trail surfaces (OutdoorGearLab, April 2024). Because the rubber is non-marking, you can also wear the boots indoors without scuffing floors.

It's a light-duty tread. It works on dirt paths, forest trails, gravel and wet pavement. For steep, loose scree or deep mud, a boot with deeper lugs will grip better. Fall hiking brings wet leaves and slick roots, so see our best boots for fall hiking guide for outsole picks.

Fit and Sizing: It Runs Small

Sizing is the one thing nearly every source agrees on. Zappos tells shoppers it fits a half size up for most women, and your usual size may feel tight. OutdoorGearLab found it runs small and recommended sizing up if you're between sizes or choosing the wide fit. Owners echo this: one wrote that they needed a size larger and a wide width because the boot runs narrow, and another said it runs small even compared with other Columbia boots (Zappos and Columbia reviews, retrieved 2026-10-19).

Here's how to get the fit right:

• Order a half size up from your usual running or hiking size.
• If your feet are wide or you wear thick hiking socks, choose Columbia's Wide version.
• Try the boots on late in the day with the socks you'll hike in.
• Check that your heel doesn't slip and your toes don't touch the front when you walk downhill.

Not sure whether you need a wide boot? Our wide boots sizing guide walks you through it, and our list of women's waterproof hiking boots for wide feet has other options. If your feet are narrow instead, read hiking boots for narrow feet.

Ankle Support

The Crestwood Mid sits at mid-ankle and Columbia describes the support as light. OutdoorGearLab noted that the cuff has only a single hook for lacing, so you get less lockdown than on a boot with a full set of hooks. That's fine for day hikes and walking. If you have weak ankles or carry a heavy pack, read our guide to hiking boots for ankle support.

Durability: What to Watch For

The Crestwood is a budget boot, and durability gets mixed feedback. OutdoorGearLab flagged possible durability issues with the design. Owners are split: one reviewer said a previous pair of Columbia hiking boots lasted more than three years, while others mention wear and a few leaks (OutdoorGearLab, Walmart and Zappos reviews, retrieved 2026-10-19).

What to do about it:

• Check the seams and the sole bond when the boots arrive.
• Keep the box and receipt, and wear them indoors for a day or two so you can still return them.
• Clean off mud after muddy hikes and let them air dry away from direct heat.

Who Should Buy the Columbia Crestwood Mid?

A good fit for:

• Day hikers who want a light waterproof boot on a budget.
• Walkers and travelers who want one boot for city streets and easy trails.
• Anyone who wants out-of-the-box comfort with little break-in.

Not the best fit for:

• Heavy backpacking, steep terrain or off-trail scrambling.
• Cold-weather hiking. It isn't insulated. See our best women's winter boots instead.
• Wide feet, unless you buy the Wide version and size up.

Columbia Crestwood Mid Alternatives

These on-site guides can help if the Crestwood isn't quite right for you:

• All-round pick: our best hiking boots guide lists the top 3 for every trail, foot and budget.
• Popular budget alternative: read our NORTIV 8 women's hiking shoes review.
• Well-known all-rounder: see our Merrell Moab review and our best Merrell hiking boots guide.
• Wide feet: women's waterproof hiking boots for wide feet.

FAQ

Is the Columbia Crestwood Mid Waterproof truly waterproof?

It uses Omni-Tech, a seam-sealed waterproof bootie, and most owners report dry feet in rain and puddles. A few reviewers say theirs leaked, so test your pair early and keep the return window in mind.

Does the Columbia Crestwood Mid run small?

Yes. Zappos suggests a half size up for most women, and OutdoorGearLab recommends sizing up if you're between sizes. Choose the Wide version if you have wide feet.

How much does the Columbia Crestwood Mid weigh?

Columbia lists 11.4 oz (323 g) per shoe in a women's size 7. Weight changes with size.

Is the Columbia Crestwood Mid good for hiking?

It's good for day hikes and easy to moderate trails. It's light and comfortable, but it isn't built for heavy packs or rough, rocky terrain.

Is the Columbia Crestwood Mid insulated?

No. Columbia doesn't list insulation, so it's best for mild weather. Use warm socks if you wear it in cool conditions, or choose a winter boot for real cold.

Can you wear the Columbia Crestwood Mid every day?

Yes, many owners do. The non-marking outsole is safe indoors and the light weight suits walking, travel and errands.

Does the Columbia Crestwood Mid come in wide?

Yes. Columbia sells a separate Wide style. Wide-footed owners say it helps, especially if you also size up.

The Bottom Line

The Columbia Crestwood Mid Waterproof is a comfortable, lightweight and affordable way to keep your feet dry on day hikes and in wet weather. Size up, check the waterproofing early, and don't expect it to handle heavy loads. Choose by how you'll use it:

• Day hikes, wet weather and everyday walking: the Crestwood Mid is a strong value. Check the Columbia Crestwood Mid price on Amazon
• Wide feet: see our wide-fit waterproof hiking boots.
• Heavy packs or cold weather: start with our best hiking boots and best women's winter boots.