Columbia Men's Vertisol Trail Hiking Shoes

When I first unboxed these shoes, the immediate impression was clear: this isn't your traditional heavy-duty hiking boot. If you're searching for the rugged, overbuilt feel of classic trail footwear, you'll want to look elsewhere. These shoes feel distinctly more geared toward casual wear and light trail exploration than demanding backcountry treks. The most notable difference is the material construction. The upper is dominated by a highly breathable, meshy material—a departure from the thick leather or stiff, reinforced synthetic uppers found on true hiking workhorses. This design choice grants exceptional flexibility and airflow, making them wonderfully comfortable for all-day wear, especially in warmer conditions. However, this also means they lack the robust structure and ankle support needed for carrying heavy packs or navigating aggressive, rocky terrain. Wearing them is akin to putting on a slightly more supportive athletic shoe; they are wonderfully lightweight and require zero break-in time. For pavement, parks, and well-maintained dirt paths, they are perfect. But for anything that qualifies as heavy hiking, the material simply doesn't offer the durability or protection required. They are best suited for the walker who occasionally dips onto a gentle trail, valuing comfort and a sneaker-like feel over the sheer ruggedness of a traditional boot.

Very nice shoes. Comfortable. Fits perfectly. Breathable.

Most comfortable shoes ever!! Standing all day on concrete can’t recommend anything better than these shoes. They have great support and so comfy and soft my feet are not tired and hurting after a 12 hour day.

I bought these for my boyfriend for Christmas and was nervous that they wouldn’t fit. He said they had plenty of room and were extremely comfortable!

Nice shoes, should have got extra wide!

Comfortable, more than average padding but not hooka brand soles. A good color to wear with casual clothing without looking a gym shoe. Laces were too short. Swamped them out

Fix very well with the wide foot

Very comfortable, especially for me at size 14w. I normally wear 14xw but I've found Columbia shoes in wide to be exceptional once broken in. And the design is strurdy and durable.