Quick Overview
DURABILITY
SUPPORT
COST
Pros
Cons
One of the best and most economical ways to stay fit and still observe physical distancing during these times is to head outside and go for a run.
If you have a favorite trail, you should also have an ideal running shoe for this kind of activity to ensure proper feet cushioning.
This Columbia trail running shoes review aims to help you decide if these trainers are the perfect choice for you.
We will also look for other trail running shoes under the same brand comparable to the featured product.
Columbia Women’s Redmond Trail Running Shoes
Columbia is known for producing contemporary outdoor gear since 1938. Part of its wide range of products are shoes for trail running.
In this Columbia trail running shoes review, we will take a close look at one of our favorite Columbia shoes, the Redmond.
This pair was released in the market in July of 2014 and is designed for women.
The design of this women’s trail shoe is meant to provide comfort and versatility for various activities. It is available in several colorways to match your lifestyle.
The second version of this trail running shoe came out in October 2018, four years after the initial version was released.
There’s also a special edition of this model, which came out in January 2017 and is made of leather. You will find a mid-cut version of the Columbia Redmond trail running shoes, too.
About the Company
It was in 1937 when the family fled Germany and decided to settle in Portland, Oregon.
They bought a small business that creates hats the following year, and that was when the Columbia Hat Company came to life.
Its patriarch initially managed the family business until he decided to pass it on to his daughter’s husband.
The business continued under the management of the son-in-law until his sudden demise in 1970, which led to Gert Boyle’s control of the family business.
The company continues to produce high-quality products according to the standards set by its perfectionist lady boss.
Columbia Sportswear, as it is now known, is still based in Portland, Oregon. It continues to produce outdoor products for people with an active lifestyle.
Presently, Columbia strives to observe manufacturing practices that are safe for the environment.
Who Is This Product For?
The Columbia Redmond trail running shoe is the ideal everyday footwear. You can even wear it while doing errands around town.
As the name suggests, these shoes are perfect for running on a variety of trails. It is also suitable for mountain hiking on different terrains.
A pair of these shoes might be the best choice for those on a tight budget but in need of a reliable everyday shoe.
The flexibility of this footwear is evident as you walk or jog on and off the trail or, simply, as you stroll around the neighborhood.
Also, the comfortability of the Redmond trail running shoes fits those who always walk while in the workplace.
What’s Included?
If you decide to purchase this footwear, you will be receiving a pair of this Redmond trail running shoes from Columbia.
Overview of the Features
People with active lifestyles inspired the creation of all of Columbia’s trail running shoes and other outdoor gear.
Will this pair be the right choice for you?
Comfort
Why is comfortability one of the essential features to consider when buying running shoes?
Many runners observed that wearing comfortable shoes can prevent most injuries in the lower extremities.
Hence, looking for footwear that can support your foot’s critical areas is vital to achieving the comfort that your feet need.
The Redmond boasts a Techlite midsole. It is a lightweight and responsive technology from Columbia that provides cushioning and comfort.
This trail running shoe offers a break-in feel that allows it to be your go-to everyday footwear.
Its cushioning midsole can absorb more impact and offer higher energy return than other trail running shoes.
The combined mesh, leather, and webbing in the Redmond provide just the right amount of ventilation.
It has a small but useful pull tab at the back of the shoe to make on and off wearing as easy as possible.
You will find extended cushioning, along with the tongue, and inside the collar of the shoe.
Weight
The weight of your running shoes is another crucial aspect to look for when buying trainers.
Wearing lightweight running shoes can improve your agility and running performance on and off the trail.
The Redmond trail running shoes are lightweight at 280 grams. This eliminates the feeling of being weighed down while wearing the shoes.
Also, its lightness will reduce the exhausted feeling you may experience as you run, allowing you to increase your distance.
Support
Arch support and midsole cushioning are also essential perks that you should look out for in running shoes.
These two aspects can significantly reduce the tension placed on your feet as you conquer the road or terrain.
Columbia has fitted the Redmond with a removable and decent insole, allowing you to replace it if needed.
The Techlite technology is the brand’s trademark that uses dual-density foam that is placed full-length on the midsole.
This midsole comfort system offers all-day support and high energy return straight out of the box. It also uses the traditional lacing system to ensure a better fit.
Traction
The traction placed on the outsole of your running shoes is vital to prevent accidents and injuries due to slips.
Outsoles with excellent grip also help runners to improve their running speed and control.
Omni-Grip is Columbia’s trademark outsole. This advanced traction technology has specially developed treads that offer proper grip at all times.
Lug zones and rubber mixture are well-blended for maximum traction on the trail.
Aside from its high traction capability, the rubber outsole of the Redmond trail running shoe is also flexible.
Versatility
The versatility of a running shoe can help in supporting your feet in any kind of outdoor activity. The Redmond is not heavy, making it perfect for your casual stroll around town or on the trail.
You can also wear this footwear while doing outdoor sports and exercises or while doing yard work.
Water Resistance
Wearing waterproof shoes will keep your feet dry and warm when running in rainy or snowy conditions.
Wet socks and shoes will soften your feet’s skin, making it prone to blisters and chafing while running.
The Omni-Tech waterproof membrane used in the Redmond trail running shoes is quite impressive. With this feature, your feet stay dry while wearing this stylish footgear.
Durability
Choosing a running shoe made from durable materials ensures that your feet will be protected and cared for.
This stylish footwear offers sufficient durability on the trail, thanks to its upper made of mesh, suede leather, and webbing.
It is also fitted with a toe guard that adds to its overall durability, ensuring a longer-lasting service.
How to Get the Most Out of It
To guarantee that you’re getting the most bang for your buck, the trail running shoes you choose should match your every need and preference.
Check out this video to see what the Columbia Redmond can and will do for you.
Alternatives
Don't think that this is the pair for you? No worries!
The market offers a wide selection to choose from, and you'd find plenty of Columbia trail running shoes reviews to help you decide.
To help you out, here are other note-worthy pairs of shoes designed and manufactured by Columbia:
1. Columbia Redmond V2 Hiking Shoes
The first alternative we will be checking is the upgraded version of the Redmond.
The Columbia Redmond V2 hiking shoes became available in the market in April 2019.
The waterproof and breathable membrane found in the original version is also used in this edition. As such, you can be sure that your feet stay dry and comfortable in any surroundings.
The sealed seam of the Omni-Tech does a great job of keeping the water out of the shoe but still allows your feet to breathe.
For a more durable construction, both barriers for the heel and toe are strengthened so that you can use it for extended periods.
The company fitted this footwear with an internal shank to ensure its stability and flexibility. In addition, you will find a lengthened outsole toe overwrap for added durability and protection.
Columbia’s signature Omni-Grip rubber outsole offers durability and excellent grip in all types of weather and terrain.
The additional designs put into the Redmond V2 ensure delivery of more comfortable and reliable performance.
The problem with this is that there are some doubts about the durability of its upper. Some users claim that the seams come apart quickly.
2. Columbia Dakota Drifter for Women
Another alternative worth checking out is the Dakota Drifter, which came out in the market in March of 2016.
The footwear is made of suede leather combined with mesh and rubber overlays that add to its durability.
Columbia created this waterproof and breathable footwear through the use of its advanced and signature Omni-Tech system.
The Dakota Drifter is fitted with a breathable mesh tongue, adding to its comfort and durability. It has a lace-up closure so that you can adjust its fit and tightness for a more comfortable run.
Columbia’s trademark Techlite midsole support offers excellent cushioning for better shock absorption.
This lightweight midsole ensures reliable and comfortable performance. It effectively absorbs the shock as you trek various trails.
The Omni-Grip rubber outsole has a dual-zone tread pattern to ensure that you don’t lose your footing whatever terrain you traverse.
The next time you need footwear that offers waterproof protection, absolute traction, and comfortability, you can always choose the Dakota Drifter.
There are complaints from some runners saying that the toe box is too narrow. There is a restricting feeling in the toe area, making it uncomfortable to wear for long periods.
3. Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes
Want to hike in style without sacrificing comfort? Check out these Crestwood hiking shoes from Columbia.
These durable shoes were initially released three years ago in September of 2017.
You’d love the combined mesh and suede upper on these shoes, which makes it waterproof and moisture-wicking at the same time.
As such, your feet are sure to stay warm and dry, whether you are hiking in summer or wintertime.
The waterproof suede upper is made more durable by the suede overlays placed on top of the mesh fabric.
There is no feeling of being weighed down while wearing these hiking shoes. The lightness of the midsole adds to the comfortability that the shoe offers.
You can be sure that the responsive midsole will help you achieve the best performance. Its improved ability to absorb impact and have it bounce back is thanks to the Techlite technology.
The heel cup keeps your foot stable, while the mesh and upper cushioning gives it softness.
The Techlite midsole offers the right amount of cushioning that will last a long time. With this, you don’t need to use additional insoles just to be comfortable.
The flexible Omni-Grip rubber outsole is extended to the heel and toe for added support to those sensitive areas.
In addition, you’d find an added toe guard across the front and sides for additional reinforcement in the toe box area.
The Crestwood is available in both regular and wide widths so that you can get the right fit. It is also one of the most affordable hiking shoes in the market.
Although there are two width options, some users still complain about having a narrow toe box.
Final Verdict
These Columbia trail running shoes review showed us how versatile this footgear is, as it allows you to wear it on and off the road no matter what the weather is.
The numerous advanced technologies that are decidedly Columbia’s signature significantly improved the performance of the running shoes.
These trademark technologies also allow the company to sell these running shoes at an affordable price.
One of the most common complaints about these Columbia running shoes is the narrow toe box that restricts feet movements.
Overall, these waterproof but breathable running shoes are one of the most affordable models in the market.