Summary
We spent 9.2 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what hikers think:
5 reasons to buy
- Nearly everyone who has reviewed the Columbia Ivo Trail is impressed with its incredible aesthetics.
- According to a multitude of purchasers, this fantastic hiking shoe is immensely comfortable.
- It has A-grade grip performance, say several of those who have bought the shoe.
- Some consumers find their Columbia Ivo Trail hiking shoes quite easy to break in.
- This trail shoe from Columbia is amazingly breathable, a couple of those who have tested it say.
2 reasons not to buy
- According to a Columbia Ivo Trail review, its laces seem to untie easily.
- An owner is not confident with this Columbia offering in terms of extended performance on the trail.
Bottom line
Design-wise, the Columbia Ivo Trail is nothing short of spectacular. Indeed, its eye-catching looks can draw in those who prefer to stay fashionable on hikes. It is also an excellent product in terms of comfort, surface traction, and break-in period.
Purchasers, however, must take heed of its unruly laces. Overall, the Ivo Trail is a remarkable Columbia piece—one that can exceed the expectations of many in both form and utility.
Facts
| Use: | Urban hiking |
|---|---|
| Cut: | Low cut |
| Price: | $90 |
| Features: | Lightweight | Breathable | Orthotic friendly |
| Weight: | Men: 12.2oz | Women: 10.2oz |
| Width: | Normal, Wide | Normal, Wide |
| Brand: | Columbia |
| Material: | Suede, Rubber sole, Leather, Mesh upper |
| Pronation: | Neutral |
| Season: | Summer |
| Closure: | Lace Up |
| Colorways: | Black, Blue, Brown, Grey |
Expert Reviews
Experts are hikers, who post reviews at youtube, directly at RunRepeat or at their own websites. Each expert is categorized from level 1 to level 5 based on expertise. See stats on expert reviews and how we calculate scores here.
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-A shoe inspired by kicks of the yesteryears, the Columbia Ivo Trail bridges the line between urban sneakers and performance-oriented hiking shoes. Behind its laidback design lies a set of features that delivers comfort, whether on trails or city pavements.
-It is equipped with two of Columbia’s exclusive technologies: Omni-Grip and Techlite. The former is responsible for giving wearers ample traction on the trail. The latter, on the other hand, is designed to provide the foot with as much cushioning as possible over rough terrain.
-Its upper is made of textile fabric with suede overlays that are resistant to abrasion and scuffing.
The Columbia Ivo Trail is a low-top hiking shoe for men and women. Achieving a personalized and secure lockdown in it is possible via the hiker’s lace-up closure. The shoe comes with an extra pair of eyelets at the top to give wearers expanded fit customization options.
In the Ivo Trail, adequate slip and skid resistance is a provision wearers get from the shoe’s long-wearing Omni-Grip outsole. Its entirety is made of non-marking rubber. Columbia engineers armed it with highly aggressive lugs and strategically placed them at opposing angles to grant hikers enough traction over soft soil and like surfaces. The lugs around the forefoot and heel zones are lined up in such a way that provides users with additional grip on ascents and descents.
This Columbia shoe delivers sufficient protection and cushioning underfoot with its lightweight EVA midsole, called Techlite. This single-piece component has a springy yet firm construction for shock absorption and ground stability. It also has a kind of engineering that gives wearers a decent amount of energy return, making strides more efficient.
Sitting on top of the Ivo Trail’s midsole is a brand-owned removable footbed. It is built with a combination of softness and sturdiness to grant adventurers a bit more comfort and support underfoot.
The Ivo Trail’s low-cut upper is part textile, part suede leather (with the latter serving as the hiking shoe’s overlays). It comes with a padded tongue and collar for extra comfort. The upper’s heel section is reinforced with two-layer overlays for enhanced rearfoot support. At its heel is a synthetic pull tab for more convenient on and off.
Rounding out the Ivo Trail’s heavy-duty upper is its traditional closure system. It has regular non-plated lace holes built into sturdy overlays for improved longevity. Through these eyelets is a round lace made of interwoven synthetic cords.
Columbia is widely known for manufacturing quality yet budget-friendly outdoor shoes. Among the sought-after models are the Ivo Trail and the Fairbanks Low. Choosing the best hiking shoe highly depends on your needs, personal taste and preferences, and the type of activities you normally engage in. See their differences below:
Breathability. If you're looking for a pair of casual hikers that you can take to your summer adventures, you'd benefit from a shoe that provides more breathability. While the Ivo Trail is less likely to cause "overheating" because it doesn't have a waterproof membrane or a leather lining, the Fairbanks Low seems more suited in really hot environments as it features a mesh upper. The Ivo trail makes a great footwear choice in mild weather conditions and even in the spring or fall. Wearing nice, thick socks should keep your feet warm enough to survive moderately cold days.
Weight. Both these models are considered "lightweight". However, if you prefer an ultra-lightweight shoe, the Fairbanks Low is a great option. If you're simply going around the town or taking a day hike in a well-maintained trail, wearing a super lightweight shoe will provide comfort and support without slowing you down.
Sizing. While both of these models can be used by either gender, only the Ivo Trail is available in women's sizes. Women's feet generally have a wider forefoot and shorter arch length. Wearing a shoe that is specifically designed for the female foot is highly beneficial as it ensures comfort especially in women who suffer from foot pain and similar conditions.
-The Ivo Trail is considered one of the budget-friendliest hiking shoes currently out on the market.
