Comfortable footwear is arguably the most important thing for hiking, which is why I do so many hiking shoe and boot reviews. In this review of the Columbia Ashlane Low hiking shoes, you’ll find out what I like and don’t like about these hiking shoes! 
Hiking Lady’s Review of the Columbia Ashlane Low Women’s Hiking Shoes
I just went on a local day hike to Caspers Wilderness Park with my new Columbia Ashlane Low women’s hiking shoes, and I really like them! They provide great support for a low top shoe, and an excellent rubber “Omni-Grip” sole that provides a lot of traction, especially on rocks. The upper of the shoe is suede and breathable mesh panels. Plus, the toe is reinforced with rubber, which is always a nice feature on hiking shoes and boots because we hikers inevitably will run into some rocks on (or off) the trail.
The length and width run true to size, but I always recommend buying hiking shoes and boots that are a half size larger than your regular size to prevent your toes from hitting the front of the shoe on downhill slopes. Additionally, I prefer to swap the insoles of all of my running and hiking shoes with Superfeet for added foot support, but these shoes come with really nice insoles that seem to be high quality and offer good support. They are odor resistant as well!
When I’m backpacking I obviously wear boots with a stiff shank, not low top hiking shoes, but for those of you who are like me and enjoy casual day hikes, these Ashlane Lows are a great option. My number one rule for hiking and running shoes is fit and function, not style, but the Columbia Ashlane’s have the added benefit of being super stylish. I’ll definitely be wearing these hiking shoes off trail too!
Specs of the Columbia Ashlane Low Women’s Hiking Shoes:
- Weight (for a Pair, size 7): 24.8oz/704g
- Materials: Suede, Mesh, Rubber reinforced toe
- Colors Available: (1) Buffalo, Daiquiri (2) Sage, Jupiter, (3) Macadam, Dark Laurel
- MSRP: $75.00
Treat Your Feet Right! Hiking Lady’s Tips:
Hi Jennifer – it really depends on a lot of factors – whether or not you’re backpacking or carrying a light day pack, what type of terrain you’ll be on, and what the weather will be like. I would check out your local outdoor sporting goods store and talk to the sales people. Happy trails!
I am going to hike a 78 nmile trail and I really don’t like hiking boots. What is your recommendation?