Columbia’s products are always a flagship of excellence, but would you purchase anything without asking anyone for an opinion?
I know your answer, and I am here to correct it.
I have tested these boots and I am gonna tell you everything you need to know about it in this review of Columbia Bugaboot III. Including the good and the bad.
Is The Columbia Bugaboot III Really Good? Here’s My Personal Opinion
After testing the Columbia Hyper-Boreal Omni Heat Tall Snow Boot, I was of the impression that Columbia can’t get any better with their game. But they did with the Columbia Bugaboot III.
I must admit that the Columbia Bugaboot III was perfect for everything and in every context.
I am very impressed by these because they are not just good in terms of one or two features, but have all-around capabilities that they offer for less than $150, which is a big thing.
It has high-quality synthetic insulation installed in it that accounts for the warmth it provides to you. There is a thick rubber lining stuck around the boot that stops water or snow or any small rock particles from entering the boot, thus your feet stay protected as well as warm.
Since I tested them out in Minnesota I had to go the extra mile and put on three layers of socks to add to the efficiency. So these boots, successfully, were able to provide me warmth throughout the day and better than what the North Face Chilkat V or the Muck Boot Arctic Sport did.
When I earlier talked about its insulation properties, did you think that these boots would be very heavy since it has good insulation?
It does have excellent insulation but fortunately, that does not make it heavy. The 200-gram insulation that has been incorporated all over the shaft and also some near the foot has been done in such a way that the boot remains lightweight at the same time.
Also, this boot has good traction. The outsole rubber is quite sticky and works for most of the conditions. But not for deep snowy trails.
It still works a lot better than the Salomon Quest Thinsulate, Merrell Thermo Chill Mid, and Sorel Caribou, that are regarded as the best for trailing on deep snow.
That is because the Bugaboot III are taller than the above boots. Thus you do not have to worry about deep snow, the Columbia Bugaboot III does a pretty good job with it, trust me.
The star feature of this boot is that it is very comfortable. The sole beneath is cushiony and soft which helps you not get hurt even if you are on a long expedition, or trekking. The fit is seriously very cool so it’s a ten for me in terms of comfortability.
There is still a point where doubt arises, that’s durability. Indeed these come from Columbia that are known for producing some of the best products of all time, but that does not ensure durability.
The boots are pretty sturdy and look like they are gonna have a good long life, but the soft cushiony soles that earn so much respect are bound to give up at some point.
The Columbia Bugaboots are more durable than the UGG Butte.
But, if you need more durable boots, Kamik Nation Plus, Muck Boot Arctic Sport Mid, etc. are all also good choices.
You can still install new soles and make these work for a few more winters, but I doubt if the rubber traction and the rubber lining would breathe that long.
Now that you are aware of the good and the bad, should you invest in these?
Is The Columbia Bugaboot III Really Worth It?
I have already told you that by far, the Columbia Bugaboot III was the best affordable boots that I have tested to date. It does a great job at the main reason we wear boots in winter, warmth.
I had to pair it with three pairs of socks but if you are from regions like Colorado or New Hampshire, they’d be highly efficient for you (without any life hacks applied).
The comfort and fit of the boots are fantastic. They magically get molded into the shape of your feet and after some time you just have to push your feet in to fit into the shoe. It is very cozy and comfortable indeed.
On top of all this, the Columbia Bugaboot III is budget-friendly. You will find many boots in a similar price range like the North Face Shellista II, Merrell Men Cold Pack Ice, etc., but none like the Columbia Bugaboot III.
If you ask for a boot that is good overall in all terms and stands neck to neck in competition with Bugaboot III, I’d name the North Face Chilkat V.
Yes, it is not very functional when it comes to providing warmth. But warmth alone does not determine functionality as it provides you with all the other features in an even better form than most of the boots out there. Even better than Bugaboot III.
Conclusion
Overall I would say, if you are short on time and can’t explore too many options, you can comfortably go ahead with Columbia Bugaboot III. And rather spend your time planning your next outdoor winter adventure.
