REASONS TO BUY
Loads of cushion
Traditional lacing
Comfy against skin
REASONS TO AVOID
Lacks arch support
Not as robust of construction
Columbia Drainmaker XTR Review
This heavily cushioned water shoe is a joy to wear as long as arch support isn’t a priority
Credit: Zach Lovell
By Zach Lovell ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ April 30, 2026
RELATED: The Best Water Shoes for Men
Our Verdict
The Columbia Drainmaker XTR offers some of the best cushion we've yet tested in a water shoe. This model more closely resembles a running shoe, yet has some surprisingly decent drainage. If you're needing footwear with more arch support, we might steer you elsewhere, but our lower-arched testers were happy in the XTR for full days on the river or lake. The uppers of the Drainmaker were supple and boasted great against skin comfort, though it isn't as durable of build as some of the competition.
Our Analysis and Test Results
We spent weeks with the Columbia Drainmaker XTR and found it to be an excellent model for cushion. Its running shoe esc build was comfy and we appreciated the traditional lacing system.
If cushion is a priority, the Columbia Drainmaker might be worth digging into. Credit: Zach Lovell
Likes
There are few water shoes as cushioned as the Columbia Drainmaker XTR, which reminded us more of a runner than water-based footwear. The lacing system allowed us to get the fit just right and we loved the against skin feel of the upper. We were also pleasantly surprised by how well-draining this water shoe was, allowing for river bed walks or playing on the beach.
The drainage of the XTR was impressive for how cushioned it was. Credit: Zach Lovell
The overall comfort of this shoe ultimately depends on one's arch profile, since the Columbia Drainmaker XTR is lacking in overall arch support. Lower arched feet worked very well with this shoe while higher arched testers had some complaints. Some of the competition utilizes a narrower last, but the Drainmaker XTR also boasts a wider shape that accommodates a wider variety of foot widths.
Ultimately, this shoe is most ideal for shoppers wanting water-based footwear that still provides cushion more commonly used in dry-ground shoes. The running shoe aesthetic might not be the most eye-catching look, but we found it to offer some nice versatility if going to social hangs before or after water adventures.
These have a nice running shoe aesthetic that worked well at the river or at the coffee shop. Credit: Zach Lovell
Dislikes
As previously mentioned, there isn't as much arch support in the Columbia Drainmaker XTR despite a heavily cushioned design. It also has a substantial amount of drop from the heel to the toe, which is often considered less ideal for one's foot health.
Despite the decent cushioning, this won't work as well for high-arched feet. Credit: Zach Lovell
The Columbia Drainmaker XTR also doesn't offer the most robust construction, with the upper showing a bit more wear than the competition across our testing seasons. The outsole and midsole are on the more flexible side as well, which made for a less protective shoe when walking over sharp rocks.
Should You Buy the Columbia Drainmaker XTR?
These are great if you're needing as much cushion as possible and don't require high-arched footwear. For moderate to casual use around the river, pool, or lake, the Columbia Drainmaker XTR is a decent option, but if you're doing more intense hiking or demand more foot protection, we'd steer you towards another water shoe.
What Other Water Shoes Should You Consider?
If you'd like something better suited to hiking, the Salomon Techamphibian 5 is a great choice for wet and muddy trails. Alternatively, the Astral Brewer 3.0 has an ample amount of cushion but has more arch support than the Columbia Drainmaker XTR.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare Columbia Drainmaker XTR versus top competing products:
| Awards | |
|---|---|
| Price | $90 List Check Price at Backcountry |
Overall Score  |
|
| Star Rating | |
| Bottom Line | This heavily cushioned water shoe is a joy to wear as long as arch support isn’t a priority |
| Pros | Loads of cushion, traditional lacing, comfy against skin |
| Cons | Lacks arch support, not as robust of construction |
| Rating Categories | Columbia Drainmaker XTR |
| Comfort (25%) | |
| Traction (25%) | |
| Warmth (15%) | |
| Versatility (15%) | |
| Sensitivity (10%) | |
| Quality of Construction (10%) | |
| Specifications | Columbia Drainmaker XTR |
| Measured Weight (per pair, US size 10) | 1.2 lbs |
| Drainage Features | Top mesh and holes in sole |
| Removeable Insole? | Yes |
| Footwear Closure | Laces |
| Upper Materials | Synthetic, mesh, and webbing |
| Midsole | EVA Foam |
| Outsole | Omni-Grip™ rubber |
| Relative Fit | Wider fit than average |
—Zach Lovell
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