Columbia Minx Slip-On Review

Not the most attractive boot, the Columbia Minx Slip-Ons were the lightest of all the winter boots in our review. They were also the easiest to take on and off. Although these slip-ons weren't very warm, they were quite waterproof and they were some of the least expensive boots in our review. For a more stylish piece that has many of the Minx Slip-On's qualities, including its affordable price tag, check out the Columbia Minx Mid Omni-Heat, which laces up the front and has a faux fur-lined cuff.

Performance Comparison

Warmth

The Columbia Minx Slip-Ons were some of the shorter boots in our review and they were the only model that didn't have some sort of lace system to cinch down the upper and seal in heat. Despite the 200 grams of OMNI-HEAT insulation and Columbia's OMNI-HEAT reflective lining, these boots just didn't stay warm. When we wore our pants tucked into these boots, snow could also fall into the boot through the spacious top opening. Brrrrr. For a lightweight boot that is significantly warmer and still features a side zipper, consider the Ahnu Northridge.

Comfort & Coziness

There wasn't really anything comfy or cozy going on in this piece. The sole provides little support and the lining isn't soft or plush. Because it's so lightweight, the boot does move easily with you when you walk, and the thin sole provides as close a feeling to being barefoot as a boot probably can. We thought that the taller Columbia Minx Mid Omni-Heat was much cozier, since its upper shaft cinches down against the calf.

Water Resistance

We were pleasantly surprised that the Columbia Minx Slip-On was waterproof up to about 5 inches of water. Oddly, though, the boot started taking on water below the point where the tongue dips to meet the sides. We're not sure where this mystery leak was coming from, but unless you're standing in really deep puddles or trying to wade a creek in this boot, it's not a huge problem.

Style & Fit

When we asked friends and family to weigh in on the style of all the footwear in this review, these slip-ons came in last. Unlike the similar, but more attractive Minx Mid, the slip-on version just doesn't have any interest- or style-adding features. And, as we mentioned before, the quilted design just kind of makes this boot look like a house slipper. This piece runs just a tiny bit small and is on the narrow side.

Traction

Columbia outfitted this shoe with its OMNI-GRIP outsole. We weren't super impressed with the traction that the Minx Slip-On offered, but it was grippier than the Tecnica Moon Boot and the The North Face Janey II. The thin sole allowed us to feel the the ground a little bit better, so overall that improved the traction a bit.

Ease to Take On & Off

This boot did excel in how easy it was to take on and off. The Columbia Minx Slip-On doesn't have any laces, just a simple side zipper. Also thanks to its shorter shaft, it's easy to kick off and pull back on.

Best Application

Since these slip-ons are so easy to take on and off, we liked them for quick errands and outdoor chores like taking out the compost or garbage. They were also better on warmer days when we didn't have to worry about our toes getting cold.

Value

At $110, the Columbia Minx Slip-On was one of the most affordable boots in our review; however, if you're like us, you'd probably rather spend a bit more to get something stylish that you'll actually get a lot more use out of. If you like the idea of the Minx Slip-On, but aren't sold on its fashion sense, be sure to check out the Minx Mid, which is warmer and more stylish, for just $10 more.

Conclusion

The Columbia Minx Slip-On isn't the best for women who live in cold climates or those who care about stylish footwear. This piece scored well in our waterproof and ease of taking on and off metrics, but fell short in style, comfort, and warmth.

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