What Makes Columbia's 'Saber V' Different from Other Waterproof Hiking Shoes?

When trekking in the mountains, you often come across people wearing trekking shoes by 'Columbia'. Most of the time, it's their long-selling 'SABER' model. In particular, I've heard that the latest model, the 'Saber V Mid OutDry', stands out from other outdoor shoes with its exceptional waterproof and breathable features. So, what sets it apart? I visited Columbia Sportswear Japan and spoke with Tomonori Araki from the product department to find out more.

Trekking shoes for mountain trails often come with water-repellent features, some even have waterproof and breathable functions, which are far from unusual. Shoes with waterproof-breathability are so common in the outdoors that they're almost taken for granted.
 
"Most waterproof-breathable shoes have a 'bootie construction.' This construction means that an intermediate layer known as the membrane, which ensures the waterproof-breathability, is independently inserted into the shoes like socks. This means that water does not penetrate the sock-shaped bag, but there will inevitably be a gap between it and the upper layer where water can seep in.
 
"If water enters the gap between the water-repellent layer of the upper and the sock-shaped waterproof and breathable layer, it won't wet your feet directly but, it will make the shoes uncomfortable due to the water that remains inside. Not just discomfort, the shoes will also become heavier. Moreover, if water accumulates outside the waterproof-breathable layer, it impairs its breathability, making your feet sweaty.
 
"High-quality rainwear typically features a water-repellent layer on the surface, a so-called membrane as the intermediate layer that provides the waterproof-breathable function, and a comfortable material on the inner lining. These three layers form a single unit, so water does not penetrate the fabric itself. However, in shoes with a 'bootie construction,' water can seep into the gap between the upper and the intermediate layer, becoming a weak point.
 
"'OutDry', which addresses this weakness, is a waterproof-breathable function that directly presses the waterproof-breathable layer to the underside of the upper, eliminating any gaps. This structural advantage prevents water from penetrating between the water repellent and waterproof-breathable layers. It doesn't get heavy as no water enters. It doesn't sweat. That's why 'OutDry' is comfortable.
 
"This technology was originally developed by an Italian manufacturer but since Columbia Group adopted the technology in 2010, only Columbia footwear employs 'OutDry'. Seems like many users prefer this feature and continue to use it for a long time. Not just water, even small gravel can't enter the gaps. Gravel can add weight and discomfort."