How To Find Your Perfect Pair Of Wellies
Oct 6th 2023
With so many Wellington boots on the market, it is hard to know what pair would be right for you. It all depends on the activity you need them for; the best Wellington boots for walking may be suitable for dog walking but not for someone working on a farm or yard. In this blog, we'll explore how to find the perfect pair of wellies to suit your lifestyle and favourite outdoor pursuits.
Let's start by walking through the different features of a welly and what to look out for.
Key Features
- Rubber – The saying you get what you pay for really rings true here. High-end wellies are generally made from natural rubber. Natural rubber has a higher elasticity, making it more supple. If correctly maintained, these rubber boots will last you years and are a good option if you are looking for all-day comfort. A vulcanised rubber upper is perfect if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option and is suitable for everyday tasks rather than tough jobs.
- Sole – A good sole is crucial, and most high-quality wellies are on par with walking boots. The level of grip, cushioning and support you require depends on what activity you are performing.
- Lining - A neoprene lining is an excellent option if you want ultimate protection from the cold. If you'll be wearing your boots in a warmer climate or have warm feet, then a leather, jersey or unlined option would be best.
- Height – There are various heights of welly, from tall to mid and ankle to shoe. The height of boot you choose depends on the purpose you need them for.
- Fit – The correct fit can make all the difference while working and walking. Some boots offer various calf widths, and some brands recommend sizing up or down to accommodate your shape and size. If you need a little more room in the calf area, look for Wellington boots with a gusset. Another vital area to pay attention to is the fit around the ankle - if the boot is too loose, it can rub at the heel.
The Equestrian or Farmer
Being in an agricultural environment, you are expected to be outside all year round in whatever the weather, from scorching heat to freezing snow and heavy rain. Wellies are a great option when you're going to be calf-deep in mud and muck, so it is crucial they stand up to the rigours of agricultural work.
A top contender to support you through these roles is the Aigle Parcours 2 ISO - a unisex Wellington boot from a brand with a longstanding presence in the agricultural scene. It offers a 4.5mm neoprene lining and a sturdy and supportive grip, making it an excellent asset for farmers and equestrians. With an adjustable gusset, this boot is easy to slip on and off and adapts to any calf size. Aigle's Vario sits in the same family but is unlined. You'll be spoilt for choice with two colour options, Kaki and Bronze!
Another strong contender would be the Le Chameau Vierzonord. Again, this is a neoprene-lined boot, available in both ladies and men's. An adjustable waterproof gusset and snap-fastening buckle provide easy entry into the boot and a secure fit around the calf. A shank reinforcement offers excellent arch support and reduces foot fatigue to help keep you working all day long. With three colourway options, Marron Fonce, Vert Chameau and Vert Vierzon, this classic is a perfect addition to any working wardrobe.
Top Tip: If you are a lady with wider calves, go for the men's version! They are exactly the same and start at a size 6; they just offer a little more room in the calf and foot width.
The Country Pursuit Enthusiast
Being out in the countryside and enjoying your favourite outdoor pursuits can mean long hours on your feet. From standing on a riverbank fly fishing to waiting in the field throughout game shooting season, you need a Wellington boot that will be up for the job.
The perfect welly should be smart and practical, and Le Chameau's Chasseur Wellington ticks both boxes. These full-zipped boots are available in multiple calf widths, offering an almost bespoke fit and optimal comfort. They also feature a Riri AQUAzip that is fully waterproof so that no leaking will occur.
The Chasseurs are an extremely versatile Wellington boot, coming in both men's and women's with a choice of linings. If you are looking for luxurious year-round comfort, the leather-lined option is for you. Treated to resist dampness, these boots are tough, hardwearing, and easy to put on, making them excellent for field sports. If you require a little more insulation against the cold, the 3mm neoprene lining is a perfect choice, the innovative lining keeping you warm in temperatures as low as -15°C!
The Dog Walker
You will most likely need a pair of wellies if you own a dog. They're an essential piece of footwear during the cold winter months, especially if you enjoy woodland walks. They're perfect for keeping your feet warm and dry as you follow your playful pooch through puddles, streams and muddy paths.
If you are looking for the ultimate dog-walking welly, the Muck Boot Company Muckster Hi is the finest. Designed for muddy surfaces, this unisex welly will help keep you on the right path. The durable outsole grip has 2mm of thermal foam under the footbed for extra warmth – so no cold toes (a must if you want a comfortable walk).
If you are looking for a boot with a bit more street cred, Hunter Boot's Balmoral Tall Wellies comes highly rated. Available in both men's and ladies these adjustable neoprene field boots can elevate anyone's style. These state-of-the-art wellies not only look after you but the planet, too. The natural rubber has been sourced from forests independently audited by the Forest Stewardship Council®, who’s strict standards protect forests and the animals and communities that depend on them. These wellingtons are also packed full of technical elements, including multi-directional cleats that provide optimal grip and removable 3mm and 5mm moulded insoles for a customisable fit. The Balmorals are the ultimate footwear choice and can take you anywhere.
The Gardener
Tending to your garden can be a challenging and messy job, so it is important you have the correct footwear. Gardening requires a lot of movement, from bending and kneeling to crouching over, so tall classic-style wellies might be too bulky and inhibiting. This is where ankle wellingtons, mid-high wellies or clog shoes come into play.
If you are gardening in the colder months, a more insulated boot is a great choice. The Aigle Carville fur-lined ankle boot is perfect for this with its flexible upper and slip-on design. Also, if you needed to pop into the shops on a rainy day, you wouldn't look out of place wearing these boots.
A more practical winter option for the hard-core gardener is the Muck Boot Company Derwent II All-Purpose Field Boot. This unisex neoprene boot has a reinforced toe and ankle for optimal comfort and support. Its durable outsole and aggressive tread also mean you can garden without worrying about muddy and wet conditions.
The above can be a little hot for the warmer months, so you may want to consider a welly shoe. The Aigle Ladies Lessfor 2 Clogs protect your feet while providing the security of a traditional welly.
The Festival Goer
A solid pair of wellies is a must-have if you're a festival goer. Just like equestrians and farmers, you need them to keep your feet dry and mud-free. But don't go for any old pair of wellies - you want fashionable and colourful ones for the ultimate festival vibe!
Hunter Boots is a welly boot brand that has broken into the fashion scene. They can now be seen embracing both rural and urban settings, with their Original Wellington Boot becoming an iconic welly in the festival arena.
The Le Chameau Giverny Jersey Lined Wellies are the best option if you want to add a pop of colour to your look. The jersey lining increases breathability, while the bi-density sole with a technical grip gives optimal traction to help you dance all summer long.
The General Puddle Jumper
All the above Wellington boots offer something a bit extra, but if you are looking for just a standard welly which will be used for the occasional outing, look no further than the Barbour Bede - a best-selling welly available in both ladies and men's. This lightweight traditional option is an easy everyday boot.
Now you have the perfect pair of wellies, it's important you look after them. To keep your Wellington boots in tip-top condition, treat them with a rubber boot spray and when not in use, store them in a boot bag away from direct heat. For more information on how to look after your footwear, read our blog.
