As the clouds roll in and the rain starts to pour, there’s one essential piece of footwear that should never be underestimated: the trusty gumboot. For 2024, gumboots are making a splash not just in functionality but in fashion too! Gone are the days of drab, utilitarian designs; today’s gumboots come in vibrant colours, chic patterns, and stylish silhouettes that make them a must-have for every wardrobe. Whether you’re splashing through puddles in the city, working in the garden, or taking a stroll on a rainy day, there’s a perfect pair out there just for you. Join us as we dive into the top gumboots to shop this year—where practicality meets pizzazz, and staying dry never looked so good. From classic tall designs to trendy short options, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to keep your feet stylishly dry all year long.
2024’s top gumboots
- Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots, $239, The Iconic (here’s why)
- Bobbi Ankle Gumboots, $159.95, Merry People (here’s why)
- Classic High Handles Gumboots, $119.80 (usually $169.95), Bogs (here’s why)
The best gumboots of 2024
01
Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots
$239 at The Iconic
Best for: Iconic style and everyday wear.
Description: The Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots are a classic choice for anyone seeking both style and functionality in wet weather. Made from natural rubber, these boots are handcrafted and offer superior comfort and durability. The polyester lining ensures that your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout the day. The adjustable strap around the calf allows for a custom fit, making these boots suitable for a variety of leg shapes and sizes. The iconic design has remained a favourite for decades, offering timeless appeal and reliable performance in any rainy situation.
Sizes: Available in sizes 5-11 (AU)
Colours: Black, Navy, Olive, Red, Yellow
Material: Natural rubber with a polyester lining
Key features:
- Adjustable strap for a secure fit
- Waterproof
- Handcrafted from 28 parts
- Comfortable polyester lining
- Available in various colours
Available at:
- $239 at The Iconic
02
Merry People Bobbi Ankle Gumboots
$159.95 at Merry People
Best for: Stylish and versatile everyday wear.
Description: The Merry People Bobbi Ankle Gumboots are a perfect blend of fashion and functionality, making them an ideal choice for women who want stylish and versatile boots for everyday wear. These ankle-length gumboots are made from high-quality natural rubber and lined with neoprene for added comfort and warmth. The sleek design, combined with a range of vibrant colours, ensures that you can stay dry without sacrificing style. The Bobbi boots are easy to slip on and off, making them convenient for quick errands, gardening, or casual outings in wet weather.
Sizes: Available in sizes 5-11 (AU)
Colours: Black, Grey, Navy, Burgundy, Mustard, Pink
Materials: Natural rubber and neoprene lining
Key features:
- Stylish and versatile design
- Made from high-quality natural rubber
- Neoprene lining for comfort and warmth
- Waterproof
- Easy to slip on and off
Available at:
- $159.95 at Merry People
03
Bogs Classic High Handles Gumboots
$119.80 (usually $169.95) at Bogs
Best for: Comfort and warmth in colder weather.
Description: The Bogs Classic High Handles Gumboots are the ideal choice for those seeking comfort and warmth during wet and cold conditions. Made from high-quality rubber with a neoprene lining, these boots are both waterproof and insulated. The handles make them easy to pull on and off, while the durable construction ensures they can handle the toughest of environments. Whether you’re trudging through mud, snow, or rain, these boots will keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable.
Sizes: Available in sizes 6-14 (AU)
Colours: Black, Green, Brown
Materials: Rubber with a neoprene lining
Key features:
- Handles for easy on/off
- Waterproof
- Insulated for warmth
- Durable construction
- Suitable for tough environments
Available at:
04
Barbour Abbey Tall Gumboot
$147 at asos
Best for: Classic style and durability for outdoor activities.
Description: The Barbour Abbey Tall Gumboot combines timeless style with practical functionality, making it an excellent choice for women who need durable and reliable footwear for outdoor activities. These boots are crafted from high-quality vulcanised rubber, ensuring they are fully waterproof and capable of withstanding various weather conditions. The tall design provides extra protection against the elements, while the adjustable strap offers a customisable fit for enhanced comfort. Inside, the boots feature a soft cotton lining for added comfort, making them suitable for extended wear. With their classic look and robust construction, the Barbour Abbey Tall Gumboots are perfect for both rural and urban settings.
Sizes: Available in sizes 5-10 (AU)
Colours: Black, Olive
Material: Vulcanised rubber with a cotton lining
Key features:
- Made from high-quality vulcanised rubber
- Waterproof
- Tall design for extra protection
- Adjustable strap for a customisable fit
- Soft cotton lining for added comfort
Why is it Called a Gumboot?
The term “gumboot” comes from the material originally used to make these waterproof boots: rubber, which is sometimes referred to as “gum rubber.”
The boots were initially created to provide protection against wet and muddy conditions, particularly for agricultural and industrial workers.
The name “gumboot” is commonly used in countries like Australia and New Zealand.
What’s the Difference Between Wellies and Gumboots?
“Gumboots” and “wellies” refer to the same type of footwear, but the terms are used in different regions:
Gumboots:
- Usage: The term “gumboot” is commonly used in Australia, New Zealand, and parts of South Africa.
- Origin: As mentioned, the name derives from “gum rubber,” the original material used to manufacture these boots.
- Association: In these regions, gumboots are often associated with outdoor work, farming, and rural life.
Wellies:
- Usage: The term “wellies” (short for Wellington boots) is predominantly used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and some Commonwealth countries.
- Origin: Named after Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, who popularised this style of boot in the early 19th century. The design evolved from Hessian boots worn by the Duke and his soldiers.
- Association: In the UK, wellies are associated with both practical outdoor use and fashion. They are often worn during festivals, countryside walks, and rainy urban days.
Key Similarities:
- Purpose: Both gumboots and wellies are designed to be waterproof, durable, and suitable for wet and muddy conditions.
- Materials: Typically made from rubber or a synthetic equivalent to ensure waterproofing and flexibility.
- Design: Usually feature a high-calf design to protect the lower leg from water and mud.
Key Differences:
- Regional Terminology: The primary difference lies in the regional terminology and slight cultural associations attached to the names. “Gumboots” are a staple in rural and agricultural settings in Australia and New Zealand, while “wellies” have a broader association, including fashion and festival wear in the UK.
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