Wellies are an essential bit of kit for a shooter and anybody else who spends time outside
It’s been raining a lot the last few months, so a sturdy pair of rubber boots which keep the water out are an essential part of an outdoor wardrobe. We looked into the subject and found some pairs which will last the course. You might find cheaper but these have decent soles, are properly made, many are adjustable and they will last longer than just one season. Which will be your best wellies? Here’s a wide selection in all price ranges so there is sure to be a pair that fits you and your circumstances.
1. Burford insulated boot £150
This is a traditional-looking vulcanised rubber boot that will see you through the depths of winter. A shock absorbing sole means that switching between hard ground and soft ground is no big deal.
2. Noble zip boots £149.99
These boots make it easy to walk across wet, muddy and icy surfaces, with innovative mud-release channels. They have neoprene insulation to keep your feet warm and comfortable, and reinforced uppers for when you are wading through brambles in search of a good roosting spot.
3. Benyl boot £90
Light and durable, the Benyl boot is designed for intensive outdoor use. The lugged sole gives great grip, while it is also smart enough to complement your best pair of breeks. Among the Shooting Times team, Aigles are fast becoming the go-to wellington boot.
4. Bison ankle boots £70
This ankle boot is practical, comfortable and easy to slip on and off. Its rubber sole absorbs shocks and its quick-drying, resistant lining keeps moisture at bay. The boots are made of a natural rubber. They are waterproof, comfortable, flexible and resilient so definitely make the best wellies list, even though they are shorter.
5. Seeland All Round £74.99
Our tester said: “These boots from Seeland have performed superbly, chiefly because the neoprene lining has kept out the cold and the sole’s thick tread has delivered terrific grip over tricky, slippery, surfaces. They are easy to get on and off thanks to the strong side zips and the cut of the boot delivers reassuring support to the ankles. I have worn these boots all winter, around the farm, feeding up on the shoot and for shooting in.”
6. Seals Thermax Gusset boots £89.99
“Always warm and dry” is this company’s motto and the boots stay comfortable in temperatures from 15C to minus 15C. An arch support is said to reduce back stress and the leg gussets are easy to put on and off. (There is also a zipped version). An excellent all-round boot for a good price.
7. Gumleaf Invicta £125
This works both as a women’s welly and men’s. It’s ideal for cold weather, with a neoprene lining and all-terrain grip. The Invicta Side-Vent wellington boot has been designed for style, comfort and durability. Ideal for wearing everyday and staying comfortable, whilst doing all those practical, wet and muddy jobs that need attention.
8. Hunter Balmoral £150
A classic out in the field, with the option of two different soles – one for rough terrains and the other for high-traction without getting clogged with mud. Choose a side zip or an adjustable side gusset and a choice of inner soles in 3mm or 5mm depths, designed to ease foot fatigue.
9. Aigle anti-fatigue hunting boots £180
These clever boots were designed to make your walks outside comfortable and pleasant. They are waterproof, flexible and resistant with adjustable gussets, and they have also been fitted with shock -absorbers to cushion and protect your feet.
10.Men’s Chore classic tall boots £105
These boots are real workhorses designed to be worked to their absolute limit, so if you’re a gamekeeper or part of a DIY syndicate where elbow grease comes as standard then you should definitely consider these for one role or another. Firm favourites in the best wellies list.
What to wear shooting
We advise you on what to wear shooting, whether at the clay ground or in the field
13 of the best boots for shooting
1. Meindl Glockner Boots RRP 294.99 Very hard-wearing. Robust nubuck leather uppers, with a GORE-TEX lining for waterproofing and breathability…
11.Le Chameau Vierzonord £180
Recently road-tested by the editor of Sporting Gun: “I was standing still on frozen ground for hours and my feet were still warm. Definitely some of the best wellies I have tried.” Excellent grip, a buckle fitting that allows adjustment and outer rubber allows the boot to flex easily. Features like a choice of calf sizes justify the boot’s relatively high price tag.