Best rain boots 2018

Once a staple for hunting, the traditional Wellington boot has been reinvented time and time again, from a countryside essential, to a festival must-have and even a high fashion piece.

As the weather is set to turn once again, what better way to face up against the elements than with a pair of investment wellies, especially with festival season fast approaching. British festival goers know too well the importance of this star footwear when travelling from stage to stage and the inevitable mud slides that this creates.

And this season, whether you like or not, rain boots have been put firmly back on the fashion agenda after making a stand-out appearance in Prada’s autumn/winter 2018 catwalk show. The Italian house mixed ultra-feminine, floral patterned dresses with the durable waterproof shoes to reflect the female “struggle between retaining femininity and being strong” explained Mrs Prada backstage.

Grab yourself a versatile pair that could equally be styled a la Kate Moss at Glastonbury with a pair of short shorts and a corset, walking the dog with a raincoat and knee-high socks or take a leaf out of Prada’s book and wear them with a cocktail dress.

Here we round up our 10 favourite.

Hunter Wellington Boots

A Glastonbury staple, you won’t have to look far at Worthy Farm to spot a pair of these star boots trudging their way through the mud. Available in a range of colours, patterns and textures including matte and glossy, which in turn affects their price, Hunters have long been a favourite of celebrities, with everyone from Princess Diana, to Kate Moss opting for a pair – and it’s clear to see why. The wellies are hard wearing, quick drying and extremely comfortable.

From £67 | Amazon | Buy it now

ASOS Glitter Light Up Boots

Who said that wellies had to be boring? ASOS have given the traditional footwear a major update. More is always more, right? The wellies are completely covered in glitter but that’s not even the best part. They have a light-up sole that flashes when you walk. These boots are your childhood wishes come true. They are also easy to get on, have a glossy, easy to wipe finish and are sure to transform any plain ensemble.

£15 | ASOS | Buy it now

Moon Boots

Always a very divisive shoe, Moon Boots are inspired by the footwear of the Apollo 11 astronauts. Originally intended as snow boots, they are water resistant and will definitely keep your feet dry as the weather gets worse. They are also foam-padded and fleece-lined, which makes them extremely comfortable. They are available in a range of colours or if you’re feeling particularly extra, the brand has also done collaborations with Jeremy Scott and Moncler.

£80 | Net-a-Porter | Buy it now

Burberry Belt Detail Check Rain Boots

Drawing from its 150-year heritage, Burberry’s wellies feature the British house’s heritage check print with a belt detail at the ankle. Keeping dry while staying chic, these wellies make the perfect addition to any walk in the countryside paired with the label’s signature trench coat.

£280 | Burberry | Buy it now

Le Chameau Adjustable Wellingtons

Masters in the art of wellies, Le Chameau specialise in all things rain boots. While the price tag may lean towards the more expensive end of the spectrum, the five star reviews speak for themselves. The boots are composed of handcrafted rubber and have a snap-fastening buckle that ensures comfortable fit. There is also a shock absorbing grip that makes these a highly versatile shoe for all terrains.

From £163.95 | Amazon | Buy it now

Joules Dragonfly Wellington Boots

Promising to withstand the wettest of weathers, Joules offers rubber boots in a variety of quirky patterns inspired by the eclectic nature of the countryside. Our personal favourite are these dragonfly print wellies that will be sure to inject a touch of fun into your outerwear. They also feature an adjustable popper fastening to ensure that they fit perfectly.

£49.95 | John Lewis | Buy it now

Barbour Waterproof Wellies

Specialising in waterproof outerwear, British label Barbour have learnt a thing or two about staying dry and cosy in their more than 120 years in business – all of which they have channelled into their wellies. The fully waterproof boots are lined with a stylish tartan print and are adjustable with a strap on the side. Style with their signature Barbour jacket for the full British countryside look.

£58.45 | John Lewis | Buy it now

Dunlop Wellingtons

Rain boots don’t have to break the bank, just look to this cheap and cheerful pair of Dunlop ones that are sure to do the trick. While they might not be the most stylish, they are simple, practical and have a moulded sole with traction grip to stop you slipping in icy weather. They are perfect for a whole host of activities, from fishing, to camping.

£10.99 | Sport’s Direct | Buy it now

Hunter Short Wellington Boots

Mixing it up, Hunter have released short variations of their tall Wellington boots. The waterproof shoes are handcrafted, feature a non-slip rubber sole and have a matte finish. You are also able to take them on and off without much effort, they are easy to pack and transport and they are lightweight.

£90 | Hunter | Buy it now

ASOS Pastel Spray Paint Wellies

Set to add a pop of colour to any outfit, ASOS have stepped up their wellie game with glitter variations as well as multi-colour pastel spray paint options. Exclusively available online, the low-cost shoes have an easy-wipe glossy coating and can be slipped on and off with relative ease.

£22 | ASOS | Buy it now

Verdict:

Our top pick goes to Hunters as they are an excellent investment option. Incredibly durable, offered in large range of colours and included tall and short varieties. The especially festival-fashion option goes to the glitter boots from ASOS for the sheer fun of wearing something so glam in the rain.