Rain boots are a must-have thanks to their waterproof and durable construction. However, there’s often a preconceived notion that all rainboots are Wellington or gumboots – tall and rubbery in their design. But rain boots are a lot more versatile than we give them credit for, as there’s a whole range that can seamlessly blend into casual wear.
The very first pair of rain boots were created by Arthur Wellesley – also known as the Duke of Wellington, in the early 19th century. While serving in the military, Wellesley asked his shoemaker to modify his riding boots, which resulted in a form-fitting, tassel free design. Soon after, “Wellingtons” became a staple piece of practical footwear, adopted by the military and British aristocracy.
Today, rain boots are no longer exclusive to the wealthy but instead considered a practical and stylish winter shoe that can endure all kinds of weather.
Some other helpful DMARGE stories about footwear:
We’ve rounded up the best rain boots that are highly protective and fashionable. Regardless of whether you’re after a traditional gumboot or a minimalist casual rain boot style, we guarantee you’ll find the perfect rainboot below.
The Original Muck Boot Company
1/10
Price: From $120
Sizes: 5-15
Material: bioDEWIX™, NZYM™, rubber
For the past two decades, The Original Muck Boot Co. has been creating the most protective and functional boots that can withstand the muckiest situations in winter. They’re offering some of the best men’s rain boots that are incredibly cosy and stylish. These boots can endure all weather with their waterproof, durable, and flexible construction. The Original Muck Boot Company also manufactures rain boots that feature traction lug technology, providing exceptional grip.
Hunter Boots
2/10
Price: From $98
Sizes: 7-13
Material: Recycled polyester, natural rubber
Hunter Boots has been creating quality men’s boots for over 160 years. Founded by Henry Lee Norris, this company is primarily known for producing stellar waterproof footwear that can sustain in even the harshest weather conditions. Hunter Boots has a selection of Wellington boots on offer that come in different sizes and styles. These boots are handcrafted from 28 parts and include rubber soles, giving you heaps of support on even the most challenging terrain.
Helly Hansen
3/10
Price: From $65
Sizes: 7-13
Material: 100% Rubber, cotton
Helly Hensen is a leading outdoor clothing brand founded in 1877. They were the first brand to develop waterproof fabrics and have continued to pioneer the industry ever since. If you’re looking for practical footwear that ticks every box, check out their Men’s Nordnik 2 Lower-Cut Rubber Rain Boots. This design comes with a siped outsole and is super lightweight. These boots are a simplistic, classic style geared to complement any outfit well.
Sorel
4/10
Price: From $135
Sizes: 7-15
Material: Waterproof suede, ballistic Nylon
Sorel is an American brand creating some of the finest apparel and rain boots on the market. Founded in the early sixties by Arthur Ratz Kaufman, Sorel began crafting high-performance sport and work boots suitable for different types of environments due to their tough exterior. If you’re looking for a rain boot that seamlessly blends into casual wear, make sure you check out their range. Sorel rain boots are impeccable, as they include premium leather, waterproofing, and a high level of insulation. These boots also have an EVA footbed providing you with next-level comfort and are seam-sealed, ensuring no rain sneaks inside. Also, these boots are lace-ups, so you can tie them as loose or as snug as you want.
Allbirds
5/10
Price: From $125
Sizes: 8-14
Material: Merino wool, SweetFoam® sugarcane-based green EVA
Allbirds is a pioneering footwear brand founded by Tim Brown in 2014. Brown was initially inspired to launch his company after noticing a gap in the footwear market: no shoes manufactured from sustainable fibres. If you’re after an ethically and sustainably made boot, then look no further, as All Birds is dedicated to producing footwear from renewable materials. This impressive collection has rain-ready sneakers that are weather repellent. These sneakers are the casual alternative to rain boots, as they look like any traditional athletic sneaker. However, these sneakers are so innovative, as they’re constructed out of fine merino wool, making them highly comfortable and flexible. Additionally, the merino wool is odour resistant, guaranteed to keep you feeling fresh and clean.
L.L. Bean
6/10
Price: From $119
Sizes: 7-14
Material: Rubber, Lycra®-elastane, synthetic fleece, EVA foam
In 1912, L.L. Bean was established by Leon Leonwood Bean in Freeport, Maine. Launching a fashion empire, this brand has over 54 stores globally. L.L. Bean has cultivated a reputation for creating great outdoor garments, guaranteed to last the long run. Their high-quality rain boots integrate advanced technology, as these designs come with waterproof protection, full-grain leather, and insulation, keeping your feet dry and warm in the wettest of conditions. These boots come in a variety of brown and tan colours while being a simple, minimalist design.
Timberland
7/10
Price: From $185
Sizes: 7-15
Material: Premium leather, PrimaLoft®, ReBOTL™
Timberland was established in 1952 by Nathan Schwartz. Commonly known for their durable yet comfortable footwear, suitable for all outdoor exploration. If you’re not looking for traditional rain boots, you have to check out Timberland’s range. Their collection is extremely versatile, as their boots come in all kinds of styles, colours, cuts, and sizes. If you’re after a simple design, they have chukka rain boots available that are super trendy and cool, guaranteed to elevate your rainy-day wardrobe. However, Timberland also has a selection of high-tech boots that feature a seam-sealed construction, a rubber lug, and waterproof & insulating materials.
Wolverine
8/10
Price: From $115
Sizes: 7-14
Material: Full-grain leather, nylon
In 1883, G.A. Krause founded Wolverine as a small leather tannery with a small handful of employees. Despite starting as a humble business, Wolverine transformed into an empire, with their footwear being worn in 200 regions and countries worldwide. Wolverine is another brand manufacturing rain boots that can easily blend into all casual wear, as these designs look low-key. These boots have a rugged and tough appearance while being extremely lightweight. Wolverine rain boots also come with a full-grain leather upper, a breathable waterproof membrane, and moisture-wicking mesh, making them highly functional. No matter if you’re out in the rain or tackling hard surfaces, these boots are high performing in any situation.
ASOS Design
9/10
Price: From $40
Sizes: 8-12
Material: Textile
The famous British online fashion retailer is known for supplying a massive selection of clothes and accessories. ASOS began in 2000, selling over 850 brands and even designing their own range too. ASOS have selected styles of rain boots are cater to every kind of outdoor demand. If you’re on the hunt for incredibly stylish rain boots, they have designs available in the boldest and brightest colours. However, if you’re looking for something a little more traditional, they have boots that are a super straightforward design, promising to suit any attire.
Merry People
10/10
Price: From $106
Sizes: 36-45
Material: Neoprene, natural rubber
Born out of sheer frustration, Dani Holloway launched Merry People in 2014, becoming sick and tired of Victoria’s unpredictable weather wrecking her work shoes. Since its beginnings, Merry People has created durable and comfortable rain boots that are high performing in every weather condition. Merry People make the best ankle rain boots that feature removable insoles and inbuilt arch support. However, aside from being extremely practical, these boots are also fashionable and available in practically every colour, guaranteed to brighten up your wardrobe.