The best wellies to keep you warm and dry this winter

The best wellies aren't just about keeping your feet dry. They're about embracing the elements in comfort and style. Whether I’m navigating muddy fields, dancing at a music festival or simply taking my dog for a walk on a rainy day, I've discovered that the right pair can make all the difference.

Living in the UK, with its unpredictable weather, I've come to rely on both the best waterproof jackets and the perfect pair of wellies, and as a daily dog walker, I consider myself a bit of a welly pro. When I'm on the hunt for the best wellington boots, there are several things I consider, not least of all comfort and fit.

I've learned from experience at one particularly soggy festival that wellies need to fit properly and shouldn't pinch or rub and, just like with the best walking boots, I always make sure to leave enough space for thick socks in colder weather. On their own, rubber wellies can leave you with chilly feet, which is why personal stylist and fellow welly lover Lindsay Edwards swears by neoprene linings for long-lasting warmth.

“The neoprene lining keeps your feet and lower legs warm, even when wearing them in very cold temperatures for long periods of time,” she says.

Functionality matters too, especially on long walks. Opt for "deep set, evenly spaced treads" like Lindsay recommends, perfect for tackling rough terrain. Even if you're a daily dog walker like me, choosing slightly more expensive wellies can really improve your walking experience.

Finally, remember, even puddles deserve style! From classic colours, favoured by the likes of Kate Middleton to bold designs, there's a pair for every taste. I've personally tried everything from sleek black to vibrant hues, and right now, I'm loving a lilac-blue pair that adds a pop of fun to even the dreariest day.

How we chose the best wellies

With the best wellies available in a rainbow of shades and at various price points, I've picked my top must-haves for everything from festivals to soggy dog walks.

I've personally tested several of these boots, and when I say tested, I mean it. Long dog walks in the countryside, trips to the seaside in the winter and muddy festivals have all been part of my rigorous welly-wearing adventures. Each pair has been put through its paces in real-world conditions, ensuring that my recommendations come from genuine, squelch-filled experience.

For others, I've relied on the expertise of seasoned wellie-wearers I've chatted with – gardeners, dog walkers, countryside ramblers and horse riders have all shared their invaluable insights on what makes the best wellies. They've told me about the features that matter most, from the perfect calf fit for tucking in trousers to the durability needed to withstand daily wear and tear in challenging conditions.

Some selections are based purely on the glowing reviews I've combed through. One thing's for sure: this list features only the best wellies, each chosen for a reason.

The quick list: my top 6

Best wellies for walking

If you’re off on a major hike, wellies are no match for waterproof hiking boots, however, if you look for those with more technical details, you’ll still be able to go on a decent walk in comfort. The most important thing to look for is a wellington with good traction - otherwise you could be slipping all over the place.

“If your walk regularly involves long stretches of hard ground, I’d recommend wellies with a Vibram sole,” says Lindsay. “These won't wear away as quickly on tarmac or concrete as some softer rubber soles might.”

Lindsay cites royal favourite Le Chameau as a good choice and says even though they don’t come cheap they’re worth it due to “their quality and craftsmanship, which is second to none.”

Celebrity stylist Miranda Holder says if you do a lot of walking then it is probably a good idea to invest in those boots at the higher end of the price scale.

She says: “If you are likely to wear them regularly and go for long walks in them, then the improved construction, support, durability - and not to mention style - of a more expensive pair will be worth it.”

Best Hunter wellies

Hunters, the standout favourite wellington brand, worn by many Royals from the late Queen to Princess Diana, is a true British icon. Founded in Scotland in 1856, these boots have become just as popular with festival-goers as with royalty.

"The brand holds two Royal Warrants of Appointment to the Royal Family. They're known not only as a UK heritage brand but for their quality, practicality, and durability," says Miranda.

Beyond the classic styles, Hunter offers a whole rainbow of colors and designs for every taste. Whether you're a trendsetter or a traditionalist, there's a pair of Hunters with your name on it. And they're not just stylish, they're built to last! My last pair survived four years of muddy dog walks and still looked great.

Best short wellies

“Short wellington boots, or ankle wellies, have become increasingly popular, not least because they are just so easy to throw on, making them more convenient, less cumbersome and more versatile on the fashion front,” says Miranda.

“They pair well with everything from dresses and skirts to trousers, shorts and jeans, and are far easier to carry with you than their bulkier full-length counterparts.”

Most shorter wellies also come with the same technical benefits of the taller versions, making them a great choice for dog walks, commuting or a stroll in the country. For a leg-lengthening effect with shorter wellies, Miranda suggests choosing styles that end below your calf's widest point.

“If they do, you will end up highlighting this part and your legs will look heavier than they actually are,” she says. “There is a very simple way to get around this, and that is to layer the boots over a chunky sock or even a leg warmer, adjusted to the most flattering height.”

While the best short wellies will take you effortlessly from city walks to countryside romps, it’s still best to avoid anything too muddy or deep puddles – no-one wants soggy socks after all.

Best wellies for wide calves

Finding wellington boots for larger calves can be a frustrating experience. Traditional styles often pinch and squeeze, leaving calves uncomfortable and restricted. This isn't just an aesthetic issue; it can impact mobility.

“Everyone has a different shaped leg, foot and ankle,” says Nina from Jileon, a family-run brand that creates wellingtons for people with wider calves,. “It would be boring if we were all the same but the one thing we all want is a boot that is comfortable and allows the freedom to get on with activities unhindered.”

“We always advise people to measure themselves with clothing they plan to wear - jeans, welly socks etc - and also without so they can see which boots would work best for both options."

The key for finding the best wellies for larger calves is to look for those wellies that have an adjustable gusset on the calf. Alternatively, choose a specialist brand who offer extra wide boots. Jileon, for example, have extra wide boots that expand up to 57cm. Some brands like Hunter and Le Chameau also offer wider versions of their popular styles.

Best wellies for wide feet

If you’ve got wide feet, squeezing them into standard wellies can feel like medieval torture. Unfortunately, many wellies only come in a standard width, so unless you shop at a specialist welly brand, the other option is to try out men’s boots as these are often slightly wider than those designed for the female foot.

As well as looking for extra wide fits, Nina suggests also trying to find boots with a wider ankle as well.

“This will really allow those with a wider foot or issues bending to slip their boots on and off effortlessly,” she says.

Best fashion wellies

Wellies are not just practical footwear anymore; they're a genuine fashion statement. Ever since Kate Moss rocked her Hunters with denim cut-offs at Glastonbury, wellies have become an unexpected style icon. And it's no wonder – as Miranda points out: “Their thigh-slimming potential, with their wider fit, is not to be sniffed at!' In today's fashion landscape, there's a pair to suit everyone's style."

Gone are the days when black was your only option either. Modern wellies come in a plethora of designs, making it easy to find the perfect pair for each and every outfit.

“Designers have really gone to town, elevating the boots to dizzying sartorial heights by producing them in every colour of the rainbow, all sorts of shapes, heights and every finish you can think of, “says Miranda. “Whatever your taste or budget, there is a statement welly boot for you!”

These are boots you'll probably wear about town, rather than through muddy fields while on a long hike, but they still offer a surprising amount of practicality.

FAQs

Our experts:

Miranda Holder

Miranda Holder is an acclaimed fashion stylist and expert who studied fashion at Central Saint Martin’s and whose portfolio proudly showcases a variety of high-profile names in entertainment, from number-one girl band Little Mix to Boy George and Hollywood actress Vanessa Williams. Miranda is also a regular media commentator and TV fashion expert on QVC, and lecturer at London College of Fashion.

Lindsay Edwards

Lindsay Edwards is a personal stylist based in Bedfordshire. She provides a variety of fun and enlightening services, supporting women who want to discover the colour, style and fit of clothes which truly suit them.

Nina at Jileon

Nina is part of the small family-run business, Jileon, who create wellies to fit wider calves and feet. They have sold just over 200,000 wellies to date in the UK and also sell their products over in the USA. They hope that they can continue to help those people with non-boring legs find comfortable wellies that can take them anywhere. With their wellies, no puddle is too big. No rainy day is too rainy. Mud? Yes, please!