Merry People Bobbi wellington boot review: "a seriously stylish pair of waterproof ankle boots"

As a Fashion Editor I like to look my best, whatever the weather, but I also want the most convenient and practical solutions to dressing dilemmas. When it's pouring with rain and I need to walk long distances I will leave my leather boots at home and opt for a pair of stylish waterproof wellies.

Whether I am strolling with my dog on the beach or walking through muddy puddles in the park, if there's a chance my feet will get wet I will reach for the best wellies. Over the years I have had tried a variety of brands, from expensive Hunters to cheaper styles with cheerful prints from Joules and Boden, but regardless of price I have always found them uncomfortable to wear. I decided to try the Bobbi boots by Merry People as I was impressed with the shape and also the amount of colours available to choose from.

After some research into the various brands selling modern waterproof boots, I discovered Merry People, a company founded in Melbourne, Australia by Danielle Holloway, who wanted to find a pair of gumboots that bridged the gap between city and country life.

Although the company also sell traditional long boots, I opted for an ankle design as I wanted to be able to wear them with a variety of outfits. I put the Bobbi boots to the test by wearing a forest green pair on holiday in the Peak District where I walked for over four hours a day on uneven terrain. I also wore them on a trip to the beach in November where I paddled in the sea.

I chose a poppy red pair to wear when I was on appointments in London - perfect to add a splash of colour to a dreary day. I considered the comfort & support, style, cleaning and care.

Merry People Bobbi Boot Review - Design & Style

The Merry People Bobbi boot is based on a traditional pull-on Chelsea boot design with elasticated sides for comfort, and loops at the front and back to ensure you can get them on easily, whether standing or sitting. The boots have sturdy cleated soles for grip, making them suitable for wearing in slippery wet and muddy conditions. Made from natural rubber with a neoprene lining the boots are fully waterproof.

The toe cap is roomy and generous, which is great if you have wide feet or like to wear very chunky socks. These boots come up to just above the ankle, making them ideal to wear with your warmest leggings, skirts or jeans. Available in 15 different colours from neutral dark shades such as black and forest green to bold and bright colours like sunflower yellow and orchid, there's a colour to suit every personality.

Merry People Bobbi Boot Review - Comfort & Function

The neoprene lining in these boots feels soft and slightly cushioned, making them comfortable to wear. The thick soles are both sturdy and flexible. The inner sole has additional arch support which made them feel more supportive than other styles that I have tried in the past.

Over time I have worn these boots with a variety of socks from thin to chunky, and the best option for comfort were the Merry socks, made by the same company, which cushioned my feet in all the right places and are made from a moisture-wicking merino wool/organic cotton blend. My feet were kept completely dry in these boots.

Merry People Bobbi Boot Review - Cleaning & Care

After wearing my boots in very muddy conditions I found them easy to clean. I left the mud to dry, then brushed it off and finally rinsed the boots under the garden tap. When wet both the outside and the neoprene lining dried very quickly. I haven't had my boots long enough to comment on the durability of the rubber but I plan to care for them as instructed and have invested in a care kit that includes a silicone treatment spray, a brush and a microfibre cloth to restore and protect the rubber as it ages. I will report back over time to update.

Merry People Bobbi Boot Review - Verdict

If you are looking for a seriously stylish pair of waterproof ankle boots that will keep your feet dry and look great in any situation, the Merry People Bobbi boots are worth investing in.