Invented by the 1st Duke of Wellington in the early 1800s, gumboots were originally called Wellingtons. They are also known as wellies, gummies, rain boots and muck boots. The name gumboots originates from the natural gum rubber from which the rain boots are made. Regardless of how you call them, they are fabulous, versatile boots to wear doing whatever you love doing outdoors.
Originally only available in black, they now come in a variety of colours and styles - longer ones, shorter ones, brightly coloured ones and plain ones. They are perfect to wear gardening, walking the dog, camping, attending festivals, for early morning dewy walks, or even for fashion.
The quintessential English brand for Wellingtons is Barbour, with the understated boot of choice for the landed gentry. The Melbourne based Merry People offers a stylish update on these hard wearing, joy giving boots.