Should you wear Wellies in the snow?

Wellies have been a staple in British wardrobe history since the 19th century, probably due to our rainy and cold weather! Finding the correct pair for you is crucial, in order to maximise your comfort, movement, and to keep your toes warm.

Wellington boots are definitely a suitable choice for snowy conditions. One of the benefits of wellie boots is their waterproof design. Made from rubber or other waterproof materials, these boots are perfect for keeping your feet dry in wet and slushy snow.

They're also easy to clean, so you don't have to worry about salt stains or other winter grime ruining your boots. However, some people have found that their feet can become uncomfortably cold when wearing them in the snow. To combat this problem, you can learn the linings.

Learn The Linings

Do you ever find yourself wondering what kind of welly boot lining is best?

Well, let us talk you through some of the differences...

In terms of keeping your feet warm whilst wearing wellies, you will need to consider the lining of the boots. There are six main linings for rubber Wellington boots: carbon, cotton, leather, neoprene, Onsteam and polyester.

For cold weather conditions, leather and neoprene are the best options for you, as they are both great at insulating heat. Polyester is a strong alternative to these, as it's a cheaper material, and a good all-rounder boot. However, polyester doesn't have the same heating properties compared to leather and neoprene.

Here at Phillip Morris & Son, our favourite leather-lined winter boot is the Le Chameau Chasseur. If you are looking for a boot that you can wear all year round, leather lining is a great option, as it has the ability to cool in the summer and heat in the winter, making it well worth the price tag!

A cheaper option to leather-lined boots is the runner-up, neoprene. These boots are a great alternative, as they are designed for wet weather, provide a good grip and keep your feet warm. We stock a large range of these boots from a variety of brands, including Le Chameau.

If you liked the look of the Chassuer, it is also available with a neoprene lining, or the Vierzonord, which you can purchase in men's, women's and unisex. Here's a fun fact- these are the boots that Kate Middleton – Princess of Wales, has been seen wearing on numerous occasions! Other neoprene lined favourites include Ceres and their collaboration with Fairfax & Favor for a uniquely stylish boot. From Ariat, you can find the Burford, which is available in both men’s and women’s.

The Hunter Field Balmoral Hybrid boots are a great option for people looking for not only an insulated sole but a neoprene and rubber upper. Finally, if you’re an avid follower of Barbour, the Tempest boots would be a great option for you.

Get a Grip

The grip of a welly boot is an important thing to consider when purchasing a pair for the winter months. Welly boots are often worn in wet and slippery conditions, so a good grip is essential to prevent slips and falls. The grip of the boot is determined by the sole, which should be made from a durable material with a good tread pattern.

Some wellies have soles that are specifically designed to provide extra grip on slippery surfaces, such as ice or wet rocks. Not only does having a good grip help avoid accidents but provides you with extra stability and confidence when faced with tough terrain.

If you are looking for a pair of boots that can tackle challenging environments, we recommend boots such as the Hunter Unisex Argyll Full Knee Wellington Boots.

How To Keep Your Feet Warm in Wellies

If you already have a pair of wellies that you love, but your feet are getting cold, buying a different pair of boots is not your only solution! We have gone over the importance of insulation, and that doesn’t just have to be the lining of your boots. Another great option that ensures your feet stay warm in the cold weather is...welly socks!

Hoggs of Fife make an insulated boot sock specifically for this purpose, that can slip over your other pair of socks and slide your feet into your wellies. They’ve been designed to replicate the neoprene lining of their Field Sport boot, and are perfect for upgrading your Wellingtons.

Barbour has also made fleece Wellington socks and more traditional calf-height wool socks. Or if you want something a little less specific, a good pair of lining socks combined with thick tall socks are perfect – and can even add a splash of colour to your outfit. We love these House of Cheviot socks for women and these for men, or a pair of thermal socks will all be perfect for keeping your toes warm!

However, it's not just the thickness or material of the socks that matters - it's also their length. When buying socks for wellies, make sure they are the same length as your boots. This means that the socks should come up higher than the top of your boots or preferably slightly higher.

This will help prevent any gaps between your socks and boots, which can allow cold air and moisture to seep in. It can also help stop any friction between your boots and your legs, as this can be uncomfortable when you are walking over a long period of time.

Overall, wellie boots can be a practical and stylish choice for navigating winter weather. When choosing a pair to buy, look for a design that provides good coverage and protection against the elements. They're waterproof, easy to clean, and can provide warmth and comfort in the chillier months.

Also- remember to have some fun with your wellies! Whether you're splashing through puddles on a dog walk, or trudging through snowdrifts, remember that with the right pair of wellies and a positive attitude, you can easily tackle any winter weather.

So if you're in the market for some winter footwear, don't overlook the humble welly!