Wellies (Wellington Boot, A Short History)

Thought of as a cultural phenomenon by many, the Wellington boot is generally popular. The reason being, that boots can be slipped on in place of regular shoes to wear through wet weather and muddy conditions to save your normal footwear. In fact, they have become one of the must have fashion items for all music festival goers. Although the original name is Wellington Boot they are frequently referred to as "Wellies".

Arthur Wellesley perhaps better know as the Duke of Wellington was the originator for this boot as he requested his shoe maker to alter the 18th century boot that was made of Hessian. The Hessian boot had been around in the prior generation but was developed and made out of calfskin leather coated with oil to aid waterproof qualities.

These boots played a very important role in our history. The boot was to be seen at the historic Battle of Waterloo it was also seen at the American War of Independence and was used in both World Wars. These boots were rated so highly that they were worn at the Duke of Wellington's funeral and dating from that time, they got their name as Wellington boots.

Henry Lee Norris left America in 1856 and made his way to Scotland. He was an entrepreneur and had with him four accomplished rubber boot workers. In Scotland he with his workers registered the British Rubber Company. Initially the demand for Wellington boots was low as they failed to have public support, but Norris was able to keep the business going making other products that were popular. In fact it was not until the outbreak of the First World War when conditions in the trenches were so difficult that the army purchased two million pairs of Wellington boots for wear by the soldiers.

These boots have become an essential for gardeners and manual workers worldwide for without them, life would be difficult. Over the years production developments have seen much re designing with various additions for comfort, they now have non-slip soles and are made of sturdy natural rubber.

Horse riding enthusiasts have made the Hunter Wellington one of the most popular styles as the need for good in-soles and a tailored calf fitting needed on horseback. Everywhere these days you will find a range of boots with alternative fittings, sole finishes and a large variety of linings.

After seeing a well-known British fashion model wearing wellies at a music festival it then became popular with other festival goers. They kept their clothes clean and more importantly feet dry. From this the Wellington Boot became a fashion statement, as well as being a useful and practical item to wear.