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Short wellies and rain boots: perfect for popping out in a downpour


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  • Wellington boots now come in various styles, including adjustable, insulated, wellies with a complete neoprene shaft and Chelsea boot designs. Short wellies, in particular, are lightweight and stylish, offering more freedom of movement compared to traditional tall designs. They’re ideal for ladies looking to keep their feet dry while adding a fashionable touch to practical footwear.

    Perfect for summer use, short wellington boots are less bulky and great for dog walks, quick errands, or navigating puddles. They’re especially suitable for those with wider or shorter calves, as the height typically stops just above the ankle. Offering comfort and versatility, short wellies are a great option for those who want practicality without compromising on style.


    Best short wellington boots: H&H’s quick guide

    Best short wellington boots for work: The Original Muck Boot Company Arctic Sport II Mid Boots

    Most stylish short wellington boots: Hunter Original Short Wellies

    Best value-for-money short wellington boots: Dunlop Dee Half-Height Wellies

    Best short wellington boots for summer: Le Chameau Iris Bottillon Jersey-Lined Boots


    The Original Muck Boot Company Arctic Sport II short wellington boots

    The Original Muck Boot Company Arctic Sport II Mid Boots

    Colours: Black
    Sizes: UK 3–8
    RRP: £145

    Reasons to buy

    • Exceptional warmth suitable for extreme cold conditions
    • Waterproof and breathable design ensures dry comfort
    • Durable construction with a rugged outsole for enhanced traction

    Reasons to avoid

    • Practical, but we’d recommend sizing up if you usually take a half-size

    If you’re looking for some short wellies for the winter, these muck boots are a great option as they have a 5mm insulating neoprene inner boot, plus a cosy fleece lining, while the stretch-fit top keeps the boots snug to your legs, keeping the cold air out and the warm air in.

    They have a supportive midsole and a grippy outsole, making them an ideal option if you’re heading out on a walk or to the yard. The boots also feature a pull tab to help you get them on and off, and benefit from odour control and moisture management technology. We tested the longer version of these Arctic Sport II boots and recommend sizing up if you usually take a half size.

    In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or johnlewis.com

    Hunter Original Short Wellies

    Hunter Original Short Wellies

    Colours: Black, navy, hunter green, red or olive
    Sizes: UK 3–8
    RRP: £125

    Reasons to buy

    • Iconic handcrafted design combines style and practicality for everyday wear
    • Durable natural rubber construction ensures long-lasting waterproof protection
    • Short height offers more freedom of movement and a lighter feel compared to tall wellies

    Reasons to avoid

    • Not ideal for colder conditions due to a lack of insulation

    These boots bring a touch of classic Hunter style to any wet-weather outfit, with their handcrafted finish and timeless appeal. Perfect for everything from dog walks and yard work to festival adventures, their shorter height provides added comfort and flexibility without compromising on waterproof protection. Also available with insulation.

    In the UK? View now at johnlewis.com, amazon.co.uk, hunterboots.co.uk or legendfootwear.co.uk


    Dunlop Dee Half-Height short wellington boots

    Dunlop Dee Half-Height Wellies

    Colours: Black or green
    Sizes: UK 4–12
    RRP: £15.99

    Reasons to buy

    • Very convenient and easy to take on and off
    • Affordable and practical
    • Cleated sole provides excellent traction on various surfaces, improving safety

    Reasons to avoid

    • Limited colour options may not suit all style preferences

    These wellies are designed for practicality and durability, making them ideal for agricultural work, walking, hunting, and leisure activities. The calf-length design facilitates easy wearing and removal, while the robust PVC material ensures resistance to various substances. The cleated sole enhances grip, providing stability across different terrains. Available in classic black and green, they offer essential functionality for outdoor tasks.

    In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk


    Le Chameau Iris Bottillon Jersey-Lined Boots

    Le Chameau Iris Bottillon Jersey-Lined Boots

    Colours: Bleu fonce, jaune, lila, noir, rose, rouge or vert fonce
    Sizes: EU 36–42
    RRP: £100

    Reasons to buy

    • Lightweight and flexible design enhances comfort during extended wear
    • Handcrafted from durable Chamolux rubber, ensuring 100% waterproof protection
    • Available in a variety of vibrant colours to suit personal style preferences

    Reasons to avoid

    • Not as durable as other Le Chameau boots

    We’ve reviewed the tall version of these Iris wellies, and while they’re not as hardy as other Le Chameau styles, they’re a fab option for the summer, whether you’re a keen gardener or heading to a festival. They’re very flexible, so could easily be popped into a backpack for rainy emergencies, too.

    They have a moisture-wicking poly-cotton jersey lining that helps to keep feet dry and comfortable when worn in warmer weather, too.

    In the UK? View now at lechameau.com or ebay.co.uk

    Rockfish Three-Quarter Short Wellington Boots

    Rockfish Three-Quarter Short Wellington Boots

    Colours: Navy, black, green or grape
    Sizes: UK 3–8
    RRP: £84.99

    Reasons to buy

    • Shorter height accommodates fuller calves, enhancing comfort
    • Natural rubber construction offers flexibility and durability
    • Easy to put on and remove, ideal for casual wear

    Reasons to avoid

    • Limited colour options may not suit all preferences

    These boots are perfect for casual wear and ideal for the British weather. The shorter height accommodates fuller calves, enhancing comfort. Made from natural rubber, they offer flexibility and durability. Easy to put on and remove, they are ideal for casual wear.

    In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

    Joules Molly Mid Height Wellies

    Joules Molly Mid Height Wellies

    Colours: Wide range of prints
    Sizes: UK 3–8
    RRP: £54.95

    Reasons to buy

    • Fantastic range of colourways and designs
    • Handcrafted from hardwearing natural rubber for durability
    • Adjustable side strap ensures a secure and personalized fit

    Reasons to avoid

    • Limited insulation may not provide sufficient warmth in extremely cold conditions

    These wellies are perfect for wet and muddy days spent outdoors. Crafted from 100% rubber, these mid-height wellies feature buckle fastening to find your perfect fit and feature eye-catching prints that are sure to brighten up the greyest of days. Joules branding to the outer adds that final stamp of style and quality.

    In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

    Ariat Kelmarsh Mid Rubber Boots

    Ariat Kelmarsh Mid Rubber Boots

    Colours: Navy, maroon or grey print
    Sizes: UK 3–8½
    RRP: £100

    Reasons to buy

    • Durable rubber construction ensures long-lasting waterproof protection
    • Lightweight design offers excellent support and stability
    • The cushioned insole provides comfort for extended wear

    Reasons to avoid

    • Rear adjustment clasp often comes undone

    These smart yet practical wellies are a great option if you’re going to be spending time on your feet.  They have an adjustable side closure and an easy-off heal-kick feature. With its array of colourful country shades, the Kelmarsh will ensure you’re dry and looking top-notch during your day-to-day chores and outdoor pursuits.

    We reviewed the tall version of these boots – read the full Ariat Kelmarsh wellies review.

    In the UK? View now at ariat.com, amazon.co.uk or outdoorandcountry.co.uk

    Barbour Banbury Wellington Boots

    Barbour Banbury Wellington Boots

    Colours: Navy or olive
    Sizes: UK 3–9
    RRP: £59.95

    Reasons to buy

    • Durable rubber construction provides long-lasting waterproof protection
    • The polyester lining adds extra comfort during extended wear
    • Tartan-pattern tread enhances grip on slippery surfaces

    Reasons to avoid

    • Limited colour options may not appeal to all preferences

    Designed with Barbour’s signature tartan-pattern outsole, these boots stand out for their blend of style and functionality. The durable rubber construction ensures complete waterproofing, while the polyester lining adds all-day comfort. Perfect for wet weather, their grippy tread and classic design make them a dependable choice for outdoor adventures with a heritage-inspired touch.

    In the UK? View now amazon.co.uk or outdoorandcountry.co.uk

    Merry People Bobbi Ankle Boots

    Merry People Bobbi Ankle Boots

    Colours: 19 options
    Sizes: UK 3–10
    RRP: £89.95

    Reasons to buy

    • 100% waterproof natural rubber construction ensures dry feet in wet conditions
    • Neoprene lining provides comfort and insulation for year-round wear
    • Versatile Chelsea boot design suitable for both urban and rural settings

    Reasons to avoid

    • Some users may find the sizing runs slightly large; consider ordering a size down

    These stylish ankle boots combine functionality with a modern design, making them suitable for a variety of settings. Crafted from waterproof materials and featuring a soft, insulating lining, they offer both comfort and protection in wet weather. Their classic design and vibrant colour options make them a fashionable choice for everyday wear.

    In the UK? View now at merrypeople.com

    Fitflop Short Wonderwelly

    Fitflop Short Wonderwelly

    Colours: Black or navy
    Sizes: UK 3–9
    RRP: £90 

    Reasons to buy

    • Ergonomic design provides superior comfort with impact-absorbing technology
    • Fully waterproof construction keeps feet dry in wet weather
    • Flexible material ensures ease of movement and a natural feel

    Reasons to avoid

    • Slightly heavier than traditional wellies, which may not suit all users

    These boots are a stylish and practical choice for wet-weather wear, combining unique ergonomic support with a modern design. The contoured sole and impact-absorbing heel deliver all-day comfort, while the fully waterproof construction ensures reliable protection in rain and mud. Perfect for those who want comfort and functionality in one.

    In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or fitflop.com

    Helly Hansen Nordvik 2 short wellington boots

    Helly Hansen Nordvik 2 Rubber Boots

    Colours: Black or green
    Sizes: EU 35–41
    RRP: £15.99 

    Reasons to buy

    • Sleek, minimalist design pairs well with both casual and outdoor outfits
    • Easy to clean, making them a low-maintenance option for regular use
    • Affordable and durable

    Reasons to avoid

    • Limited colour options may not suit all preferences

    These boots combine functionality with a stylish, understated look. The slip-resistant sole and waterproof construction make them reliable in challenging weather, while their easy-to-clean design ensures convenience for everyday wear.

    In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or hellyhansen.com


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