Funny how good shoes can make you welcome bad weather. It’s been drizzly here in the Bay Area, with heavier showers predicted for the not-to-distant future. Shell cordovan boots used to be my go-to rain shoes, but shell tends to spot with water, which requires some annoying upkeep (you can quickly brush them out with a horsehair brush, but it’s work). So instead, I’ve been wearing rubbers lately.
LL Bean’s duck boots are some of the best when it comes to rubber rain shoes. Excellently built and relatively low-priced, they’re backed by a lifetime satisfaction guarantee and – surprisingly – go well with a number of casual outfits. For more serious rain shoes, there are Wellington boots. Based off of leather Hessian boots, which come high and fit trim, these rubber boots are designed to keep the water out when you’re wading through bogs, going through tall grass, or walking across muddy ground.
Of course, few of us do farm work or hunt, so these are a bit overkill for city use. However, if you’re in heavier rain, a tall boot can help keep water from soaking up your hem and migrating to your calf. They’re also good for keeping debris and water from splashing onto your pants. Plus, I think they just look awesome. Arguably better with certain styles of raincoats than the more casual duck boot – and it’s always nice to have options.
Among wellies, I really like Le Chameau – a French brand that seems to spare no effort in reminding you that their boots are handmade (to the degree rubber boots can be handmade) and the preferred choice of European royalty. I don’t know if any of that matters to me, but they are handsome and come with more secure feeling treads. Their flagship model is the Chasseur, which comes lined in a variety of materials. The ones with Neoprene or shearling are insulating and warm, which is nice if you suffer from cold feet. The leather-lined one isn’t as warm, but it’s a bit more comfortable, which is great for long walks.
Mr. Porter has all three versions (with the Neoprene model being the most affordable), while Amazon has the leather-lined model on sale at 20% off (use the checkout code FALSHOES). Any of those would be great if you need some serious rubber protection this season.
(Photos via Voxsartoria, The Distinguished Gentlemen, A Noble Savage, and Purdey)
