Muck Boots vs. Wellies: Which is Better for Hiking?

Hiking is a fabulous way to enjoy the countryside and get plenty of healthy, fresh air and exercise. And so long as your feet are dry, who cares if you’re up to your ankles in mud and rain? However, much depends on your choice of waterproof, outdoor footwear. In some cases, you might find your feet aren’t as enthusiastic as you to go on yet another hike.

What are Wellies?

To be a happy hiker, waterproof boots have to be an essential part of your hiking outfit. Some people choose wellingtons, aka wellies or gumboots. The knee-high design is inspired by the leather riding boot worn by the Duke of Wellington at the Battle of Waterloo back in 1815. Today’s wellingtons are made of natural rubber sourced from the sap of trees in countries such as Thailand. They are subjected to a chemical heating process known as sulfur vulcanization. It turns the liquidized rubber into a dense, firm material that’s resistant to snow, rain and mud.

Are Wellingtons the Best Hiking Footwear?

The main problem you’ll encounter when hiking in wellingtons is their lack of flexibility and support. Highly durable vulcanized rubber is perfect for tires, but it’s not so gentle on your feet. When hiking, wellingtons have absolutely no cushioning. They aggravate your joints and have so many pressures points you’ll end up with blisters and sore skin.

What are Muck Boots?

They are inspired by wellingtons, but they are made of a synthetic rubber known as neoprene. It has the same qualities as natural rubber including waterproof resistance to adverse weather conditions. But neoprene is also flexible and soft. It’s often used for the wetsuits of surfers and divers. These boots can fit close to your lower leg, but the material is pliable, making them very comfortable to wear. They are perfect hiking and camping footwear.

Is Neoprene Healthier than Vulcanized Rubber?

Hiking often makes your feet hot and sweaty. But when you wear wellingtons, the moisture can’t escape through the rubber. The damp, enclosed interior can encourage an increase in bacteria, foot odor and an itchy fungus known as athlete’s foot. Neoprene has excellent breathability and helps your feet stay free of moisture. Due to it being so soft and comfortable, your feet should suffer far fewer blisters. When hiking, these boots help keep your feet in a healthy condition.

Are Neoprene Boots Fashionable?

If you want stylish, waterproof footwear to complement your hiking or camping outfit, choose boots of neoprene every time. They team perfectly with a cozy quarter fleece or zip fleece. Since they were invented in 1999, these boots have evolved up to sixty different styles. Ladies’ neoprene boots are very fashionable. They come in a range of colors and include different styles such as low ankle boots, casual shoe designs and mid-calf boots. Neoprene boots for men include low shoes and knee-high designs with heavy-duty soles. Many have a subtle, two-tone color scheme.

Best Outdoor Footwear for Hiking

Your hiking outfit should be perfect once you’ve selected the best waterproof boots. You can easily purchase comfortable Muck Boots online. Wellingtons are great for agricultural use, but hiking requires additional comfort and flexibility. Your boots should provide your hiking trips with superior waterproof qualities, interior moisture control and an excellent grip. Hiking is much more fun when you are wearing a pair of stylish, waterproof hiking boots that keep your feet cozy and dry.