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The term "rubber wellies" may not mean much to more recent generations, but this phrase was essentially the catalyst in transforming the way that people now so effortlessly approach wet and muddy grounds among other natural elements. In the nineteenth century, Arthur Wellington, first Duke of Wellington, requested that his shoemaker modify his pair of Hessian boots. Hessian boots were primarily worn by soldiers and other military ranks because of their low heel and partially pointed toe, which made them practical for mounting horses and wearing stirrups. Initially made of leather, this fashion-forward boot eventually evolved into the effective form of rubber foot protection that we know today.
While the stylistic element of "wellies" preceded the discovery of their practicality, functionality was soon after addressed. This was obvious with the imminent onset of World War I and the need for waterproof boots in order to provide soldiers with suitable footwear for days and nights spent in the confines of flooded trenches and other treacherous conditions. Both World War I and World War II sparked the creation of vast quantities of Wellington boots and thigh-high protection. Soon after, men, women, and children of all ages were wearing, what we now fondly refer to as, rain boots in all types of inclement weather.
In the 1850s, Hiram Hutchinson, a French footwear manufacturer, teamed up with Charles Goodyear to patent a rubber footwear product that would become an overnight success. Perhaps most logically, farmers and other laborers took advantage of the design of these technologically advanced shoes and traded in their wooden clogs for rubber boots. For farmers and laborers, more protection against the cold and wet weather signified a reduction in sickness and an increase in productivity, all thanks to the trend instigated by the Duke of Wellington. Thick soles and rounded toes made this version of rain boots a comfortable and pragmatic choice for use in daily work routines.
Since their inception, rain boots have accumulated quite the collection of nicknames as they have found their place in countries and cultures all across the world. South African and New Zealand natives refer to rain boots as "gumboots", a term which may have originated from nineteenth century gum diggers that adorned boots made from gum rubber. Older Australians refer to these boots as "Blucher boots" and "Gummies", while some elder Irish statesman have coined them "me topboots". Despite their name, rain boots have proven to be a practical and popular staple in the realm of footwear over the years.
Many individuals in the United States can still be seen sporting a bright yellow adaptation of "wellies", while British residents typically don green-colored rain boots. Rain boots have become an essential part of the dress code for children en route to school amidst a splash of morning dew or raindrops, as well as for fashionistas and trend-setters as they step out for a cup of coffee on a sunny day. Warm insulation and rubber exteriors make rain boots a viable alternative to leather or synthetic sneakers.
From practical protection to puddle jumping to surging fashion trends, rain boots have evolved into much more than a simple piece of footwear. Today, rain boots have effectively created and established a name for themselves that appeals to audiences ranging from parents to style gurus and everyone in between.
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Source by Avand Amiri