Wellies used to be necessary work-wear for farmers and casual country wear. Today, however, they have been brought up to fashion status and are suitable, or even necessary, for occasions whether just walking the doing or festival-going! The changes in the weather patterns can't have escaped anyone's notice, and with floods now almost commonplace throughout the great British winter, wellies are now indispensable.

With people using their boots so differently the range available is now more than diverse. Every possible colour, pattern, shape and size is available, ideal for those who want to set trends at Glastonbury! Further the more technical features, such as both outer and inner materials, the complexity of the sole and the support offered to the leg vary greatly. Coloured boots are often made of plastic making them waterproof, colourful and readily available on the high street and in garden centres. However, they don't allow the foot to breathe and can also degrade and crack readily.

The cheaper boots also offer less support and protection due to their thin uppers and soles. The treads are often unsuitable for varied terrains and can even be slippery on concrete. All these pitfalls can be overcome by investing in what is essentially a better boot. Natural rubber is not only waterproof but also supple, breathable and durable. A neoprene lining, as used in wetsuits, gives warmth, cushioning and support. Top range boots use calf leather as a liner with its insulating, breathable qualities and ability to not only wick moisture away from the skin but also mould to the foot to give a custom fit.

Everybody should be able to find the perfect sized boot, whatever their shape. Not only with half sizes in length but also different ankle and calf sizes, further adjustable with side straps and gussets. Boots specifically designed for ladies or children are now widely sold. There are several quality brands available now; Le Chameau, Hunter and Aigle, each making boots to their own high specifications. Accessories can be as varied as the boot itself with products to apply to the boot to keep it in top condition, socks to wear within giving warmth and preventing rubbing and boot bags to store and carry them in.

A great store for is Country Catalogue they have a massive selection of quality wellies including an excellent range of .

If you spend a little money to look after your boots correctly you will get years more out of them. With such an array of boots available, whatever your needs or size the perfect boot should be out there for you.