All of a sudden, people are wearing rain boots again. I am quite sure that if five years ago, you had told me that rain boots would actually be stylish in 2008, I would have laughed and promptly dismissed you as fashionably challenged. Nevertheless, here we are, and they're everywhere. The defining moment for me was earlier this year. I attended a wedding the foothills of Nevada. The ceremony was outside against a beautiful backdrop of mountains and sunset-tinted sky. The bride, being an admirably practical individual and knowing how spring weather can be capricious, decided she did not want to risk ruining her high heels. Instead, she and all of her bridesmaids wore rain boots in varying patterns and shades of bright pink. It was adorable-and it made complete sense!

Yes, for some reason, the rain boot has been reincarnated in a plethora of colors and patterns, and it has become an acceptable fashion accessory as well as a pragmatic solution to puddles. However, from a historical perspective, this has not always been the case. Today's rain boots are descended from English Wellington boots, which are far less attractive than their modern American progeny. Wellingtons (or "wellies") are waterproof, come to just below the knees and are usually dark green in color. They date back to the 19th century, when they were worn and popularized by Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington.

Modern rain boots are, first and foremost, designed to protect the feet from water. To that end, they are generally made of rubber and extend up the leg to at least mid-calf and sometimes to just below the knee. Rain boots often feature nonslip rubber soles, which can be useful in slippery, wet situations. The interiors are sometimes lined, often with a material that helps keep feet warm and dry by wicking away moisture. Many children's rain boots have handles on the tops, which help children to pull them on. The tops of the boots often feature a buckle, which can be used to tighten the opening around the leg to prevent water from getting in.

The popular rain boot styles of today often feature bright colors and bold patterns. Pinks, blues, purples and yellows are popular. Some even mimic animal patterns, being striped like zebras or spotted like giraffes. The more hardcore rain boots do still tend to be of solid, dark colors. The Baffin Enduro Rain Boot for men, for example: you can order this boot in any color you want as long as its black. The same can be said Hunter Argyll Ladies Rain Boots. However, some heavy duty boots have lightened up a bit; Hunter Original Wellington Rain Boots come in traditional black and forest green, but they can also be purchased in a cheery pumpkin.

As with all items of clothing, especially those designed for the outdoors, you get what you pay for. Rain boots purchased from a high-quality clothing store are going to provide more protection and better comfort than a pair bought at a general retail outlet. If protecting your feet from the weather is your top priority, be sure to invest in a good pair of boots from a reputable manufacturer. If, however, you just want to look cool, then just follow your fashion sense.