The Wellington boots, also known as wellies or gumboots are a type of boots which are based on the style of Hessian boots. Hessian boots were originated in Germany that became popular in 18th century. Initially they were popular as standard footwear for the military, especially for the senior post officers.

The British aristocrats also followed the suit in the 19th century and these boots even became popular among the civilians. These boots had low heels and a semi pointed toe to make them a comfortable and a practical choice for mountain troops and was generally made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These boots reached up to the knee and had a decorative tassel at the top. These Hessian boots then later evolved into the rubber boots known as wellies.

Wellies are waterproof boots usually worn in rainy season or monsoons. They are worn to when walking on a muddy and wet path or ground, and to protect the clothes and the wearer from heavy showers and muddy patches. They generally are of below the knee height. These boots are popular all over the world with different names. In Australia they are popular as Gumboots or 'Blucher Boots'. In Ireland they are referred as 'me top boots' and are usually in black colour. In New Zealand these boots hold special position and importance.

They are called gumboots or 'foot rot flats' in the Kiwi culture. They are considered important footwear for the farmers and north island of New Zealand has also dedicated an annual competition called as 'Gumboot day'. They are also used in construction sites and by labourers while pouring concrete. In Russia in 1920s Wellingtons gain a high popularity due to its cold weather and snow. In Canada and northern states of the United States they are simply called 'Rubber boots'. They are particularly popular in spring time there as the snow is melting and that leads to wet and muddy grounds. They are very popular among the university and school kids and also in summer camps. For Canadian winters and cold weather, there are special wellies lined with warm and insulating material to provide warmth during the winters.

Wellies are essential footwear especially in winters. Moreover, lately many designers have transformed these simple rubber boots in a pair of fashion accessory and designer footwear. Now there are so many kinds of boots to choose from: traditional Wellington boots, , men's boots, women's boots, kids wellies, and are available in plethora of colours, styles and designs. Hey were initially a functional and important footwear but now they have become a must have fashionable footwear and a style statement.

These are also essential in rainy season to keep your feet clean and dry to avoid much prevalent feet infections and diseases and also in winter season to keep your feet warm, dry and snug. You can also choose a comfortable and snug pair of these boots which are now also available with Neoprene lining. These linings keep your feet extra warm and comfortable and are an excellent choice when shopping for footwear for winter season.