How to Protect Your Wellington Boots | John Norris

Wellington boots are a staple in many wardrobes, especially for those who love outdoor activities! The right pair should be robust yet comfortable, so perfect for facing all weather conditions. These sturdy boots keep our feet dry allowing us to tackle muddy gardens, rain-soaked fields, and various outdoor pursuits such as fishing or hiking your favourite Lake District Wainwright! To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your Wellington boots, proper care and protection is crucial. In this guide, we'll explore practical tips on how to keep your Wellington boots in top-notch condition.

Keep them Clean  

Rinsing your boots after each use may seem straightforward, but it plays a crucial role in prolonging their lifespan. Chemical elements in mud, soil, manure, and especially urine, can accelerate the molecular hardening of natural rubber, ultimately causing cracks in rubber boots. In contrast, polyurethane boots, with their smooth outer surface, are susceptible to moisture penetration once the outer layer breaks down.

For general cleaning, using a cloth, gently wipe down the entire surface of the boots using warm, soapy water, removing as much of the dirt as possible. Focus on any visible stains, plus the zips or buckles as these can often rust if neglected. For stubborn stains, a soft to medium-bristled brush can be employed to assist in scrubbing. This practice is particularly crucial if your boots are exposed to chemicals, horses, livestock, etc., as the presence of chemicals and waste can lead to the degradation of the rubber.

Just come from one of the beautiful Lake District shores? Well, it’s vital to get the salt and sand off your wellies right away to prevent any damage to the materials. The sea water can cause the rubber wellies to break down and crack with colours fading and durability decreasing.

Keep them Dry

Another important element of Wellington boot care is drying. The molecular makeup of the rubber used in Wellington boots makes them temperamental and sensitive to extreme temperatures and environmental changes. Allow your boots to air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area. Severe temperatures can cause the rubber to dry and crack, so it's best to place the boots by the front or back door or in the hall, away from any radiators or fireplaces. Crumpling old newspapers up and inserting them inside the boots can also aid in the drying process.

After allowing your Wellington boots time to dry, upon your return, you may notice a white powdery residue on your boots. This phenomenon is known as 'blooming,' where natural oils in the rubber surface. Simply wipe away the blooming with a damp cloth and keep reading to find out some of the best products for preventing this situation.

Give them a home: Storage Solutions

It can be very tempting to leave your wellies in the boot of the car, ready for the next adventure, but doing this will often lead to a lack of proper cleaning and drying, therefore damaging the health of your boots. Keep your Wellington boots protected with a designated place for storage. Store them indoors, in a cool, dry, and ventilated area; perhaps consider investing in a welly rack or a storage unit. Keeping your boots consistently in the same place increases the likelihood of finding them amidst the pre-walk chaos. However, when out exploring the beautiful terrains of the Lake District, a boot bag is a great investment for keeping your wellies safe and together. At John Norris, we have a range of premium Wellington boot bags to keep your wellies protected on the go.

Conditioning for Longevity

Just as our clothes need laundry detergent to keep them clean and fit for purpose, our Wellington boots require some specialist products too! Investing in boot care items is essential but requires some consideration depending on the type of boot you own.

At John Norris, we supply the Le Chameau Boot care kit which is ideal for maintaining your Wellington boots remain in impeccable condition. The kit includes a brush with natural hair for effective mud removal, an 80ml silicone spray specifically formulated to nurture Le Chameau's distinctive rubber blend, and a branded microfiber cloth to ensure your boots retain their signature suppleness and flexibility.

As mentioned before ‘blooming’ can occur on Wellington boots after use. The Grangers Rubble Boot Care Spray not only resolves the problem of blooming but also conditions and restores shine to all rubber footwear.

Other tips for keeping your Wellington boots in pristine condition include using a boot puller to remove boots. Using a step or your other foot can put pressure on the heel which will cause it to split over time.

Quality matters

The quality of your Wellington boots really matters especially when you are using them regularly. It’s better to invest in a premium pair of Wellington boots rather than constantly replacing them. At John Norris, we stock the finest selection of wellies that are exactly what every outdoor adventurer needs.

Wellington boots are known for keeping feet dry but not necessarily warm. Neoprene, a fabric commonly used in wetsuits for its insulation and durability, has changed the game. The micro bubbles in neoprene trap warm air, providing insulation without adding excessive weight. Additionally, neoprene proves to be a comfortable lining option, delivering warmth, dryness, and overall comfort.

Both, Barbour and Le Chameau use neoprene to create the highest-quality Wellington boots.

• Representing a truly iconic symbol of the British countryside, Barbour Wellington boots embody toughness, durability, and enduring comfort. Striking the perfect balance between function and style, Barbour offers wellies in various designs, from short ankle boots to classic tall boots.
• Cementing itself as a must-have among outdoor enthusiasts and, most famously, the British royal family, Le Chameau Wellington boots boasts an 80-year history of fine craftsmanship, resulting in exceptionally high-quality boots that offer supreme comfort. Engineered to excel in all conditions, Le Chameau sets the standard with its meticulous craftsmanship, making it a true investment in footwear excellence.

As any country dweller will tell you, owning a good pair of Wellington boots is extremely important, especially when taking part in outdoor pursuits such as fishing, hunting, or shooting. At John Norris, we supply the very best selection of premium rubber Wellington boots for all your outdoor pursuits.