5 Best Gumboots in Australia (2024 Reviews)

What are Gumboots?

Gumboots derive from the original Wellington boot, a riding shoe cut to fit neatly and comfortably around long riding trousers, which quickly became a common site in rural Britain. Today, the design is made from rubber gum, neoprene, or PVC to provide support and waterproof protection from the elements for gardeners, builders, and in agriculture.

In this guide, we’ll be sharing a few of our favourite brands and what makes them special, so you can find the right fit for you.

What to Look for When Buying Gumboots

Gumboots have a pretty simple task when it comes down to it; keeping us dry. Ok, so it can get a bit more complicated than that, with fleece-lined gumboots, ankle-high gumboots, and even a few breathable designs out there to protect you in the garden in the middle of summer.

But, at their most basic, gumboots need to be comfortable, waterproof, and durable.

Sustainable materials

Traditional gumboots are made from natural rubber. It’s a touch more expensive than PVC, but it’s lighter, lasts longer, and is made from largely renewable materials. PVC and neoprene boots can be sustainable, with some gumboots made from recycled PVC, but most are manufactured from raw and unsustainable materials.

If you’re particularly keen on knowing the environmental impact of your clothes and want to keep your garden truly eco-friendly, consider keeping an eye out for natural rubber gumboots instead.

Durability

Perhaps the best sign of a good quality gumboot is its sole. The sole of a boot takes the most beating and needs to hold up to heavy wear and tear, including digging down onto forks and spades. Check the boots over before you buy too. Do they have decent buckles? Are they properly stitched?

If they’ve got a fleece lining, is it sewn in, or can it be removed for easy cleaning? They’re all fairly simple considerations, but worth taking into account based on how you intend to use your new gumboots.

Comfort

Comfort is essentially impossible to define in a gumboot before you’ve used them for a few weeks. Good gumboots will mould your calves and feet without becoming sticky or sweaty. Natural rubber gum is a good material for this and does tend to last longer too.

PVC boots will retain their shape better but can become brittle if left outside in the baking sun. To keep PVC boots flexible, store them out of direct sunlight, and clean them whenever they get dirty.

Brands to Trust

Below, I thought it might be useful to list a few of the globally trusted gumboot brands, but it's by no means an exhaustive list. The brands below are just a few of my personal favourites, for comfort, style, and quality:

• Ugg (for manufacturing quality)
• Hunter (for everything)
• Sloggers (for design)
• Joules (for value)
• Crocs (for comfort)

1. Joules Women's Gumboot

Joules rain boots are made from natural rubber, so fit beautifully to their wearer, and come in a  range of designs too, from ankle boots to knee-high gumboots.

If you’re looking for that perfect mix of durability, style, and comfort, Joules are a great go-to brand.

2. HUNTER Men's Balmoral Adjustable Neoprene Gumboots

Named after Balmoral, the Queen’s former country residence, these boots come with a bit of historical gravitas, as well as a high standard of manufacture.

They’re definitely more expensive than most, but this timeless gumboot is ideal for everything from riding to heavy-duty gardening and makes as good a fashion statement as it does a safety shoe.

3. Sloggers Waterproof Garden Gumboots for Women

Sloggers are an incredibly good brand, focussed on producing durable boots for those of us on a budget. Their boots are made from raw synthetic materials, but they are completely recyclable and can be sent straight back to Sloggers for recycling when you’re ready for a new pair.

This pair is one of a huge range of designs in the same style, with comfortable insoles and odour-damping materials.

4. UGG Tall Women’s Gumboots With Wool Insoles

UGG are better known for their designer fur-covered shoes, but at the complete opposite end of their design spectrum, are these stunningly well-made gumboots.

Their PVC outer skin is tough and durable and paired with a sturdy sole with excellent grip.

This pair is a women's gumboot, but they sell gumboots for men and kids too.

5. HUNTER Women's Original Tall Rain Boot

Hunter have manufactured traditional gumboots for decades, and their reputation is well deserved but does come with a price.

For practical gumboots that are good looking, and long-lasting, you really can’t go wrong with Hunter. These women's gumboots are tall-legged and built from vulcanised rubber, which has the sheen of neoprene, but the comfort of rubber.

The joyful design, coupled with durable and natural materials makes Joules our top pick of gumboots for 2024. Joules gumboots have a timelessness that adds to the pleasure of wearing them, but are often overlooked for brands at twice the price.

For a sensible, durable boot that looks good and works well, there are a few gumboot brands out there that will truly give Joules a run for their (or your) money.

If expense is no object, and you truly want the best, Hunter will probably always be the world’s best gumboot. They’re not cheap by any stretch, but they come with a globally recognised design that won’t ever be beaten, as well as being made from the best materials.

Hunter sells men's, women's, and kids' gumboots too, so if you’re really trying to find the best for the whole family, Hunter will have a gumboot to suit.

Gumboots Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called a gumboot?

Gumboots are a development of the original Wellington boots, rubberised and waterproofed in more modern ways, but often still using natural rubber gum, which gives them their name.

Why do people wear gumboots?

Gumboots are worn to keep people’s legs dry and protected. Some more modern designs are aerated to provide summer comfort as well as the traditional winter, spring, and autumn protection from the rain.

What do you wear under gumboots?

You can buy special gumboot socks to wear under gumboots, that cover your entire calf and remain breathable, but in most cases, long thick socks are all you need to stay comfortable in gumboots.

Should gumboots be tight or loose?

Gumboots should always be a little bit loose. Tight gumboots will become humid, sweaty, and uncomfortable pretty quickly, and won’t have the flex you need to move around. Don’t go overboard though, aim for half a size bigger than your regular shoe size.

What material is best for gumboots?

Natural rubber is the best material for gumboots, though PVC alternatives are generally well-made and last for years. The benefit of natural rubber is its ability to mould to your foot and leg, as well as providing cooler comfort.

Is it ok to wear the same gumboots every day?

No matter what material your gumboots are made from, they should be allowed to air out between uses. Gumboots get sweaty quickly, even in cool weather, so having a spare pair to air out while you wear the second is handy.

How do you keep gumboots dry?

PVC gumboots, in particular, do need to dry out between uses. Dry them off by brushing any major mud and dirt off with a stiff shoe brush, and then wipe them down with a clean rag. If the inside of your boot is wet, stuff it with tissue paper, turn them upside down, and hang them outside to air.

How do you break in gumboots?

The best way to break in gumboots is to use them. It might be uncomfortable for the first few wears, but it will provide a better fit in the long term. To speed up the process, heat your gumboots up with a hairdryer, or over a radiator until the material is a little more pliable, then wear them for a few hours

Do you tuck jeans into gumboots?

You should always tuck your jeans or trousers into gumboots. It’s what they were originally designed for, and why you should always buy half a size up. By tucking your jeans into your gumboots, you’ll keep them dry, as well as your feet.

Can you put gumboots in the washing machine?

Gumboots should never be put in the washing machine, whether they are made from natural rubber, or PVC. They are not designed for it, and their lining can be damaged. Wash gumboots by hand.

How do you clean smelly gumboots?

To clean the inside of your gumboots, and reduce unpleasant smells, fill a cup with half water, half white vinegar, and a squeeze of lemon. Wet a microfiber cloth in the solution and rub the inside of your gumboots all over, then dry with a tissue or another cloth. Leave them to air dry. 

Why do gumboots turn white?

Blooming on rubber or PVC is a sign of degradation in gumboots, and the first signs are white patches or streaks. If you notice these, treat your gumboots with a leather cleaner and car wax, which will help to soften the rubber, reincorporate damaged particles, and improve their movement.

Now that you've chosen the best gumboots for you, be sure to check our reviews list below to help you get ready for your gardening journey. 

• Gardening clothes
• Gardening gloves
• Gardening knee and kneeler pads