Issue #2

Keeping My Feet Warm And Dry

My walks with Reuben, for 6 months of the year, involve ponds, puddles, lakes and general wetness. I started out with a pair of cheap average wellies, which were a bit loose in places, and developed a small leak after constant use. On cold days my feet also got cold, on longer walks.

I did some research into some better quality wellies, looking for something that would retain warmth, had durable heels and soles, had a thick outer skin, AND fitted a bit better.

The Rockfish Groundhog

Neoprene lining seems to be a popular solution to retaining warmth in wellies. Anything from 2mm to 10mm is available, but the thicker neoprene may not necessarily be the best. If reviews are anything to go by, mainly from farmers and fishermen, the brands using the thickest neoprene didn't have the best outer shell.

One brand that I noticed were getting good reviews from all types of user was the Rockfish Groundhog. I should point out here that I have no affiliation with any of the brands I mention with my clothing and footwear reviews. My opinions are my own.

The first thing I noticed upon receiving my new wellies, was how supportive they were around the ankle area. The fitted so snugly I had to buy a boot hook to get them off! This is a good thing! There's nothing worse than putting your foot in a muddy/clay puddle, and your wellie stays put when you release your foot.

I bought these boots in late November 2024 and my feet and legs remained warm and very comfortable throughout all the temperatures we walked in. As winter turned into spring they actually became a bit too warm on the warmer days.

They have a flexible, deep grip sole/heel making walking any distance easy. The outer boot skin also seems to be coping well with the flexing nature of walking over different terrains. The boot hook I use to help me get them off has so far had no effect on the outer skin.

These wellies feel more like walking boots than wellies! They're warm, comfortable, sturdy and waterproof. I'd happily recommend these boots to others, based on my own experience over 1 wet/cold seasons of the year.

​https://rockfish-weatherwear.co.uk/products/rockfish-black-groundhog?variant=39713170751568​

See you!