Rain boots are commonly used by millions of people around the world today, but just how did these boots get started? According to many experts the first person to own a pair of rain boots was the very first Duke of Wellington in Scotland. The Duke was an avid hunter and wanted a pair of boots which were waterproof to protect his feet and lower legs while on the hunt. A high quality leather was used to create the high legged boot in the Hessian fashion, and then a special preparation was used on the leather to make it resistant to moisture, as well as stronger and more durable.
Around the 1850s a rubber rain boot was introduced when Charles Goodyear and French footwear designer and manufacturer Hiram Hutchinson partnered together. These boots were an instant hit with consumers, and were used in many different industries as well as for personal use. Farmers, manual laborers, and other types of workers started using the rubber rain boots as well, to keep their feet dry and prevent illness. The initial rubber rain boots had the thick soles and the gently rounded toe section that is still used today.
Rain boots saw another increase in popularity and demand during both World War I and World War II. Soldiers and others on the march or fighting during these wars were often in wet and muddy conditions. Rain boots helped the military members stay dry and warm while in battle. Trenches that were halfway filled with water, days or even weeks of rainy weather, and other conditions made rain boots ideal for combat missions and military troops.
Today when you go to buy a pair of rain boots you may be amazed at the wide variety and large selection available for you to choose from. These boots can be found in almost every foot size, from toddler to adult, and there are many different colors, patterns, and designs to choose from. At first rain boots were only available in certain colors, but as technology advanced these boots started appearing with flowers, stripes, geometrical shapes, and even animals and cartoon characters. Because these boots are made from rubber material or something very similar they are very easy to clean, and usually only need to be wiped with a damp cloth. Whether you prefer a solid color for your rain boots, or a print that includes frogs or ducks is more your style, you will be able to quickly find just what you are looking for when you shop for rain boots online.
