It’s the third day on the rain train. I can’t decide if that’s better or worse than the train that hurls Coors Light at innocent bystanders showering them with mediocre beer and an arctic rush.
To keep our toesies warms and drysies, we need the proper footwear. Now for the greatest match to hit the ring since North Face v. Mountain Hardware: the rain boot.
In this corner: representing the wellington: the Hunter boot.
What’s It All About? First produced in the 1850’s in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Hunter boot has been on the feet of World War I soldiers, English monarchs, and now, us laypeople of the 21st Century. Festival goers in Glastonbury wear them because of the muddy fields where the event is held, a style find that toughens up the otherwise clean, sleek boot.
Pros: sleek, easy to put on, comes in a ridiculous variety of colors (or colours, let’s get fancy here). You can buy them knee-high or down to an ankle boot. Versatile depending on the color.
Cons: You gonna hike up a mountain in those? Good luck, they can be clompy. They’re not particularly built for adventurous outdoorsy activities. They also don’t close at the top, a big problem in snow.
Representing the lace-up class: The L.L. Bean Boot.
What’s It All About? The L.L. Bean Boot is a classic with retro-Americana roots that’s been handmade since 1912. They saw a resurgence when retrospective styles hit the street and people started going to Goodwill because they wanted to.
Pros: L.L. Bean has broadened their range of styles and colors, still sticking with classic neutrals. They are durable and have an optional Goretex lining that’s great for snowy weather. They close at the top and there’s less a chance you’ll get snow in them.
Cons: They’re not flattering with every outfit – no one is wearing duck boots and a black dress and pea coat. They come off as masculine, if not styled correctly. The color range is lacking and they’re not as easy to throw on last-minute.
The Verdict: This epic battle of boot ends with not a victory nor defeat, but a simple question: Where am I going today? It’s all about function, and both boots offer style in a classic and retro way. For the Bean Boot, accessorize with an anorak and big knit scarf. For the Hunter boot, go for the pea coat and jeans – work that H.R.H. Kate Middleton in you.
Or you could call it a Revolutionary War revival. Redcoats v. Patriots: take your side.
