Are neoprene wellies waterproof?

[JellySlice]

Camping last week, I saw quite a few people wearing wellies with a wellie 'foot' and neoprene 'leg'. They looked very practical for walking through wet fields (better than my cloggies - I had dry feet, but wet trouser-legs).

But are the neoprene parts properly, puddle-splashingly, shallows-wadingly waterproof?

I have some duck boots. From ll bean that are welly bottom and a leather top. They are fully waterproof.

Sounds like that kind of thing could work as a good inbetween?

Or do you mean almost like a snow boot hard bottom with waterproof fabric upper? In which case I have worn simular around ski resorts and never got wet feet.

These, for example.

The description specifically says "keeps your feet dry", which I take to refer to the foot part.

I’ve got Muck Boots. They’re the comfiest and warmest boots I’ve had. I spend a lot of time trooping through mud and water and NOTHING comes close to these. Expensive for “wellies” but so, so worth it.

Muck Boots look fab - but £100+ for a pair of wellies!

The whole point of neoprene wetsuits is that you get wet. They're certainly not waterproof. So I don't get how they can be waterproof.

I agree that good walking boots are better for walking, serious walking, but I'm talking about bimbling through soggy fields and mucking about in shallow streams. Unless I wear gaiters my calves get wet from long wet grass, and even the best walking boots let in water if it comes over the ankles.

Also boots taking lacing up, wellies just pull on.

I have muck boots, the leg gets wet but not cold - same as a wetsuit. Foot section is waterproof.

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber so itself is waterproof BUT it depends on how it is used as to whether the whole garment (boot) is waterproof.
When it is used for a 'wetsuit' it is supposed to trap water which your body warms up IIRC.

wetsuits let in water around the neck, arms and legs rather than through the neoprene itself. Neoprene should be waterproof but can leak through seams. Hence neoprene is also used for dry suits.

wetsuits let in water around the neck, arms and legs rather than through the neoprene itself. Neoprene should be waterproof but can leak through seams. Hence neoprene is also used for dry suits.

I did not know this! Next time I wear my wetsuit I'll try and notice how I get wet - generally I'm too engaged in the activity to pay any attention.

OK, I'm convinced! Not sure that I'm £100+ convinced, but I may find something on sale...

Oh, I've just read Defender's post...

Wet through, as in wet trouser legs? Or just soggy neoprene, but trouser legs tucked inside stay dry?

I wear muck boots and the neoprene bit is definitely waterproof. I wade through flooded bits of river during the winter months and my feet and legs are completely dry. They are really comfortable and hard wearing. I love my muck boots..... well worth the money.

Mine were from Home & Country, online. They are Muck Boots (Unisex) Wetland Bark. They cost £ 85.49 with free delivery and are so sturdy. Really support the ankle. I’ve had Aigle and a few decent brands and these are the best.

Sorry, I’m hopeless at links. 😊