Complete Guide to Buying Hunter Boots
Come rain or snow, celebrities, including Meghan Markle, Rihanna, Kate Moss, and Alexa Chung, are known for stepping out in classic Hunter Original boots—aka the most stylish way to brave the elements.
I picked 7 options that are all must have staples in anyone's wardrobe and if these are my favorite 3:
Our top 3 picks
My Top 7 Picks!
1. Original Tall Rain Boots
When you think of Hunter boots, you think of their original tall rain boots. They are the heart of hunter boots.
Read moreThese are waterproof, knee-high boots made of natural rubber with a polyester lining. With a variety of nine colors to choose from, they’ll fit into anyone’s style and they’re perfect for wet weather conditions.
Because of the stiffness of rubber as well as the lack of insulation, we recommend pairing these boots with a thick pair of socks to keep your feet toasty warm and blister-free.
They are true to size/regular fit so no need to size up or down for these boots.
2. Refined Stitch Detail Chelsea Boots
The Refined Stitch Detail Chelsea Boots are going to be your new fall go-to boot.
Read moreThey have stylish stitch detail for a modern design while keeping the same features of a traditional Chelsea boot.
They are also made of natural rubber with a nylon pull-tab for easy wearability. They have a slightly platformed outsole for a cool, chunky boot. Like all Hunter boots, these are also waterproof.
They do run small as they are slim fit around the ankle, so make sure to size up for a comfortable fit.
3. Gloss Mid Heel Boots
These boots are a completely unique way of re-envisioning rain boots.
Read moreThey are made of the classic Hunter Boots’ waterproof, natural gloss rubber with high shine but the design is what makes it special.
These are a chunky, mid-height heel that is simple, sleek and timeless. Don’t choose between fashion and practicality when you can have both with these boots.
They can be worn day or night for a stylish, protective boot that’ll keep you dry and keep you feeling confident.
This option is a slim fit, but true to size. Size up if you’re in between sizes for a comfortable fit.
4. Original Short Rain Boots
Like the Original Tall Rain Boots, these boots are also handmade with natural rubber as well polyester lined.
Read moreThese are essentially a shorter version of their iconic originals. They also come in nine shades, but the colors vary from product to product. These are a more subtle take on a rain boot as they reach just under mid-calf.
The Original Short Rain Boots are small but mighty, and waterproof enough to keep your feet dry all day long. Pair these boots with a warm pair of socks to protect your skin from rubbing against the rubber.
These boots fit true to size/regular fit.
5. Insulated Short Snow Boots
Take on the snow and ice in these winter boots. They have a fleece lining to keep your feet warm and cozy as well as quilted nylon upper and hydroguard waterproof membrane.
Read moreTheir waterproof design features a drawstring topline to help retain warmth within the boot and keep water out.
You can wear these snow boots in temperatures as low as -7°F. These boots were developed to have maximum grip on wet surfaces so you can navigate whatever winter terrain comes your way.
The fit of these boots runs slightly larger, so it is recommended to size down if you’re in between sizes.
6. Roll Top Sherpa Boots
7. Slim Fit Quilted Gloss Chelsea Boots
Hunter boots are practical, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t stylish. These high-gloss, fashion-forward rain boots are sleek and modern.
Read moreThis slim-fit ankle boot features quilted accents in a high-gloss, waterproof material as well as a gold buckle for a luxe feel. You don’t have to sacrifice style for dry feet.
These boots give you the best of both worlds by merging style and convenience. They are crafted from fewer rubber layers for a lightweight feel. Like with any rubber boot, it’s always necessary to wear socks to prevent your skin from rubbing against the material.
They fit true to size but feature a slim fit. If you’re in between sizes, it’s recommended to size up.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How To Choose The Right Hunter Boot Model For You
I get a lot of questions about Hunter boots, whether regarding size, style, fit or finish. And as we’re at the beginning of “the wet season,” I figured that it’s the perfect time to post about the topic. So, without further ado, below are my tips for buying Hunters!
Do Hunter rain boots run big or small?
If in between sizes, go a half size down. I typically wear a size 7.5 in shoes, but I wear a (U.S.) 7 in Hunter boots–and have the right amount of room in them, even with the Welly Socks. If I wore a 7, however, I’d probably stick with the 7. (Hunter boots only come in whole sizes, by the way.)
Hunter rain boots Tall or Short?
Decide whether you like the “Tall” or “Short” boots. I’m 5’5, for reference, and am wearing the Original/gloss boots in “Tall” and “Short” in the below photos.
(Note: the pink boots are no longer available. However, they’re still available for kids. Scroll down to read sizing advice.)
The shaft height of the “Tall” boots is 16 inches, and the shaft height of the “Short” boots is 10 inches. (Break out a measuring tape and decide! Calf circumferences are the same.)
I think the tall version looks a bit better on me, but I find them to be annoying if the rain stops and I have to lug them around the city all day. The shorter boots are also a lot easier to get on and off.
Consider the “Huntress” version if you have wide calves. The Huntress features a larger calf circumference–16.5 inches compared to the Original’s 15 inches–and its shaft is 14 inches, which is two inches shorter than the Original’s height. It’s also a bit roomier in the ankles, and has a straighter cut.
The “Adjustable Back” version is a great alternative. It has the height of the Original boot, but a calf circumference that expands from 15 to 17 inches. It also comes in the matte finish.
Hunter Boots Glossy Vs. Matte Finish:
Choose the glossy or matte finish. I’ve owned both, and I like the glossy finish the best, as I feel like the glossy version doesn’t “bloom” as much as the matte version. (See below for explanation.) But it’s a personal preference, for sure.
How to Care for Your Hunter Boots:
Realize that your boots will likely acquire a white, powdery film at some point. But don’t worry. It’s normal. It’s called “blooming,” and it’s high-quality rubber’s way of defending itself against the elements. To restore your boots to their original finish, you can use Hunter’s Rubber Boot Buffer Spray or–my favorite–a dab of olive oil on a paper towel. (Rub it on your boots, and it’ll leave ’em looking brand new. Just use sparingly.) Check out this how-to video.
WOMEN’S vs. KIDS’
Consider the kids’ version–$75 compared to $148! If you wear a size 7.5 or smaller, you’re one of the lucky ladies eligible to save mucho monies by going with the kids’ boots. (So many fun colors, too!)
On an adult, they’ll look like a cross between the Tall and Short versions, depending on how tall you are. (The shaft is 12 inches high, compared to the Tall’s 16 inches and the Short’s 10 inches. And the calf circumference is 14.5 inches, compared to the Tall’s–and Short’s–15 inches.) But for $75, woo-hoo!
They come in matte and silver, too. Make sure to select “Big Kids,” and see the below size chart.
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