When autumn’s chill brings mud and storms, having the right boots can make all the difference. We tested XTRATUF’s famed wellies and deck boots on muddy canal walks—and here’s what we found.
Autumn in the United Kingdom can produce some truly wondrous natural sights. However, it also brings cold and wet weather—and, of course, the dreaded storms. Nonetheless, for us, the worst of the British weather only adds excitement to our walks and hikes.
We’ve often documented our love of the great outdoors, particularly hiking. Over the years, we’ve built up an extraordinary collection of boots, weatherproofs, backpacks— you name it, and we’ve probably got it. However, one thing missing from our arsenal was decent pairs of wellies, mainly because we thought they wouldn’t be the most comfortable things on our feet when putting in the miles. Our opinion changed recently, when we were sent a pair of 15″ women’s wellies and a pair of men’s ankle boots from XTRATUF.
Over the years, we’ve turned down opportunities to test and write about wellies, mainly because my husband, Paul, believed that they were heavy, uncomfortable, and would likely cause blisters. So when a representative from XTRATUF reached out, suggesting we try their boots and assuring us of their comfort, we both agreed that there was no better time to do it than now.
Initially, we asked to try the 15″ Legacy Plain Toe Fishing Boots for Paul, and the 15″ version of the women’s boots for me. However, at that time, the company had completely sold out of all men’s boots in size 11. In fact, the only size 11 boots available were ankle boots. After some research, Paul was reassured that they should do the job, and I could sense his hope that they’d be comfortable. We both followed the recommendation to go a size up: Paul is a size 10 1/2, and I’m a size 6 1/2.
Before sharing our thoughts on the boots, let’s take a look at why this particular brand caught our eyes.
About XTRATUF Boots
XTRATUF boasts a distinguished heritage, originally founded to meet the demanding needs of fishermen and maritime workers who require footwear that can withstand long hours on wet, slippery surfaces. Over time, the brand has grown synonymous with rugged durability, reliable performance, and advanced comfort technology.
Constructed using a patented blend of waterproof natural rubber and engineered neoprene, XTRATUF boots provide superior waterproofing, flexibility, and insulation—crucial for keeping feet dry and comfortable in cold, wet conditions. The boots are designed to be lightweight yet tough, addressing the traditional concerns of heaviness and stiffness often associated with Wellington boots.
Inside, the boots feature anatomically contoured moulded EVA footbeds that offer excellent arch support and cushioning, helping to reduce foot fatigue during extended wear. The padded insoles and heel cups absorb impact and improve overall stability, while the breathable neoprene lining helps regulate temperature and wick away moisture.
On the sole, XTRATUF incorporates aggressive, slip-resistant outsoles made from oil- and chemical-resistant rubber compounds. These provide excellent traction on wet, oily, or uneven surfaces, offering safety whether navigating muddy footpaths, wet docks, or slick pavement. The boots are engineered with a wide outsole base to further enhance balance and reduce ankle fatigue.
The men’s deck boots, particularly the ankle-height styles, are designed for versatile performance—easy to slip on and off, yet resilient enough for varied terrain and weather. The women’s tall boots extend coverage for added protection against deep puddles and heavy mud, while still providing flexibility and comfort for long walks, and another nice feature is that they can be folded down.
XTRATUF’s blend of technical innovation and comfort-focused design makes these boots ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, professional workers, and casual walkers alike—anyone who needs dependable footwear that performs in all the vagaries of British weather.
Our Experience
Both sets of boots arrived in sturdy branded boxes, with cardboard inserts to maintain their shape. They looked great and, to be honest, wouldn’t look out of place in the members’ section of the many agricultural shows we attend annually.
Paul was the first to try his boots on, and the moment he stood up, a smile spread across his face. He said he could feel his heel sinking into the cushioned insole, and there was ample room to wiggle his toes. I quickly followed suit and immediately felt the same comfort. After rolling my trousers up “Fonzie mode,” as Paul calls it, we headed out for our first walk—a four-mile jaunt along the canal—which we knew would be a little wet and muddy, having had rain the previous night.
Living less than 100 yards from the canal brings us immense joy. In recent times, we’ve developed a bond with the birdlife—the swans, ducks, coots, moorhens, and more—and we were eager to show off our new footwear to them. The walk to the bridge is short and on tarmac, and before we even reached the messier parts, Paul was already raving about the boots’ comfort.
Soon, we reached the footpath. Although “footpath” is a generous term at this time, it’s currently more a choice between a slippery, muddy track or a slightly less muddy one. Admittedly, the path is undergoing an upgrade by the Canal and River Trust, but progress has been slower than anticipated due to the adverse weather conditions.
Paul persuaded me to tackle the muddy side first. He reiterated that what we had on our feet would be more than adequate, and when they did get muddy, he suggested we dip them in the canal and make them look as good as new.
I felt super-safe navigating the deep, slippery mud and puddles, and we kept remarking on how comfortable our feet felt, almost as if we were expecting disappointment. After heading out one mile, we returned to the bridge, dipped our boots in the water, and headed in the opposite direction.
It was here that we encountered the ducks, who immediately recognised us. They lined up in front of us, awaiting their usual fill of duck and swan food. Instead, Paul greeted them by waving his feet, showing off our new boots, before liberally dousing them in food.
As we continued, we both agreed that, in terms of comfort, the XTRATUF boots exceeded all our expectations. In fact, we repeated the walk the next two days, each time without a single complaint. Overall, for walks around town or level countryside paths, we think these boots are ideal.
We can’t suggest taking the boots we tested on more vigorous hikes just yet, as it’s not something we’ve tried, and ankle support is always a priority on rockier terrain, which these wellies don’t offer.
The best way for us to close out this review feature is by saying we are impressed. The boots, while looking smart, don’t scream ‘look at me,’ which lets them discreetly complement most casual outfits. The company’s heritage adds another big tick in the box. Although these cost more than other wellies, it’s worth reminding yourself that they are a preferred boot for people doing one of the world’s most challenging jobs.
XTRATUF boots are available to purchase at https://www.xtratuf.co.uk/. You can also find more information about the company and view its entire range.
As with the vast majority of items sent to us for review and writing, the boots will likely be given to someone who will benefit from them or sold, with the proceeds going to a good cause.
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