Hunter Boots (See other styles here) / Barbour Jacket (Old, similar here, here and here) / Madewell Tote (Free monogramming for a limited time!) / Hudson Jeans / Daniel Wellington Watch (c/o) / J.Crew Chambray Shirt and Pearl Earrings / Kate Spade Sunglasses (Old, but love this similar pair from Tory Burch!)
I love getting e-mails from readers. I may not be the best at responding in a timely fashion–seriously, hit me up again if it’s been a month, haha–but I love it. Connecting with people is the number one reason I love blogging, after all.
Anyway, I get a lot of e-mails about Hunter boots, whether in regard to size, style, fit or finish. And as we’re in the middle of “April Showers,” I figured that it’s the perfect time to post about the topic. So, without further ado, below are my tips for buying Hunters!
1. 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.)
2. 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 in 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.
3. 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.
4. The adjustable back version is a great alternative for wide calves. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.)
7. Consider the packable “Tour” version if you’re on-the-go often. I go through the dilemma nearly every time I’m about to board a plane (unless we’re going somewhere tropical): Should I bring my Hunters? The answer is almost always no, as they’re really rough to lug around when it’s not raining. But on a couple of occasions, I’ve been completely miserable as a result of that thinking. (Ten days of rain in Ireland will do that do you. WHAT WAS I THINKING?!) Anyway, the “Tour” version is nearly identical to the Original boots, as they’re only a half inch shorter in the shaft and an inch wider in calf circumference–and just as durable. (Frankly, the only reason I don’t own them is because I had a gift certificate to a store that carried the Original boots.) But they roll up, and are much lighter! They also come with a little drawstring bag for packing. (Watch a video of the magic here!) They come in matte, too.
8. Consider the zipper version if you find slip-on boots to be annoying. I love my boots, but I must admit that getting them off isn’t a picnic. It’s an impossible feat while holding a miniature dachshund, at least! The “Original Slim Zipper” boot makes the process easier, though. And don’t let the name fool you, as they aren’t any slimmer than the Originals. They have the same fit, but feature a hidden zipper along the outside.
WOMEN’S vs. KIDS’
9. 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 above size chart.
10. Realize that Hunters aren’t winter boots. Like, really realize that. I’ve been known to slip ’em on in the dead of winter for a quick walk around the block with Noodle, or to take the garbage out. But Hunter wellies are not warm, and I’ve paid the price way too many times when I forgot that little fact due to pretty Pinterest photos. They’re fall/spring boots, even if you pair them with the socks.
11. The socks help. They’re not going to magically turn Hunters into boots you can wear in 20-degree weather, but they’re something. And boy, are they adorable. Especially these!
(Looking for true winter boots? I hope not, at this point. But try Sorel if you are. Warmest boots ever. And check Sorel’s website if Nordstrom is sold out. Their inventory usually lasts a bit longer.)
12. Buy from a retailer that provides free shipping and free returns, because the above is a lot to take in. My favorite is Nordstrom!
Have additional questions–or insight? Leave your comments below! :)
For more Winter boots, see this guide to buying LL Bean Boots and styling tips.
This was very helpful Kelly. A few years ago I bought these ALDO rain boots that I LOVED, just a basic black pair that I got so much used out of but now they’re falling apart and it’s time to invest in a new pair of rain boots. Think next fall I’m going to go with a tall navy pair!
Alex
http://www.monstermisa.blogspot.com
Oooh so exciting! I love the navy pair. Probably should’ve gone with those myself, as they’re a bit more versatile! :)
Alex, i believe Hunter and a number of other rainboot companies actually have lifetime warranties. Hunter DEFINITELY does. I used to work at Neimans.
No. Hunter Boots doesn’t have lifetime warranty. Wore boots for two seasons before one boot started to leak. Hunter Boots offered 20% off next pair of boots. Don’t waste your money on the boots!
Thank you for this post! This was extremely insightful. I have had my eye on the Hunter boots for awhile now, but I just wasn’t sure yet. Also, I assumed I would wear them in the winter too – glad I know the truth! Thanks again. Happy Hump Day, Kelly!!
So glad you found it helpful, Nicole!
Yeah, definitely don’t wear them as winter boots. Pinterest lies, hehe.
Don’t waste your money in the boots! Mine didn’t last past two seasons of wear.
Great post Kelly!! I have the packable tall hunters and love them! Another great company for wellies is Joules, lots of fun prints as well as solid colors. You can find them at tack stored like Dover Saddlery and Smartpak. I get compliments on both my Hunters and Joules wellies :)
Monica,
AH! The Packables are definitely on my list. (Navy?!)
Joules boots are absolutely adorable. Have you seen the pair with the BOWS? #adore
xoxo!
I’ve never been able to get a pair of Hunter rain boots but I did not know they had Huntress, totally need to try those one before all the rain goes away!
Thank you!
-alex
skyscrapers & palm trees
Alex,
Yeah! Such a great alternative. Also look into the Adjustable Back version. :)
This was so helpful! I had no idea about the kid size conversion — what a bargain! I happened to find a similar conversion for J Crew kid –> women’s shoe sizes too. While they won’t have heels or anything, this could be good for buying cute sandals for summer!
http://thekrazycouponlady.com/tips/style/ways-save-j-crew-part-2/
Whoa, REALLY? I never considered Crew Cuts shoes! You’re blowing my mind right now!
Did you find it on the J.Crew site?
So I did some further investigation, and it looks like a 7.5 women’s is a 5 or 6 kids. Most girls’ shoes only go up to a 5. So, if you tend to be a 7 or 7.5 in j crew, a 5K would probably work. However, if you tend to be a 7.5/8, the 5K would be a bit snug. It might be worth a shot though — the kids’ shoes are 20-40% cheaper than women’s, and I saw some cute flats and sandals!
Skylar,
THANK YOU! I’m either a 7 or a 7.5 in flats, depending on the brand–and I typically wear a 7.5 in J.Crew shoes. WOO! This is so exciting! Thank you so much for doing the research!
xoxo!
I love your red Hunters and you are spot on with this guide! I have a great giveaway up on my blog, I hope you’ll check it out!
Wishes & Reality
Thanks so much, Heidi! I will! :-)
I LOVE my red huntress boots. at 4’11” they’re the perfect height on me and they’re actually really easy for me to slip on and off.
I LOVE that they’re easy to slip on and off. My tall boots give me a little trouble. (Short ones are good!)
Hi Kelly! Are you wearing the Tory sunglasses you tagged the other day? Whatever you’re wearing looks a little bigger than the sunnies and is so cute and flattering! I have a small, oval face so I’m always on the hunt for a great pair of sunglasses that actually fit. Another rain boot brand which I love and is SOOO comfortable is Le Chameau. I live in mine in the spring and fall due to gardening, walking my pup, etc. Don’t know how I lived without my rain boots!
Hi Holly!
I’m actually wearing an old pair of Kate Spade sunglasses called the “Rory.” Sadly, though, they’re really old and no longer available. I love the Tory Burch version! They look so similar! :)
Thank you so much for the Le Chameau recommendation! I will definitely have to look into those! xoxo
I’ve had Hunters for years and didn’t know the olive oil trick, thanks for sharing!
xx Kelly
Sparkles and Shoes
Great advice! So many answers to questions I didn’t even know I had (they have matte and glossy?!)!
Hi. I’m going to buy a pair of short Hunters, but I can’t decide for the life of me which finish (glossy or matte) to get. I’ve read so many conflicting opinions about each! Your suggestion to use olive oil to get rid of the blooming sounds like it would work on the glossy boots, but would it also work for the matte ones? Anything you can tell me would be super helpful!
Hey, Girl! :)
I love both glossy and matte, but I think glossy is prettier. :) If you’re looking for a really casual, frolicking-in-the-woods look, then I’d say matte. But if you’re looking to wear them with cute outfits, I’d go glossy! The matte is more outdoorsy, in my opinion.
The olive oil trick works on both glossy and matte — so don’t worry about that!
Hope that helps!!
xx
Kelly
Be careful with this “trick”. Anything oily – even olive oil is going to attack the natural rubber – that’s how it makes it temporarily shiny/clean. Blooming suggests that something is wrong with the rubber – take this up with the manufacturer – this is a fault. If you want to clean your boots, use plain soapy water and rinse off afterwards then buff using a scratch-free buffer. When you buy your boots tell your supplier that if special cleaning materials are required then they should be in with the price and included in the box. Finally, no one has mentioned Le Chameau, as worn by Pippa Middleton and others, as an excellent and durable fully waterproof wellington boot with different fittings between men, women and those sporty people who have larger “muscley” calves.
Hey Kelly!
Great advise. May I ask is your jacket Burberry? I love it!
Thanks,
Keri
It’s actually Barbour!
http://bit.ly/1jsuyrK
Hope this helps :)
My 13 year old daughter is wanting some for Christmas and I read your complete article and learned all the information while I waited for, and still am, Hunter’s Live Chat to ask them measurement and fit information that you covered! Plus, you added a lot of personal experience that makes it very helpful. Thanks for the review and being so thorough!
Misty,
Thank you so much for your kind note! :) This truly made my night. Hope your daughter loved her boots! xoxo!
Misty,
Thank you so much for your kind note! :) This truly made my night. Hope your daughter loved her boots! xoxo!
This was SUPER helpful! Thank you :)
Thanks, Daniela! :)
Thanks, Daniela! :)
Hi! My daughter just received a pair of red glossy Hunters in size 6, but they slip on her heel, even with thick socks. We are hoping the size 5 won’t be too small. Thanks for the info.
Oh no! What size is she usually? They definitely run a little big; I recommend going a size down if she’s in between sizes normally. :)
xoxo!
Usually a 6, I think. We ordered the 5 today…..we are hoping:)
They are such cute boots. You look great in yours, too!
Thanks, Kathy! Fingers crossed for you… Sounds like the 5s will fit perfectly if the 6s were slipping off!
Usually a 6, I think. We ordered the 5 today…..we are hoping:)
They are such cute boots. You look great in yours, too!
this was very informative & helpful!!
this was very informative & helpful!!
Thank you for all the info! I’m so torn with my Hunter’s. Got them for my birthday and they fit big, went and exchanged them for a whole size smaller and they feel snugged. Not sure what to do and mean while it’s been raining cats and dogs…
Love your bag! Where did you get it???!!
Hey, Karina! So sorry for the late response. The bag is from Madewell: http://bit.ly/1WjsznG
Hi Kelly This is so helpful, I want to buy my best friend some Hunters for her birthday and shes petite so i think the Kids will be best. I just wanted to check, when you say the shaft is 12 inches, is that measuring from the sole of the foot or does that include the heel? i just want to make sure they wont be too short. Thanks xx
Hi Tina! :) So glad it was helpful. It includes the heel! So from the back heel of the boot all the way to the top is 12 inches, and the “tall” boots are 16 inches.
Hi Kelly This is so helpful, I want to buy my best friend some Hunters for her birthday and shes petite so i think the Kids will be best. I just wanted to check, when you say the shaft is 12 inches, is that measuring from the sole of the foot or does that include the heel? i just want to make sure they wont be too short. Thanks xx
Thanks for the helpful article Kelly! However, you know how you wrote for no. 4 “The adjustable back version is a great alternative for wide calves”… would the adjustable ones be also helpful for those that have very skinny calves considering that they’re adjustable or do you recommend just the original ones? Can you please help recommending? I’m quite short and also have skinny calves so I’m not sure which ones I should get. :/
Hey, Girl!
No, I would recommend the original ones. They have a smaller shaft circumference. I have very small calves as well (and riding boots usually look huge on me), but the originals work GREAT for me!
Hope this helps!
Hey Kelly,
Thank you so much for your help! I think I’m ready to buy a pair now! :D
Thanks so much for all of this great info! I just bought a cute pair of kids sunset/hay boots in size 5 and PRAYING that they fit (they were Final sale & only $66.99!)
YAY! So exciting. Hope they fit!
Thank you for your article! soo helpful! I was wondering, are yours military or pillar box red??
Claudia,
Mine are Military Red! :) –> http://bit.ly/1qYPbzo
Hope this helps!
This article was so helpful! Which Hunter socks do you recommend? Are some warmer than others?
Hi Rachel!
I actually don’t think any of them are that warm. :( But then again, I live in Chicago and it’s super cold here, haha. I would say that most are warm enough for the fall and spring, but not winter.
I do have a few pairs though, just because I think they’re so cute! I have the original fleece ones and the sweater-like ones.
Hope this helps!
Do you know the difference between ghe back strap wellington and the original tall? (The back part of the wellington boots are shorter?)
The back strap wellington? Do you know what Hunter calls this boot?
Where is your brown leather bag from?
It’s from Madewell! Here you go: http://bit.ly/2ehFYxq or http://bit.ly/2ehHy25
Thanks so much!
Hi Kelly,
I just found your blog after googling Hunter Boots and wanted to say:
1. I really like your writing style and the fact that you reply ALL your comments! With so many “Star Bloggers” it is really nice to see someone that still like to exchange!
2. This post is really useful and clarified most of my questions, but I would like your opinion in 2 more: a) I live in Frankfurt (Germany) and usually the lower temperatures in winter are around zero. I don’t know well the weather in Chicago, but you said that even with socks they are only fall/spring boots. Which would be the “limit temperature” you would recommend the boots? (The next 6 months are very wet here and I walk 20 min to work everyday). And b) In their German website they also have this “Original refined back strap” model, have you seen it? I am afraid they will be slimmer or less comfortable then the original (are the original comfortable??).
Thanks again for your blog and post, I will be following you!
=)
Hi Renara!
You are such a sweetheart. Thank you so much! :) You truly made my day!
I would say that I don’t wear my Hunters in anything less than 30 degrees. With socks, I can get away with them in the 30s, but my toes get chilly REALLY easily, and I typically switch to warmer boots when we dip into the 20s. I wear my Hunters in the spring and fall, but don’t often wear them in the winter unless I’m taking the dog for a quick walk around the neighborhood. :)
The originals are super comfy! Do you mind sending along a link to the back strap model? Just want to make sure we’re talking about the same boots!
xoxo!
Hey, thanks so much for answering! I am Brazillian and this is my 2nd winter, I am still getting the hang of having temperatures below 18 Celsius.
I’ve been also following you on Instagram and I am very happy to have found your blog, I enjoy it a lot.
This is the link for the “refined” model http://us.hunterboots.com/female-tall-rain-boots/womens-original-refined-back-strap-rain-boots/black/2693 I find them better looking, but I am not sure if it compromises the comfort…
Aww thank you! I wouldn’t think they’d be less comfortable. I’ve tried a lot of Hunter boots and they’ve all been about the same, comfort-wise. The only thing I notice is that the leg is a bit slimmer than the originals. But as long as you don’t have a wide calf, I’d assume that these would be great! :) Hope that helps!
Hi Renata,
If you are consistently below zero Celsius, then Hunter (and others) do wellington boots with neoprene linings (like a wetsuit) to allow you to stay warm. Some might say that these wellingtons are less stylish, but exchanging warmth for style might be a good way to go, and Hunter do have some wellies in e.g. Dark Iris with a neo lining which bridge the gap between style and function. Or go for a hunting boot with a sheepskin or GoreTex or Micro-fibre lining – a strappy leather boot is a different style again…
Really liked the post, very helpful. Can I ask where is your leather tote from?
Of course! It’s Madewell: http://bit.ly/2jOHzjk
Thanks so much, I may have to get one of those!
Are the Huntress boots discontinued?
They are… but I would recommended the extended calf ones: http://bit.ly/2j3tqLc
Hope this helps!
Love this guide! I want to get a pair of tall navy ones after seeing them in a pic, but I can’t tell if they’re the glossy or matte. They’re in a gray box. Do you know if the matte boots come in a gray box and the glossy ones come in a black box? That’s what it seems like, but I wasn’t totally sure.
How come some have the red dot and hunter mark underneath the boots and some dont?
THANK YOU Kelly – this guide helped me find my PERFECT pair of Hunters! I did not even know the adjustable calf ones existed. I gave you a shoutout in my blog: http://www.elenatheepicurean.com/50-first-year-nyc-tips/#musthavepurchases
Very helpful!
Hi!
Thanks for your review, it’s very useful! I’m thinking to buy the Tours because I travel a lot, but I want to know something about the durability, if it’s similar to the Originals. Have somebody experience with the Tours?
I know this is an older blog post but I stumbled on it as I was trying to figure out my Refined Hunter Boots that I ordered in a 9 from Nordstrom. They are my first Hunters as we just moved from hawaii so I never needed any. Anyway, I sized up and have slim ankles and calves yet I CANNOT get them off! They are so tight around my ankle and so uncomfortable. I can’t figure out what to do. Size up to a 10?? I love the slimmer style of these and don’t think I like the Original style as much. I called Hunter but they couldn’t give much advice on fit. I’d appreciate any advice you have! They’re too expensive for me not to wear because they hurt :(
whats the difference between the men and womens boots?
Such a great help! Loved your pics and explanations, Can’t wait to buy my first pair of Hunter boots!!
Such a great help! Loved your pics, links, and explanations. Can’t wait to get my 1st Hunter boots!
Which David Wellington watch is that? I just got one and the band sort of worn as soon as I put it on my wrist. I was surprised by the material. Did you experience this? Also what size is the face you have here? Thanks for the info. On the boots!
What is the name of the tote you are carrying in the pictures? Thx!
I just bought the hunter chelsea boot. I’m normally a 7.5 but followed the site and got a 7. Will they give after wearing? If I were to get an 8, my foot would probably slip right out but the 7 feels a little snug in the toe area. Suggestions?
Thank you! I’m new to purchasing Hunters and this was the most helpful article! Now I know what I want :)
2 1/2 years later I used your information to help pick out my Christmas Hunter boots. Although I wanted the Red Tall Adjustable boots, they no longer make them in that color and size for the adjustable and I wanted the tall boot look. I decided on a pair of adjustable tall black glossy’s. I love them and can’t wait to wear them the first time. Do you recommend any socks for the tall hunters besides the hunters socks??
will the hunter books stretch out a bit? i did get the adjustable strap on the original but they are hard to get on and off around the ankle they are so narrow :) so i am torn!! i am normally an 8.5 hubby got me an 8. anyone else wear this size and have advise. should i get a 9?? thank you!
I see this is an old post, but I used it last year to help pick out a pair of Hunter boots for myself and thought I’d chime in. I ended up buying the big kids size UK 4
US 5B/6G EU 37 and here’s why and my thoughts. First, I’m 5’2″ (62″) tall. I have muscular calves that are approx 14″ around at the widest point. Based on the measurements given the originals would be way too tall for me literally cutting into the back of where my knees bend. The kids boots are about 2 inches shorter than I’d like (at 12″ height) as they literally stop at the widest part of my calve and they are “fitted” in that area, too. The huntress version seems like they would be best at shaft height at 14″, but circumference is waay to wide and would just look ridiculous, I think. Maybe I should just try a pair and see? So, I found myself here on your blog again trying to re-measure for a better fit. I think I’ll have no choice but to stick to the kids boots and maybe a pair of boot socks will help with the illusion of not cutting off at the widest point of my leg, but they will have to be quite thin because there is literally no space between my calf and the boot (long annoyed sigh). Thanks for posting this as it seems to pop up each time I’ve had a question about Hunter boots sizing.
Hi! I am about 5′ 4″ and typically a size 7 in shoes. Would you recommend kids sizes – if so what size? If regular, what size too? Thanks!
I wish I’d have read this first! I bought the Original online and I have muscular calves. Didn’t fit. I decided to return in store and tried the adjustable tall but they were kind of crumply. So I got adjustable short. I like them but I love the look of the tall best. Now thanks to
you I know that the Huntress will fit me too. I think the only thing I’d add is that these may be a purchase best made in-store. Thank you!!
Thank you for this article. I’ve been trying to find out what the max was for the adjustable version :)
Hello, just came across your article. THANK YOU!! totally need help on my first Hunter for the farm :) i’m petite 5’2 (105 lbs) generally EU 36. The reviews on the “Slim fit” boots seem small? Any opinion on Slim fit Hunters? Thanks kindly!
What color name are your red hunter boots? Flare?
What is the name of the red color in your pics? I ordered a “military red” pair of tall glossy and the red is a deeper red and not the bright red color I was hoping for.