Wellies are a necessity. We all have worn them at one point in our life either at a festival, country walk or even taking the dog for a walk. Wellington boots keep us at bay from any muddy danger, whatever it may be - but ask yourself, 'how much do I actually know about welly boots?' The answer probably is 'not much' unless you're an avid welly enthusiast. So, this is an article which gives you the absolute rubber run-down of Wellington Boots definition terms and materials, so next time you pick up a pair of boots you will know exactly what you're buying into.

Windstopper

What it says on the tin, the windstopper is a membrane designed to block out wind without reducing the overall breathability of the welly. All in all, the windstopper tries to retain as much natural heat insulation as it can, whilst keeping wind at bay.

Brands

The top welly brands are as follows: Hunter, Le Chameau, Joules, Technowarm. Most brands make men's wellies and women's wellies.

Vulcanisation

This is an exclusive feature to Le Cameau and Technowarm. This is a 100% polyester fleece which adds a great amount of insulation whilst providing breathability.

Boot Last

This is the metal 'form' on which each wellington is constructed. Each 'form' is made for a different calf and shoe size. Many brands have all different kinds of boot lasts, whether it is an adult's or children's welly.

Gomma Plus

Gomma plus is the combination of natural rubber with additives. This actually is an enhanced compound which keeps the flexibility of natural rubber whilst being more resistant from general activity, but also resistant to breakdown from manure.

Cotton Jersey Lining

Again, pretty much what you think it may be. Cotton is a good material to use as it is soft, comfortable to wear and moisture absorbent.

Leather Lining

The finest full grain leathers are always used for top quality insulation. The best factor about leather is that it's hard wearing and will shape and mould itself to the wearer's foot - providing a great deal of comfort and warmth. Another feature of leather is that it absorbs all the perspiration you hot feet give out, which inevitably avoids the fact that your boot may overheat whilst you're walking up Mount Snowdon.

Polyester Jersey Lining

This is a 'rotproof' material which is good if you're a gardener or a farmer dealing with composites. This woven synthetic material is washable and ideal for quick drying.

Dual Density Sole

'Walking Wellies' will tend to have a dual density sole. This sole consists of a mid-sole which absorbs shocks and softens the blow, and the outer sole which is made from a supple but hard wearing rubber.

Whether you're looking out to buy women's wellies, men's wellies or children's wellies, you should always look to see what you're investing in. Know what you want from your wellies, and then get a pair which matches your needs - happy feet make a happy walker.