Why do you need waterproof boots?
Your boots are probably the most important item that you will wear!
Knee-high waterproof or "rubber" boots, often called "Wellies" or "Muck Boots", are used for wet landings, which are essentially all our landings in the Antarctic and most in the Arctic. Stepping out of the Zodiacs to shore almost always involves stepping into water so it is important to have waterproof boots that are high enough to avoid water going over the top and into the boots. For this reason boots such as Sorrels, snow boots, hiking boots, or low rubber boots are not satisfactory (your feet will get wet!).
Rubber boots are also indespensible for walking on soggy and wet tundra, through snow, across streams and puddles, and in guano-covered penquin colonies in the Antarctic. The great majority of people prefer to wear their rubber boots the entire time while on shore.
Most of our ships have rubber boots that you can borrow, your trip itinerary and trip essentials will tell you if they are available. But if your feet are hard to fit and because you will be spending so much time in your boots, we recommend bringing your own. If not bringing your own, consider bringing innersoles and two pair socks to wear inside your boots each day we land. Premium innersoles to cover the bottom of the foot only, such as the Superfeet brand, will provide extra support for walking and a bit of extra insulation.
Waterproof boots should fit under your waterproof or water resistant pants. Stepping into the shallow water will "seal" your pants to your boots until you can step ashore. It really does work!
What boots should you buy?
The perfect boot is at least 16- to 17-inches tall, reaching just below your knee. Sailing boots that are sold at marine stores have good non-skid soles that are good for slick ship decks and wet rocks; however they lack traction on snow, ice or mud. Boots such as Wellies have all-around traction soles, but they are not as slip resistant on slick decks or rocks. As you can see there is a trade-off; both are okay.
You will be wearing these boots a lot so they must be comfortable for extended wear and walking. If possible, bring your heavy socks along when trying on the boots to ensure a good fit. The boots should not be too tight or too sloppy. If they are too tight you will get cold feet. If they are too loose you can add an insole or extra socks to take up some space and provide extra warmth. Premium innersoles to cover the bottom of the foot only, such as the Superfeet brand, will provide extra support for walking and a bit of extra insulation. Rubber boots generally come in whole sizes and many brands have uni-sex sizes. Be sure to get the best fit, erring with the larger size, if needed.
Hip boots, or similar, are not suitable or necessary, although some photographers use them for access to the shoreline and shallow sea areas.
The cost for rubber boots will vary between $15 - $75, depending on brand and style.
Where can you find boots?
Boots can be purchased from work clothing stores, surplus stores, farm co-op stores, garden supply centers, major sporting good stores, as well as marine supply houses.
- Muck boots from Muck Boot Company are our favorite because they are breathable.
- Cabellas outdoor gear store carries LaCrosse boots along with other brands.
- Another option are overboots that slip over your hiking boots. We only recommend these for people who have very hard-to-fit feet and can't find a good fit with Wellies. Overboots are rather large and clunky, causing otherwise able-footed folks to find themselves far less agile than they expect. Neos Overboots, the most popular brand today, previously had some leaking problems; if you get these be sure to check their waterproof claim. Most importantly, overboots can make extra work for you since we must wash boots before and after each landing to prevent the introduction of foreign species. With overboots, you must wash both overboots and underboots. They are available at Big Pockets.
- REI has a small selection.
Page updated: May 2010
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