Le Chameau Chasseur neoprene-lined wellington boots
The Le Chameau Chasseur is one of the most expensive wellies I’ve ever tested. Le Chameau is a well trusted brand within the agricultural and equestrian industries and was the first to use a neoprene lining and vulcanised natural rubber, which is said to be softer and more durable than alternatives.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
Although these boots are definitely workhorses, my first impression was that they are pretty smart, too. The shaft does lack structure similar to the Le Chameau Vierzonords (but this is great if you value the flexibility), and having the full-length waterproof side zip really helped getting them on and off.
The full-length zip is a feature I never knew I needed on a pair of wellies – it was perfect for tucking in waterproof trousers or baggy leg wear without the uncomfortable bunched up effect in your boot leg.
These Le Chameau boots are available in sizes UK2½–9 in ladies (UK6–15 in mens) with three width options making them the ideal boot if you have a wider calf. I am a size UK5 and I found this size to be a great fit. I wouldn’t be able to wear a thicker sock with them as they were a bit tight around my foot – but with the neoprene lining I wouldn’t need to.
My calves measure 38cm at the widest part and I tested the 40cm option as I prefect a looser feel and like to have enough room to tuck my waterproof trousers in my boots comfortably. This width was great at accommodating my needs.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
These are seriously technically boots, however I just didn’t get the same comfort feel from the footbed like I do when wearing my favourite Aigle wellies. I have put these boots to the test with daily horse care and dog walking and even some gardening – they have proven to be durable and completely waterproof. The 3mm neoprene lining has kept my feet warm white wearing normal socks.
Verdict
*H&H Approved* If budget allows and you are looking for a Le Chameau wellington with more structure to the shaft, you’ve got wide calves or want room to tuck in your waterproofs, these are your best bet. They should have plenty of life in them for years, and the neoprene lining keeps you toasty.
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
Who tested the Le Chameau Chasseur Neoprene Lined Wellington Boots?
I am products editor at Horse & Hound and have been testing products for the last 10 years. I own three horses who are on grass DIY livery, so I am up the yard at least twice a day, doing all the daily jobs of a horse owner and riding up to four times a week.
I live on Hayling Island, right by the sea, so regularly walk my dogs on the beach. As well as endless hours in the field looking after my horses and walking the dog, I wore these wellies on the school run, running errands in town and leading my son on his pony around the countryside. To ensure I gave them a thorough test, I purposely went out in very wet weather and splashing around in puddles with my son – which was great fun!
Franchesca is Horse & Hound’s Products Editor. She produces all of our buying guides and gift guides, as well as organising product testing and bringing you news about the latest products to hit the market. If there’s a new launch, Franchesca is the first person to hear about it. She brings you the best deals and is passionate about arming Horse & Hound’s readers with honest, unbiased product reviews. Franchesca loves letting riders and horse owners know what products are coming out, how to make their lives easier and how to spend their money wisely.
