Barbour Abbey Wellington Boot Review
Our review: A simple and affordable welly that looks stylish and will keep feet dry – if you just want a casual style, this could be the boot for you
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Barbour is likely to need no introduction – one of Britain’s best-known heritage brands, Barbour’s classic waxed jackets are a fixture everywhere from farms to festivals. The South Sheilds-based company date back to the 1800s and have turned their outdoorsy know-how to casual wellingtons with the Abbey, which they call “a contemporary update on our classic wellies”.
First impressions
The Abbey is a smart, tall welly boot that feels pleasingly pliable and lightweight to handle when compared to some of the more solid rubber boots on the market. We like the jazzy tartan lining.
Fit
The Barbour Abbey fits true to size and its light weight feels freeing and flexible underfoot. The downside is that lack of weight is that there’s not much substance to this boot – there’s little insulation to speak of and the insole is thin and doesn’t offer much cushioning. The insole also slips and slides around after a few wears, although you could glue this into place. Calves are on the slim side but aren’t restrictively narrow, although there’s no adjustable strap if you do need a closer fit.
Are they grippy?
The Abbey boot’s grip is limited by shallow lugs, and we found them quite slippery on any surfaces more challenging than groomed paths, dry grass or tarmac. We’d save these boots for casual use rather than for tackling tough terrain.
Suitable for...
Barbour’s Abbey feels like it’s aimed squarely at the casual, festival-going outdoors type rather than at anyone who needs a tough model for mucking out or physical work outdoors. As a relaxed, lightweight boot, this a decent choice, with a comfy, flexible rubber body and smart neutral looks, and it’ll suit anyone who doesn’t want a heavy boot.
The Abbey isn’t ideal for anything more challenging than a casual dog walk, though, as grip is limited and there isn’t much protection for toes, or any warm insulation for the coldest temperatures.
Facts at a glance: Barbour Abbey Wellington Boots
- RRP: £64.95
- Weight: 600g per boot
- Materials: Rubber
- Lining: Mesh
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For more welly options, check out our roundup of the best wellington boots for 2023, tried and tested by our team.
