Hunter Original Short Women’s Rain Boot Review

Bottom Line

For those in need of reliable rain boots, the Hunter Women’s Original Short rain boot is the answer. Their exceptional waterproof protection, combined with a classic design, makes them a timeless winner for wet outings. 

Made from durable vulcanized rubber, these boots are hand-built and offer solid coverage up to 11.5 inches, keeping your feet dry in heavy rain. The snug fit and adjustable side buckle ensure a secure, customizable feel, while the half-inch heel and zig-zag tread provide dependable traction on slippery surfaces. 

However, the thick rubber soles contribute to their weight, and the lack of insulation limits their use in cold weather unless paired with thicker socks or an insole. Bear in mind that they have limited padding and arch support. We recommend these wellies for work tasks rather than extended outdoor activities. Despite the higher price, the craftsmanship and durability of these boots make them a great investment.

Head over to the best rain boots for women gear guide to check out the rest of our favorite rain boots.

How We Tested

We tested these as a rain boot and work boot – using them for long dog walks on snowy, wet days and for feeding horses, bison, and chicken around the farm. For two months, Idaho winters provided a great testing ground with its hourly-changing weather patterns. Targeted tests were conducted to assess waterproofness and durability metrics.

Water Resistance

The Hunter Original Short Rain Boot combines classic style with reliable waterproof protection, making it a versatile choice for everyday wet-weather wear. 

Featuring a seamless rubber construction, these boots are designed to keep feet dry in puddles and light rain. With a 12-inch boot height (10-inch shaft), they offer ample coverage for most casual urban and suburban environments, but won’t protect from deep puddles or downpours.

The wide opening at the top can allow water and debris to enter, so we don’t recommend them for tide-pooling, brush-bashing, or other high clearance needs. If you are in the market for a taller boot, Hunter offers a 14.5-inch, more adjustable classic wellington boot for those needing more weather protection. 

Made from natural rubber, these boots are completely waterproof and feature a solid, molded design that minimizes potential failure points. While not as tall as other Hunter models, the Original Short is comfortable and easy to wear, offering a balance of durability, style, and function.

Comfort

While the Hunter Original Short boot is comfortable for short walks and mild weather, its design lacks some key elements needed for all-day wear, especially in more rugged conditions. 

The thick rubber sole provides a basic level of comfort on flat surfaces, but it struggles on uneven terrain. We can feel rocks and twigs through the sole. 

The liner is thin, which is fine for warmer weather but less ideal in cooler temperatures, as we noticed the cold seeping through during testing in the chilly Boise River and in the snow. 

The boots are roomy, but the gap between the shaft and calf can cause the heel to slide slightly. Additionally, the buckles on the side didn’t help adjust the fit (in our case). The roominess of these boots causes the characteristic “flop flop” sound commonly heard with rain boots. The flexible rubber material reduces the chance of rubbing. Still, the lack of cushioning in the insoles means these boots are best for shorter outings or casual use in milder conditions.

Durability

The durability of the Hunter Original Short Rain Boot is a mix of traditional craftsmanship and real-world wear. Handcrafted using 28 individual parts and assembled over three days, each boot is made from rubber that’s been molded around a bespoke aluminum last, a process that has remained largely unchanged for decades. This level of craftsmanship is reflected in the longevity of older models, which have lasted well over 20 years. 

However, newer pairs have shown signs of wear after just a couple of years. The materials are strong, but they require some upkeep. We suggest seasonally oiling the boots to maintain the rubber. 

Additionally, creases from regular use and sunlight can cause the rubber to crack and compromise its waterproof protection. The new rubber is still soft and hides wear well – even after some longer hikes and getting nibbled by a curious horse. While these boots remain reliable for lighter tasks like gardening or casual walks, they may not withstand heavy use without showing signs of aging, such as rubber blooming or fading of the Hunter logo. Hunter offers a Hunter Rubber Care Kit to keep your boots shiny and supple, and offers a limited two-year warranty coverage.

Traction

The Hunter Original Short boot’s traction is suited for moderate conditions, thanks to its shallow tread pattern and block heel. The 1-inch heel, designed with the needs of horseback riders in mind, offers a stable base but doesn’t provide the aggressive grip found in more rugged boots. 

The sole features lateral grooves rather than distinct lugs, creating a smooth surface interrupted by shallow channels. While this design works well on dry or grassy terrain, it struggles in slick or muddy conditions, where traction significantly diminishes. 

On hard, flat surfaces or dry ground, the boots offer a comfortable, bouncy step with some grip. However, in wetter, more challenging environments, like loose dirt or thick mud, the boots sometimes slip. During a 4-mile hike around the Snake River, the boots performed well on sloped, dry ground and in puddles/tacky mud, but didn’t offer much grip when rock-hopping. 

While they are perfectly fine for urban use, casual walks, or light outdoor activities, we don’t expect them to perform well on more demanding terrain.

Features

What sets these boots apart is their blend of iconic style and practicality. The Hunter Original Short boots are a fashion staple, recognized for their sleek, all-rubber construction and refined profile. First made famous when Kate Moss wore them at the 2005 Glastonbury Festival, these boots have since become a symbol of both utility and style. 

The narrow design reduces bulk, making them feel more like a regular pair of shoes rather than a heavy-duty rain boot. Decorative buckles add a touch of elegance, while the fitted shape and block heel give them a rubberized cowboy boot vibe. 

Hunter offers additional Original Shearling Insoles or Unisex Faux Fur Short Boot socks to make them more insulated and suitable for three-season wear. 

Though the boots are available in both short and tall versions, the shorter model maintains the stylish, slim profile perfect for urban wear, combining a classic look with modern practicality.

Should You Buy the Hunter Original Short Rain Boot?

The Hunter Original Short boot is ideal for those seeking a stylish, waterproof option for urban environments and light outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a boot to withstand rugged terrain, harsh winter conditions, or long hours of walking, this might not be the right choice. While it provides reliable rain protection, the tread is too smooth for off-road use, and the construction may not offer the durability or comfort needed for extended wear. 

Otherwise, these are great for those who want a chic rain boot to wear while walking around town, running errands, or strolling in light drizzle. 

They also come in vibrant colors to add pop of color to any rainy-day outfit. They may not offer much warmth, but their sleek design and light build make them perfect for casual, day-to-day wear, especially in milder weather.

What Other Women’s Rain Boots Should You Consider?

We tested the best of the best to compile our guide to the best rain boots for women. Here’s a sample of our other rain boots similar to the Hunter boot. 

Xtratuf Legacy 15” Review: If you’re fine with paying for a premium product and are looking for something tougher – The Legacy 15” by Xtratuf offers superior durability and performance. Made from chemical-resistant rubber, it offers more coverage than shorter boots, ideal for muddy, wet, or deep-water environments. With a slip-resistant sole and comfortable fit, it’s perfect for outdoor workers or anyone needing a rugged, reliable waterproof boot.

BOGS Neo-Classic Tall Boots Review: For those seeking a reliable, all-in-one waterproof winter boot, the Neo-Classic Tall boots deliver. Offering excellent warmth at nearly half the price of Hunter boots, they provide great value. However, the trade-off is a bulkier design, making them less sleek but ideal for keeping feet warm and dry in cold conditions.

Western Chief Garden Play Tall Boots Review: Ogling the Hunter Boots but not the price tag? Treat your feet and your wallet to some Western Chief Garden Play Tall boots. Its taller shaft provides more splash protection, and it’s a great value, offering a comfortable fit and durable construction at a more affordable price point.