I recently learned – the hard way – that my suede trainers simply aren’t up to the job when it comes to sudden summer downpours. After one too many soggy commutes this week, I made it my mission to find a puddle-proof pair of wellies that would keep my feet dry on the wettest of days, without ruining my outfits.
Enter the Merry People Tully Ankle Boots, which were recommended to me countless times when I asked around for practical yet stylish rain boot suggestions. Not your classic moss-green wellingtons (they come in a range of lovely colours), the Aussie brand describes them as a ‘fashion-forward take on the classic welly’. Even GH’s style director, Melanie Rickey, is a big fan.
I’ve been wearing them on repeat since I got them and can safely say they’ve been a total lifesaver. Here’s why they’re a worthwhile – and lightweight – buy for summer showers.
The Merry People Tully Ankle Boots at a glance
The Tully Boots, which come in seven snazzy colours including classic black, bright coral and lemon yellow, look like a cross between a welly and an ankle boot. I opted for the khaki green colourway to add a pop of colour to my winter outfits.
They have a chunky platform sole with built-in arch support and removable insoles for customisable comfort. Crucially, they’re made from waterproof rubber with a flexible neoprene lining and wraparound neoprene cuff for ultimate rain protection.
My honest verdict on Merry People's wellies
Style and design
Merry People has clearly nailed the brief with these fashion-forward rain boots. I’ve worn them to the office and to dinner, and they haven’t dampened my style. In fact, I’ve received numerous compliments and queries about where to buy them.
I’m impressed with just how versatile they are, too. They look good with pretty much anything I wear, including leggings, trousers, dresses, skirts and even my barrel-leg jeans.
Fit and comfort
I chose my usual size (a UK 3), and with the insoles in, the fit felt snug. For me, I find they work best without them so I can wear some comfy cotton socks. If you have your own custom orthotics, you can easily swap these in.
For anyone who would like the additional cushioning and arch support to help reduce foot fatigue, I’d suggest going for a size up if you’re between sizes so your feet have enough room to splay out comfortably. The brand also offers a handy size guide on its website if you’re unsure.
Unlike some wellies I’ve tried before, which have required several weeks of painful wearing-in, I found these comfortable from the very first step. They’re easy to slip on thanks to the stretchy side panels and back tabs, and the neoprene lining offers comfy cushioning.
Even when I wear them for hours on end, I don’t have that tired, achy feeling come evening. Just remember to wear long enough socks underneath - I forgot to do so once and did experience some rubbing against my shin.
Performance
I took the boots for a test run in torrential rain and I was a little nervous, but I shouldn’t have been. I was stomping through deep puddles throughout the day, and my socks remained bone dry. I was seriously impressed!
They also held up well in slippery conditions. The thick, grippy soles provided reassuring traction, so I felt stable and secure on my stomps to work.
The verdict: Are the Merry People Tully Ankle Boots worth it?
It’s a big fat yes from me – they’re the best purchase I’ve made in a long time, combining style and function. Sure, they are on the pricier side, but the cost per wear makes them worth it. I know I’ll reach for them on weekend hikes, camping trips, festival weekends and everything in between.
Plus, Merry People offers a 12-month warranty, so if the boots don’t live up to their claims, you can get your money back.
FAQs
Should I size up or down in Merry People boots?
If you tend to fall between sizes, it’s best to size down, even if your boots feel slightly tight to start with. They’re made from natural rubber with a stretchy neoprene interior lining, which means they will soften, stretch and adapt to your foot with wear. You can also take out the inner sole, which allows for another half size.
Are Merry People boots completely waterproof?
Yes, the brand claims they are 100% waterproof. The boots are made with natural rubber, which acts as a barrier against water, mud and snow. The inner sock lining is made from neoprene, the same material found in wetsuits, which again helps to keep water out. Our sleep and wellness editor, Priyankaa Joshi, wore them all of last winter (which, if you remember, was very wet) and found they lived up to their claims, keeping her feet completely dry.
Are Merry People shoes suitable for wide feet?
Most Merry People shoes and boots are built to a narrow B-width, which is a standard women’s fit (60% to 80% of female feet are a B-width). The natural rubber will adapt to the size of your foot, but depending on how wide your foot is, you could experience some rubbing on the toe box. If the standard Tully Ankle Boots don’t fit, the brand’s Oberon Boot is designed with a roomier D-width fit and a squarer toe box.
More chic rain boots to shop now
The GHI’s wet weather recommendations
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.