Country Lifestyle Aigle - French Mastery comes to Humes

The History of Aigle: An American in France

The history of Aigle begins with the story of a savvy American businessman, Hiram Hutchinson. After purchasing the patent for the vulcanization process of rubber, seeing the potential of of the material, he made the voyage to France with the ambitious goal of conquering the European market in the rubber industry. 100km south of Paris in a town called Châlette-sur-Loing, Hutchinson bought over a former paper mill converting it into a hub of intensive boot-making. The boots being produced were innovative in their time, they were 100% waterproof and they did not deteriorate from extreme temperature.

What does Aigle mean in French?

Aigle means 'eagle' in French. Symbolising Hiram Hutchinson’s US nationality, the eagle also represents focus, courage and power; conveying Hiram’s drive to achieve greater heights and swooping success in Europe.

Are Aigle boots made in France?

Aigle boots have been made by hand in France by master rubber craftsmen since 1853. Today, tradition and technology combine to ensure Aigle fulfils its brand promise of protection and comfort every day. 4,000 pairs of handcrafted boots are produced daily by 200 craftsmen at the Châtellerault plant in France to this day.

Is Aigle a good brand?

There are few brands now who can confidently boast of such a savoir-faire approach to their manufacturing for 170 years like Aigle can. As many of their worldwide competitors moved their production to China and Southeast Asia, Aigle stood firm in their use of local product by local people. Aigle owns the last and now only natural rubber boot manufacturing factory in France, their manufacturing plant employs over 400 people of the region, over half of which are master boot makers who have undergone 2 years worth of intensive training. For its organisation and expertise, Aigle was awarded the Origine France Garantie' in 2016. Another key to Aigle’s success is in their meticulous inspection process. There is an authenticity that simply cannot be matched by modern machines, and at Aigle there are 60 steps involved in the creation of one boot, some using techniques that have remain unchanged since the brand began in 1853. It is no surprise that the boots are subjected to a stringent waterproofing test before they are allowed to leave the factory. With the reputation of French expertise at stake, nothing is left to chance with a pair of Aigle’s.

Are Aigle wellies worth it?

As the old adage goes; buy cheap, buy twice. Yet its always daunting to invest a lot of money upfront for something, no matter what it is. For outdoor boots and wellies, you truly get what you pay for and durability is something you should hold to a high regard. If there is one thing that Aigle confidently promises, it is the longevity of their boots which is founded on their use of natural, vulcanized rubber. Rubber, from rubber tree plantations, has remarkable natural properties making Aigle boots robust and durable with a high resistance to wear and tear or ripping. Products made from plastic, derived from petroleum, will not provide you with the same level of comfort nor the same amount of flexibility when walking and will become much more brittle over time.

How long should Aigle Wellies last?

With the right care, people have said to have owned their Aigle’s for 10 years or longer which we would say is pretty good value for your money.

If something does go wrong - what is Aigle’s warranty period?

Aigle has a warranty period of 2 years as standard.

Is Aigle ethical?

Aigle is committed to sustainability, and their positive impact plan consists of three steps. Achieving this involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions and engaging in restoration projects, protecting the environment, protecting their workers by ensuring fair rights and labour standards, and ensuring that the products they make are durable and are made from recycled fabrics wherever possible.

Aigle wellingtons at Humes Outfitters

Parcours® 2: Protection at its sole

At Humes, we are excited to showcase the Parcours® 2 range from Aigle, available in both neoprene and polyester lined versions. This boot has been re-vamped from its 1996 original, this time with a more sole technology focussed design. The new Parcours® have been created to support the roll of the foot, moreover its sole unit has been designed to limit the impact on the heel which in turn optimises the foot’s movement to become lighter and less tiring. This anti-fatigue technology has been trialled through independent laboratory testing who deemed the Parcours® performance to meet twice the energy absorption and consumption of the European standard and twice the grip of the original 1996 model. Added comfort is found in the overall construction of the boot, as the Aigle Parcours® 2 feature a reinforced toe and added ankle support. These Aigle boots are perfect for those with wider calves. With their waterproof gusset and fully adjustable strap, the Parcours® 2 allow for a more customisable fit which is great for those who struggle to find wellingtons that fit as well as accommodating overalls or thick trousers. A best-seller for the brand, the Aigle Parcours® 2 are unbeatable on practicality and durability. If you are in the market for a more heavy duty boot, especially for agriculture or outdoor working, the Parcours® 2 have been designed with you in mind.

The Eliosa: Aigle's classic rain boot reinvented

Rain boots are perceived as functional accessories. They are usually worn as protective gear with little to hardly any aesthetic appeal. But when the French create something, you can trust that they can turn anything into a fashion statement. That’s where the Eliosa comes in. These little works of art look almost too good to wear. Their ultra glossy finish and bright, blooming print design will brighten up any dull and drizzly day. Reminiscent of the rain boots worn as children, the Eliosa will have you skipping through puddles.

How do Aigle boots fit?

The general consensus is that Aigle boots fit true to size. Remember to try them with the socks and thickness of trouser you plan to wear with your wellies. Aigle wellies are designed to fit snugly around the ankle and top of foot for optimum support. With half sizes available, its easy to find the perfect fit for you. The Parcours® 2 range also comes with an adjustable calf strap which is suitable for those with wider calves.

How to measure yourself for Aigle boots

To measure yourself, sit in a straight chair with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Wear the trousers and socks that you would most likely wear with your boots. If possible, have someone else measure for you. To determine calf width, measure at the widest part of the calf. To determine height, measure leg height from the floor to the bend behind the knee. For boot size, keep your foot flat while you measure the sole from the end of your longest toe to the back of your heel. Always make sure there is space in between your toes and your rubber boots. Walking will be a lot more comfortable and this air space will act as an insulator in cold weather conditions. It is normal for your heel to lift up slightly when walking but it should not come away completely. You shouldn't feel as though your boots are going to come off.

How to clean Aigle wellies

It's important to know how to clean Aigle rubber boots to ensure their long lifespan and waterproofness. After each time you use them, clean your rubber boots with a sponge soaked in soapy water and leave them to dry in the open air. Avoid putting them too close to heat or in the sun: that may alter the quality of the rubber and its colour. Keep them straight, using a shoe tree for example, in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

Swipol Spray

To protect your boots and revive the rubber, apply Swipol spray once every three months. To do this, hold the bottle at a distance of 20cm from the boot and spray the entire outer surface of the boots before leaving them to dry in the open air. It is recommended that you do this outside.

Aigle vs Le Chameau: Battle of the French boot

If you're on the fence about what brand to invest in for your next wellingtons, lets look at some of the differences between our brands Aigle and Le Chameau. The grip on the Aigle Parcours® 2 has been specially designed for superior traction. Inspired by the hood of the Chamois (the native Pyrenees mountain goat which conquers rocky, rugged terrain) the outer sole is equipped with a 360 degree curve, an innovative feature that lives up to its expectation. Many people would also opt for Aigle if they struggle to find Le Chameau’s to fit their wider calves. With a flexible gusset and adjustable strap, Aigle is a popular alternative to Le Chameau for those looking for more calf space. Although Le Chameau offer a number of linings including leather, where Aigle reign supreme is in their comfort focussed sole unit which is clinically proven to absorb and return energy expenditure to reduce fatigue in the foot and lower leg. Aigle boots are designed to protect the wearer in nature, and while both brands offer premium quality in this field, Aigle boldly claims to offer unbeatable protection for those who work outside in long, tough conditions. The choice is ultimately up to you, but you cannot criticize Aigle’s confidence and belief in what their product can do, who they are and what they stand for...call it that famous French passion.