Matters of the Sole: Dubarry v Le Chameau

Dubarry v Le Chameau: the quest for the perfect country boot takes us on a sole searching mission.

The Dubarry Galway boot and Le Chameau Vierzonord are both contenders for the title of the perfect country boot. Trusty all-rounders that will keep you warm, dry and comfortable all day long on muddy walks, in the field, in the yard and by the sea.

The Importance of the Sole

The sole plays a critical role in the function of the country boot. In this post, we look at two of our favourite country boots and how each addresses these issues. There are several key factors to consider:

• Weight,
• Support,
• Comfort,
• Grip,
• Durability,
• Water/weatherproofing,
• And of course, aesthetics.

For general country wear, dog walking, etc. you’ll want a sole that is:

• Lightweight,
• Offers great support,
• Comfortable and stable for walking,
• Won’t slip on rough terrain,
• Is resistant to abrasion,
• Is waterproof,
• And looks smart and functional.

The Dubarry Galway Boot

Dubarry pride themselves on the track record of their signature Galway boot, the boot equivalent of Dubarry wellies.

Lightweight

The Duo compound PU (polyurethane) and rubber sole is a lighter alternative to a fully rubber sole.

Support

The PVC support shank aids free movement whilst providing support along the full length of the foot making the boots suitable for all-day wear.

Comfort

The sole is designed with a Cambrelle® full in-sock with a PU (polyurethane) foam backed footbed. Cambrelle® lining offers a combination of abrasion resistance and moisture management to keep feet cool, dry, and comfortable even in extreme conditions.

Grip

The rugged cleated construction of the outsole grips reliably on rough, wet and muddy terrain.

Waterproof and Abrasion Resistance

The duo compound PU and rubber sole is injection moulded to the upper without using glue or stitching. This ensures the sole is fully waterproof. The tough moulded construction of the sole helps prevent abrasion.

Design detailing

The duo compound sole with sleek PU midsole seamlessly unites the smart leather upper with rubber outsole.

Le Chameau Vierzonord

The Duchess of Cambridge is often seen stepping out in her Vierzonord, this high-end wellie is undoubtedly the royal country boot of choice.

Lightweight

The dual density Grip outsole is both lightweight and extraordinarily robust.

Support

Shank reinforcement provides a rigid and stable sole which allows for greater movement and improved comfort, especially on rough terrain. The shank allows energy to transfer from the heel to the toes, helping to prevent muscle fatigue.

Comfort

The Vierzonord comes with a cold-weather, high-quality 3mm neoprene lining that insulates against the cold and offers superior comfort in temperatures down to -15C.

Grip

The Vibram sole was originally designed as a sole for climbing boots. Knowing that ‘Vibram’ means ‘tank tread’ in Italian gives some clue to the traction capability of the outsole.

Waterproof and Abrasion Resistance

The final stage is the vulcanisation process - the ‘cooking’ of the boot until it becomes to render it durable and waterproof. Once the boot has cooled, each boot is tested in water to ensure it is fully waterproof. The Vibram outsole offers a high level of abrasion resistance to protect feet.

Design detailing

The dual-density sole is colour matched to the upper trim of the boot, a visible example of attention to detail that is second to none. See the full Dubarry boot collection and Le Chameau boot collection at A Hume online.

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