This past week's milder weather and subsequent thaw was a blessing for the perpetually chilly-toed among us—that is, if you were properly outfitted in the shoe department. Fortunately, we've come a long way from the glorified rubber tube shapes and fluorescent yellow that marked rain boots of yore. 

Once known as the North British Rubber Company, Hunter Boots was founded in 1856 and is based in that most gloomy and inclement of countries: Scotland. Hunter boots served in the trenches on soldiers' feet in World Wars I and II, and went on to outfit the Royal Family.

Nowadays, Hunters boast tapered silhouettes that might even hint at a shapely calf inside. They also come in a wide range of colours, from candy red, to the above—a military-by-way-of-equestrian blend of chocolate-hued rubber and neutral canvas.

Make no mistake: the noble-sounding Chancery Rain Boots are a practical pair of wellies, despite looking elegant as all get-out. Their rubber sole will keep your socks warm and dry, while the canvas upper allows for breathability. 

$270. Available online or in store at Get Outside, 437 Queen St. W., 416-593-5598