Every time it rains in the Hereford Zone, several girls wear their Hunter rain boots to school, even if it is barely raining outside. They are a rubber wellington boot imported from Scotland, which would explain their exorbitant prices, which range from $125 to $795. The most commonly seen boots worn around Hereford are the “Hunter ‘Original Tall’ Rain Boot” for only $135. Some boots have fur on the inside to increase comfort, increasing the price tremendously. The limited-edition “Hunter for J. Mendel Genuine Fur Trim Boot” is described on the website as being, “an indulgent collaboration boot, bound to bring a fashion-forward twist to singing in the rain”.

Apparently, in order to be fashionable in the rain one needs to spend $795. If I ever paid that much for boots, I would not be wearing them outside in the rain, but all of these prices are completely ridiculous for a pair of rain boots that are only worn a few times a year. I would understand if our climate was similar to the rain forest or even Florida’s climate of having more precipitation throughout the year, but it rarely rains often in Maryland so there isn’t much need for rain boots.

     “It’s always nice to have protection….from the rain” said Ally Loverde (12).

     Generally Hunter rain boots are supposed to be worn out in the rain or outdoors on a farm; but mostly they are worn during the school day indoors. “I wear them in the parking lot” says Paige McMurtrie (12). Wearing rain boots when it’s raining is perfectly acceptable if they are reasonably priced. People shouldn’t be spending hundreds of dollars on a pair of shoes when there are so many more desirable things to spend the money on.

“They are way over priced for the way they look, and are a waste of money. The money should be spent on better things,” said Patrick Wetzelberger (12). Honestly I would rather use the money to go rock climbing, or to get food at Panera.

If the parents of these girls are willing to spend that much on these rain boots, then they are obviously spoiled, and have nothing better to do with their money, “You’d have to be a pretty stupid parent to buy your kid $300 boots..” said Brian Koch (12).

Some students think the boots are worth the money.”I think they’re a stylish way to dress in the rain and I love all the colors!” Andrea DiMayo (11)

     The boots are most commonly sold at Nordstroms but can also be purchased online at Amazon.