Whilst festival season is held during the pinnacle of summer around June, July and August, the Great British weather can never be trusted. We’ve all too often seen campsites bathed in mud and heavy downpours leaving the sites in disarray, and whilst looking the part is crucial to enjoying the occasion, it’s much more important to feel comfortable and dry.

What to Wear

Wellington Boots – The ultimate companion to take with you to a festival. These boots are waterproof and will not only keep your feet warm, dry and clean, but will also keep most of your legs that too. These boots can come in an endless variety of colours and patterns to suit any occasion and who’s to say you couldn’t decorate them yourself?

Ankle Boots – Whilst a pair of Welly’s are ideal, you may not find yourself wanting to pack a pair as they will take up a fair amount of space. The solution to this is a pair of waterproof ankle boots. These will protect your feet in all weather and are perfect for walking long or short distances in, furthermore they will suit any outfit from jeans, shorts, skirts and more.

Flip-Flops – We recommend taking a pair of flip-flops purely as insurance; they won’t protect your feet but will be perfect for those days where the sun does come out, as well as walking to the toilets or showers, if you’re lucky enough. Flip-Flops only take up a small amount of space and can be bought cheaply before you go.

Thick Socks – If you plan on taking boots, then a pair of thick socks is a must. These will keep your feet warm and snug within the confines of your shoes and ensure that they don’t rub too. As an added bonus, you can wear these at night for when the temperature drops.

Deck Shoes – Another practical style to take is boat shoes – these are worn without socks which are perfect for staying cool and contain super comfortable linings that will leave your feet in great condition during the entire event. There’s also a winter version that contains all the best parts of a deck shoe, with the durability of a hard-wearing boot.

What Not to Wear

White – It’ll be tempting, but those white shoes or white socks won’t last that way for long – the second you step out of your car and onto the entrance, you’re doomed. Stick to darker colours that won’t show the mud or grass stains and if you’re in a city environment, they can’t scuff.

High Heels – We’re not suggesting that anyone would do this, but it’s definitely not unheard of, but taking high heels is a dangerous game to play unless you plan to be backstage. Leave the stilettos at home and opt for something else.

Your Favoured Shoes – Again, it’s important to avoid temptation and steer clear of your favourite shoes as they’ll more likely than not end up ruined. The more expensive and exotic, the harder they’ll be to replace.

Top Tips

-1- Take Preventative Action

If you’re taking a brand new pair of shoes, break them in before you leave by walking around the house in them, the more time you spend doing this, the less chance of blisters and a proper fit that will allow you to walk, dance and everything in-between without discomfort.

-2- Take Bags

When it comes to packing up your things and leaving after several days of music, there can be nothing worse than having to try and take your dirty, muddy shoes back with you. Take a few old plastic bags with you that can be used to wrap the shoes up in.

-3- Have multiples

If you’re not sure of the weather, then its best to pack at least two types of shoes with you to ensure that you have something to wear that is appropriate and comfortable. For example, you probably don’t want to be wearing boots if the weather hits 30° or cheap trainers for when it’s pouring down.

From Chatham

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