Skellerup Red Band Men

Way back in 1958 – before moon landings, colour TV and commercial flight – the very first pair of Red Bands rolled off the production line. From that day on, we’ve been creating high quality footwear designed specifically for New Zealanders, and this amazing country we’re so lucky to call home.

Our gumboots are designed specifically for Kiwi feet, taking into account our typically wider feet.

They’re designed to handle our unique environment of variable landscape and climate. Every pair of Red Bands is hand-made and built ultra-tough to ensure they can withstand everything our variable landscape, our unpredictable climate and our unforgiving sun throw their way. For us Kiwis, it’s not enough to have gumboots – you’ve gotta have your Red Bands!  

They have become part of the Kiwi landscape and our national identity alongside other Kiwiana icons like the All Blacks, Buzzy Bees, Number 8 wire and the Edmonds Cookery Book. One of NZ’s most popular satirical characters, Fred Dagg, famously always wore Skellerup made gumboots, the Marathon and the Perth, and coined the famous phrase, “If it weren’t for your gumboots where would you be?” 

It’s best to try on boots for the perfect fit, but when it’s not possible, follow our guide below.

You’ll need:

• Paper, or other flat surface you can draw on
• Pen
• Measuring tape or ruler
• Flat wall and floor

Steps

1. Place heel of foot and paper against the wall
2. Trace around the foot with pen
3. Use tape measure or ruler to measure length from heel to longest toe

Tips

• Between sizes? Choose the larger size. Thicker socks and innersoles can help get a snug fit if needed, and feet can expand up to 1cm during an active or a warm day.
• Most people have one foot slightly longer than the other, it’s important to do both feet, then select the larger measurements.