We often read about our heroines wearing half-boots, but were these truly fit for the rugged outdoors?

Half-boots referred to the style more than the function, as a lady could own satin or kid leather half-boots with thin soles that weren’t fit for anything except to set off a nice pair of ankles, certainly nothing sturdy and ready for outdoor wear like a gentleman's boots. There were some half-boots made of sturdier leather, nankeen, or jean and were, thus, a better fit for rough terrain, although even that was deceptive, for the material would never be as study or thick as those worn by labourers, and so the most outdoor worthy shoe for a lady was still prone to tearing and scuffing.

Half-boots ranged in height from just below the ankle to covering the ankle, and typically laced up, although some styles could be buckled. They could be purchased with a small heel or flat, the heel more popular in the late 18th century and the flat more popular into the Regency.

1795-1815 is when we see half-boots making a determined appearance, but they would not become truly fashionable until well into the Regency. During their first appearance, they were used for riding and driving more than walking. By 1804, however, fashion prints began to feature them as acceptable to wear for morning dress and walking dress, thus began a new craze.

Don't miss this post from Jane Austen's World:

https://janeaustensworld.com/2011/03/09/regency-fashion-ladies-half-boots/