WHERE IT STARTED
Gumboots weren't just for rainy days. They were a part of daily life.
Growing up in Leongatha in Country Victoria, gumboots were simply a part of every day life — sturdy, comfortable, and always ready for whatever the day threw at me. Some of my fondest memories are from those years with my siblings, tramping through the bush, running along the hay bales, and weaving daisy chains out in the paddock.
Looking back now, it's strange to think how those simple, joyful days as a kid have led to a life I couldn't have never pictured for myself - I'm so grateful for how the past 11 years have unfolded!
THE MERRY BEGINNING
No safety net. No experience. Just one big idea.
It all started in 2014. I'd moved from the farm to the city for study and work, and while I was in the CBD, I couldn't find an all-weather boot that could get me from my daily commute to the corporate world — and then back to the farm on weekends.
The more I thought about it, the more I realised there was a genuine gap in the market. I wondered if I could merge the function of my childhood boots into a trendy, fashionable silhouette for everyday city to country living.
This coincided with a time of feeling disconnected from my true self. After a decade of living in the city, I felt a strong desire to reconnect with the girl I was, who played outdoors and was endlessly curious and carefree.
With some technical help from a friend, a business plan, and a trip booked to China to meet potential suppliers — Merry People boots were born.
THE FIRST MERRY STEPS
"I can still close my eyes and remember the feeling of standing solo at my market stall — imposter syndrome, and some days, not a single sale. So grateful of how it's all unfolded since."
I started out selling Merry People boots at farmers' markets on the weekend. As much as those early years were dotted with highs and lows, it was during this time that I became closely connected with my customers — and it shaped my vision for every design that followed.
FROM GRASSROOTS TO GLOBAL
A brand worth standing behind (in both senses).
As Merry People has grown, so has my little family, my team and my drive to demystify the belief that gumboots should be reserved for rural life only.
Merry People’s goal to embrace gumboots as a contemporary part of the everyday wardrobe - no matter where you live - continues with colours that bring joy to every journey.
To me, that is what Merry People is all about!
"I am incredibly grateful for the experience so far, and I still have to remind myself — as a busy mum and CEO — to embrace all the mess of life, to relish in the unexpected, and to feel present in the smaller joyful moments every day. To me, that is what Merry People is all about. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do."
— Dani xx
From our Merry Customers.
33,000+ people are glad Dani didn't quit.
Our Community of Merry People.
From meeting our very first customers at farmers' markets to running customer events all over the world, community is at the heart of everything we do at Merry People.
Twelve Years In The Making
Shop the boots that started it all — and see why 33,000+ people gave Merry People five stars.
Try them risk free.
Free shipping over $50
Free standard shipping & returns across Australia & NZ.
30-day free returns
Size not right? Exchange or full refund within 30 days.
12-month warranty
Every pair is covered for a full 12 months.
True to size
Order your normal size — the neoprene moulds to your feet.