Beekeeper boots PRO Alpina Natural®

01 · THE SIZE

It runs snug: if in doubt, go up

It is what owners say most often, and it is worth knowing before you order: the last runs snug. Anyone between two numbers, or planning on a thick winter sock, should order one size up. Sizing is unisex, 39 to 47, so there are numbers below and above the usual range for workwear.

02 · CLOSING THE ANKLE

The suit goes over the cuff

A high cuff is worth nothing if you do it the other way round. The elastic of the bee suit goes outside, over the cuff: that way no gap is left to climb into. Tucked inside, on the other hand, a mouth opens right at ankle height — and that is where they get in. Done properly, no gaiters are needed; with ordinary trousers and no elastic, they are worth putting on.

03 · SOLE AND LEATHER

Maxresist, split leather and a removable insole

The Maxresist sole is black rubber, non-slip and resistant to contact heat, built for uneven ground, wet grass and the floor of the apiary without surprises. Outside, natural split leather of 1.8 to 2.0 mm; inside, a brown velour lining and a removable thermoformed EVA insole — the detail you appreciate at the end of the season: out it comes, wash it and dry it separately.

04 · THEY ARE NOT WELLINGTONS

Split leather breathes, but it soaks

Worth saying plainly: natural split leather breathes — which is what you appreciate on a long summer day — but it is not waterproof. For early-morning dew or the odd patch of mud it holds up well if you treat the leather with grease or suede wax; for working in steady rain, a rubber boot is the answer. With that care, they last seasons of daily use.

05 · BEFORE YOU BUY

Unisex sizing 39 to 47 and a snug last: if you are between two numbers, order the larger. They are not waterproof.