This best fishing waders image shows the author testing fishing waders on a river while fishing.
Brian Pope

10 Best Fly Fishing Waders for the Money

- Buying Guide -

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How do you choose the best fly fishing waders for 2023? Hold that thought for a moment. Let’s look at why you need waders for fly fishing: Great fishing waders will get you into the water next to the fish, right into their world.

Waders change your whole fishing experience for the better.

Sometimes you need fishing waders just so you can wade to the spot where you can cast your fly to a fish, which makes waders an indispensable tool for fly fishing. This is particularly true for fly fishing beginners who don’t yet cast well. Some rivers are lined with brushy banks and the only way to cast is to wade out into the river. Some lakes have shallow bottoms and you need to wade out to get to where the fish are. Some streams are just more fun when you scramble around in them  — or even just cross over to the far bank where fewer people go.

Fishing waders make you more effective and make fly fishing more fun.

This photo shows the author testing Patagonia fishing waders while fishing on a river for trout.
Sometimes you need waders just to get into position where the fish are feeding.

How do you know which kind of fishing waders are best for you? After decades of fishing from waders while testing dozens of wader brands, styles, and models, we’ve found that several key features are very important to your wader decision. Let’s take a closer look at the most important features you’ll want in a good set of fishing waders for 2023 and beyond.

Table of Contents:

How to Choose the Best Fly Fishing Waders

This fishing waders photo shows a fly fisherman wearing the Orvis Ultralight Waders.
Choose waders that fit your inseam to reduce stress on seams.

The toughest question you’ll face is the one about your budget — do you spend $120~ on an entry-level set of waders or do you ramp up to several hundred? What do you get for an additional investment?

You will get a few extra features like better pockets, better shoulder straps, and an extra layer or two of material, making the best waders more abrasion resistant. Midrange and high-end waders also usually have more rigorous manufacturing. They have stronger seams and they tend to use the best waterproof breathable fabrics.

Generally, midrange and high-end fishing waders are worth the money if you are:

  • heading out on an expedition trip of a lifetime
  • hiking through a lot of thorny brush and fish on rivers with sharp rocks
  • will use your waders 20+ times a year

If you use your fishing waders less than 10 days a year, they will likely last several years. At a certain point, though, the material and sealed seams will degrade over time, eventually leaking (even if you don’t actually puncture them). As your waders age after several seasons, start thinking about replacing them before you head out on critical fishing trips.

So, for most beginning fly fishers, I generally recommend entry-level stockingfoot breathable waders unless you’re fishing at least 20 days a year or can afford an upgrade — which means your best-buy fishing wader could cost you hundreds of dollars . . . and be well worth the investment!

 

Best Fishing Waders Quick Answer List

Our top-ten favorite waders, ranging from entry-level to midrange to high-end waders:

  1. Frogg Toggs Hellbender Stockingfoot Chest Waders – best entry-level waders near $100
  2. Redington Crosswater Waders – great quality, simple feature set
  3. Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Waders – cushioned suspenders
  4. Simms Tributary Waders – top midrange waders pick
  5. Orvis Clearwater Waders – best sizing options
  6. Redington Sonic-Pro Waders – classic design with a great fit
  7. L.L.Bean Kennebec Stockingfoot Waders – excellent midrange price-to-value ratio
  8. Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders – best all-around Made in America waders
  9. Orvis PRO Waders – best wader under $600
  10. Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Waders – outstanding overall, definitely the best logo!

Best Fishing Waders for Beginners

Frogg Toggs Hellbender II Stockingfoot Chest Waders

This fly fishing waders image shows the Frogg Toggs Hellbender fishing waders.

Key Features:

– Best entry-level price-to-value ratio
– 4-ply nylon upper
– Double reinforced knees
– Women’s version: Yes

The Frogg Toggs Hellbender Waders have been around for years, but the price-to-value ratio keeps these fly fishing waders on our list. There’s a lot to like about the Hellbender stocking foot fishing waders: You get four plies with reinforced knees and shins, along with the expected wading belt, built-in gravel guards and pockets, including an internal pocket, a triple-entry chest pocket with a zippered flip-out security pocket. The 4mm neoprene booties are double-taped and are reasonably comfortable.

It’s worth saying again: The price-to-value ratio in the Frogg Toggs Hellbender Stockingfoot Chest Waders for new or casual fly fishers is hard to beat.

Shop the Hellbender II Waders at:

Amazon | Bass Pro Shops

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Redington Crosswater Waders

This best fishing waders review guide photo shows the men's Redington Crosswater Waders.Key Features:

– Quality is better than most entry-level waders
– 3-layer waterproof/breathable fabric with DWR
– High density neoprene booties
– Women’s version: No

The entry-level Redington Crosswater Waders deliver great quality at very competitive price point. In fact, Redington has a long history of delivering affordable fly fishing gear for beginners — and we’ve never been disappointed with Redington’s price-to-value ratios. These can’t-go-wrong Crosswater Waders will fit a bit roomy but they’ll get the job done. You get neoprene booties, a flip out chest pocket, built-in gravel guards, and adjustable suspenders with opposing buckles. What are the buckles for? If it’s hot, you can roll down the top of the waders to wear them more like wading pants. Sizing ranges from Small to XXL, plus a Youth option.

Shop the Redington Crosswater at:

Aventuron | AvidMax

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Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Waders

This fly fishing waders image shows the entry-level Cabela's Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Waders.

Key Features:

– Excellent entry-level price-to-value ratio
– Cushioned shoulder straps
– Updated fit
– Women’s version: Yes

Cabela’s entry-level Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Waders check all the boxes on basic requirements: They have an updated fit for better mobility, including contoured neoprene booties that have non-slip rubber on the bottom to keep your foot from shifting inside of your wading boots. The fabric uses 4MOST DRY-PLUS for breathability — Cabela’s uses it for many of its more affordable waterproof products, and it works pretty well. The knees have three layers for durability, the seams are taped, and the built-in gravel gaiters are rubberized to help them stay put. These simple waders include a wading belt, and there is a large internal pocket. The cushy neoprene suspenders are a little bonus, but we really like seeing the wide range of size options within Regular, Stout, and Tall.

Shop the Cabela’s Premium Breathable Waders at:

Cabela’s

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Best Midrange Stockingfoot Waders

The best overall wader values for more active fly fishers come from midrange-priced waders. These waders deliver great performance with improved fit and quality. They are easily twice as good and reliable as competitive waders that cost half as much, which means you’re less likely to spring a leak or experience a failure and lose time on the water.

Simms Tributary Waders

This best fishing waders photo shows the men's Simms Tributary Wader - Stockingfoot.Key Features:

– Excellent overall fit-and-finish
– Outstanding warranty
– Lightweight yet rugged 3- and 4-layer fabric
– Women’s version: Yes

The newly updated Simms Tributary Waders are an entry-level wader from Simms . . . but the price point and quality mean they’re actually a top fit in our midrange category. At first glance, the feature set seems to match entry-level waders, but fit and construction quality exceed that of competitive beginner fishing waders. Let’s put it this way: If you’re a newer fly fisher who is pretty sure you’re going to fish 10 or 12 weekends a year, you won’t go wrong with the Simms Tributary Waders.

You get a waterproof/breathable polyester 3-layer upper and 4-layer lower. The passthrough handwarmer pocket is fleece-lined, and the zippered chest pocket includes a handy fly patch. Simms also adds an anti-microbial finish to the anatomical neoprene booties.

The Simms Waders Warranty is outstanding, even for its lowest priced waders. For the first 60 days, Simms will replace leaking waders with no questions asked. After 60 days, continuing for a total of 365 days, Simms will repair failures due to defects in materials or workmanship for no charge (other than shipping to get the waders to Simms). If your waders fail due to excessive wear or user error involving things like barbed wire fences or campfires, Simms will attempt to repair your waders for a reasonable fee.

Shop the Simms Tributary Waders at:

Aventuron | Bass Pro Shops | Simms

*Shopping Update: The previous Simms Tributary Waders are on sale now at Cabela’s — you get all the same Tributary goodness, just in last year’s style.

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Orvis Clearwater Wader

This best fishing wader buying guide photo shows the Orvis Clearwater Wader.Key Features:

– Great overall value
– Surprisingly breathable fabric for the price
– Excellent 60-day warranty
– Women’s version: Yes

The new Orvis Clearwater Wader has a modernized fit for better mobility with less bulk. Plus, we’re fans of the fresh new light gray ‘Stone’ color pattern. The 4-layer waterproof/breathable nylon fabric is reasonably light but durable. Unlike many other companies, Orvis reports the fabric’s actual ratings — a 30K waterproofness rating with an 8K breathability rating. What’s it mean? The fabric, which doesn’t have a licensed technology behind it (like GORE-TEX) is very waterproof yet surprisingly breathable. It means you’re going to get good performance without paying for a brand-name waterproof/breathable fabric.

The rest of the Clearwater Wader design is completely functional: Opposing side-release buckles on suspenders let you scrunch down the top of wader for waist-high wading on warmer days. The neoprene booties are anatomical for better fit and the integrated gravel guards are low-profile to reduce drag. You also get a pass-through hand-warmer pouch with an external zippered chest pocket with a stretch panel.

Last of all, Orvis has a very competitive waders warranty: If you are not satisfied with your Orvis waders or if they fail for any reason within the first 60 days, Orvis will replace them or refund your money, no questions asked. We’re big fans of that kind of peace-of-mind warranty. Beyond that, damage or normal wear and tear isn’t covered, but Orvis has a repair program that can repair waders for a reasonable fee and get them back to you quickly so you can get back out on the water.

*Editor’s Note: What about the Orvis Ultralight Convertible Waders? The biggest benefit of the Orvis Ultralight Clearwater Wader is its better suspension system for anglers who tend to wade in warmer weather and want to quickly raise or lower the waders to or from waist high mode. The biggest drawback is the extra cost.

Shop the Orvis Clearwater Waders at:

Aventuron | Backcountry.com | Orvis.com

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Redington Sonic-Pro Waders

This photo shows the men's Redington Sonic-Pro Waders for fishing.

Key Features:

– Sonically welded seams (no stitches)
– 4-layers in the legs and seat
– Flexible and breathable
– Women’s version: Yes

Redington has updated its popular midrange fishing wader: The latest version of its Sonic-Pro Stockingfoot Waders use sonic-welded seams (not sewn) with a 4-layer design that includes reinforced lower legs and backside, which is handy if you sit in a drift boat, pontoon boat, or just like to rest on boulders and logs. You get handwarmer pockets, a front zippered pocket, and a flip-over interior pocket good for a small fly box, tippet, forceps, and nippers. You also get built-in gravel guards and a wading belt, of course.

One last note: For a 15 percent boost in durability (plus tons of pockets) consider the also excellent Redington Sonic-Pro HD Waders — or read our our full Redington Sonic-Pro HD Waders Review for more detail.

Shop the Redington Sonic-Pro Waders at:  

Amazon | Aventuron | AvidMax | Backcountry.com

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L.L.Bean Kennebec Stockingfoot Waders

This photo shows the L.L.Bean Kennebec Stockingfoot Wader for fishing.Key Features:

– Super Seam design doesn’t use stitched seams
– 4-layers in the legs and seat
– Women’s version: No (but does offer the women’s Angler waders)

The L.L.Bean Kennebec Stockingfoot Waders with Super Seam come with high-end features at a mid-level price. When you add in L.L.Bean’s legendary customer satisfaction guarantee for the first year of your purchase, the Kennebec waders are a sweet buy. You get four breathable layers with improved durability, and the construction fits better than previous generations of the Kennebec Waders.  The fabric is heavier through the legs and backside while the torso is lighter. The “Super Seam” design uses adhesives instead of stitched seams, and L.L.Bean says it’s now lighter and stronger and more watertight than any seams the company has offered before. L.L.Bean updated the shoulder straps for improved adjustability and streamlined the front pockets and waist belt to reduce edges that can catch your fly line and leader and generally annoy you on the water.

As you would expect, you still get plenty of pockets: two zippered chest pockets and a waterproof, removable interior pocket. The reach-through hand warmer pocket is lined with microfleece for warmth and comfort.  The articulated knees allow great range of motion, plus the company offers Tall sizes, helping you dial in the fit.

Shop the L.L.Bean Kennebec Stockingfoot Waders at:

L.L.Bean

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Best High-end Fishing Waders

Based out of Montana, Simms is the only wader company in America that produces any Made-in-America waders. However, only Simms’ high-end waders are Made in America. If you want to support American manufacturers and encourage manufacturing in America, Simms should be at the top of your list. Of course, Simms overall quality is stellar, too.

Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders

https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=1858eb6c-556f-4fd7-9f0c-6ca55c6b1c50&website_id=8f499c44-0bd1-4d62-b4da-777e38343bff&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.simmsfishing.com%2Fcollections%2Fwomens-waders%2Fproducts%2Fwomens-g3-guide-stockingfoot&ctc=best-fishing-waders-simms-g3-womensKey Features:

– GORE-TEX Pro shell for excellent breathability
– 4-layer lower, 3-layer upper for great durability/flexibility blend
– Awesome 60-day replacement guarantee for leaks, no questions asked
– Made in America in Bozeman, Montana!
– Women’s version: Yes

Simms has completely re-engineered its popular G3 Guide Stockingfoot waders from previous versions. The G3 Guide waders boast a new four-layer GORE-TEX Pro fabric in the legs and a new three-layer GORE-TEX fabric in the upper. Simms says the new fabric is 23% more puncture resistant and 33% more breathable than previous models. Simms also improved the chest pockets, which includes a micro-fleece lined hand-warming pocket. You also get a new interior side pocket, which is handy for a phone.

For suspension, Simms has a new highly adjustable and comfortable air-mesh suspension system with a built in net loop. In case you want a wader specifically designed for spooky fish, Simms created a new ‘G3 Guide Riparian Camo’ version. The one drawback to the Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Wader is the lack of an in-stock size 14 bootie. Simms stock sizing only fits feet up to size 13. For larger, you’ll need to contact Simms for Made-to-Order waders.

*Editor’s Note: You could argue that the Simms G4Z Stockingfoot Waders with a front waterproof zipper are arguably the best Simms waders. So why isn’t the zippered version the best in our guide here? Cost. If you have the budget, get the G4Z. If not, choose the G3 Guide Waders and never look back.

Oh, one last tip: If you want a made-in-America wader but aren’t quite sure you need the 4-layer lowers in the G3 Guide Stockingfoot wader, Simms is offering its 3-layer Guide Classic Stockingfoot Wader for $100 less.

Shop the Simms G3 Waders at:

Aventuron | Bass Pro Shops | Trident Fly FishingSimms

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Orvis PRO Waders

This photo shows the Orvis Pro Wader men's version.

Key Features:

– New durable Cordura fabric shell
– Removable knee pads
– Gusseted crotch for improved agility
– Women’s version: Yes

The Orvis PRO Wader is not just a refinement of an existing wader — Orvis went back to the drawing board to build a wader worthy of its PRO moniker. The most important new feature of the Orvis PRO Wader is the new proprietary weave of Cordura fabric to make the shell. Cordura is known for its durability, and Orvis is claiming that its new PRO waders are the most durable the company has ever made and the most puncture resistant in the industry. That’s a tough claim to prove in real-world use, but Orvis put in three years of development and 9,000 hours of testing, and our initial review bodes well for long-term ruggedness.

Meanwhile, Orvis created a new gusseted crotch to make the PRO Wader feel nimble and agile when you’re scrambling over rough terrain. When it’s time to sneak up on a wary trout and then take a knee on the rocks for a quick photo and release, Orvis added some truly excellent OrthoLite knee pads. There are plenty of pockets, including a pass-through hand warmer pocket, a chest pocket, a removable flip out pocket, and daisy chain nylon loops for tool attachments. Orvis also redesigned the gravel guards with a narrower profile that sheds water fast so you’re not bringing as much water into your boat. Last of all, you can find the Orvis PRO Wader in 14 different size configurations for men — and in 14 different size configurations for women, too. Nice.

Shop the Orvis PRO Wader at:

Aventuron | AvidMax | Orvis.com

*Editor’s Recommendation: Check out the Orvis PRO Zipper Waders if you want a zippered option.

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Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip-Front Waders

This best fishing waders photo shows a man wearing the Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip-Front Waders.
Patagonia fine-tuned its Swiftcurrent waders for an even better fit.

Key Features:

– Completely redesigned for Patagonia’s best fit yet
– Waterproof, breathable fabric uses recycled materials
– Built-in knee pads
– Women’s version: No (but offers a non-zippered Swiftcurrent version for women)

The Patagonia Swiftcurrent line of waders replaces the company’s long popular Patagonia Rio Gallegos waders. The Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip-Front Waders have an improved fit overall, but key changes include a new gusseted crotch for freedom of movement, articulated legs and an easier to adjust suspender system. You also get improved lower-volume anatomical booties with a nylon quilted interior for extra warmth. You can also choose from 19 different size options to help you dial in the overall fit.

Meanwhile, Patagonia’s new 4-layer fabric is made from recycled materials and includes a waterproof/breathable barrier and an embedded DWR finish to help repel water. The new YKK waterproof front zipper is now beefier, too. You get lots of pockets, including two interior drop-in pockets, a flip-out waterproof, zippered pocket, two chest pockets, and two handwarmer pockets. Finally, Patagonia includes removable knee pads, which are super cool. We first experienced the knee pads in the Rio Gallegos Waders, and wow, they’re fantastic. If you’re the kind of fisher who drops to one knee on rocky stream bottoms when removing a hook from a fish or posing for quick snapshots, you’ll appreciate knee pads — we sure do — check out our full Swiftcurrent review for more detail.

Of course, Patagonia offers the non-zip Swiftcurrent Expedition Waders, as well as its ultralight Swiftcurrent Packable Waders. If you can stop yourself from wading deep, try Patagonia’s Swiftcurrent Wading Pants.

Shop the Patagonia Swiftcurrent Waders at:

AvidMax | Backcountry.com | Patagonia

Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip-Front Waders
Benefits
Burly waterproof zipper
Articulated legs and gusseted crotch improve mobility
Excellent fit and finish throughout
Drawbacks
Because the fit is more athletic than most waders, you need to check sizing charts closely to ensure proper fit
4.8

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Bonus: Grundéns Boundary Stockingfoot Waders

This photo shows the new Grundéns Boundary Stockingfoot Waders lineup.
Grundéns makes three versions of its new Boundary Stockingfoot Waders — all with GORE-TEX Pro fabric.

One of the hottest new waders for 2023 comes from Grundéns, a company that has a long history of producing rugged fishing rain gear and footwear. The new Grundéns Boundary Stockingfoot Waders are made with GORE-TEX Pro fabric — like the GORE-TEX Pro used in the Simms G3 Guide Waders above. As near as we can tell, Simms and Grundéns are the only major fishing apparel manufacturers using GORE-TEX Pro in stockingfoot fly fishing waders.

Because the Grundéns Boundary Stockingfoot Waders are so new, we haven’t yet had a chance to test them. Once we do, we’ll publish a detailed review. In the meantime, if you’re considering very high quality waders with excellent breathability and durability, the new Grundéns Boundary Stockingfoot Waders are worth a look. One interesting new feature in the Boundary Waders is the use of titanium layers in the stockingfoot booties: Grundéns says its titanium layers help keep the cold out and the body warmth in for better comfort in frigid conditions.

Shop the Grundéns Boundary Stockingfoot Waders at:

Grundéns

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Best Fishing Waders for Women 2023

This photo shows the women's Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot fishing waders.
The women’s G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders feature a female-specific cut and size options.

Manufacturers have started producing better, more fitted fly fishing waders for women, too, and they often use the same materials in their construction as their male counterparts. Some, however, like the Redington Sonic-Pro Waders do more than simply trim down pockets and add color: The women’s version of the Sonic-Pro include stretchy mesh back and side panels that better hug a woman’s form. It’s not like guys like a lot of excess torso material on their own waders, but it’s nice to see manufacturers making serious, intentional design efforts in their women’s waders. These are all can’t-go-wrong fly fishing waders for women:

Considering the Best Booted Fishing Waders?

Many of these manufacturers also offer some booted fishing waders with the same wader material types of construction, but typically we’re not fans of booted waders unless you’re fishing in very cold conditions for long periods of time. Why? The extra space and sometimes insulation around your feet in boot foot waders can help keep your feet warmer than in typical stockingfoot waders. They’re also great for fishers who are getting on in years or just aren’t as limber as they used to be — so no lacing/unlacing of your boots is needed when your back is stiff. Even so, we prefer the ankle support you get with separate wading boots.

All that said, the warm Frogg Toggs Amphib Neoprene Bootfoot Chest Waders have a 3.5mm neoprene upper, reinforced knees, and 200-gram Thinsulate insulated rubber boots, all at a great price. If you want a more nimble GORE-TEX bootfoot wader, Simms offers made-to-order G3 Guide Bootfoot Waders that blend Simms stockingfoot excellence with a booted bottom that boasts an insulated 7mm neoprene lining, which can help keep your feet warm in colder conditions.

 

Fishing Waders FAQ

Who makes the best fly fishing waders?

These manufacturers consistently make the best fly fishing waders: Simms, Orvis, Patagonia, and Redington.

What are the best waders for the money? 

This photo shows the author wearing waders for beginners while fishing in a river.
Entry-level waders are cost-effective for beginner fly fishers who fish a handful of weekends a year.

The best waders for the money blend quality and durability with a reasonable price. To choose the best waders for the money for each person, you’ll need to consider their budget and the number of times they will wear their waders each year. If you use your waders less than 10 days a year, entry-level waders are a great buy. Once you start fishing 20 days a year or more, you should consider upgrading to midrange or high-end waders to get the best year-over-year value.

What are the best breathable waders?

This image shows the Orvis Silver Sonic Convertible-Top Waders for fly fishing in use on a river.
Breathable fishing waders let moisture from your body escape. while fishing in warm weather.

The best breathable waders use GORE-TEX fabrics. While most other breathable technical fabrics from reputable clothing manufacturers work well, in our experience, GORE-TEX still has a slight edge when it comes to breathability and overall quality. Right now, Simms and Grundéns are only high-end wader manufacturers that make waders with GORE-TEX.

However, there is more to your question than optimum breathability. In truly warm fishing weather, we often prefer to wear an ultralight breathable wader instead. The fabric is thinner, still breathable, and while it’s less durable than pro-grade waders, it’s often cooler and more comfortable to wear during hot summer days. If you want a lightweight wader for hot summer days, the Orvis Ultralight Convertible Waders are hard to beat.

Are stockingfoot waders better than boot-foot waders?

There are two main types of fishing waders: stockingfoot or bootfoot waders. Only get booted waders if you like the simplicity of stepping into a boot and you won’t be wading over rocky, unstable ground. Why? Booted waders tend to fit like rubber boots — sort of loose and without much ankle support. If you’re going to be walking over a bunch of slick rocks, you’ll want a real wading boot with more ankle support.

This fly fishing waders image shows a photo of the best stocking foot waders bootie design.
The best fly fishing waders have breathable uppers with neoprene stocking feet and built-in gravel guards.

So, for lake fishing from gentle shores, booted waders are easy to use — but who knows where you’re going to fish next? For that reason, we recommend stockingfoot waders.

Stockingfoot waders are often better because you can choose different boots during the lifetime of your waders or vice versa. Plus, when it’s August and the river is low and clear and the days are hot, you can wear your sturdy pair of wading boots without your stockingfoot waders and just wade around in a pair of shorts. Basically, you end up with a more versatile investment in your gear: stockingfoot waders + separate wading boots are the way to go.

Having said all that, there is one scenario where bootfoot waders might be the right choice for you: winter fishing. The structure of an integrated boot will hold the cold water farther from your feet and ankles and will usually have some built-in insulation. Booted waders also tend to allow heavy socks to maintain more insulating air gaps. The result can be warmer feet. (Skip to the section on bootfoot waders if this sounds compelling.)

Are breathable stockingfoot waders better than neoprene waders?

This fishing waders image show the Redington Sonic-Pro men's wader next to the Redington Sonic-Pro women's wader.
Some waders, like the Redington Sonic-Pro Waders, use the same materials for both men’s and women’s versions but now feature a much improved fit for female anglers.

If you’re only going to be fishing in cold water on cold days — say, steelhead fishing — then choosing a heavy-duty pair of neoprene waders is a reasonable choice. There is a reason why so many waders for waterfowl hunting are neoprene — neoprene is warm as well as flexible and quiet when it’s super cold. However, if you’ll be fishing all seasons, we recommend investing in lighter breathable waders so that when you step out of the river in the summer, you don’t immediately start sweating. If the water is really cold, you can always layer up with a thick pair of fleece pants underneath your breathable waders . . . but you can never make cold-weather waders suitable for hot days. This comes down to a surprisingly easy recommendation: Only get neoprene waders if you’re going to be fishing in cold weather in cold water.

If you would like to explore neoprene waders, check out the wader lineup at Cabela’s . . . and be sure to consider camouflage waterfowl-focused waders, too.

How do you repair fishing waders?

If your waders are under a manufacturer’s warranty, you can often return them to the manufacturer for repair — or pay for professional repairs. However, what if you’re in the field and poke a hole in your waders with a thorn, some sharp brush, or even a hook? The fastest and most effective method is to use Aquaseal UV Repair Adhesive. It’s basically a super-durable and flexible glue that you can smear over the hole. It dries instantly when you expose it to sunlight or ultraviolet light. It works fantastically well. To repair your waders, shield the hole from the sun by working in some shade. Add some Aquaseal to the hole then expose it to sunlight. Reverse your waders to the inside and repeat the process so that both sides of the hole are covered.

Bonus: Best Wading Boots for the Money

As for wading boots, choose between a lug sole or felt soles — but know that a few states have banned felt soles due to concerns over transmitting invasive species from different waterways. Typically, felt soles provide the best traction on slick, wet rocks. On dirt trails? Not so much.

Check out our guide to the Best Wading Boots for more detail, but these are two can’t-go-wrong affordable wading boots:

Simms Tributary Wading Boots — These wading boots offer outstanding durability for the price. They boast a comfortable neoprene lining and a rugged rubber toe cap.

Orvis Encounter Wading Boots – Felt — If you prefer a felt-soled entry-level boot, try the Orvis Encounter series — Orvis offers them in your choice of rubber or felt soles.

 

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In addition to Man Makes Fire buying gear for reviews and guides, gear manufacturers occasionally ship review units to Man Makes Fire. If we like it, we spend some quality time with the gear and review it, noting if it was provided to Man Makes Fire. After the review, we return it, give it away, or work on longer-term review follow-ups when applicable to reader interest.

We do not accept any gear in exchange for coverage. If we do not truly appreciate the gear, we don't write about it at all -- bad gear will fade into obscurity on its own if everyone ignores it. In addition, we focus on gear from reputable companies, reputable brands, and reputable retailers we trust.

The gear links on Man Makes Fire are focused on what we are willing to recommend to our own family and friends. Many of our specific gear links connect to industry-standard affiliate advertising programs. When you buy something using the retail links in our guides and reviews, we may earn a small affiliate commission that helps pay for our work.

Basically, we deliver the advice and insight you need, you get the gear you want, and then everyone wins. Pretty straightforward.

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