Best Fly Fishing Waders - Prodigy Fishing

Page Contents

Types of Material Used In Fly Fishing Waders
Fly Fishing Wader Height Options
Fly Fishing Wader Boot Types
Things To Consider When Buying Fishing Waders
Do You Really Need Fly Fishing Waders?

The Best Fly Fishing Waders
In Conclusion

Finding the right pair of fishing waders is different for every angler. The right pair for you depends on the exact type of fishing you need them for, as well as the climate you will be using them in. If you do multiple types of fishing in many environments, this can pose a problem. To avoid having a different pair of expensive waders for every occasion, you may want to try to buy one or two pairs that serve many purposes. However, many newer designs of fishing waders are made to accommodate multiple types of fishing because they are warm while also being lightweight and breathable.

Read below for an in-depth buyer’s guide for fishing waders, as well as detailed reviews of some top waders on the market today.

Types of Material Used In Fly Fishing Waders

Neoprene

Neoprene is the first material choice for fishing waders. This is a thicker material option that is ideal for fishermen who tend to fish in colder areas. Neoprene is naturally insulated to keep you warm, and its thickness provides added protection from rough waters and punctures. 3 mm neoprene is ideal for general fishing temperatures while 5 mm neoprene is best for colder climates.

If you typically fish in warmer climates, neoprene waders may not be the best choice for you. They are not the most lightweight or the most breathable option for warmer temperatures. If you fish in warmer temperatures, you may find yourself too hot in neoprene waders.

Rubber

As you can imagine, rubber waders are very thick and durable. They are very hard to tear or damage in any way. However, they are typically pretty heavy. Because of their weight, they are not typically found in chest high or even waist high options. Most rubber waders are made in hip height for use in rough, shallow waters. Rubber waders are not as popular as they used to be due to the engineering of lightweight and waterproof materials.

Nylon or Polyester (Breathable Waders)

Breathable waders are one of the most popular options for waders among fishermen. Typically, these waders are made from nylon or polyester combined with a waterproof treatment or membrane. Because these fabrics are typically lightweight, they are made in all wader styles. Breathable waders are ideal for fishing in warmer temperatures because they allow for moisture from your body to leave while keeping moisture from the environment out. If breathable waders sound enticing to you and you are a cold temperature angler, you can still use these successfully. Many companies that make lightweight and breathable waders also sell a removable, insulated layer that can be added in colder temperatures.

The drawback to breathable waders is that they are not the most durable option on the market. While breathable waders utilize multiple layers of nylon or polyester fabric, they still are able to tear or damage more easily than neoprene or rubber. If you fish in rapid waters or in particularly jagged areas, you may want to reconsider breathable waders.

Fly Fishing Wader Height Options

Hip Waders

Basically, hip waders cover your legs all the way above your knees and up your thighs. They have straps that fasten around your legs or hips to keep them in place. Hip waders are a good choice for those who will be fishing in small streams and shallow creeks. They are designed for water levels that do not pass knee level. Hip waders are also the lightest and most comfortable option as they are the least amount of fabric.

Waist Waders

Waist waders give you a middle option between hip and chest waders. As you can most likely guess, waist waders are a full pair of pants that go up to your waist. They typically tighten and secure in place with a belt. Waist-high waders are a great option for anglers who plan to be fishing in colder waters, and are meant for water that is no higher than thigh height.

Chest Waders

The last type of wader is a chest-high wader. These provide you the most coverage and protection from the water. Chest waders allow you to be prepared for any situation that comes your way. You could fall in the water and still remain warm and dry. Chest waders are suitable for any type of water. If chest waders are the choice that you make, it is important to know that you must wear a wading belt with your waders. This will prevent you from flooding should you take a large spill and your waders fill with water.

Fly Fishing Wader Boot Types

Boot Food Waders

Boot foot waders have a wading boot already sewn in to the foot of the waders. This means that you do not have to make a separate purchase of wading boots before fishing. This style is easy to take on and off, and it gives you less gear to keep track of. It also helps to keep unwanted rocks and other debris out of your boots. If you choose boot foot waders, keep in mind that the boots will not be a custom fit, and may be clunky to walk around in all day.

Stocking Foot Waders

Stocking foot waders do not have a boot attached to the bottom of the waders. Instead, stocking foot waders have a waterproof bootie for each foot that is to be slipped inside a separate pair of wading boots. This type of wader tends to be more lightweight and a little easier to walk and maneuver for a long day in the water. Also, when you can purchase your own wading boots, you can choose a custom fit for your foot.

Things To Consider When Buying Fishing Waders

Comfort

When searching for the perfect pair of waders for you, it is necessary that you consider comfort features in your decision. If you are fishing all day, you want to be standing in the water in waders that are comfortable to stand in and that allow you to move freely when you need to. For example, some styles of waders offer articulated knees in the legs of their product. Articulated knees allow for more natural, knee-like movement and give you a wider range of motion for your legs. This is a great comfort feature that you may want to look for in the waders that you choose.

Another common comfort feature that you may see is a nonslip bootie. On stocking foot waders, the booties tend to slip and slide inside the separate wading boot, or bunch up at the toe or ankle. These are all uncomfortable things that could make or break a day of fishing. Nonslip grips on the bottom of these booties will help to keep the booties in place inside your shoe and provide you with a more comfortable fit.

Durability

Durability is an important quality in any outdoor equipment. If you are spending the money to buy quality fishing waders, you want to make sure you are getting a pair that will last and hold up to normal wear and tear. As previously discussed, neoprene and rubber are the most durable materials for waders. If you want breathable and lightweight waders that are made of nylon or polyester, make sure to look for ones that have multiple layers of material. Three or four layers of nylon makes waders more durable and more resistant to tear or puncture.

If you are really concerned about durability, some waders have reinforced areas that are even more durable. There are some wader options that provide an extra layer of material, or reinforcements, in the seat and legs. These areas are in the water most and are more likely to hit sharp rocks or get poked by sticks. They are also the areas that hit the bottom if you happen to fall. If you fish in rapid waters, you may want to look for waders with reinforced legs and seat for the ultimate durability. They may be slightly more expensive upfront, but they will last longer in the end.

Do You Really Need Fly Fishing Waders?

When you begin to look at the price tags on some high-quality waders, it may be easy to talk yourself out of needing them. But you may want to think again. Waders continue to be the best and most effective option for keeping fishermen warm and dry after a long day on the water.

More importantly, waders protect you from a medical condition called trench foot. Trench foot causes the outer layer of your skin to rot due to fungal infections. This is typically caused by standing in cold water for extended periods of time. If this is something you want to avoid, (why wouldn’t it be?) then waders are a must-have on your list of fishing gear.

The Best Fly Fishing Waders

1. Simms G3 Guide GORE-TEX Waders - The Best Overall and Best Waterproof Fly Fishing Waders

The Simms G3 Guide GORE-TEX Stocking-Foot Waders for Men are chest-high waders that will keep you warm and dry for all your fishing endeavors. These stocking foot waders are made from Gore-Tex Pro-Shell material for the ultimate durability and waterproof protection. The chest and waist has three layers of material while the legs have four layers. While this may seem like a lot of material, the waders are still lightweight and breathable. The suspenders of these waders are easily adjustable and made of elastic for a snug yet comfortable fit.

Product Summary and Notable Features:

This set of waders includes a 1.5” stretch wading belt for safety. It also has a hand warmer pocket that is lined with microfleece for those colder fishing days. Also, on the top of the Simms G3 waders is a docking station, zippered chest pocket and super-fly patch. At the bottom of the waders are the stocking feet. These have an hourglass design and a microbe resistant finish to last you through years of use.

Key Features:

Waterproof
Made from Gore-Tex Pro Shell material
Easily adjustable
Includes wading belt and hand warmer pocket
Made in the USA

2. Cabela’s Spring Run Felt Sole Boot-Foot Chest Waders - The Best Value Fishing Waders

The Cabela’s Spring Run Felt Sole Boot Foot Chest Waders are a great pair of waders if you are looking for a more affordable option. These upper portion of these waders is made of 5 mm Neostretch neoprene. This is a naturally insulated fabric that will keep you warm in cold climates. The boots are made with 1,800 gram 3M Thinsulate Insulation as well, to ensure not only warmth, but dryness too. In case of a fall, the knees and upper-shin area of these waders are reinforced with Armor-Flex material. This protects your legs from sharp rocks on the banks or on the bottom.

Product Summary and Notable Features:

The suspenders of these waders are made with elastic nylon webbing. This gives you a more custom fit ad allows for all-day comfort. The material goes higher up your back than typical waders, providing you with more warmth and protection from spillovers. Attached to the front is a fleece-lined hand warmer pocket to give you a chance to warm your fingers on the coldest fishing days. Other hook-and-loop sealable pockets and mesh compartments are available to hold any gear that you may want to keep close. Additionally, a D-ring is located on the back of the waders to attach a landing net if necessary.

Key Features:

Waterproof
Made with naturally insulated materials
Reinforced knees and upper shins
Fleece-lined hand warmer pocket
Multiple pockets and mesh compartments

3. Simms Freestone Stocking Foot Waders - Best Stocking Foot Waders

The Simms Freestone Stocking-Foot Pant Waders are the first waist-high waders on our list, and the best choice for stocking foot waders. They are made from Toray QuadraLam material. This is a 4-layer, engineered fabric that was made specifically for fishing waders. It is a fabric that is lightweight, durable, and waterproof to give you the comfort and protection that you need. The Simms Freestone Waders have 2 mm neoprene, built-in gravel guards with a stainless steel boot hook and reinforced attachment.

Product Summary and Notable Features:

The stocking feet at the ends of these waders are made with 4 mm neoprene in an hourglass figure. Each foot is designed to be anatomically correct so that both the left and right foot fit perfectly into wading boots. There is also a built-in waistband on these pant waders to keep you safe and comfortable. Users love the mobility of these pants, stating that the articulated knees make them easy to move around in.

Key Features:

Waist-high waders
Waterproof, lightweight, durable
Built-in gravel guards with stainless boot hook
Anatomically correct stocking feet
Built-in waistband

4. Hodgman Aesis Sonic Zip Stocking Foot Waders - Most Durable Fishing Waders

Our choice for the most durable fishing waders is the Hodgman Aesis Sonic Zip Stocking Foot Waders for Men. They are constructed using proprietary sonic welding. This type of welding holds the seams together without the need for thousands of tiny stitch holes. This technology provides superior waterproof protection and durability. The main body of these waders is made with a 4-layer fabric that has a DWR coating for water protection. The seat and legs have an extra layer of fabric added for more protection against puncture from sharp rocks or brush. Even though there are multiple layers of fabric, the Hodgman Aesis Sonic Waders are still breathable and comfortable for all-day wear.

Product Summary and Notable Features:

These chest-high waders have Y-back suspenders that are made with elastic and easily adjustable buckles to provide you with the correct amount of support. You also have the option to convert these from chest waders to waist waders should you not need chest-high coverage. A unique feature of these waders is the Riri waterproof zipper down the front. This zipper allows you to put on and take off the waders quickly and easily. It also allows for some venting should you be fishing in warmer weather. The double hand warmer pockets close with water zippers to stay warm and dry for your cold fingers.

The booties of the Hodgman Aesis Sonic Zip Waders are anatomically correct to fit both your left and right foot perfectly. This makes for the easier addition of wading boots. These booties are made with 5 mm thick neoprene material that will keep your feet warm in the coldest of water. The included wading belt is comfortable and easily adjustable with a low profile DuraFlex buckle. Lastly, hang your net on the D-ring located conveniently on your back.

Key Features:

4-layer fabric with an extra layer on seat and legs
Sonic welding for seam closure provides ultimate waterproofing
2 hand warmer pockets with water-resistant zippers
Anatomically correct booties for easy on/off of wading boots
Converts to pant waders
Front zipper for easy on/off and venting

5. Hodgman H4 Stocking-Foot Waders for Ladies - Best Women’s Waders

From Hodgman come the H4 Stocking Foot Waders for Ladies. These chest-high waders offer durable waterproof protection for a long day on the water. The upper portion of these waders is made from triple layer fabric that has a DWR coating on top. The bottom portion is made from 4-layer fabric to provide extra durability. The waders as a whole have stitched and taped waterproof seams so that no water can penetrate the fabric. For fishing in colder climates, these waders are compatible with the Hodgman’s Core INS removable insulation liner system (not included with your purchase).

Product Summary and Notable Features:

The stocking feet of the Hodgman H4 Waders for Ladies are made from 5 mm thick neoprene fabric to insulate your feet. They are also designed to be anatomically correct to perfectly contour to the left and right feet. Not only does this make the stocking feet more comfortable, but it also makes it easier to put your boots on and take them off. To accommodate freezing fingers in cold temperatures, there is a fleece-lined hand warmer pocket. The Y-back suspenders are made from elastic and are easily adjustable to fit all wearers.

Key Features:

Chest-high waders made for women
Stitched and taped waterproof seams
Multiple layers of fabric for warmth and protection
Anatomically correct stocking feet
Y-back, adjustable, elastic suspenders

6. Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking Foot Pant Waders - Best Pants Style Waders

If you are looking for waders that are only waist-high, then Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking Foot Pant Waders are a great and budget-friendly option. These waders are made from something called micro denier nylon. This fabric is woven extra-tightly and is tough and durable for all situations. The knees of these waders are triple-lined for extra protection from rips and tears. Another notable feature is the 4MOST DRY-PLUS technology. This technology allows for breathability and waterproof reliability.

Product Summary and Notable Features:

The bottom of the stocking feet are created with 3 mm neoprene fabric for warmth and comfort. They also have nonslip grippers on the bottom to keep them from slipping and sliding inside your wading boots. The pants have nice, wide belt loops and an included wading belt that is easily adjustable. Your purchase of these pants includes a nylon bag to carry your waders in.

Key Features:

Made of tightly-woven micro denier nylon
Triple lined fabric
4MOST DRY-PLUS Technology
Lightweight and breathable
Nonslip grippers on bottom of stocking feet

7. Hodgman H3 Stocking Foot Waders

The H3 Stocking Foot Waders from Hodgman are durable and protective chest-high waders that will make a great addition to your fishing gear. The fabric that these waders is made from is waterproof while also being breathable and lightweight. The three layers of fabric used create the perfect protective barrier between you and the water and prevent snags and tears. The suspenders for the H3 waders are made of comfortable elastic to fit all sizes of users. They use a low profile DuraFlex buckles for quick and easy adjustments, and low bulk.

Product Summary and Notable Features:

These waders include a stretch wading belt, also with a DuraFlex buckle that stays in place and doesn’t get in the way. The stocking feet of these waders are made with 3 mm neoprene, and designed with a comfort fit gravel guard. This is meant to eliminate any bulkiness at the top of your wading boot. These booties are also anatomically correct to fit both your left and right foot perfectly. The hand warmer pocket is lined with microfleece and finished with a YKK zipper to keep your hands toasty on cold fishing trips. Other features include a mesh zippered chest pocket and a back D-ring for net hanging.

Key Features:

Affordable, chest-high waders
Triple-layered, waterproof fabric
Comfortable Y-back suspenders with easy-adjust buckles
Comfort fit gravel guard for booties
Micro fleece hand warmer pocket

8. Frogg Toggs Canyon II Chest Waders

One of the most popular and reputable companies for waterproof, outdoor gear is Frogg Toggs. Their Canyon II Stocking Foot Chest Waders are both high-quality and budget-friendly, and come with most of the same features as the more expensive options. The Canyon II Waders are made with 4-ply nylon that allows for reliable waterproofing as well as breathability. The nylon used is enhanced with the proprietary Dri2Pore technology. This greatly improves air flow and waterproofing qualities. When constructed, the seams of these waders are stitched, and then taped and fully sealed so that there is no leaking whatsoever.

Product Summary and Notable Features:

When it comes to the booties for these stocking foot waders, they are crafted with a long day of fishing in mind. They are made from 4 mm neoprene that is form fitting to each individual foot. The seams are stitched and double-taped both inside and out to protect from wetness. There are also built-in gravel guards for added protection and dependability. On the chest of the Canyon II Chest Waders is a large pocket with a splash-proof zipper for holding any gear you may need to keep close. Lastly, the elastic suspenders on these waders are comfortable and easily adjustable, and also have a quick-release feature to help with removal.

Key Features:

4-layers of nylon
Dri2Pore Technology for enhanced waterproofing and breathability
Taped and sealed seams
Form fitting, waterproof, neoprene booties
Quick-release suspenders
Splash-proof chest pocket

In Conclusion

When it comes to choosing fishing waders, a lot of your decision should depend on personal preference and the type of fishing that you plan to do. It should also depend on the budget that you set as well. Once you make your decision, keep in mind that there are many kinds of wader accessories that you may want to add to your gear. For deeper waters, you may want a wading staff. You can substitute the included wading belt on your waders for a thicker belt with attachments for rods and such. The possibilities are endless.