You would be fine using a cheap pair of tennis shoes or wading shoes over the stocking foot waders. You need to protect the neoprene booties from sharp rocks. Keep in mind though, the neoprene is thicker than a sock and you may need to go with a 16 shoe to accommodate them. Also, tennis shoes may be better.
Table of Contents
What kind of waders are best for fly fishing?
Our top-ten favorite waders, ranging from entry-level to midrange to high-end waders: Frogg Toggs Hellbender Stockingfoot Chest Waders – best entry-level waders near $100. Redington Crosswater Waders – great quality, simple feature set. Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Waders – cushioned suspenders.
Are neoprene waders good for fly fishing?
Overall, if you plan on fly fishing very cold water or in very cold weather, neoprene waders are an excellent choice. Otherwise, stick with the newer, breathable type of waders.
How do you pick a size for waders?
- your largest girth around in inches (chest, waist, or hips)
- your inseam in inches (crotch to floor)
- your shoe size.
Is neoprene or PVC better for waders?
There are much cheaper options like PVC and nylon but they won’t be anywhere as durable, reliable, and comfortable as breathable waders will be. Neoprene waders are a decent option but they are not as good as breathable waders, in my opinion.
Is Simms better than Orvis?
The Orvis Men’s Ultralight Convertible Wader is a very light pair and great for travelling. If you plan on fishing a lot in cold temperatures the Simms Freestone is the better choice since the Orvis does not feature handwarmer pockets.
How long should fly fishing waders last?
As a general rule of thumb, though, you can expect to get about 3-4 seasons of use from a pair of mid-range waders with moderate use. If you’re fishing every single day, then you might be able to get two seasons from a pair, and maybe just one, depending on how hard you are on your gear.
Do your feet get wet in waders?
Wading boots are not designed to be waterproof. Instead, they’re designed to allow water to freely pass through their structure, while your stockingfoot waders or wading socks keep your feet dry.
Do you wear socks with waders?
Best Socks to Wear With Waders It is always a good idea to wear socks that go above your ankle to prevent rubbing against the neoprene in the booties of your waders. Longer socks also give you the option to tuck your leg layers in to prevent bunching and cold spots where the skin is directly against the waders.
Do I really need waders for fly fishing?
You do not need waders to successfully fly fish. However, waders make standing in water more comfortable and they facilitate easier casting and access to hard to reach fishing spots. You may not be ready to fork over big bucks for a pair of waders and that’s okay.
How tight should waders be?
The important thing is to ensure they don’t feel too loose or tight when moving. It’s better to be slightly too big than slightly too small. However, keep in mind that if you plan on fishing in cooler water then know that because of its larger size you’ll lose insulation much quicker because it’s so baggy.
Are waders one size fits all?
Find Your Foot Size From there, you can choose between standard waders, slim waders, or stout waders to fit your body. You can choose wader boots for stockingfoot waders the same way you would for any other shoe.
What type of waders are best?
Neoprene has been a top choice for wader materials since the 1970s and still has its following. Neoprene waders are lightweight, flexible, and – best of all – warm. For anglers who fish in cold weather, it’s hard to beat neoprene. They are also typically much less expensive than breathable waders.
Do waders keep you completely dry?
Since breathable stocking foot waders offer little insulation, you’ll need to dress for the weather and layer up to be warm. The waders will keep you dry, but that’s about all.
Are breathable waders worth it?
Breathable waders are lightweight and provide both comfort and mobility. They can be worn with just a pair of socks and shorts in warm weather or can be layered up underneath for cold weather. They provide the greatest versatility for year-round use whether fishing, hunting or working in the water.
What waders last the longest?
Q: What are the most durable waders? Many experienced anglers say that Simms and Orvis waders last the longest, but this isn’t always the case. If you want durability, look for a pair with reinforced knees and seams.
Do you need boots with waders?
Yes. You do need boots with waders. While some options have boots that come attached, others may only have neoprene socks on the bottom. If your waders only have the neoprene socks, you’ll need to purchase wading boots.
How do you pick fishing waders?
- The three most important considerations to make when selecting a fishing wader are the comfort, durability and breathability.
- The type of the wader you choose will be dependent on the depth of water you plan to wade in.
- Bootfoot Waders.
- Rubber Soles.
Are Simms waders worth it?
They are worth every penny you will spend. I fish a lot, not as much as I wish I could, but a lot. My last pair lasted six seasons or so, maybe more. They are so dependable you will forget as well.
How do you store fly fishing waders?
Can you store waders in the cold?
Storing them wet in freezing temperatures will damage them. To dry wading boots, hang them by the laces. Also keep them out of direct sunlight. The basement or a closet is a good place to store fishing boots for the winter.
Why are felt soles illegal?
Felt Sole Wading Boots These are not the choice for winter fly fishing. Unfortunately, felt sole wading boots are banned in certain states. The felt soles have the possibility of picking up parasites, invasive species, bacteria, and organisms that can be transferred to different bodies of water.
Do you wear socks when wet wading?
While most wet waders don’t wear socks or gravel guards with their sandals, if you’re wearing wading boots, wading socks are a must-have to prevent chafing, rocks and gravel from damaging your feet, and to maintain a better fit in your wading boot.
Can you wear rubber boots with waders?
With bootfoot waders, the only boot choice you have is the type of sole. However, you could pair your stockingfoot waders with wading boots for a fly-fishing trip, wear those same waders with a pair of rubber boots for some late-season swamp casting, and then layer them up for ice-fishing in winter boots.
Do you wear waders in the summer?
Anglers in the Western part of the US or anywhere that the air temperatures are warmer and drier typically only wear waders during the colder spring, fall, and winter months. During the summer, waders aren’t really needed. A quick-dry pant and some sandals or a wading boot is really all you need.