Chest Waders

[HoosierHawgs]

Not sure if this is the place to put this, but it seemed like the best place to me. I'm looking at getting a good pair or chest waders for creek fishing, but not sure where to start. I want a dependable pair that will hold up to the wear and tear of rigorous creek fishing, and that are, and will stay waterproof. They do not have to be insulated, I can wear layers underneath to keep warm if need be, and would prefer them not to be insulated for the warmer months, unless someone thinks otherwise. I would like them to be a good quality pair that will last me a lifetime. Price is not a major concern, but a good deal is always nice, like if a very nice pair is at a good price. What are your suggestions? Thanks guys!

[desmobob]

I have a pile of waders.  Currently, the Orvis Silver Sonics are my favorite.  Reasonably priced, too....

 

Tight lines,

Bob

[MIbassin]

Frog Toggs makes great waders.

[flyfisher]

if yo want waders that will last a lifetime get some high end simms and you will not be disappointed.  i have a pair of frogg toggs i got basically for free and they are holding up well but i haven't been fishing in the creeks like i used to.  When i was guiding small mountain streams i had a pair of simms that i beat the crap out of for 3+ years and never had an issue.

[HoosierHawgs]

I have a pile of waders. Currently, the Orvis Silver Sonics are my favorite. Reasonably priced, too....

Tight lines,

Bob

Looks like there is multiple lines of Silver Sonic. Which one do you own, do you know?

[desmobob]

Looks like there is multiple lines of Silver Sonic. Which one do you own, do you know?

 

The basic, convertible top model.  (Winner of a 2013 Field & Stream Best of the Best Award, as chosen by the editorial staff.)

 

 

Tight lines,

Bob

[bowhunter63]

I have Redhead boot waders from bass Pro,There tough but really heavy and hot.I think i paid 159.99.I want try some gortex next time.Academy has a pretty good selction.

[NorcalBassin]

Definitely Simms. Awesome waders, great customer service, and most of the line is made in the USA.

[HoosierHawgs]

Definitely Simms. Awesome waders, great customer service, and most of the line is made in the USA.

I am a fan of US manufactured products.

[Scott F]

NO waders are going to last a lifetime. NONE of them are bullet proof. I own Simms myself. ($250 to $800) Eventually, the seams will start to leak, or you may catch a stick or thorn that will poke a hole in them. If you stick to a brand that has a good warranty, even if they do leak, you can get them replaced. Simms has good customer service. You can send leaking waders back to them and they'll fix them up. Cabela's has a lifetime warranty, normal wear is pro-rated.

As I always say, there are only two kinds of waders. Those that leak, and those that are going to leak.

[ClackerBuzz]

I understand wanting to stay cool in the warmer months but that puts you in an ice bath when you need it the most.

(believe me i tried out this theory myself )

buy insulted for the cold months.  and buy a cheap pair of hip boots for the warm months

[zeth]

Patagonia

http://www.patagonia.com/us/shop/waders?k=6L

[Steveo-1969]

I understand wanting to stay cool in the warmer months but that puts you in an ice bath when you need it the most.

(believe me i tried out this theory myself )

buy insulted for the cold months.  and buy a cheap pair of hip boots for the warm months

 

X2. I have insulated waders and my buddy does not.  In mid-60s water he was freezing after an hour and I couldn't figure out what he was complaining about!  This winter when the water is mid-30s he is going to get hypothermia and die... In warm water months I just wade in shorts and tennis shoes and don't use my waders until the water gets colder.

[B1gD4ddy]

I too am in the market for a pair of waders.  the battle I am having is between breathable or neoprene waders. 

I also wonder if I should get the booted style or go with the socks and buy a good pair of boots.  Any thoughts?

[MickD]

Different people have different priorities, but for me, I'll take breathable and add layers in the winter.  The biggest issue with breathables is foot construction.  The feet that are formed by just gluing together the breathable fabric at the feet are, IMHO, terribly uncomfortable.  I just cannot get them into the boots without major toe jamming/cramping/etc.  I think neoprene feet would be much more comfortable.  If you buy from a local dealer you can sort this out in the shop, buy on line and . . .

[Scott F]

I too am in the market for a pair of waders.  the battle I am having is between breathable or neoprene waders. 

I also wonder if I should get the booted style or go with the socks and buy a good pair of boots.  Any thoughts?

 

Boot foot waders offer no ankle support and the boots never fit your feet well. If they did, you couldn't get them on or off.  Stocking foot waders will cost more because of having to buy boots, but the extra comfort is worth it.

[k3bass]

NO waders are going to last a lifetime. NONE of them are bullet proof. I own Simms myself. ($250 to $800) Eventually, the seams will start to leak, or you may catch a stick or thorn that will poke a hole in them. If you stick to a brand that has a good warranty, even if they do leak, you can get them replaced. Simms has good customer service. You can send leaking waders back to them and they'll fix them up. Cabela's has a lifetime warranty, normal wear is pro-rated.

As I always say, there are only two kinds of waders. Those that leak, and those that are going to leak.

I agree 100 percent. No such thing as waders that will last a lifetime. They will ALL start leaking eventually. Usually a lot sooner than you expect.

I use stocking foot breathables all year. You can layer up underneath when it's cold. Neoprene are unbearable if it's not cold out.