There’s nothing like a quiet day out fly fishing on the river, reeling in fish with their silver scales reflecting the sunlight. It’s a way to relax and unwind after all the hustle and bustle of the work week.
However, in order to be successful at this sport, you really need a good pair of fly fishing waders.
Waders help you navigate through varying water currents and depths. But in order to take advantage of those benefits, you’ve got to be able to unpack what the best fly fishing waders are, how to choose them, and what factors to consider as you do.
With all that in mind, let’s wade through the vibrant world of fly fishing and discover what lies beneath the surface of quality fly-fishing waders.
What are the Benefits of Good Fly Fishing Waders
Fly fishing is a sport that involves making your way through varying depths of water. One moment, you’re standing on the bank, then, in the blink of an eye, you’re wading knee-deep in the water as the rushing sounds calm your mind.
To help you navigate these fast changes, a pair of fly fishing waders can really help. Let’s check out the benefits of these waders and why they’re so important.
Improved Accessibility
Imagine being by the river, seeing the perfect fishing spot just slightly offshore. With sturdy waders, you can just stride into the water without a second thought – the barrier between you and the ideal fishing spot is gone.
Protection Against Outdoor Elements
Whether it’s a freezing cold river in the winter or an insect-laden swamp in the summer, waders help protect you from the harsh conditions. On a cold, windy day, the only thing that might enable you to endure the chilly water and keep fishing is a well-insulated pair of waders.
Ample Storage Space
Modern waders come with ample storage space, gone are the days when waders were just a protective outer shell. Good waders can have pockets that allow you to easily access your gear without having to exit the water. This quick access to supplies like reels and lines (or even snacks for the hungry sportsman) keeps the fishing experience seamless and efficient.
Waders Enhance Safety
Rivers can be unpredictable. Good waders offer protection against underwater sharp rocks, unseen debris, or slippery surfaces, preventing potential injuries. You can avoid a nasty cut or a nasty fall with a pair of durable waders.
Best Types of Fly Fishing Waders and Their Advantages
The type of wader you choose directly impacts your overall angling experience. There are three main types of waders that have proven to be exceptionally advantageous for different angling scenarios:
- Stocking foot waders
- Bare foot waders
- Hip waders
Each of these types of waders excels in different environments and caters to the specific needs of anglers. Depending on your fishing frequency, the type of waters you fish in, and your personal comfort preference, make sure to explore and compare these types before deciding on the one that suits you best.
Let’s go over each of these in a bit more detail to help you figure out which makes sense for you.
Stocking Foot Waders
Ideal for all-round use, stocking foot waders offer superior comfort and greater flexibility. These feature neoprene “socks” where you can slide on a pair of separate wading boots. For backward anglers who often hike to remote fishing spots, this type provides better ankle support and a firmer grip.
An example of stocking foot waders includes the Simms G4Z Stockingfoot Waders, which you can find in both Men’s and Women’s sizes.
Boot Foot Waders
If you frequently fish in colder waters or during the winter season, take a look at boot foot waders. Integrated with the boot, these waders provide excellent warmth, cutting back the cold of freezing waters. No separate boots are needed here; just slip them on, and you’re ready to go.
Hip Waders
For fishing in shallow rivers and streams or other water bodies where you won’t be wading in too deep, hip waders are a good choice. These are lighter and usually more convenient to pack and wear.
An example here could be the Redington Escape Wading Pants — duck hunting in marshes and wetlands? These are perfect!
What’s the Best Material for Fly Fishing Waders
It is important to not only choose the right fit and style of waders but also the right material. The choice of material can heavily dictate your comfort, flexibility, and overall experience while fishing.
Let’s look at the three primary types of materials used in fly fishing waders:
- Neoprene
- Breathable Materials
- Rubber
Remember, each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one is essential to ensuring a great fly-fishing experience.
Neoprene
This is a type of synthetic rubber that provides excellent insulation. If you fish in cold conditions, neoprene waders are a brilliant option due to their heat-retentive properties. They come in various thickness levels, typically 3mm for warmer climates, 5mm for cooler conditions, and even up to 7mm for extremely cold environments.
Breathable Materials
For those who fly fish in warmer conditions or are active on the river and want to avoid overheating, breathable waders are a perfect choice. They are made from materials like Gore-Tex, which allow sweat and condensation to escape, keeping you dry. These waders are lightweight and comfortable for long days on the water.
An example of Gore-Tex, breathable waders is the Simms G4Z Stockingfoot Waders.
Rubber
Rubber waders are the traditional, old-school option. They are quite durable and perfect for anglers on a tight budget. However, rubber tends to be quite heavy, isn’t breathable, and lacks insulation, making it less comfortable for extended periods. Yet, they can do a solid job and are easy to repair.
Features to Look for in the Best Fly Fishing Waders
We’ve gone over the different types and materials for fly fishing waders. But, if you’re buying your first pair, that still doesn’t tell you a lot about what other features you want to look for.
Let’s check out a few things to track down as you look for an ideal pair of fly fishing waders.
Breathability
Breathability is key to keeping you comfortable on those long fishing days, and it’s even more crucial if you plan to do any kind of fishing in warmer climates. The last thing you want is to feel sweaty and suffocated in your wading gear.
One breathable pair of waders is the Women’s Simms Tributary Stockingfoot Waders. These waders are comfortable and have built-in layers to help you stay cool as you’re out on the creek for a day.
Durability
If you’ve ever experienced that sinking feeling of a leak halfway through your fishing trip, you’ll know exactly why durability matters.
Adjustability
Trust me, there’s nothing worse than wearing a pair of waders that are too loose or too tight. The ability to adjust the size and fit considerably enhances comfort.
Comfort
No matter how tough or breathable the waders are, if they are not comfortable, you’ll probably want to cut your fishing trip short.
Extra Features
Look for ones with waterproof pockets to store your devices or keys, gravel guards to keep debris out of your boots, or perhaps a built-in belt for safety measures.
For instance, the Men’s Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders come with gravel guards to help you keep debris out of your waders and stay comfortable as you’re out on the river.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fly Fishing Wader
When selecting the perfect pair of waders, there are several key factors that you need to consider. These include things like where you’ll be fishing, what type of fishing you do, and what the size and fit are like. With that in mind, here are a few other factors you’ll want to consider as you hunt for the perfect waders.
Season and Climate
If you plan on hitting the water in colder weather, a thick, insulating pair of waders, like the Redington Crosswater Waders, might be your best bet. However, if you’re going to be fishing in warmer weather, breathable waders will be more comfortable and prevent overheating.
Type of Fishing
If you’re going to be lake fishing, wade fishing, or fly fishing in fairly calm, shallow waters, waist-high or even hip waders might suffice. However, if you are embarking on deep river fishing or surf fishing in harsh conditions, chest-high waders will provide better coverage and protection.
Size and Fit
Waders should be comfortable and allow for mobility, especially if you’re going to be hiking to remote fishing spots. Tight waders can restrict your movement and make for a miserable fishing experience. Too-large waders can also be problematic as they can create extra drag in the water and make it hard to maneuver. Therefore, it’s best to try different sizes and styles to determine what works best for you.
Women’s bodies are not shaped the same as men’s and, as such, women-specific waders are designed to better fit a woman’s physique. This includes features like shorter inseams, more pronounced hips, and smaller shoe sizes. For women, for instance, you could go for something like the Women’s Redington Escape Wader, while men may want to opt for the Men’s Simms Tributary Stockingfoot Waders.
Level of Your Fishing Activity
If you head out with the fly rod at every possible opportunity, investing in a high-quality, durable pair of waders will save you from frequent replacements. However, if fly fishing is an occasional hobby for you, a more economical, entry-level option could potentially suffice.
Adventurous Fishing
If you’re planning to partake in more adventurous fishing, trekking through briar patches or around rocks, consider the durability of the water, not just its comfort. Certain waders use specifically strengthened materials to provide increased durability. These options might be a bit pricier but will save you the hassle of frequent replacements.
Budget
Understand that, with waders, as with most things, you often get what you pay for. An inexpensive wader might be tempting, but it may not last as long or offer the comfort, fit, or safety of a pricier product. Invest wisely!
Entry-Level, Mid-Range, or High-End Waders: Which One is Best for Me?
Once you start looking into fly fishing waders, you’ll quickly discover that there’s a wide range of options out there. First, there are affordable waders, which can be great for beginner fly fishers. Then, there are more high-tech waders that have extra features for those who have been in the game for a while.
So, how do you pick which is right for you?
Let’s break down some of the different categories of waders and what situations each one would make sense for.
Entry-Level Waders
Entry-level fly fishing waders are ideal for those just starting out or planning on fishing infrequently, perhaps 5-10 times a year. They usually aren’t as durable or equipped with as many features as their more expensive counterparts, but they are substantially more affordable and offer good value for occasional use.
An example of these could be the Redington Crosswater Waders.
Mid-Range Waders
If you are regularly going to fly fish, say above 20 times a year in multiple seasons, a mid-range wader will likely better suit your needs. They are usually crafted with higher-quality materials and offer better durability. They are equipped with more features like spacious pockets and handy belt loops.
High-End Waders
Finally, if you are an aficionado who flies fish several times a month or even weekly, high-end waders are the way to go. Usually, they are manufactured with top-of-the-line materials like GORE-TEX that ensure both excellent breathability and durability. They also come with an array of features designed to enhance your fly fishing experience.
An example of a pair of high-end waders could be the Men’s Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders.
Find the Perfect Pair of Fly Fishing Waders
Fly fishing is a great way to unwind and also provides an adventure and a connection with nature. However, if you don’t have the right gear, your experience can be a cold and uncomfortable one. That’s why having the right fly fishing waders can truly make or break your fishing experience.
At Jesse Brown’s Outdoors, we have tons of different fly fishing waders available for a wide range of budgets and experience levels. Check them out today to get set up with all the fishing gear you need.
Or, if you’re not quite ready to purchase, join our email list to receive exclusive insights, updates, and benefits delivered straight to your inbox that will help you make a choice later down the line.