It’s a great time to be fishing. Modern day anglers have a slew of advantages over their forbearers; technically advanced fly line, lightweight reels with impressive drag capabilities, and multi-application fly rods for nearly any scenario. But where we are really at the greatest advantage is in waders. That is thanks in no small part to fanatical attention to detail by manufacturers to meet the needs of the 21st century angler.
There are a host of major players on the market, and for sure it is difficult to find truly bad waders. Jesse Brown’s Outdoors has cultivated an inventory of what we know to be some of the best performing waders on the market today. Read on for a breakdown on some of our favorites!
The Z means zipper. And not just any zipper, but a genuine YKK waterproof zipper, so climbing in and out of these flagship waders is a breeze. Gone are the days of struggling to get in and out of waders once you own a pair of the Simms G4Z Stockingfoot Waders. But these are no one trick pony.
Get to know the Simms G4Z Stockingfoot Wader:
- 3 Layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell Upper combined with 4 Layer Gore-Tex Pro Lower for maximum protection and increased durability.
- Dual zippered chest pockets with built in retractor stations
- Micro fleece lined handwarmer pocket
- Converts to waist-high wearing thanks to the adjustable air-mesh suspender system
- Made in the USA
Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders
A perennial favorite with a cult following. Regularly upgraded and enhanced to maintain its status as king of the wader hill.
- 3 Layer Gore-Tex Upper with 4 Layer Gore-Tex Pro Lower
- Adjustable air-mesh suspender with built in net attachment point
- Zippered fleece lined handwarmer pocket on chest
- High/Low waist options for included belt
- Patented articulated legs seams for increased maneuverability
- Anatomically engineered stockingfeet for all day comfort
- Made in the USA
Simms Freestone Stockingfoot Waders
Renowned Simms quality without the price; the Freestone Stockingfoot Waders move the performance needle, come packed with the necessities, and may even leave a little walking around money in the bank.
- 4 Layer Toray QuadraLam Upper and Lower
- Fleece lined handwarmer chest pocket
- Top access zippered pocket for smaller must-haves like Fishing License, keys, or extra tipper spools
- Attachment zipper for Simms Tippet Tender
- Assembled in the USA
Available in Women’s specific sizing at Jesse Brown’s Outdoors!
Put a different name on these and jack up the price! The Redington Escape Waders are ideal for fishing in the Southeast, as a pair for your mooching neighbor, or if you appreciate value in your gear.
- Breathable waterproof 3 Layer Upper and 4 Layer Lower
- Micro fleece handwarmer pocket on chest
- Zippered top chest pocket for the little things
- Rear mounted durable anchor point for net
- Quick connect/disconnect elastic suspenders
- Included elastic wading belt
Available in Women’s specific sizing at Jesse Brown’s Outdoors!
If staying dry and keeping features to a minimum is your goal, look no further.
- 3 Layer waterproof and breathable Upper and Lower
- Adjustable suspenders
- Anatomical stockingfeet
- Built in gravel guards
All of the waders sold at Jesse Brown’s Outdoors are “stockingfoot” models. The stockingfoot booty is a seam welded neoprene sock attached the waders via stitching, adhesives, and seam welding. Anglers will need a pair of wading boots to be worn in conjunction with the waders.
Your next pair of waders should fit properly for your body shape and your intended fishing. That is to say you should have room to layer up properly if you plan on fishing through colder conditions. Proper fit is something that the staff at Jesse Brown’s Outdoors understands. Let us help get you into the waders that check all of the boxes and allow you to move unencumbered.
Images from Simms Fishing Products & Far Bank
By Wes Lawson