How Do I Pick A Pair Of Waders?

The type of fly fishing you do informs the waders you need. Are you planning a trip to Alaska for salmon? Better go for the best insulation you can get. Are you stalking fall trout in your local stream? Maybe you want something more maneuverable than warm. Start with a few questions to narrow down your search.

Insulated Or Breathable?

A thick insulating material provides warmth in cold water. Multiple layers keep body heat close. The thick-walled material of the fabric helps anglers in extremely cold temperatures withstand hours in the water. With the right insulated waders on, you can stay warm and dry through blizzards and arctic-like temperatures.

Breathable waders are made from a thinner waterproof material, closer to a rain jacket than a wetsuit. They’re preferred by most anglers because they’re versatile and maneuverable. You can layer for cold weather and in turn keep it light in summer months so you don’t over sweat or get too clammy. Remember to stay away from cotton base layers that build up perspiration and therefore dampness under your waders.

Breathable waders are beneficial because they let out some of your body heat and keep you dry and cool. This is great in warmer weather. You’d be sweating and uncomfortable in insulated waders in high summer in Wyoming. Come the Wyoming winter, you might be comfortable in breathable waders with enough layers, but insulated waders will definitely keep you comfy on an icy river day.

Boot Foot Or Stocking Foot?

Boot foot waders have a rubber boot connected at the bottom that covers a range of foot sizes. These waders are good for people who stay in one spot, wear thicker socks for colder water, and like having a simplified fishing experience. Many surfcasting and beach fisherman like boot foot waders to minimize all the sand that tends to collect in laces and gravel guards. Some people may also be allergic to neoprene, so a boot foot wader allows them to fish and be dry.

Stocking foot waders have neoprene booties that cover a range of foot sizes. You can fit these into in a wading boot matching your specific shoe size. Stocking foot waders allow you to be more precise in your boot selection and sizing. If you hike a lot or love to move around the water, a stocking foot wader is right up your alley. That way you can get just the right wading boot to suit your needs for ankle support and comfort.

Whichever style and size wader you settle on, you should feel confident to wade, scramble,and hike to your heart’s desire in them. Watch out for thorns, brambles, barbed wire, and pucker brush. They’re all the enemy of waders. Those tiny pin pricks eventually add up and you may find that you’re getting damp and wet instead of staying dry and comfortable. Be sure to properly repair and care for your waders in the off season to extend their life and your investment.

Once you narrow down the basics, remember that fishing waders can be as varied as any other piece of clothing. Buying waders online requires careful measurement to avoid future trouble. And in this case, trouble is a pair of waders that don’t fit right, are uncomfortable, and inhibit basic motions like kneeling and bending over. Try to get as close as possible to your actual measurements for chest size, inseam, and boot size. The closer your waders are to your own size, the easier it will be for you to move around. Check out our Waders Fit Guide for helpful size charts and tips. Contact our Outfitter Team for assistance with any questions by phone at 800-548-9548 or by email at fishing@orvis.com.