new waders

[Chrisper4694]

i can't stop the leaking on my old neoprene boot waders so i'm going to upgrade to a neoprene sock / wading boot style. I'm not interested in any bells and whistles. Only interested in it not restricting me or leaking after a couple of uses haha.

After looking a bit, it seems like i can get the waders and boots for a total of under $200-$250 looking at the compass and frogg togg brands a few different models.

anyone want to bash either of these or make any suggestions before i make a purchase :)

[Castaway]

I absolutely love my Cabelas neoprene waders.

[FASTEDDIE29]

I don’t wear the neoprene waders. The Frogg Toggs are a great brand though. If they last a couple seasons than you got your money’s worth. I like the breathable light weight ones. They’re just more comfortable!

[OMC]

You sure you want neos and not breathables ? They really dont keep you that much warmer except when its warm out then you're sweating your ass off. Oversize your breathables and layer up make sure you oversize the boots also.
Cabelas from what I have heard do not honor the replacements as they use to but LLBean does. Whatever brand you get just make sure you get a good quality breathable.
Personally I have Dan Bailey's but then arent cheap.

[Drossi]

I'm brutal on waders (briars, sticks, falls, barbed wire, more falls), used to get a year or so out of Cabelas or Hodgemans. Finally bit the bullet and bought the lowest end model Simms breathables. I know fancy, over priced, yupster but I had them 10 years with only 1 aqua seal job.now my son has them. They more than paid for themselves 2x over. Steep front end price but you make up for it with less overall purchases.

[bigboy5522]

+1 for simms. Had frequent leaks with cheaper neoprene waders. Was going through about one a year. Got simms and the quality is far more superior. Its been three years so far and I am very satisfied. I did have one issue, while walking the area between my knees would rub and after awhile it created a small hole. Sent them in during the summer and they repaired for free.

Oh and I purchased them on sale. They are pricey but I believe I got like $100 off.

[Castaway]

You sure you want neos and not breathables ? They really dont keep you that much warmer

So if you’re standing in 35 degree water for two hours in January paper thin breathable waders are just as warm as 5mm neoprene’s? I fish all winter and my legs never get cold wearing the neoprene’s.

[OMC]

Been steelhead fishing in some of the nastiest weather in breathables just need to layer up. He didnt say he wanted winter waders. Breathables are much better for all conditions just look at how many guys steelhead fishing are wearing breathables. Remember sweating in really cold weather is the worst thing you can do. But if you like neos thats great they have their place. If I was going to sit in a boat or duck blind and not walk around I
would go with neos.

[akoop]

Been steelhead fishing in some of the nastiest weather in breathables just need to layer up. He didnt say he wanted winter waders. Breathables are much better for all conditions just look at how many guys steelhead fishing are wearing breathables. Remember sweating in really cold weather is the worst thing you can do. But if you like neos thats great they have their place. If I was going to sit in a boat or duck blind and not walk around I
would go with neos.

I totally agree, I used to fish in the same Neos that I use for waterfowl hunting and ended up switching out for some breathable lightweight LLBean waders and some Orvis boots. I just layer up and they are fine. Fished for steelhead on the Lake Ontario tribs in late November and was perfectly warm. Also I don't feel nearly as tired at the end of a long day of fishing with a lot of hiking between spots.

[Eskimo]

.

Gator Waders because they sell them in a leopard print.


https://cdn.outdoorhub.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/04/OHUB_LR_GatorWaders_feature.jpg
.

[nsell]

Chrisper, In my humble opinion you can not beat the Orvis Encounter Bootfoot Wader. You should definitely take a look at them. Knee area is reinforced. Also a great guarantee on their waders if something goes wrong. A little pricey, but you get what you pay for.

[june181901]

try field supply.com for waders today, 30 JAN.

[Chrisper4694]

.

Gator Waders because they sell them in a leopard print.


https://cdn.outdoorhub.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/04/OHUB_LR_GatorWaders_feature.jpg
.

well this just became the easiest decision in the world!

[Chrisper4694]

I don't really want the waders with the boot built in...they always end up leaking in the boot area in my experience. Though i did get about 6-7 years out of my cheap neoprene ones (repairing it multiple times, until I just couldn't stop the leaking anymore).

I'd have to get like 28 years out of a simms pair to match that, which i don't think would happen.

I'm usually pretty careful about not walking through thorns and stuff, my biggest issue is a lot of walking in the uneven riverbeds. the built in boot waders just don't flex and end up leaking, plus the soles suck and rocky areas bust my feet up.

I'm not looking for neoprene waders. when mine started leaking i used an old pair of cheap breathable ones that didn't leak and there was no difference in warmth...the water is actually warmer than the air most of the time fall and winter.

[henro]

I have Simms G3 Guide waders and their G3 boots which have held up very well since I purchased them in 2016. Felt bottoms with screw-in studs is the only way to go for great traction. Prior to that I had Redington Sonic Pro waders and their Skagit boots. The waders held up well for a good few years of use but the boots didn't last. I vividly remember walking on some rocks while I was up in Olcott, NY and the whole sole on one foot came right off. They went in the garbage after that. I don't like neoprene waders either as I don't want to be hot when fishing in the summer. In the colder months I wear the Simms Guide Fleece Bibs underneath and never get cold. They don't infringe on your movement at all either which is great.

[RyanMac14]

I have a pair of hodgman neoprene waders that are hand me downs from my Dad and must be over 20 years old. I love them. They feel fantastic. Never a tear or leak despite my best efforts to do so walking through brush and every other hazard. Not too expensive from what I see with newer models. I paired with cabela neoprene boots that i wouldnt recommend. But if i ever do need a new pair of waders, which with their quality and hpw grrst they still look i may not, i would stick with Hodgman.

[Chrisper4694]

thanks for the comments guys...i think i'm between the frogg toggs pilot 2 or the L.L. Bean Emerger...They seem pretty comparable but i can find the frogg toggs for a pretty good sale price so i'm leaning towards them.

Now i just need a boot that's around 70-80 bucks that's tough enough to not fall apart or be uncomfortable.

[Jigman13]

Just get them leopard ones bro. Top of the food chain dude!

[fishingbuddies]

I had a pair of Frogg Toggs that lasted about 1.5 years.
They leaked often at the bootie interface. I sprayed them a few times and that worked for awhile. Eventually the inner breathable membrane separated on the inside from the nylon material. Threw them out before the two year mark. :mad: Just my observations.
I personally wouldn't buy Frogg Togg again.
Hope that helps

[Chrisper4694]

I had a pair of Frogg Toggs that lasted about 1.5 years.
They leaked often at the bootie interface. I sprayed them a few times and that worked for awhile. Eventually the inner breathable membrane separated on the inside from the nylon material. Threw them out before the two year mark. :mad: Just my observations.
I personally wouldn't buy Frogg Togg again.
Hope that helps

which ones? i feel like someone has had leaky versions of every single brand...and that's pretty much the number one thing i want is no leaking hahaha seems like it's a crap shoot. i guess i'll just go with the leopard ones...they'll probably leak too but at least i'll look bad ass.

[Capt. Lou]

I’ve worn the Aquaz boot foots in winter like now in 36 degree water . Mine have the Boggs boots with a neoprene connection this elimates any chaffing ang gives the boot more flexibility in that area .
The Boggs are 5mm insulated and tops 4 ply breathable very flexible but tough.
I e worn these four 4 seasons now only in winter consditions then switch over to their stocking foots once water in mid 40’s !
I generally fish several times a week in winter when conditions aren’t too bad and I’m totally satisfied with all my Aquaz waders 👍
Not cheap but I’m certainly getting what I paid for so far & last season alone I fished trout about 75 days much in cold weather !
Neoprenes are warm but can be more difficult to walk distances , however if ur not a walker then nonissue !

[briansnat]

So if you’re standing in 35 degree water for two hours in January paper thin breathable waders are just as warm as 5mm neoprene’s? I fish all winter and my legs never get cold wearing the neoprene’s.

I wear a thick pair of Polar fleece pants under my thin "summer" waders and have never been cold, even in the winter.

[EJS]

I cant speak to the Frog Toggs, I have never owned them. Since you are looking for breathable stocking foot, I would suggest staying away from Simms, only there high end G series is made in the Bozeman, the rest is sourced from overseas. I had Freestone's and they were just problems.

Orvis quality has gone way down, you certainly don't get your moneys worth!

On the cheap, you can't beat the Cabelas brand, but don't expect a lifespan past 3 years.

If you are 6' or taller, there are two brands I would recommend, Redington or LLBean. Both have great warranties & customer service. Both are made with extra leg length to not put stress on the seat seams when climbing over fallen trees or down banks. As far as extra features, they are probably the equal. Hope that helps.

[akoop]

I cant speak to the Frog Toggs, I have never owned them. Since you are looking for breathable stocking foot, I would suggest staying away from Simms, only there high end G series is made in the Bozeman, the rest is sourced from overseas. I had Freestone's and they were just problems.

Orvis quality has gone way down, you certainly don't get your moneys worth!

On the cheap, you can't beat the Cabelas brand, but don't expect a lifespan past 3 years.

If you are 6' or taller, there are two brands I would recommend, Redington or LLBean. Both have great warranties & customer service. Both are made with extra leg length to not put stress on the seat seams when climbing over fallen trees or down banks. As far as extra features, they are probably the equal. Hope that helps.

100% agree on the LLBean, I'm 6'3" and the waders are the most comfortable ones I have ever owned.

[Jigman13]

Anyone ever use these?

https://dryftfishing.com/shop/s14-adrenaline-wader/

[Chrisper4694]

so i fish for everything that NJ has to offer and that probably puts me in the rivers wading maybe 30 times per year on average. My cheap $100 pro-line neoprene waders lasted me about 6 years before the boot leak became virtually non-fixable. If i pay $180 for waders and another 70-80 for boots am i just dreaming expecting them to last longer than that???

now i'm considering just buying another pair of cheapo ones if it's all doing to leak no matter what :mad:

[Chrisper4694]

i'm no thinking L.L. Bean if that warranty statement on their site holds true...anyone ever made a return to them that can confirm?

It says basically for any reason if not satisfied they'll exchange or return...I'd expect at least 5-6 years of avg 30 trip seasons without bad leaks due to usage on the seams. maybe small fixable ones once or twice...not including any that are my own fault.

[EJS]

so i fish for everything that NJ has to offer and that probably puts me in the rivers wading maybe 30 times per year on average. My cheap $100 pro-line neoprene waders lasted me about 6 years before the boot leak became virtually non-fixable. If i pay $180 for waders and another 70-80 for boots am i just dreaming expecting them to last longer than that???

now i'm considering just buying another pair of cheapo ones if it's all doing to leak no matter what :mad:

No, I think that's not an unreasonable expectation given the number of times you fish per year. 30x a year I would say your waders will last 3 years without leaks if they are hung and left to dry after use, you don't step on the stocking foot to get your leg out, you use a mat to stand on while getting your waders off, and do not go running through the forest blindfolded.... just reasonable care. Out of the waders I had and still have, the Redington's seem to be the most bulletproof, but they are also slightly heavier than other breathable waders.

I had a pair of Cabelas waders a 2006, they lasted 3 years for $132. I replaced them with more expensive Simms waders and they quit after 1.5 years. Same amount of fishing time per year, just crap for quality. Went through numerous repairs with Simms, and they never not once came back to me leak free.

[Drossi]

so i fish for everything that NJ has to offer and that probably puts me in the rivers wading maybe 30 times per year on average. My cheap $100 pro-line neoprene waders lasted me about 6 years before the boot leak became virtually non-fixable. If i pay $180 for waders and another 70-80 for boots am i just dreaming expecting them to last longer than that???

now i'm considering just buying another pair of cheapo ones if it's all doing to leak no matter what :mad:

If you plunk down $250 combined I'd go with LL Bean for the wading shoes. I got 8 years out my last pair of their wading boots or about $10/yr of use. Can't beat that. Though Cabelas wading boots have treated me good too. Their breathable waders got me 5 years and would have lasted longer excepted I ripped them beyond repair in a nasty fall.

[Chrisper4694]

In your opinions which is less likely to leak...the stocking feet or the built in boot style? I've only ever used built in boot style and eventually the boot is always what leaks to the point of being non-repairable.

I'm pretty sure i'm going to go with the l.l. bean emerger waders either the built in boot breathable version or the stocking foot breathable version with a pair of l.l. beans least expensive wading boot (either way about the same price $250).

I'm def going to hold them up to their warranty statement though, so i hope they stand behind it!

[dfish28]

Whatever you get, I always say... make sure you get one with a ZIPPER!!.
Makes draining the weasel so much easier!

[briansnat]

i'm no thinking L.L. Bean if that warranty statement on their site holds true...anyone ever made a return to them that can confirm?

It says basically for any reason if not satisfied they'll exchange or return...

LL Bean's satisfaction guarantee is pretty iron clad. I bought a pair of hiking boots that didn't last as long as I thought they should. They were in their third year when I returned them and received a brand new pair, no questions asked.

Then there were the Bean jeans that the stitching started failing on a back pocket after a year or so. I put them aside with the intent of sending them back and forgot about them. Eight years later I was cleaning out a closet and found them. I figured WTF and sent them back and recieved a replacement.

I didn't try to return the Bean waders I ripped stepping over a jagged metal fence. I figured that was my fault. I have no doubt they would have replaced them though.

[Castaway]

Is there a ll bean out here? Or do you have to ship the item you are returning?

[RyanMac14]

Theres an LL Bean store attached to Freehold Mall

[Skunk City]

Is there a ll bean out here? Or do you have to ship the item you are returning?

Paramus Park Mall as well.

[henro]

In your opinions which is less likely to leak...the stocking feet or the built in boot style? I've only ever used built in boot style and eventually the boot is always what leaks to the point of being non-repairable.

I'm pretty sure i'm going to go with the l.l. bean emerger waders either the built in boot breathable version or the stocking foot breathable version with a pair of l.l. beans least expensive wading boot (either way about the same price $250).

I'm def going to hold them up to their warranty statement though, so i hope they stand behind it!

100% go stocking foot + boots no matter what you do.

[EJS]

In your opinions which is less likely to leak...the stocking feet or the built in boot style? I've only ever used built in boot style and eventually the boot is always what leaks to the point of being non-repairable.

I'm pretty sure i'm going to go with the l.l. bean emerger waders either the built in boot breathable version or the stocking foot breathable version with a pair of l.l. beans least expensive wading boot (either way about the same price $250).

I'm def going to hold them up to their warranty statement though, so i hope they stand behind it!

That's a good question, not sure it can be easily answered. Too many variables to consider. With boot foot waders you lose the flexibility, such as using Corkers boots w/ swapable soles. Keep in mind I haven't worn boot foot waders since 2001...ish so I can't truly speak to quality or durability in current boot foot waders.

As far as LL Bean's warranty and customer service, they are top notch!

[Chrisper4694]

thanks guys. I'm going to go with the L.L. Bean emerger stocking foot waders with their least expensive wading boot.

I'm going with the separate boot because my feet have taken a beating on rocks with the thin built in boot style.

[EJS]

That's a good pick, they're great waders.

[akoop]

thanks guys. I'm going to go with the L.L. Bean emerger stocking foot waders with their least expensive wading boot.

I'm going with the separate boot because my feet have taken a beating on rocks with the thin built in boot style.

I have the same ones and the waders are great. I am not 100% happy with the boots because the studs keep pulling out. I loose 3 or 4 after each fishing trip.

[EJS]

I have the same ones and the waders are great. I am not 100% happy with the boots because the studs keep pulling out. I loose 3 or 4 after each fishing trip.

Try the Korkers Greenback boots, they are great boots for under $100, and the soles are interchangeable!

[Hookmanski]

thanks guys. I'm going to go with the L.L. Bean emerger stocking foot waders with their least expensive wading boot.

I'm going with the separate boot because my feet have taken a beating on rocks with the thin built in boot style.

Hope you didn't buy those LL Bean waders already!! They just completely scrapped their return policy. So if you can find another company with a better policy you may want to go that route!

[Chrisper4694]

I have the same ones and the waders are great. I am not 100% happy with the boots because the studs keep pulling out. I loose 3 or 4 after each fishing trip.

I don't need studs, i want zero bells and whistles on my boots just thick enough to keep my feet from getting bashed up and durable enough to not fall apart after a few seasons. I'm not interested in paying extra for interchangeable soles, spikes, or any of that stuff.

you should contact them though and according to their warranty, they'll replace it!

[Chrisper4694]

Hope you didn't buy those LL Bean waders already!! They just completely scrapped their return policy. So if you can find another company with a better policy you may want to go that route!

wait what? you serious??? haha

[Hookmanski]

wait what? you serious??? haha

Unfortunately I am :( I was looking at getting a pair from them too but now im not so sure

https://www.nbcnews.com/business/consumer/no-more-lifetime-returns-l-l-bean-gives-its-legendary-n846301

[henro]

I don't need studs, i want zero bells and whistles on my boots just thick enough to keep my feet from getting bashed up and durable enough to not fall apart after a few seasons. I'm not interested in paying extra for interchangeable soles, spikes, or any of that stuff.

you should contact them though and according to their warranty, they'll replace it!

I have to HIGHLY recommend getting screw in studs for felt bottom boots. They make a world of difference in traction walking on rocks. Most stud kits are like $30. I would never go without them. Huge plus when working the fast waters for me when I'm fishing in Pulaski.

[BT67]

How anyone would expect to have a lifetime warranty on any item is beyond me. Of course that is what LL Bean claimed so you have those who need to try and take advantage of an honor system situation. Hello Mr Bean, I have these waders I picked up a garage sale, they look to be about 20 years old with rips and holes but these are under the lifetime warranty right:rolleyes:

[Hookmanski]

How anyone would expect to have a lifetime warranty on any item is beyond me. Of course that is what LL Bean claimed so you have those who need to try and take advantage of an honor system situation. Hello Mr Bean, I have these waders I picked up a garage sale, they look to be about 20 years old with rips and holes but these are under the lifetime warranty right:rolleyes:

Yeah I definitely understand where LL Bean is coming from, but at the same time if I bought waders from them and had an issue within a year or two, I'd want them to be replaced! The crazy people expecting them to replace 20 year old boots bought from a yard sale are out of luck now, but the people who are actually buying their products at full price shouldn't be.

[BT67]

Yeah I definitely understand where LL Bean is coming from, but at the same time if I bought waders from them and had an issue within a year or two, I'd want them to be replaced! The crazy people expecting them to replace 20 year old boots bought from a yard sale are out of luck now, but the people who are actually buying their products at full price shouldn't be.

My understanding is that after a year or two or even 5 they would replace per my last conversation with a rep there. Looking to weed out those who look to take advantage of the warranty is all. They still stand by their products and want their customers to be satisfied.

[Drossi]

My understanding is that after a year or two or even 5 they would replace per my last conversation with a rep there. Looking to weed out those who look to take advantage of the warranty is all. They still stand by their products and want their customers to be satisfied.

I had a pair of their Streamlight wading boots, after 8 or so years of hard use the outer side ripped. I didn't expect Bean to replace them but called anyway. They didn't replace them which is what I expected. They were past their shelf life so to speak. I was satisfied that I got my money's worth.

[BT67]

I had a pair of their Streamlight wading boots, after 8 or so years of hard use the outer side ripped. I didn't expect Bean to replace them but called anyway. They didn't replace them which is what I expected. They were past their shelf life so to speak. I was satisfied that I got my money's worth.


yeah I would think 8 years of hard use is definitely your $$$ worth, I think 5 years is the magic time frame. I just stepped up to the LL Bean Kennebec Line, looking forward to using this spring and beyond

[Adrenalinerush]

I have owned breathable Hodgeman, Pro-line, Orvis, and now Simms for the last two years. Owned a couple others also but can't remember the brand. With the exception of the Simms which are only two years old they all failed within 3-4 years. Sorry, but the more expensive ones are a little better and have more bells and whistles such as fleece lined pockets but they all suck and will all fail. It's just the nature of the material. As far as boots, I have had chota wading boots for about 15 years and they kick ass. Never a single problem with them, get the carbide tip screws, they are more expensive than the standard but last a long time.
Chris, I know you are starting to get into the great lakes fisheries. DON'T go and fish those streams without screws in your boots unless you like getting wet and bobbing up and down stream in the current.

[Chrisper4694]

I have owned breathable Hodgeman, Pro-line, Orvis, and now Simms for the last two years. Owned a couple others also but can't remember the brand. With the exception of the Simms which are only two years old they all failed within 3-4 years. Sorry, but the more expensive ones are a little better and have more bells and whistles such as fleece lined pockets but they all suck and will all fail. It's just the nature of the material. As far as boots, I have had chota wading boots for about 15 years and they kick ass. Never a single problem with them, get the carbide tip screws, they are more expensive than the standard but last a long time.
Chris, I know you are starting to get into the great lakes fisheries. DON'T go and fish those streams without screws in your boots unless you like getting wet and bobbing up and down stream in the current.

2 days there under my belt and not wet yet! I'll take that as a challenge! the one spot was a little sketchy i'll admit haha.

I emailed l.l. bean, they basically said they still stand behind their stuff ovbiously, 1 year basically no questions asked and then beyond that they'll still back up the materials and craftsmanship. so basically if the seams fail beyond repair within 5-6 years, i'm expecting them to replace. I don't expect them to last forever, but they better last as long or longer than my $100 ones, that's all.

[Adrenalinerush]

2 days there under my belt and not wet yet! I'll take that as a challenge! the one spot was a little sketchy i'll admit haha.

I emailed l.l. bean, they basically said they still stand behind their stuff ovbiously, 1 year basically no questions asked and then beyond that they'll still back up the materials and craftsmanship. so basically if the seams fail beyond repair within 5-6 years, i'm expecting them to replace. I don't expect them to last forever, but they better last as long or longer than my $100 ones, that's all.


Two days under your belt, lol! I have maybe 400+ between Erie and Ontario tribs. Erie tribs you don't need cleats but they help. If you are gonna fish Ontario tribs and you don't have cleats or screws bring a long rope and plenty of dry clothes to change into. ;):D

[Chrisper4694]

eh i'm not spending $40 extra on boots for a trip ever couple of years, i'd rather test my dexterity.

[Super]

Few quick comments. Cables has a lifetime warranty on waders. And waiders all fail eventually. An Orvis rep told me that typically seams fail after five years, even on the best waders.

I have Frog Togg boots wading boots. They lasted under a year before they fell apart.

And check Sierra Trading Post. They have some good deals.

[OMC]

eh i'm not spending $40 extra on boots for a trip ever couple of years, i'd rather test my dexterity.

As Arush said dont chance the lake O tribs without some kind of cleats or screws. You can buy carbide tip screws and drill them into any boot. It only takes one time bobbing down the SR above a set of rapids to make you understand that an extra couple of bucks is very worth it. I have Chotas as well and worth every penny after 10 plus years of use. They are my second pair and my son just retired the old ones which were every bit of 15 + yrs.
The screws work everywhere Big D can get really slippery also.

[OMC]

Since this thread started I looked over my waders from Dan Bailey they arent cheap but you get what you pay for. After around a year they had a slight leak which was from me bush wacking. I sent them back and a new pair was sent to me. That was around 8 yrs ago and since then i have had no issues until recently slight dampness after long periods of standing in the water. I was going to get a new pair since 8 yrs is great for waders. After looking at thier site they now offer to repair any leaks free of charge as long as they arent to bad and they can be fixed. That is great customer service and a company that stands by thier product. I am sending both mine and my sons pair back for the service. I will post the results once i get them back.