Wading Boot Questions!?

Question

Hello,

I'm a beginner fly fisherman and was in need of some gear. But first, I have a question about wading in water. When wading in water, do your socks get wet? Basically, will water get into my boots. If they are, will I need neoprene socks to keep the water out? I'm planning on getting a pair of waders that comes along with the neoprene sock. I would then need to get me some boots. Any suggestions? I would also like to do some wet wadding where I would just be in shorts and boots. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

You're confused, son.



If you are wearing waders, no, your feet will not get wet. That is, they're not supposed to get wet. If your feet get wet, your waders are leaking. Doesn't matter if you're wearing neoprene or breathable -- no water is meant to get inside the waders. Now, if you're wearing "sock-foot" waders with a tie-up boot, then water will get into the boot, yes, but your foot will be inside the sock-foot of the wader, so, again, if you've got waders on the only part of you that supposed to get wet is your hand when you're catching a fish.



There are generally two kinds of waders -- neoprene (reminds you of a wetsuit) and breathable waders (pliable fabric that basically looks and fees like waterproof clothing fabric).



Most breathable, sock-foot waders come with a neoprene sock because it's comfortable and form-fitting and it takes punishment. It used to be said that neoprene waders were better in very cold water but that's not really true anymore. Neoprene was only a "warmer" option because they're thicker and provide more insulation, but it can also get quite clammy under a set of neoprene waders, which can serve to make you colder. Multi-ply breathable waders are very warm nowadays, and with a pair of thermals underneath you'll be warm AND comfortable, because they don't constrict movement and they don't trap sweat and moisture side (that's why they're called breathable).



My favorite boot is the Simms Freestone. I've had a few different wading boots (including an old pair of hiking boots) and these are the best I've ever had. They're non-felt sole, feel good to hike in and seem exceedingly rugged (only had them since winter, so, they still look brand new). They cost $129, which may be more than you wanna spend, but if it meets your budget, I'd get some:



http://www.flyfishingoutfitters.com/onlineshop-wading_boots_sandals-simms_wading_boots_sandals-simms_freestone_wading_boots-simms_freestone_boot_vibram



Edit -- I didn't down-thumb the previous answerer. I disagree with him about the neoprene thing, but otherwise his answer makes sense... gave him a thumb-up. All this down-thumbing is a bit outta control, y'all...

Answer 2

Neoprene Wading Socks

Answer 3

Wet Wading Shoes

Answer 4

You asked for suggestions. 1. Wear a tight belt around your waist outside of waders to keep water out "when" not "if" you fall in water. 2. Float down stream feet first, when you fall in and paddle with hands to side of river. 3. Carry a ski pole to assist you in not falling. 3. Always take a dry change of clothes a friend and always let people know where and when and your expected back time.



Usually neoprene waders are best in cold water they have booties in same material already at end of leg those are socks that you fit into wading boots purchased one size larger due to thickness of neoprene booty. I like boots with felt soles they are less slippery. I used to wade in shorts and quit after several cuts and snakes crawling around my legs and you can get bad rashes from stuff in the water and bug bites. But it is cooler, depends on where I wade.



I discovered that a tool bag front and back with straps over the shoulders is much less tiring than a vest. Always probe water first for depth and softness before stepping. On some streams with many trees leaves fall in and sink and make like a quicksand that when you step in can swallow you and its very dangerous and difficult to get out of. Its near impossible to know unless you probe first and your probe sinks in with no resistance.



Fish are in water not air so keep line in water not swinging back and forth in sky all day & Have FUN!! oh and do not argue with water moccasins, they have the right of way.

Answer 5

do they go over your waders?