Whether you are a die-hard hitting 50 days a season on the water or a weekend warrior that only gets out once in a while, your waders are a critical piece of equipment that will make or break your outing or favourite trip of the year!
But where to start? There are so many options out there now, and the price point on some of them might make you squirm a little. We will say that there is nothing worse than blowing a leak in the middle of your outing, and that usually is what you can expect if you cheap out on this piece of equipment. Rods cast, reels reel, but are your waders going to perform when it counts?
With this perspective in mind, we suggest that waders are not an item that you should shop for at your local hardware store. We are not suggesting that you need to buy the most expensive ones that you can find. However, we would suggest that you stick to some reputable brand names to ensure that you are making a purchase that will perform! Whether you are knee-deep in the river or chilling in your belly boat, dry and comfortable will win the day!
This article focuses on some of the top brands out there, and we have included both entry-level models to the higher end of the line-up. Check out these Fishing Waders – The Best Of The Best!
- Value-priced, full-feature waders
- Available in Men’s, Women’s and Children’s sizes
- Modern fit to eliminate traditional wader bulk
- Opposing side-release buckles allow for waist-high conversion
- External storage pocket with stretch panel
- Kangaroo-style handwarmer pocket
- Anatomical neoprene booties with integrated neoprene gravel guards
- Belt included
The Orvis Clearwater Waders are designed with features and materials to meet the demands of the most hardcore anglers.
One of the best things about this line is that they are available in Men’s, Women’s and Children’s models and in every size you can imagine.
Constructed with a four-layer waterproof breathable nylon fabric and 30K/8K waterproofness and breathability rating, this wader is lightweight and durable.
Opposing side-release buckles allow for waist-high conversion on warm days. An external storage pocket with a stretch panel for small items and fly boxes, plus a kangaroo-style handwarmer pocket on the front chest, ensure plenty of storage and comfort.
Its updated anatomical neoprene booties feature integrated neoprene gravel guards to reduce water drag and collection. Low-profile seam construction and low-profile belt loops with a 1½” webbing belt included make this wader a great value.
The hook and loop patch on the interior pocket is compatible with the Orvis waterproof pocket (8G3H sold separately).
This is a great entry-level wader from Orvis, and what’s better, they are currently on sale for $199.99!
Orvis has kept the sizing simplistic, so a good fit is not a challenge. Orvis also offers a 60-day guarantee (money back or replacement) on this product and free shipping on orders over $50.00 within the USA.
The diversity of this fishing wader definitely qualifies them as some of the “best of the best”!
Orvis Womens Pro Waders
- 14 sizes from XS petite to XL Tall
- Keeps the quality of the PRO model while giving Ladies the fit and comfort they deserve.
- Fleece-lined hand warmer pockets for those cold days
- internal and external storage pockets
- Removable knee pads
Let’s take it up a notch with this great Wader! The Orvis PRO Women’s Fishing Wader is an excellent choice for any angler. It offers a combination of durability, comfort, convenience, and flexibility that make it a great choice.
The proprietary four-and five-layer Cordura shells provide excellent abrasion and puncture resistance, while the gusseted crotch and low-profile seam construction enhance movement and seam strength.
The modern, anatomically correct neoprene booties are comfortable and have less bulk. The streamlined PU-reinforced mesh gravel guard also eliminates drag and water collection.
The removable Ortholite X25 knee pads, adjustable elastic suspenders, and external storage pocket with YKK AquaGuard water-resistant zipper finish this wader with the quality and attention to detail that you expect from Orvis.
If you are like us and are on the water every chance you get, then this may be the wader for you! Sure to keep you dry for those long days on the water and give you years of reliable performance!
- Sizes from medium-small to XXL Tall
- Added the front waterproof zipper for convenience
- Split hand warmer pockets
- Two inside and two outside storage pockets
- Removable knee pads
These Men’s PRO Zipper Waders are truly impressive! With the TIZIP Masterseal waterproof zipper and four layers in the upper and five layers in the lower, they are incredibly durable and abrasion-resistant.
The split fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, two external storage pockets with YKK AquaGuard coated zippers, and split Hypalon daisy chain for tool docking make them easy to use and store.
The removable OrthoLite X25 knee pads make it easy on the knees when landing those trophies. The PU cage mesh gravel guards eliminate drag and water collection. The anatomically correct neoprene booties make them comfortable and secure.
The adjustable elastic suspenders with opposing buckles for waist-high conversion are a bonus for those warmer days.
The Men’s Pro Zipper Waders are also available in a boot foot model for those that like easy on and off.
The Men’s Pro Wader is also available in the traditional model with no front zipper. All the same great features plus the addition of the fleece-lined full front hand warmer pocket.
Overall, these waders are perfect for any angler looking for convenience, comfort, and quick on-and-off. Well priced and built for the serious angler!
- Two belt loops with 38 mm nylon waist belt
- Self-fabric gravel guard with the elastic bottom hem
- Anatomically engineered neoprene stocking feet with an anti-microbial finish
- Reach-through fleece lined hand warmer pocket, with zippered top stash pocket
- 3-Layer Waterproof Breathable Polyester in upper, 4-Layer Waterproof Breathable Polyester in lower
If you are looking for affordability with the backing of a reputable brand name, then you have to check these out! The Simms Tributary Stockingfoot Waders are built for comfort and durability and are priced for everyone!
With a breathable 3-layer upper and 4-layer lower material, you can be sure that you’ll stay dry season after season.
The ergonomic 3mm neoprene booties provide comfort and puncture resistance, while the large chest pocket and smaller interior-zip pocket provide ample storage for fly boxes and other small items. This wader is also equipped with a kangaroo-style front pocket for added convenience.
The wader also features built-in gravel guards, a removable elastic wading belt, and a gusseted crotch and articulated knees for improved fit and mobility.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, the Simms Tributary Stockingfoot Waders will give you everything you need for a great day on the river. With the quality you would expect from Simms and at a price of ($199.99) that won’t hurt, these waders are an excellent choice for anyone!
- Four-layer Toray QuadraLam waterproof, breathable laminate
- Zippered chest pocket with fly patch
- Five belt loops with 38mm nylon waist belt
- Custom Duraflex buckles throughout
- Self-fabric gravel guard with a gathered elastic bottom hem
- Anatomically engineered neoprene stocking feet with an anti-microbial finish
Just a fantastic medium-grade wader from Simms! The Simms Freestone Stockingfoot Wader is the perfect wader for any enthusiast, providing superior durability and functionality while keeping comfort and fit in mind.
The breathable four-layer Toray QuadraLam fabric is guaranteed to keep you dry and take a beating for all your favourite hikes. The ergonomic booties provide comfort and fit for those long days.
With a fleece-lined reach-through handwarmer pocket, a secure chest pocket, and a dedicated fly patch, you’ll have plenty of storage for all your fishing essentials.
We love this wader! Simms has maintained the quality that they are famous for and kept it in an affordably priced package of $299.95. This is an excellent option for anyone looking for a durable wader for every season!
- Sizes from S-XXl with boot sizes ranging from 7-13
- Internal and external storage pockets
- Reach through fleece-lined hand warmer
- 4mm neoprene booties
We all know this one! Simms’ G3 Waders offer an impressive array of features and updates while still providing reliable, comfortable, and performance-driven wear.
Its updated material lamination package with Gore-Tex Pro Shell 3-layer upper and 4-layer lower is incredibly breathable and durable.
The adjustable spacer air-mesh suspender system is a great feature, as are the top access zippered stretch pocket, zippered, reach-through micro-fleece lined hand-warming chest pocket, and removable Tippet-Tender Pocket.
Plus, the patented front and back leg seams provide improved mobility and increased durability. And with anatomically engineered neoprene stocking feet and an anti-microbial finish, you will find yourself wanting to spend even more time on the water!
If your waders leak in the first 60 days, Simms will replace them with no questions asked. if they fail due to manufacturer defects within the first year, then Simms will repair them free of charge. If they fail after one year due to a manufacturer defect, then Simms will repair your waders for a small fee, essentially for the lifetime of the wader.
These fishing waders have been a favourite amongst Professionals in our industry for years and are perfect for any enthusiast, Guide or average Joe alike!
- Body-mapped GORE-TEX Pro Wader laminate – 4 layers in the lower body for abrasion resistance and 3 layers in the upper body for breathability.
- Inspired by premium climbing harnesses, the fused contour suspension system moves with you through casting and rowing motions
- Integrated D-Ring net holder and fully customizable fit for all-day comfort.
- Neoprene booties use two layers of Titanium-Alpha to increase heat retention back to the body by up to 40%.
- Double weave stretch woven gravel guards stay secure to the boot while wading, removing the need for a boot hook.
- Fleece-lined chest pass-through hand warmer pocket.
- Anatomically placed seams reduce wear in critical areas.
- Drop-in chest storage pocket designed for three large fly boxes and oversized tippet spools.
- 2-inch elastic wading belt included.
Grundens has been manufacturing quality fishing gear and fishing waders for over 100 years, and here is another quality product from their line-up. Grundens Boundary Stockingfoot Wader is evidence of Grundens generational commitment to excellence.
This GORE-TEX wader uses four layers in the lower body and three layers in the upper, resulting in ultimate durability and breathability in this wader. Add the climbing-inspired shoulder harnesses, and you are looking at a formidable pair of waders that are going to keep you comfortable all day long!
Tons of storage with a fleece-lined handwarmer pocket and a chest pocket designed to hold up to three fly boxes.
The neoprene booties on these waders are really an impressive feature. They are designed with a Titanium-Alpha coating that is designed to increase heat retention in the foot by up to 40%. This will make those cold days better than ever before!
Complete with built-in gravel guards and an elastic wading belt, this is a complete package. Check out these quality waders from Grundens! You won’t be disappointed.
It is essential to note this great pair of waders also comes in a Zip-Front model if you are looking for added convenience.
Conclusion
Our goal is to bring all of you the best gear available on the market, and this line-up of fishing waders is a home run! It used to be that buying waders required you to go to your local shop and get fitted, but with the improvements in the industry and the specific sizing charts provided by the Manufacturers, buying online is a piece of cake! If you are in the market, be sure to check out these models. You won’t be disappointed!
