New Waders/Boots

[Unskunked]

After overheating hiking from Bonnie Luhr to the mouth of Eagle Creek and to the Sandy from the first parking lot at Oxbow, I decided to replace my 5mm neoprenes with breathables. Went to FlyfishUSA (Mark Bachman's place) in Wemme as I knew they had a nice selection. Had planned to get the Dan Bailey Barebones waders, but after talking to the people there, I went with the Simms Guide model for the durability and warranty. This used to be Simms top of the line wader, but they came out with a new model and dropped the price a bit on these. Have wanted to get some studded boots for quite awhile so I also got the Simms Guide model boots. Hopefully the rivers will drop back into shape by this weekend so I can try these out.

[OregonBankie]

Sounds like you and I bought the same stuff at the same store! After using the studded boots, I think they're slippery and dangerous, especially on smooth rock faces over deep holes. What's your experience been with them?

[Dan Christopher]

What did you pay for the breathables?

[SoundsFishy]

I received some Simms breathables from my wife for my birthday 2 years ago. In one word, "they are awesome". I've been through summer and winter steelhead and 2 duck seasons. When it is cold, wear a thick pair of polyester sweats underneath and thats all you need. I have never been cold. In the warmer times wear shorts and the cool water keeps you from heating up. They are also very packable. Pack them or carry them to your favorite spot. I wish I had gotten them years ago.

[Lunker]

Tell me about Simm's guarantee. Will they really take back leaky waders and replace it with a new one after four years of use?

[Unskunked]

OB - Haven't had a chance to try the boots yet. The way it's raining it may be another week before I can get out. These boots have the carbide studs and the folks at in FlyfishUSA swear by them. I'll see. One of the reasons I want the studs is to keep from slipping.

Lunker - I was told the first repair is on Simms. After that I believe there is a nominal charge.

[U. I.]

I stream survey and put a lot of MILES on wader boots. I love the SImms aqua stealth model for all around traction and hiking. Durability also is unbeatable!

[Dan Christopher]

Thanks for the e-mail i have been priceing them for awhile. I need to just step up to the plate. :smile: