I'm looking at getting a set of waders. Not looking for neoprene, but lightweight breathable ones. Prefer stocking vs boot.
Most of the use will be surf/bayfishing and maybe will travel with them to Peru once in a while and get some fishing done there. (thought may leave some cheap Academy/Magellan ones there and be done)
Not looking at dropping $500 for Simms G3s, unless there is nothing in the $200-250 range that will come close. Any experience with the Orvis ones?
USIA are bombproof, but also way up there in price, and may be an option in the future, if also duck hunting.
What say you guys?
I look at waders as expendable gear. I get a year or two out of them and replace them with new ones. But I probably fish more than the average guy on here.
I've had god luck with Cabelas Guide wear.
Simms were nice waders for sure, but I only got an extra year out of them before they were wearing out and for 3X the cost, just didn't make sense to buy again.
I haven't used the Orvis, so I can't comment on them though.
Simms are head & shoulders above everything else; Patagonia is good with the best warranty & service, Cabelas is serviceable & disposable & a reasonable cost.
Simms Tributary is under $200 & Freestone are around $275'sh, both are made offshore & are getting scarce; all their Guide Series is US made.
FWIW
MM
I have used orvis... horrible fit... wear reasonably well.
Patagauchie uses a vulcanizing type hot seal. They keep you dry until everything fails at once... pricey, too.
Simms have proven best, but sometimes you get one that needs a little help at times. I have at least two at a time in case one fails. I have had their top end, entry level, and most everything between. I use them hard, especially when hunting.
One Freestone lasted 6 years without a single leak. Simms shocked me when they replaced them for free! Other Freestones have not lasted that long...
I have simms, patagucci, redington, cheap allens, orvis, llbean.
Simms used to be great in their warranty, not anymore IMO. I have issues with wading boots falling apart and waders leaking with minimal use and simms would not stand behind them like they used.I think their quality has diminished quite a bit. Id buy the freestones on sale but wouldn't spend over $200.
Id. look for a patagucci on sale. Can pick up for under $200. Great warranty still
LLbean decent for price and still decent warranty.
you can sometimes find good deals here. Better selection in winter though
https://www.mrfc.com/collections/wading-gear-on-salesierra trading post too