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Deadhand

Member
Joined
Jun 21, 2026
Messages
42
City
New London
Thanks for adding me. Fly fished for several years and faded away from it. Always thought I would get back soon, but didn’t. Suddenly I had a stroke last July and that really turned the light on! Now, getting back and bringing my grandson with me. Suggestions on waders would be a helpful start along with anything else you can think of. Thanks Deadhand.
 
Welcome aboard. As far as waders go this time of year you may be able to get away with wet wading. If you want actual waders to keep you dry an idea of your budget will help.

Most people nowadays get stocking foot waders and separate wading boots. You can get stocking foot chest waders and wading boots for as little as $ 175.00 or you can spend $ 1500.00 or more depending on your budget.

It would probably be best to go to an actual store and try waders on as not all manufacturer's sizes are identical. One company's L might be an XL for another, and you will want waders more for cooler weather so it's good to try them on for fit.

Regards,

Tim Murphy 🙂
 
Welcome aboard. As far as waders go this time of year you may be able to get away with wet wading. If you want actual waders to keep you dry an idea of your budget will help.

Most people nowadays get stocking foot waders and separate wading boots. You can get stocking foot chest waders and wading boots for as little as $ 175.00 or you can spend $ 1500.00 or more depending on your budget.

It would probably be best to go to an actual store and try waders on as not all manufacturer's sizes are identical. One company's L might be an XL for another, and you will want waders more for cooler weather so it's good to try them on for fit.

Regards,

Tim Murphy 🙂
I’m not looking for dirt cheap. I was considering Simms and Orvis. Could use advice on boots too. I’m 75 so mine only have to last a couple years LOL!! Getting my grandson boots and fly rod for his birthday.
 
I’m not looking for dirt cheap. I was considering Simms and Orvis. Could use advice on boots too. I’m 75 so mine only have to last a couple years LOL!! Getting my grandson boots and fly rod for his birthday.
I have simms waders and patagonia wading pants - good quality but too hot for me in the summer - and there was a long discussion here about hip waders which led me buy these for the heat. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FPWT9FGX
Definitely not for bushwhacking, but waterproof (so far) and much more comfortable than my full waders or wader pants.
 
How about boots?
I have simms g3 boots, both felt and vibram. I added carbide studs to the felt, and aluminum cleats to the vibram. I prefer the felt for uneven rocks and boulders, the vibram for level rocks, softer surfaces and longer walks.

Both are fine, but all of my simms gear is at least 4-5 years old, and I believe there’ve been quality issues recently, so other brands are definitely worth considering.
 
Dear Deadhand,

For boots something from Korkers should be fine. You can get them with interchangeable soles but for most trout streams and the larger rivers a sole with studs seems to be the preference. Either rubber or felt studded soles are popular but for fishing in snow rubber studded boots are the choice.

Boots are something you really should try on with your waders and whatever socks you will be wearing. In cooler months if your wading boots are cramped your feet will get colder much faster. You want to be sure you are able to wiggle your toes inside the boots when you are fully ready to get in the water.

Regards,

Tim Murphy 🙂
 
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Dear Deadhand,

For boots something from Korkers should be fine. You can get them with interchangeable soles but for most trout streams and the larger rivers a sole with studs seems to be the preference. Either rubber or felt studded soles are popular but for fishing in snow rubber studded boots are the choice.

Boots are something you really should try on with your waders and whatever socks you will be wearing. In cooler months if your wading boots are cramped your feet will get colder much faster. You want to be sure you are able to wiggle your toes inside the boots when you are fully ready to get in the water.

Regards,

Tim Murphy 🙂

As Tim wrote boots should not be overly tight. You want room for some thick electric socks under your waders 👍
 
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