Wading Boots

[JohnCSullivan]

Quick questions regarding wading boots. I have been using old hiking boots and have realized I need real wading boots.

I have found several pairs online, but I am not sure what size to buy because of the thickness of the waders. My waders' feet are big, so there is extra material. I usually wear a size 11, is a size 13 to big?

[pbramble]

I bought some wader boots recently, and I as told just go up one size.

Have you looked at Korkers? I bought their boots, they have removeable soles, so they can double as hiking boots. They also sell a 'sandle' that slips over your regular boots.

[spilunkr]

I think that wading boots are sized slightly large in anticipation of the room needed for the waders. I have been using neoprene foot stocking foot waders for a number of years and I have found that one size larger than my normal shoe size allows enough room for a regular pair of socks and the neoprene bootie to fit comfortably.

If you are going with a bootfoot wader then your normal shoe size would work.

Guy

[Tanner Yak]

When I started with wading boot s I bought cheap and I paid for it in pain and in blown out boots. The middle line are usually good support and last long.

[bowT]

I tried several different pair before buying. Ended up buying Simms Rivertech. They are noticably wider. So far I am very satisfied. Well worth the extra $$ to keep your feet comfortable and dry.

[hyla]

If you are buying them online, make sure they have a good return policy. You really won't know how they fit until you put them on. And just like shoes, they seem to fit differently depending on the manufacturer.

As far as recomendations go, I would second that from pbramble. Korkers are terrific and you can get additional soles that are made for every condition, including a felt sole with steel spikes for jetty walking.

[sethonthefly]

I can tell you not to get. Don't get Patagonia! I have returned the last three pairs that I have bought!

[AlexT]

A good pair of wading boots are worth their weight in gold. For many years I used the Orvis basics. Then, after I found out they were rebadged Hodgman Lakestream's with 100% markup I bought those. I put up with achy bruised feet and tired ankles, not knowing what I was missing.

Then I bought a pair of Simms Guides. Mon Dieu! Talk about comfortable! I can clamor over snotty rocks all day long in them without thinking twice. The Simms cost twice as much but have already lasted 3x as long as the best pair of Lakestream's I had and they are showing no signs of coming apart yet.

Definitely, DEFINITELY get one size larger, particularly if you get a pair that have any leather. Leather=shrinkage over time.