New chest waders

[Ggrove]

Anyone have recommendations for chest waders? Not really looking to blow the bank, so not Simms/Orvis. Looking for something reliable and comfortable. I gave heard of 8fans but not sure about them

 

[dudemanspecial]

What is your budget?

 

[JLB]

Can’t speak on them personally but have heard good things from others about the Redington sonic pros. They’re on close out for $200 right now at STP. The mid tier Grundens are what I’m currently using and been happy with so far.

 

[Ggrove]

What is your budget?

Dont want to go over 200

 

[LLR]

I had a pair of Frogg Toggs around $200 that lasted 2-3 years

 

[KeviR]

Check out Sierra Trading Post - they have a couple options at $200. I have a pair of low priced Simms I got from there two years ago and I have been very happy with them. (I think they were called Tributary or Headwaters. In any case, they were about $200) Before that I bought a pair of Simms G3 for something like $400+ and they were good, too. They didn't last that long, however. I had to repair them multiple times, not that I blame the waders - I bushwhack a fair bit. But after 4 seasons, I gave up trying to find the leaks. (There were a lot.) The new ones seem to actually be a bit more robust, that is resistant to puncture from briars.
One word about STP, though - they sell overstock/discontinued merch. It's my understanding that it does not include a warranty from Simms.

 

[td566]

I got a pair of Orvis Clearwaters stocking foot on sale this Fall for under $200.
Got them at Nesh Creek Fly Shop and it looks like the Orvis sale is still on. As a shorter person, the “medium short” size was a bonus for fitting me.
I have only bought budget priced waders in the past so this was a big step up for me.

 

[CRB]

bunch on ^mozon you could give one of them a chance but my experience is to get the best you can afford. The more they cost the longer they will last.
Simms
Redington
Orvis
The rest...

 

[Swattie87]

For $200 you’re right on the border of the high end of what would be considered budget waders, and the bottom end of mid-tier stuff. STP will let you stretch that $200 a little bit and get something that probably originally retailed in the $300-$400 range. The downside to STP is generally a lack of selection and sizing, which if you’re in a jam and need a pair immediately, can be an issue. But it’s worth keeping an eye on. If I see something I like on there waders wise, I’ll buy it while it’s there, even if I don’t immediately need them. Waders are consumable. You’ll eventually need new ones.

FWIW, I’ve had the best luck with Redington waders too, of the more budget end stuff. If longevity is your primary measuring stick anyway.

 

[jifigz]

The worst waders I've ever owned in my life were Redington. I'm sure that was a fluke. I've had L.L Beans I've liked, Cabela's, Frog Toggs, etc. They've all been quite functional.

I've owned more Bean waders than any brand..I even paid for them and didn't abuse the good old warranty.

 

[tomgamber]

Bought these a couple years ago. Really like them. They sell them at ****'s also. I got mine online for under 200. 250 on Amazon now.

 

[tpn]

Compass 360 are incredible at the low price point. Can’t say enough good things.

What size? Lots of good deals still going on dependent.

 

[riverwhy]

My current Cabela's have served me well for about 4 years. I have not logged a ton of miles on them since I wet wade most of the time.

 

[bringthepain]

Dont want to go over 200

Highly recommend Redington Escape or Escape zip. The customer service has been excellent as well. If you get the zips make sure you follow up and keep the zipper lubricated

 

[JeffK]

Google "chest waders on sale" or something similar. You got to work a lot this way and it takes time since most items on sale aren't common sizes, but if you keep at it you will do OK. STP isn't the only place offering discounts.

I've had good luck with Simm's, Orvis, Aquaz, Dan Bailey, and Redington. Cabela's have been OK for the price for me. Cabela's neoprenes have held up well, but don't use them much. Some real cheapo's in the past have failed quickly. I think you need to spend about $200 to get OK waders, but sales can bring them down to $150 or less. Don't be afraid to pick up last year's model - technology hasn't changed that much recently.

 

[HoboWithAFlyRod]

It’s not that hard to find outdated models of nice waders on closeout unless you wear regular size L like me. Being the most common size is rough.

 

[The Rodfather]

It’s not that hard to find outdated models of nice waders on closeout unless you wear regular size L like me. Being the most common size is rough.

This is my strategy. Worked well for me so far.

 

[Nymph-wristed]

Wore LL Bean for years because of the warranty. I think it is still 100% for a year. Not a bad pair of waders, so not going to leak out of the box in most cases.

I still have a backup from LL Bean when I send my pricey ones away for repairs, and I have LL Bean bootfoots for lazier days on the surf.

 

[Librarian]

I have three pairs of iWader. They have a couple of styles under $200. They do take a while to get, but you can order them completely custom for the same price. Great if you are like me with a big belly and small feet. No more xxl waders with size 13 clown feet for me. Perfect fit. Australian company, Chinese factory.

 

[TimMurphy]

I have three pairs of iWader. They have a couple of styles under $200. They do take a while to get, but you can order them completely custom for the same price. Great if you are like me with a big belly and small feet. No more xxl waders with size 13 clown feet for me. Perfect fit. Australian company, Chinese factory.

Dear Librarian,

Thanks for the suggestion. Currently, I'm good with functioning chest waders and a pair of waist highs but if I have to get something new, I may order a pair from them.

Regards,

Tim Murphy 🙂