Wader Advice

Getting into salmon/steelie fishing and I need to get a set of waders. Seems like the price is all over the place from 40 bucks for a cheap pair of Cabelas to over 400 bucks for a pair of Simms. I would like to get something cheap to middle of the road, or something that is higher end and used. I don't want to spend a ton since they will only be used a handful of times a year. I have no idea what to look for or what brands to avoid. The more shell material versions vs neoprene waders. Felt sole vs rubber studded. Stocking foot vs built in boots. Anyone have any suggestions or a pair of waders that they would be willing to part with? I'm 5'9 and 180ish pounds so I think I would be a medium or large depending on the brand.

Thanks mags

Patagonia just redid their wader line. Their outlet is having extra 40% off sale this wknd plus their regular stores are having a sale. I'd recommend starting there. Just got a pair of the Guidewaters awhile back after having two cheap pairs (one that leaked a ton, the other just starting) and they are the bomb - especially the wool lined booties since I have shit circulation and my feet used to always go numb quick.

I've been through just about every brand and I'm really happy with my Simms G4's, but I got them at a hell of a discount and I see now that they're something like $530. That being said and also given your budget you can't really go wrong with Cabelas brand waders. Their customer service is the best and they replace leaky waders with hardly any hassle. If you don't fish much and can go without having a pair day in and day out that's the way I would go.

In terms of neoprene vs. light weight all I can say is if you like the hair on your balls and legs go with lightweight. I've owned a few neoprenes and the only time I use them is surf casting on Lake Superior in November when I'm not moving. If you hike at all while fishing go with the light weights. Buy a size larger than you think you'll need if you're fishing in the winter. Oh, and get some aquaseal no matter which brand you go with. Eventually they all leak!

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Originally Posted by Crystal_Mt_Dreamin

Patagonia just redid their wader line. Their outlet is having extra 40% off sale this wknd plus their regular stores are having a sale. I'd recommend starting there.

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+1 picked up a pair of the Guide Light waders (or whatever the name of their not top of the line one is) for $83 including tax yesterday as a gift. Solid waters, reasonable price. not sure what the regulations are where you are, I've liked felt soles w/o studs, studs are a pain, but am looking for rubber soles for various regulatory reasons.

If you can swing Simms in a gore tex model you'll enjoy better breathability and fit than most others. That said what you sacrifice with an imported wader you gain in warranty service. I'm fishing patagonia's despite the shitty feet as they replace them whenever they leak.

Cabelas bootfoot waders have served me well for three years...less than $100
YMMV

Sounds like you're a good fit for a cabellas wader. Another vote for cust service! For five days a year I wouldn't spend a boat load of cash.