Fishing with Rod Discussion Forum
Fishing in British Columbia => General Discussion => Topic started by: essyoo on November 12, 2019, 06:04:29 PM
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Searching through past posts it looks like there were a couple of threads about this, but they were quite a while ago and not too specific.
So, I've been using some Canadian Tire neoprene specials for a while now and I'd like to move on to some breathable waders soon. Trying to keep the budget under $200 for a pair. From the looks of it, the main two contenders are the Froggs Toggs Hellbenders and the Hodgman H3's. Anyone have experience with either/both of these that could offer some insight into their pros or cons?
Are there others I should consider?
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Buy higher end. Cheaper waders don't last long. H5 so far so good.
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here's what can say,
all waders leak eventually so it doesn't matter whether you buy $800 Simms G4'S or $25 waders from wherever.
between my son and I we have owned pretty much every brand at every price point and the result is the same.
I think, depending on how many days per year usage it's better to buy a bunch of pairs of cheap waders
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here's what can say,
all waders leak eventually so it doesn't matter whether you buy $800 Simms G4'S or $25 waders from wherever.
between my son and I we have owned pretty much every brand at every price point and the result is the same.
I think, depending on how many days per year usage it's better to buy a bunch of pairs of cheap waders
To be honest I've owned my G4Z SIMMS for 6 years. I use them two times a week a year on average. Zero leaks. I bushwack, from the boat and normal trail usage. No leaks. During the fall and winter I may use them 4 days a week. They are the best waders I've ever owned and you really do get what you pay for. Period
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After 2 tubes of aqua seal on my Orvis waders , i figure it’s time for new ones soon , I think I’m going with the H5 , tried a pair on and liked it , $275 - not a bad price
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here's what can say,
all waders leak eventually so it doesn't matter whether you buy $800 Simms G4'S or $25 waders from wherever.
My Simms G4 waders do not leak after 5 yrs of hard use. Best waders I have ever owned.
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While I agree you do get what you pay for, we are a single income family of five in one of the most expensive areas to live in the world. All of my gear is either used, deeply on sale, or I make it myself. My budget isn't going to suddenly expand 3X.
What I'm really looking for is: what is the most value I can get for that budget?
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I myself have good quality waders and have purchased Simms for some time now.
That being said, I feel that how long a pair of waders lasts has a lot to do with "body type" and how they fit.
My Simms have been good, and when I do puncture them with branches, etc, I do repair them and that is on me.
One thing I have noted is different body types impact the durability of waders.
For me, I am a bigger guy, and do do a lot of travel.
I have purchased and sized my waders well.
Yet, my well worn, 7 year old? Simms G3 Special editions came to have issues which I am going to blame on my "body type"
One was related to the customized feet.
They felt good on and the ergonomical design was nice.
Yet, my feet are a bit wider, and my legs a bit muscular and thicker.
This resulted in a tighter fit and more pulling and tugging when the feet came off.
This seemed to result in the seam tape inside coming off, and some slow leaks in the feet.
Neoprene feet have been pulled off and new ones put on. They feel nice and fit well.
Another issue I found is due to the seams, the inner thighs and the crotch area would fit in a way that there has been friction while walking.
As a result, some areas the outer layer has worn through and started to leak.
Once again, Simms was great and when sent in, put on high quality patches inside the waders that are holding up great.
At the same time, this area is still continuing to run and the gortex wear thin. This will lead to future failure.
As I said, they have been great. But, I think different guys fit waders in different ways, and depending on the cut and design of certain brands, this can work to promote failure and pre-mature wear.
Just some thoughts.
Dano
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My buddy has got the third band new freestone wader replacement from Simms. I don't think there is better deal than that
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Army and Navy has some good deals every now and then.
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I have owned them all in the low to mid price range. I refuse to spent $600-$800 on waders. This is my experience dating back to about the year 2003, prior to this it was neoprene Bare waders.
Bare Cutthroat - Best breathable in its time, think I paid around $300.00 They got stolen ( very disappointing as I think they would have lasted) so replaced them with:
Another Bare product - leaked within a year, got a store credit and moved into a:
Wright and Mcgill wader: cant say these were much better as they leaked pretty much with in the first year as well, so tried another product from:
Patagonia - I think these ran in the neighborhood of $300 but also developed a leak with in 2 years. My buddies knew this and I was having a 40th birthday so they all pitched in for a pair of:
Simms Freestone - I think I toughed it out for 3 years, the last one with a wet leg when wading a certain depth before cheeping out and buying the:
Frogg Togg Sierra wader- purchased online for $130 American, year 3 now and looking to repair or replace
If I replace I will buy another set of Froggs, cheaper than any other model with the same results.
For the record I am not easy on my waders. I don't fish 3-7 days a week but feel I put on enough miles when I do to amount to 3 days a week. They do get used and abused in all applications of fishing.
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essyoo I have sent you a PM
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Never quite understood why people reply on a thread about budget priced waders with suggestion to buy Simms G4s. What part of "budget waders" do you guys not understand?
Essyoo, go with these:
https://www.amazon.ca/Frogg-Toggs-Breathable-Stockingfoot-Waders/dp/B00FN94LLC/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=frogg+toggs+pilot+2+waders&qid=1573669118&sr=8-5
You can't go wrong. I'm on my third season with them and they are still going strong. I'm a weekend warrior and don't do much bushwhacking, but these waders have proved themselves and even a few of my buddies have bought them after they've seen how good they were to me.
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I have owned them all in the low to mid price range. I refuse to spent $600-$800 on waders. This is my experience dating back to about the year 2003, prior to this it was neoprene Bare waders.
Bare Cutthroat - Best breathable in its time, think I paid around $300.00 They got stolen ( very disappointing as I think they would have lasted) so replaced them with:
Another Bare product - leaked within a year, got a store credit and moved into a:
Wright and Mcgill wader: cant say these were much better as they leaked pretty much with in the first year as well, so tried another product from:
Patagonia - I think these ran in the neighborhood of $300 but also developed a leak with in 2 years. My buddies knew this and I was having a 40th birthday so they all pitched in for a pair of:
Simms Freestone - I think I toughed it out for 3 years, the last one with a wet leg when wading a certain depth before cheeping out and buying the:
Frogg Togg Sierra wader- purchased online for $130 American, year 3 now and looking to repair or replace
If I replace I will buy another set of Froggs, cheaper than any other model with the same results.
For the record I am not easy on my waders. I don't fish 3-7 days a week but feel I put on enough miles when I do to amount to 3 days a week. They do get used and abused in all applications of fishing.
All that money you spent on cheap waders would have been enough to buy the best Simms G4’s and lasted longer. Just a thought.
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milo, Amazon gives a range of prices for the Frogg Toggs Pilot II Breathable Stockingfoot Chest Wader as follows: CDN$ 185.45 - CDN$ 334.37
What did you get yours for, if you don't mind me asking?
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All that money you spent on cheap waders would have been enough to buy the best Simms G4’s and lasted longer. Just a thought.
Ok Wiseguy, thanks for your insight. ::)
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Never quite understood why people reply on a thread about budget priced waders with suggestion to buy Simms G4s. What part of "budget waders" do you guys not understand?
Somebody gets it.
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here's what can say,
all waders leak eventually so it doesn't matter whether you buy $800 Simms G4'S or $25 waders from wherever.
between my son and I we have owned pretty much every brand at every price point and the result is the same.
I think, depending on how many days per year usage it's better to buy a bunch of pairs of cheap waders
From my experience, pretty much the above. I've always used breathables and spent around $100 .. had a pair of LL Bean ones, the old Hellbenders and now the newer iteration of them.. every pair has basically lasted me around 4 years. I fish pink, salmon and float tube a couple weeks in the spring, I'd say slightly above average use as I usually have weekdays off... not everyday and a super wading stud 20 year old, but I'm out there. Just be prepared for failure, but by that time, you'll feel it's time for new waders anyway. Get 'em sent to Point Roberts or Blaine. Sometimes you can find them for under $100..
Of course, Simms are nice so if you can swing it, great.. but they do leak as well eventually.. everyone will pipe in with their own experiences and with waders YMMV obviously.. but sub $100 waders do last. And despite the warranty, there's no gurantee Simms will decide your problem is a warranty issue.. and it'll take awhile for them to determine this.
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I had a great experience with some cheap breathables.
They lasted me for years and then i got even more from them with a tube of shoe goo repairing the leaks and cuts.
When the $600 waders will outlast the cheap ones by triple i will consider buying them.
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I had a great experience with some cheap breathables.
They lasted me for years and then i got even more from them with a tube of shoe goo repairing the leaks and cuts.
When the $600 waders will outlast the cheap ones by triple i will consider buying them.
Depends on how u use them. If u only go out a couple times a yr then yah buy some cheap ones.
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Never quite understood why people reply on a thread about budget priced waders with suggestion to buy Simms G4s. What part of "budget waders" do you guys not understand?
Essyoo, go with these:
https://www.amazon.ca/Frogg-Toggs-Breathable-Stockingfoot-Waders/dp/B00FN94LLC/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=frogg+toggs+pilot+2+waders&qid=1573669118&sr=8-5
You can't go wrong. I'm on my third season with them and they are still going strong. I'm a weekend warrior and don't do much bushwhacking, but these waders have proved themselves and even a few of my buddies have bought them after they've seen how good they were to me.
Why spend $300 every 3 to 4 years and have nagging stress of thinking if today will be the day your waders kick the bucket. The waiting for warrenty repair during peak season or the cold toes or balls when it does happen. Spend $800 plus and put your mind at ease knowing that you made a sound decision. I know the OP wanted advice on cheap wader BUT you get what you pay for.
FYI in the 6 years or so I've owned my G4Zs my buddy has purchased 2 Reddingtons and 1 Patagonia. It makes NO SENSE AT ALL.
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milo, Amazon gives a range of prices for the Frogg Toggs Pilot II Breathable Stockingfoot Chest Wader as follows: CDN$ 185.45 - CDN$ 334.37
What did you get yours for, if you don't mind me asking?
Sorry for the late reply...it's been a long, busy day.
I can't remember the exact figure, but it was a bit over 200 CAD, taxes and everything. Around $220, I believe.
That said, their Hellbender II waders look remarkably similar to the older Simms Headwater model at a fraction of the price.
I think Essyoo should go with those. They've garnered some pretty good reviews on the web.
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Why spend $300 every 3 to 4 years and have nagging stress of thinking if today will be the day your waders kick the bucket. The waiting for warrenty repair during peak season or the cold toes or balls when it does happen. Spend $800 plus and put your mind at ease knowing that you made a sound decision. I know the OP wanted advice on cheap wader BUT you get what you pay for.
FYI in the 6 years or so I've owned my G4Zs my buddy has purchased 2 Reddingtons and 1 Patagonia. It makes NO SENSE AT ALL.
Two reasons:
1. Not everyone can afford to drop almost a grand on a pair of waders. Priorities vary from person to person. If you have kids, you'll understand this argument.
2. It is much better to have 2 200-dollar pairs of waders than one 800-dollar pair. As said above, every wader will leak eventually, so it's a good idea to have a spare pair. Not to mention you're still 400$ ahead.
3. Change is good because it's invigorating.
There are more arguments in favour of multiple cheaper pairs over one expensive pair of waders, but this should suffice for now.
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Two reasons:
1. Not everyone can afford to drop almost a grand on a pair of waders. Priorities vary from person to person. If you have kids, you'll understand this argument.
2. It is much better to have 2 200-dollar pairs of waders than one 800-dollar pair. As said above, every wader will leak eventually, so it's a good idea to have a spare pair. Not to mention you're still 400$ ahead.
3. Change is good because it's invigorating.
There are more arguments in favour of multiple cheaper pairs over one expensive pair of waders, but this should suffice for now.
1. I do have kids. I have 3 all under 5.
2. Quality ALWAYS trumps quantity
3. Change is good ONLY BECAUSE You learn more. Not because its invigorating.
4. You said 2 reasons but listed 3. I'm confused
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1. I do have kids. I have 3 all under 5.
2. Quality ALWAYS trumps quantity
3. Change is good ONLY BECAUSE You learn more. Not because its invigorating.
4. You said 2 reasons but listed 3. I'm confused
I'm tired. I should have said 3 reasons.
Let's agree to disagree on this topic. As much as most of us would love to wear a pair of Simms G4s and have a spare pair of Patagonia Rio Gallegos sitting in a box just in case the Simms leak (and they will, eventually, like all waders do), for many of us it is simply not something we can afford. Like I said, we all have our priorities...for me it's better cigars over expensive waders. Therefore, I'll buy the cheaper waders in order to afford the better cigars. Can't have both. :-[
And BTW, I agree with you on change being an opportunity to learn. And learning is invigorates us!😀
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I'm tired. I should have said 3 reasons.
Let's agree to disagree on this topic. As much as most of us would love to wear a pair of Simms G4s and have a spare pair of Patagonia Rio Gallegos sitting in a box just in case the Simms leak (and they will, eventually, like all waders do), for many of us it is simply not something we can afford. Like I said, we all have our priorities...for me is better cigars and cheaper waders so I can afford the cigars. Can't have both. :-[
And BTW, I agree with you on change being an opportunity to learn. And learning is invigorates us!😀
I just cant comprehend why someone would own two or three junk vehicles than one one new one. Sure...... I'll settle down. In my mind it is my passion and I will spare no expense on my passion. I only live ONE time ( as far as I know ). Ok.... ok.... I'm done.
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There was a time when Patagonia ruled then Simms came along with quality waders at a lower price point. Now they're on top and they've reached the same level of pricing where Patagonia was 15 years ago. The point is, don't get fooled into thinking Simms is above and beyond all. Give the some of the newer names a chance to prove their worth and I'm sure you'll be pleasantly surprised.
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FYI in the 6 years or so I've owned my G4Zs my buddy has purchased 2 Reddingtons and 1 Patagonia. It makes NO SENSE AT ALL.
Somebody gets it.
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2. Quality ALWAYS trumps quantity
Oh yeah? Would you rather catch one 6 lb. coho, or ten 5 lb. cohos? Would you rather head out on a trip over the Coq with 2 litres of high grade fuel, or 100 litres of regular grade fuel? A weekend in the woods with 1 GREAT beer? Or with 12 GOOD beers? I think you get my point lol.
At some point the math just doesn’t work. Are you saying you would pay $5000 for a pair of G4s? $10,000? At some point it just doesn’t make sense, but people tell themselves that it does to justify their fancy purchases.
I believe Simms now makes a pretty cheap pair of waders, in the $250 range, could be worth a look. I owned a pair a Frogg Toggs, they fit OK, and leaked in less than a year. I took the money I got from returning them and bought a (lightly) used pair of Simms Freestones, which were waaaay more comfortable, and took about 3 years to develop a leak. I buy most of my gear used, and depending on your size (if you’re a common size or not) it may be worth it to keep an eye out for a used pair. Also, I have a pair of Bare neoprenes in excellent condition, if they happen to fit, and you were interested, I would part with them for a VERY reasonable price.
Good luck on the search!!
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Oh yeah? Would you rather catch one 6 lb. coho, or ten 5 lb. cohos? Would you rather head out on a trip over the Coq with 2 litres of high grade fuel, or 100 litres of regular grade fuel? A weekend in the woods with 1 GREAT beer? Or with 12 GOOD beers? I think you get my point lol.
At some point the math just doesn’t work. Are you saying you would pay $5000 for a pair of G4s? $10,000? At some point it just doesn’t make sense, but people tell themselves that it does to justify their fancy purchases.
I believe Simms now makes a pretty cheap pair of waders, in the $250 range, could be worth a look. I owned a pair a Frogg Toggs, they fit OK, and leaked in less than a year. I took the money I got from returning them and bought a (lightly) used pair of Simms Freestones, which were waaaay more comfortable, and took about 3 years to develop a leak. I buy most of my gear used, and depending on your size (if you’re a common size or not) it may be worth it to keep an eye out for a used pair. Also, I have a pair of Bare neoprenes in excellent condition, if they happen to fit, and you were interested, I would part with them for a VERY reasonable price.
Good luck on the search!!
You're waaaaaaaaaay off base man. 6 pound Coho vs 5 pound Coho ? I dont get your point.
And for the record ......... quality always trumps quantity. Every single damn mother trucking day !
BTW your analogies dont line up to what is being discussed here
And yes I would trade 12 crappy Molson Canadians or Budweiser for one tasty craft IPA. Any day of the week.
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There are other reasons to purchase higher end waders other than longevity. Breathability, features i.e. pockets and places to put your keys in all the right places and also wider ranges of sizes. One of the biggest reasons why waders leak prematurely is poor fit. Simms has waders that fit practically any body shape out there. My G3’s are over 5 years old. I had them fixed once and that was because a sharp branch skewered the thigh area. Completely my fault but Simms fixed them for free. Hasn’t leaked since.
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My point is, that to say “quality always trumps quantity” just isn’t true. Especially these days when there’s so much mark up on “fashionable” gear and equipment. Sometimes the quality/cost ratio just doesn’t work out. I get the point that you’re trying to make, but if you’re on a budget, you really have to do your homework. I completely agree that higher end gear is (usually) better, but I’m poor, so I either settle for used gear, lower quality gear, or I simply go without.
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Quality is subjective.
Is a 50 year old, million dollar house in South Granville better quality than a newly built house in Chilliwack selling for $575,000? Of course there will be arguments to be made, but realistically, paying more doesn't necessarily compute to a better product.
Don't get me wrong, I think Simms make great products, but I also think they're way over priced. I own a pair the original headwaters wader and to be honest, I would rather own two of those than one
new G4Z. So with that said, does anyone really believe that the G4Z will out last the lives of two older Headwaters combined?
It changes perspective when you compare apples to apples.
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My take is buy the best you can afford. Not saying to buy Simms or nothing at all. But to say that you can buy 2 or 3 cheap pairs for the price of one pair of Simms is missing some important points.
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Quality is subjective.
Is a 50 year old, million dollar house in South Granville better quality than a newly built house in Chilliwack selling for $575,000?
I don't have an answer to that, but if you can find a detached house in South Granville for one million, go for it - it's a bargain. It's like finding a pair of mint G4s for 100 bucks! ;D
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My take is buy the best you can afford. Not saying to buy Simms or nothing at all. But to say that you can buy 2 or 3 cheap pairs for the price of one pair of Simms is missing some important points.
True. However it was mentioned, the guy purchased his cheap waders throughout the years, not all in one go. So obviously, he never had the means to purchase anything more. It's like saying paying rent for 10 years you could have bought a house....well yah okay... but where would a guy live during those 10 years?
Even from a logical point of view, sometimes the equation just doesn't fit an individual's situation.
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I buy most of my gear used, and depending on your size (if you’re a common size or not) it may be worth it to keep an eye out for a used pair.
I couldn’t imagine wearing used waders. My family jewels ain’t going be sitting where yours were. Lol
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I don't have an answer to that, but if you can find a detached house in South Granville for one million, go for it - it's a bargain. It's like finding a pair of mint G4s for 100 bucks! ;D
LOL...No doubt. Friends of mine from Arizona saw an ad online for a "reduced price" 750 sq ft condo in Downtown Vancouver selling for $1,300,000. They almost shat themselves thinking that we were mental.
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I couldn’t imagine wearing used waders. My family jewels ain’t going be sitting where yours were. Lol
Obviously, the thought crossed your mind or you wouldn't have mentioned it. ;D
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My take is buy the best you can afford.
I think this is exactly what the original poster is trying to do. And to me it sounds like they are Not looking to pay $600-$1000 on a pair of waders.
For those that want to tell others how to spend more money than they intended should be a little more respectful in your answers. You do not know the situation that would make a person choose a cheaper wader, nor should anyone feel like they need to justify their reasons for buying a cheaper wader. We all get it, you get what you pay for. No one who has purchased a "cheaper" wader has argued that, and without going back through this entire thread I am pretty sure no one who has gone the cheaper route is complaining about it.
This thread screams with elitism, which really is too bad. You either have an experience to share on purchasing budget waders for the OP or you don't, pretty simple. I think by now we all know Simms G4's and G4Z's are the best, but what is available for the budget conscious person buying waders?
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Quality is subjective.
Is a 50 year old, million dollar house in South Granville better quality than a newly built house in Chilliwack selling for $575,000? Of course there will be arguments to be made, but realistically, paying more doesn't necessarily compute to a better product.
Don't get me wrong, I think Simms make great products, but I also think they're way over priced. I own a pair the original headwaters wader and to be honest, I would rather own two of those than one
new G4Z. So with that said, does anyone really believe that the G4Z will out last the lives of two older Headwaters combined?
It changes perspective when you compare apples to apples.
I too have a the original headwaters, plus the original guide waders that are both back-ups to my G3 guides. My headwaters have chronic leakage problems and I've had to repair them several times. I'm not confident that they will hold up much longer even as a back-up wader. My original guide waders are more durable. Both are not currently leaking, but...
As for my G3's, they developed a hole in the upper inseam, plus another hole was developing on the opposite side (this was last year). I sent them to Simms and they fixed them under warranty. They basically put patches on the inside on both areas, and my G3's have not leaked since. I believe this is my 6th season with these waders.
I would go for quality over quantity. Maybe not necessarily Simms. I like the Patagonia waders, but they don't use Gore Tex so I can't do the alcohol test to find leaks. But Patagonia seems like a great company (they did me a favor on my Gore Tex Triolet jacket - another story). Of course, affordability is a factor - I would buy the best quality you could afford, and be sure to take care and maintain the product.
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Three page thread and not a single direct answer to my actual question. This forum is nothing if not consistent, haha.
Thanks to everyone who responded. Especially the handful who tried to address the original question.
I'm sure your Simms waders are fantastic.
I don't disagree that the higher priced waders are likely to be better quality and last longer.
I am working with what's called a "budget". This means I have a set amount of money to work with. It will not magically become three times more.
Hike_and_Fish, your insinuation that someone's passion is linked to how much they spend on gear is laughable and slightly insulting. The amount I have to spend on waterproof pants is in no way indicative of how much I love to fish, but rather my financial situation at the moment and that I have three birthdays (two kids and a wife) and xmas within the next several weeks to think about as well.
I'll have to rely on amazon reviews I guess ;D
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I have a near new set of Bare Supra 4 boot foot I’d sell cheap if you’re interested
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Well I bought a pair of waders from Cabelas several years ago (not sure how many).
They have served me well and didn't cost a lot. Have just started to get a leak in one of the boots.
But after the amount of use I got from them I can't complain.
May not look as good as Simms but I think of them as good value for the money.
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There was a time years ago when we were on a steelhead trip north island and a buddy of mine had a pair of those brutal Bare breathable waders! Well to make a long story short we ran out of coffee filters so I cut a piece of his waders and voila we had coffee again!
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Three page thread and not a single direct answer to my actual question.
I answered to it. You might have missed it among all that drivel about Simms G4s.
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I've had Froggs Toggs Hellbenders. They do work well if you don't plan to fish regularly (weekend anglers) and can last quite awhile, well worth it for how much you're spending. Once mine started leaking, they really leaked... ;)
You're also spending on comfort too. Right now I'm wearing Simms G3, which are so much more comfortable than Frogg Toggs and the lower Simms models.
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Simms Freestones the entry level waders have served me VERY well for two years now without a leak and I am EXTREMELY hard on gear. I know they're about to spring any day now but they look absolutely beat and they still hold air. I'm amazed. Will definitely be upgrading to G-series soon, as I am a customer now for sure
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Its penny wise pound foolish to spend money on cheap waders,
I bought my first Simms G3 waders in the summer of 2010. It has gone thru massive abuse on bush walking trips and has encounter many blackberry bushes and came out unscathed n it has never leaked. I fish everyday weather permitting.
2012 I bought a G4 and had the same experience. I rotate my waders as I like to use a dry wader everyday.
My buddy has 11 walmart waders in his garage which cost 80 each. Now he has a Simms G3 for 3 years and it has not failed him yet.
You get what you pay for.
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Its penny wise pound foolish to spend money on cheap waders,
I bought my first Simms G3 waders in the summer of 2010. It has gone thru massive abuse on bush walking trips and has encounter many blackberry bushes and came out unscathed n it has never leaked. I fish everyday weather permitting.
2012 I bought a G4 and had the same experience. I rotate my waders as I like to use a dry wader everyday.
My buddy has 11 walmart waders in his garage which cost 80 each. Now he has a Simms G3 for 3 years and it has not failed him yet.
You get what you pay for.
Amen
Again. Quality trumps quantity.
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Its penny wise pound foolish to spend money on cheap waders,
I bought my first Simms G3 waders in the summer of 2010. It has gone thru massive abuse on bush walking trips and has encounter many blackberry bushes and came out unscathed n it has never leaked. I fish everyday weather permitting.
2012 I bought a G4 and had the same experience. I rotate my waders as I like to use a dry wader everyday.
My buddy has 11 walmart waders in his garage which cost 80 each. Now he has a Simms G3 for 3 years and it has not failed him yet.
You get what you pay for.
x2. rock 2 sets of g3's. but i dont get to fish everyday. stupid work.
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Amen
Again. Quality trumps quantity.
agreed, expect for the ipa over 12 Canadians lol. ipa eeewwwwww
(https://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g365/bigblockfox545/bf98ef429af02f0263beaecf952c102f_zpsjp0jz0hk.jpg) (https://s1098.photobucket.com/user/bigblockfox545/media/bf98ef429af02f0263beaecf952c102f_zpsjp0jz0hk.jpg.html)
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agreed, expect for the ipa over 12 Canadians lol. ipa eeewwwwww
(https://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g365/bigblockfox545/bf98ef429af02f0263beaecf952c102f_zpsjp0jz0hk.jpg) (https://s1098.photobucket.com/user/bigblockfox545/media/bf98ef429af02f0263beaecf952c102f_zpsjp0jz0hk.jpg.html)
That's funny. I find Canadian to taste like Applejew
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canadian is defiantly a crappy beer but i prefer 12 of those over one of anything. nice to have a buzz once in a while.
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I hear you. I can't drop 800$ all at once for G4's, it's more practical to buy cheap ones that you only get a few years out of. But then it's a lot easier to come up with 150$ to replace them. And for the first kit buying session, I got rod, jacket, waders, and boots for less than g4's.
Anyway, I had Hodgeman H3's and got a solid 2 1/2 years out of them. They leak pretty badly now but they still keep me warm.
Two friends bought Froggs at the same general time in the same pricepoint and they're still going fine, but they both use them way, way, way less.
I was going to replace them with another set of the H3's, but Hodgman made a very dubious decision and went from having formed left and right feet, to generic booties that were really, really hard to get on and off. Now the formed booties are only on the H5 series, which are overkill as I don't fish during the winter and don't need 5 layers.
So the H3's are now pointless to buy unless you love fighting your way in and out of waders. Not sure if the FT's are any different.
I would suggest that there's probably not a huge value discrepancy in the lower end of the market in terms of performance and longevity, so maybe just try them on and see which fits best and get out on the water...
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Why there is a discussion about if it is better to spend $800 once or $200 4 times is beyond me when the OP was pretty clear in his question but I digress. I have no idea where the Essyoo fishes but given the casual nature of his post and gear question I would say he focuses on the main local river (feel free to correct me if I am wrong). Say the C/V. The thing about the C/V is that there really is no bushwacking left. Sure, you may walk away from the crowds but you followed a trail to get there. Unless you fall, or charge through blackberries the likely hood of a puncture is slim. And if you charge through black berries I don't care what type of breathable waders you are wearing they will get thru.
The thing is, that is one of the areas Simms excells at. Trail breaking. If that was all I did, say fishing up North, or parts of the Island sure. I would absolutely say By Simms or forget breathable. The other area Simms excells at is fit and finish. Reduce friction points the less leaks.It is pretty simple. But the thing is, this one can over come. By a used set of Cabelas, Frogs, Used, Whatever fits you BEST!!! That is step one. Step 2 is related to finish. I am willing to bet that most every leak someone develops (aside from a puncture) are in 1 of 3 spots. The top of the boot, inner thight/crotch, and just above the waist line on the seem. The reason for the boot is obvious, 2 dissimilar materials will always work there way apart. The inner thigh is also obvious 2, friction. But the one just above the waist is a bit more less obvious. It is something I learned from my hunting jackets. It all about storage. That point is where most people hang there waders, doubled over to dry. Wet waders way alot, hanging there puts stress on the seam.
The solution is to minimize these stresses. With the Boots, it is important to never just heap them in the back of you vehicle when changing. Lay them out, folded over in the trunk is fine but do not what do what I see many people do and stand up the boots and scrunch down the waders over top like one of those little garden gnomes. All the tension is pulling on the seem of the boot in a direction that was never intended. Down, instead of up as if you were wearing them. For the area between the thighs, it is a bit tougher but it is patchable. The seem close to the waist, don't store your waders on clothes hangers and never put them a way wet.
With this, will you be able to make a set of 200 waders last 10 years? No, but they should last at least 3; and according to my math 900/3 or over 900/1 over 10 years is breaking even (with a bunch more to spend on IPAs that first year)
The rules are pretty simple: Take excellent care of your gear and it may surprise you and let the guys in the G4s go through the bush first. They like to make an entrance anyway!
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The rules are pretty simple: Take excellent care of your gear and it may surprise you and let the guys in the G4s go through the bush first. They like to make an entrance anyway!
Great post, Tylsie.
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Yeah, thanks for that Tylsie. I am super careful with my things. I've managed to make a pair of $50 canadian tire waders last much longer than they should by doing pretty much what you said.
And yeah, I don't do a ton of bushwacking but I do like to explore. I fish the c/v, capilano (and the mouth at ambleside) mainly, but have started to check out other places. My hope is that I can jump on a decent black friday sale next week and maybe get into a low end Simms or get a deal on higher end toggs or hodgmans.
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Also like Tylsie, I have taken care of my 20 year old waders, they are Seatux.
I admit yes they are neoprene but the same principle remains.
I use them regularly and have bushwhacked in them.
I always hang them to dry and always check for abrasions.
A little Aquaseal on them and as good as new.
Any equipment whether you pay a lot or not will always surprise you with the time they last if you look after them.
BTW, I am looking for a pair of breathable as I hate sweating in the summer in my Seatux.
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Very comfortable. Very good price for the quality. YKK zippers. Same as Simms
https://dryftfishing.com/
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKiwLZSXVTk