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[emac]

I'm looking to buy a new pair of wading boots.  I've only used felt-sold boots in the past and have the option of buying SimmsŪ G3 Guide (felt) or Simms Freestone Wading Boots (non-felt). The G3's aren't in stock though and would take 5 days to deliver.  How are the rubber soled boots for local rivers (Vedder, Thompson, etc.)?  I'd prefer to get a pair now and not wait a week or so but I'm not sure how well the rubber soles hold up in fast water, slippery rocks.

[HOOK]

the reviews are mixed for the new Vibram soles on the Simms boots. some love them and other not so much. I have talked about this a bunch with the M&Y people and most of them like them especialy if you also add in some carbide cleats for places like the Thompson.

[gordc]

I have the Vibram souls (without cleats) and find the felt way better on the slimy rocks.  On the other hand, they are great for any out of water hiking you may be doing to access your favorite spots.

[Danube Boy]

Bought a pair of Simms Riversheds earlier this year (still in the box - will be tested soon). They were only available with the Vibram soles, which I wasn't and still am not sold on.
For extreme slippery situations like the Thompson, I guess you can put in the cleats, but for everyday fishing on the local rivers, I just can't see how rubber can be anywhere close to as effective as felt.

I'll try to remember to revisit this thread and report once I've tried the Riversheds.

[Snapperhead]

Keep in mind that the Rubber soles don't hold snow or ice as the Felt sole are a snow and ice magnet.

I like the Simms with rubber sole,then add a few screws here and there.

[HOOK]

and on another note:

we all better get used to the rubber soles because some companies are going to these exclusively because of the transferance of algae species and what not. This has and is becoming a greater and greater issue in alot of rivers

for example- felt soles are outlawed in New Zealand as far as i know and im sure other places i cant name. I think they are trying to ban them on the Island where its becoming troublesome as well.

my next pair will be Vibrams so that i can have peice of mind that im not spreading anything around.

[emac]

Thanks for the replies.  Good point HOOK. I'm in Utah right now and the invasive species problem is a big issue. I went ahead and bought the Freestones. Talking to the store I purchased them from they are really pushing people away from felt.