We previously offered you entry-level waders, and today we are offering you the best equipment available. There are fewer choices, but the prices are quite high… Let’s just say it’s an investment if you decide to fish at least 90 days a year and can afford it. Three brands stand out, and have done for several years: Patagonia, Simms, and Orvis
Of course, if you decide to buy them, you can purchase them online, but we highly recommend visiting your nearest retailer so you can try them on and get personalized advice! This will also support local businesses and strengthen your relationship with your fly shop!
Patagonia Swiftcurrent™ Expedition Zip-Front Waders. These waders are awesome, sturdy, comfortable, and offer a very special feeling as soon as you put them on. You feel good, almost invincible (but still be careful with barbed wire). They can be worn two ways: high or low. The front pockets are deep enough to hold large boxes, and the side pockets are warm and perfect for the cold season. A waterproof pocket at the end of a cord allows you to slip your phone and keys inside to keep them dry. The knees have a foam layer (removable) that not only allows you to kneel without thinking twice, but also protects you from the cold, as the joints are the most sensitive part of the human body = you can stay in the water longer than those who get out because they are cold… There are loops on the shoulder straps for attaching your gear (bag) and a ring on the back for your landing net holder. The bottom of the wader is thick enough to withstand abrasion from walking and rubbing. The zipper will make your life easier. And… the equipment is PFAS-free and the after-sales service is flawless! In short, we at Mouching won’t be leaving them behind! 835$
A Capilene base layer is best, although other types of tights will do the trick!
Patagonia’s wading shoes Forra. It’s quite simple: there are several Patagonia wading shoes available, including the Foot Tractor, which we find a little heavy, the River Salt II, which we haven’t tried yet, and the Forra, which we love! They are lightweight, comfortable to wear all day long, provide good support for the foot, and the Vibram sole is a real suction cup (even if there is no felt option). They are great for approach walks; you won’t feel like you’re wearing wading shoes, and in the worst case, you can put tungsten studs on them. And they dry very quickly! 320$ (the size is very similar to sports shoes… if you wear a size 10, go for a 10.5). The best thing to do is try them on at a retailer!
Don’t forget that Patagonia has the best repair service and that it is very often: free!
Wader Simms G4Z Stockingfoot The famous wader that needs no introduction—guides around the world have been wearing its little brother, the G3, for years! The G4Z (for zipper) is THE new benchmark. Gore-Tex ProShell 3 and 4 layers, the kind of indestructible gear that lets you move forward without really thinking about it. They are extremely comfortable, and the front zipper changes everything. They are more fitted than previous models, with two large zippered pockets on the front for storing as much stuff as possible, and two warm hand pockets. The feeling of protection on the inside of the legs is real, and abrasion is minimal thanks to internal stitching. 1100$
Simms Access wading Boot This is the latest from Simms. These shoes are multifunctional, suitable for all terrains, sturdy, with an EVA midsole and a super Vibram IdroGrip Flex outsole. They are extremely comfortable. Not much else to add except that the heel is reinforced for walking and tungsten studs can be added for terrain that requires them! 300$
Orvis Pro Zipper Waders Those at top of the range from Orvis. They are made of 4 layers Cordura and are tough and comfortables. Thet have 2 inside pockets, 2 hand warmers and 2 front pockets, big enough for your fly boxes. 898$ (There are special bundles where you can add the wading boots and base layer pants).
Orvis Pro BOA wading boots; Tish is the ultimate shoe from Orvis, it’s sturdy, Has Michelin soles that stick to the ground (if needed add studs. You can also get a BOA repair kit (we know sometimes it is needed) it a versatile shoe you’ll be happy with on any grounds and it’s a pretty good walking shoe if you have miles to walk to and by the river! The molded insole brings comfort and support. Dries fast. 329$ But if you don’t want BOA and prefer regular laces, you can check the OrvisPro which is exactly the same one without BOA or you can also might want the Orvis Pro Hybride Lace-up which is the same as the previous one but with an hybride sole : Felt / Gum. (the laceup models are 30$ cheaper.
Now maybe you want to call your banker…