Making the Choice – How to Be Sure You Have the Right Type of Waders
Fly fishing is by no means a skill that’s hard to acquire. Learning how to cast can be a challenge, but not if you’re dedicated. Yet, beginners may have some trouble in choosing the right equipment. For instance, the right type of waders.
If you make a mistake of choosing the wrong kind of waders, you will have a rough experience on the river. When you go fly fishing on the Montana rivers, you need to know that you have to have the right equipment to face the natural elements. And waders save for the rod and reel, are perhaps, the most important part of your gear.
But there’s no need to worry. We’re here for you! Let’s take a look at the most common types of waders. When you have the right information, making the choice will be a breeze.
How to Choose the Right Type of Waders
There are different types of waders for different purposes and different seasons. Of course, they also come in various designs. While the latter is entirely up to you and your style, let’s see what the main types of waders are and what they are for.
Hip Waders
Hip waders are designed for minimal wading and the shallowest of water. They usually have a built in boot. Check the type of boot and tread. Irrigation hip waders aren’t designed for fishing and can be beyond worthless if trying to walk the slippery rocks on the Stillwater. They are designed for the casual angler who prefers to fish in shallow waters. If planning to fish anything other than that type of water, they aren’t recommended.
Waist High Waders
They resemble a pair of waterproof pants. They have similarities with the chest high waders, the only difference being that they don’t reach above the waistline.
Waist high waders are easier to put on and keep you cool on a hot sunny day. Waist waders will work for most shallow water wading situations as well as warmer weather. If you are the kind of angler that prefers to fish during summer, the waist high waders are perfect for you.
Chest High Waders
The chest high or bib style waders are most common among fishermen. They are the best option if you don’t mind spending a bit more to get all-round protection when you’re fishing.
You can use them in shallow water and warm weather. More importantly, they provide the angler with superior weather protection for fishing during cold or wet weather. Be sure and use a snuggly fastened waist belt too. Most chest waders also have zippered chest pockets, hand warmer pockets and other features too.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Waders
Aside from length and height, the material waders are made from should also play an important part in your choice. In fact, it’s the fabric that makes the difference between waders that you can wear for decades and poor quality ones that will only serve you for a season.
Neoprene Waders
For many years, this was the most common material. It’s the perfect fabric if you are fishing in cold weather, but for anything beyond that can be quite hot and uncomfortable. There is one problem: neoprene is not breathable, which means, you are going to get sweaty in hot weather.
Breathable Waders
Breathable waders can be made from various fabrics. The advantage they have is that while they are waterproof, but they also allow air to flow in and sweat and humidity flow out.
The result is that they keep you warm, comfy and dry throughout your fly fishing expedition, without sweating. Breathable materials will work well in keeping water out while allowing your body to breathe even the hottest of summers. You can also wear layers underneath them to help keep warm when cold weather fishing.
Unlike neoprene waders, breathable ones are more costly. Gore-tex waders are more expensive than other breathable and waterproof materials, such dri-plus. However, they are generally recognized as being superior.
Choosing the right type of waders is not just about performance. You also have to make sure that you will feel comfortable enough in them. After all, you will probably want to wear them all day, depending on finding the right spot!
If you need more tips on choosing the right fly fishing gear or the right type of waders, check out our dedicated blog category. Or feel free to stop by the shop and let us physically show you what gear we like the most! You’ll be an expert in no time!
