looking for a wader/boot recommendation

[Capt. Lou]

Since I have always trout fished all winter , I required a warm wader & I preferred a bootfoot . Many years I simply bought neoprene waders but if u walk a lot & stand in cold water below 40 degrees , you could get tired do to the weight & most bootfoots did not have quality or good insulation unless u purchased hunting model,which was heavier yet.
I bought a pair of Aquaz breathable waders3 years ago , they R the Dry Zip model with Boggs bootfoots . Worked out perfectly even though they are breathable they offer 4 or 5 layer material which is very hi quality . The Boggs if ur standing in cold water are extremely warm best I've had with only one good sock.
Throw on a fleece pant & u can walk / stand in cold water whatever no issue
The Boggs can be bought in felt or standard boots . So far by far best wader I've ever owned .
Check out website Aquaz.com . One of site sponsors carries them Reel Seat .

[tradingfrank27]

One thing I can share is not buy the ones from Dick's Sporting goods. The $40 and $50 dollar ones with vulcanized rubber. I only use them to launch my boat during early spring and late fall and they don't last more than a year. I contacted the company and the lady told me to use a conditioner like Armor All. Yet, if you do some research, some mentioned stuff like Armor all will actually eat away your rubber.

My newest pair (yes, I bought another one because I had a gift card and it was on sale this year), it's been going pretty good. I lay them flat during storage now and keep them indoors vs leaving them in the garage as temp change and sun will kill your boots. Nothing is worse than launching in 40 degree water and your socks and part of your calves are soaked in 10 secs.

Put your money into a good one and keep them inside during non-use.

[kmofom]

I recently purchased llbeans kennebec waders and I must say they are the most comfortable and light weight I have used yet. They are stocking foot. I've also been using korkers wading boots and they have taken a bunch of abuse from me. I use them almost every time I go out fishing with waterproof socks. For the price of llbeans their warranty is the best around.

[briansnat]

Lotsa good info here. One thing to add, don't buy felt soles. Some states have banned them and it's probably a matter of time until NJ does

[tycomps]

Originally Posted by briansnat

Lotsa good info here. One thing to add, don't buy felt soles. Some states have banned them and it's probably a matter of time until NJ does

the latest is felt's ok, Vermont just lifted their ban after five years.

[americandesi]

I've been using Redington Sonic Pro (stocking foot) waders and Korkers K5 boots for a while now and that setup works for me. I mostly trout fish and I like the Korkers because it has interchangeable soles. That way if the sole wears out before the boot, you can replace just the sole instead of the whole boot. I mostly wade fish for trout and like to use their felt sole with a studded bottom.

If you don't fish that often (5-10 times a year) Redington Crosswater waders and the Korkers Redside boots could also work for you.

[tycomps]

thanks for all the info! went with Orvis Encounters and Orvis Clearwater boots. four hours in the river today and liked them.