Last updated on September 26th, 2023.
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A good wading boot is priceless. In this wader boots review we give you the best fly fishing boots of the year.
Disclaimer: All products in this guide are independently researched by our team. We only recommend products we believe in and never get paid for the reviews. Learn more about our review process here.
Quick advice: If you want a wading boot that can do it all, go for the Korkers River Ops with unmatched versatility. If you are looking for a lightweight boot, go for the Simms Flyweight.
Wading boots literally make you stand on solid ground. No matter whether you go for a rubber sole, a felt sole or one of these choices combined with studs, a quality fly fishing boot is always a good investment.
The best ones provide you with a level of safety that is a prerequisite to enjoy your day at the water. It can prevent you from slipping and it can make you reach places a pair of bad wading shoes won’t. In this guide we’ll give you an overview of the best options. We will also explain what you should look for in general when buying a new pair of wading shoes: material, sole and fit.
Of course not every fly fisherman’s or woman’s budget is the same. Hence we included fly fishing boots from all price ranges in this guide. One thing to consider: if you are new to fly fishing or a beginner, you will be just fine with an entry level fly fishing boot. If you consider yourself a passionate fly fisher you should think about getting a premium wading boot since they will last longer and hence these fly fishing boots will even cost you less on the long run.
Our Top Picks of 2023:
Korkers River Ops Boa: Best Versatility
Simms G4 Powerlock – Best Highend
Patagonia Danner Foot Tractor – Aluminum Bar – Best Grip
Grundéns Boundary Wading Boot – Vibram – Best New
Simms Flyweight: Best Comfort
Orvis Men’s Ultralight: Best Lightweight
Chota Outdoor Gear: Best Low-Cut Wading Boot
Orvis Encounter Felt Sole: Best Traction
Frogg Toggs Men’s Anura: Best Budget
Simms FreeSalt: Best Saltwater Wading Boot
Redington Pro Bowler: Best Price to Value
Patagonia Forra: Best Lighweight Stability
Table of contents:
10 Best Wading Boots for Waders in 2023
What you Need to Know about Fishing Boots
– Taking Care of your Fly Fishing Boots
Conclusion on Fly Fishing Boots
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Best Boots for Waders – Felt Soles vs. Rubber Soles
The general question you have to answer first is: felt sole or rubber sole. In fact you don’t have to answer that question if you go for the Korkers with their interchangeable sole system.Generally speaking rubber soles give you extra comfort when you do a bit of walking getting to and from your fishing location. Felt soles on the other hand are the better option on slippery surfaces such as river beds with rocks covered with algae.
No matter whether you opt for felt soles or rubber soles you can always add cleats/studs to your fly fishing boots. They provide extra traction and stability. The only downside of them is that you have to be careful off the river, for example when walking into a fly store.
Disclaimer: We source, test and review the best products in the market for you. We only recommend products we use ourselves. If you end up buying a product from one of the merchants, we might earn a commission at no extra cost for you.
How We Test the Best Wading Boots
Now that you now what to pay attention to before making a purchase, we want to give you our favourite fly fishing boots out there. From years of experience we can tell you that the best fly fishing boots come from a handful of manufacturers. Of course, they produce several different models. To make it easier for you, we pick our top choice in terms of durability, traction, versatility, weight and budget. Here are our favourites.
1. Korkers River Ops Boa: Best Versatility
Main features:
– Exchangeable soles
– Boa lacing system
– Enforced toe and heel cap
– Easy entry loop at the heel
Why we picked it:
Portland-based Korkers has innovated fly fishing boots over the last decades. They solve the tricky question of different soles in wading shoes. The brand new Korkers River Ops Boa feature their unique sole system and the highly practical BOA lacing system.
With the Korkers River Ops Boa you can choose between two sole options. Option 1 comes with a felt sole and a classic Vibram sole. This package is a the right choice if you don’t want to pass up on a felt sole which still provide supreme grip to this day if you wade river with slippery rocks. The classic vibram rubber sole that also comes with this set is a great allrounder providing solid grip on all terrain. Option 2 features two vibram soles with one of them being studded which provides even more grip than a traditional rubber sole. Be careful though with studs when entering a fly shop or restaurant since you might leave nasty traces on the floor.
The Korkers River Ops Boa feature Korker’s Boa quick lacing system which makes putting them on and taking them off really easy. Heavy rubber toe caps provide extra abrasion resistance. The Korkers River Ops Boa are the brand’s ultimate work horse. If you tend to spend fewer days at the river check our their Darkhorse and Terrorridge boots. No matter which one you end up getting, all Korkers provide premium durability and stability.
PROS
- Highest versatility of all boots
- Ideal grip in different situations
- Excellent stability around the ankle
CONS
- A bit on the heavier side
GET THEM AT TRIDENT FLY FISHING
2. Simms G4 Pro Powerlock: Best High-End Wading Boot
Simms G4 Pro Powerlock
Main features:
– Vibram sole
– Conventional lacing system
– Foam lined neoprene ankles
– New power lock cleat system
Why we picked it:
American manufacturer Simms just released a brand new piece of gear: the Simms G4 Pro Powerlock (Read our in-dephth review of the new Simms G4 here). The new boot is Simms’ new flagship boot and hence has all the features of a great wading boot: stability, secure lacing system, vibram rubber sole – and on top of that a new power lock cleat system that is customisable. This makes the Simms G4 Pro Powerlock a great choice if you demand the utmost in terms of durability from your boots.
The Simms G4 Pro Powerlock features Vibram’s new Idrogrip sole which promises even more grip on slippery rocks. The heel and front have reinforced TPU overlays since that’s where most of the abrasion happens. The ankles are foam lined with neoprene for increased comfort. I found the neoprene to be very comfortable to wear and it also made taking the boots on and off very easy when they are fully soaked. The Simms G4 Pro Powerlock comes with two sets of cleats and a cleat wrench.
The loops at the heel of the Simms G4 Pro Powerlock further facilitate getting into and out of the boots. The lacing system is top notch and ensures a secure and tight fit no matter the conditions.
PROS:
- Very durable
- Excellent grip on all surfaces
CONS:
- Their bullet proof construction makes them rather heavy
GET THEM AT WYOMING FLY FISHING
3. Patagonia Danner Foot Tractor – Aluminum Bar: Best Grip
Main features:
– Extremely grippy foot tractor studs
– Full leather design
– Re-solable
– Vibram sole
Why we picked it:
The Patagonia Danner Foot Tractor (Read our in-dephth review of the Patagonia Danner Wading Boot here)are our favorites in this wader boots review when it comes to traction. The Foot Tractor system made from Aluminum bars is just supreme when it comes to slippery river beds. The Patagonia Danner Foot Tractor where built in cooperation with the American hiking boot specialist Danner. The comfort of these is simply amazing and you can feel the superior built quality.
Yes, the Patagonia Danner Foot Tractor are expensive but they will last you a long time and Patagonia gives you the opportunity to resole. If you think the cleats are not for you, you can get these with a rubber Vibram sole or felt sole. Only downside on these boots is the fact that they are a little heavy and you almost feel like wearing a snowboard boot. Hence I don’t recommend driving a car with these on.
PROS
- Extremely durable
- Perfect grip on slippery underground
CONS
- Definitely on the heavier side
- Take a long time to dry
4. Grundéns Boundary Wading Boot – Vibram – Best New
Main features:
– Extra padding around the ankles
– Made from waterproof leather
– Equipped with a vibram sole
– Reenforced heel and toe section
Why we picked it:
Brand new for the season and their first ever wading boot in fact, let me introduce you to the Grundéns Boundary. If you’ve ever gone Bluewater fishing or seen commercial fishermen dock in the harbor, you’ve probably come across Grundéns. They’ve been making some of the toughest rain gear for fishermen for decades and now entered the wading boot market. It only makes sense from a product perspective since their fishing shoes have been some of the best on the market for years.
I have to say I was impressed with their new Grundéns Boundary the first time I checked them out since these boots check all the boxes when it comes to a high quality, yet sturdy and comfortable boot. At first glance they reminded me of a traditional hiking boot with reinforced toe and heel caps. The main material is a waterproof leather combined with a vibram rubber sole which provides excellent grip (you can add cleats if you want even more grip around slippery areas such as rocks and boulders). Around the ankles the Grundéns Boundary feature extra padding for long days along the river.
On the inside, the Grundéns Boundary Wading Boot is equipped with EVA foam midsoles that provide excellent stability and are yet soft enough for hours of wading. One thing I really like about these new wading boots is the fact that all the materials used in this boot are corrosion resistant which means you can safely use them in saltwater environments (I still recommend rinsing your boots after every use in salty waters).
PROS
- High-end components and first grade materials
- Saltwater proof
CONS
- A felt sole would be a nice addition to the line up
5. Simms Flyweight: Best Comfort
Main features:
– Vibram Rubber Sole
– Conventional lacing system
– Re-enforced toe and heel cap
– Loops at the heel make putting them on easy
Why we picked it:
The Simms Flyweight (read our in-depth review here) is an excellent wading boot if you’re in it for the comfort. The American manufacturer Simms its well known for the durability of its products. Mesh fabric and rubber toe caps guarantee scratch resistance. A vibram sole provides solid traction (a stud kit is available). However, there is no felt sole option available for the Flyweight Access Boot.
These boots are made for long walks to and from the water and this is where they shine. The weaknesses that we’ve discovered during our testing were a medium level of traction and first and foremost a lack of stability around the ankles. Hence, if your way to the water includes steep descents or ascents, you might consider a lightweight option that provides more traction such as the Patagonia Forra.
PROS
- Lightweight, yet sturdy thanks to toe and heel cap
- Softest one around the insides of the ankles
CONS
- Don’t last as long as the Danners or Korkers
GET THEM AT TRIDENT FLY FISHING
6. Orvis Men’s Ultralight Wading Boots: Best Lightweight
Main features:
– Low ankle design
– Very lightweight
– Easy slip on thanks to loop in the back
– Drainage holes on the side of the boot
Why we picked it:
The American manufacturer Orvis has been in the fly fishing business for decades and known to make some of the best fly fishing gear in the industry. Their Orvis Men’s Ultralight is no exception to this rule. The Orvis Men’s Ultralight is our wader boots review top choice in the lightweight category. The lower shaft gives the Ultralight Fly Fishing boots the feeling of hiking shoes. You can comfortably wear them all day.
The Orvis Men’s Ultralight feature a Vibram sole and still come in at only 40oz (1.14kg)/pair. You can add studs for extra stability. The Orvis Ultralight are a great choice for trips when you have to keep the weight of your gear low plus they have drainage holes on the sides of the boot that keep the boot light and make them quick drying.
PROS
- Lightweight and highly packable due to smaller size
- Comfortable lacing system
CONS
- Limited ankle support
7. Chota Outdoor Gear: Best Low-Cut Wading Boot
Main features:
– Mesh fabric on the sides keeps the boot light
– Boa lacing system
– Enforced toe and heel cap
– Excellent value for money
Why we picked it:
The Chota Outdoor Gear is our go-to boot in this wader boots review when it comes to low-cut fly fishing boots. The lower shaft reduces the weight of the boot, similar to the Orvis Ultralight. The Chota Outdoor Gear features a quick lacing system and an innovative system with removable insoles. This means you can use the Chota fly fishing boots with sock foot waders or leave the insoles in when wading wet, for example in summer.
Reinforced heels and toes will make the Chota Outdoor Gear last a long time. At around $120 these low weight wading shoes provide great value for money.
PROS
- Lightweight, yet durable
- Good traction
CONS
- Lacing system could be improved
8. Orvis Encounter Felt Sole Fly Fishing Boots for Waders: Best Traction
Main features:
– Felt soles
– Traditional lacing system
– Drainage holes on the side
– Loop to attach gravel guards of the waders
Why we picked it:
When it comes to wading on slippery surfaces some fly fishermen would argue that nothing beats a felt sole. So if you know you’ll often face situations like that, the Orvis Encounter Felt Sole is an excellent choice for you.
Coming in at under $100 the Orvis Encounter Felt Sole has all the features you are looking for in the best fly fishing boots. A reinforced rubber toe cap and a loop on the back of the boot for easy access, drainage holes on the side of the boot and a small loop in the front section to attach the gravel guards of your waders to keep sand and other debris out of your boots. Only downsides in my eyes are the laces that are not very durable and the padding around the ankles could use an upgrade.
PROS
- Quality drainage system
- D-ring for attachment of gravel guards
CONS
- Won’t last forever
9. Frogg Toggs Men’s Anura Wading Shoes: Best Budget
Main features:
– Rubber and felt soles available
– Conventional lacing system
– Enforced toe and heel cap for extra abrasion resistance
– Easy entry loop at the heel of the boot
Why we picked it:
The Frogg Toggs Men’s Anura Wading Shoe is our best budget wading boot. Coming in well below $100 it has everything you are looking for in a quality pair of fly fishing boots. With the Frogg Toggs Men’s Anura Wading Shoe you can choose between a felt sole and a rubber sole with the option of studs. A rubber toe cap provides extra abrasion resistance.
The Frogg Toggs Men’s Anura Wading Shoe also features a padded collar around your ankles for extra comfort. The combination of leather and cordura ensures the Frogg Toggs fly fishing boots dry quickly.
PROS
- Great value for money
- Extra abrasion resistance around the toes
CONS
- Limited ankle support
10. Simms FreeSalt: Best Saltwater Wading Boot
Main features:
– Rubber soles
– Traditional lacing system
– Enforced toe and heel cap
– Extra padding around the ankles
Why we picked it:
As a bonus we want to give you our favourite if you are looking for a wading boot to use primarily in salt water: the Simms FreeSalt. The main difference between fresh water and salt water is the degree of salt in the water. Salt leads to corrosion in metals. Hence, fly fishing boots for saltwater need to pay special attention to this detail.
For their FreeSalt Wading Boot Simms uses non-corrosive materials only. The heels and front are protected by extra strong non-scratch rubber. The soles don’t leave any marks if you are stepping onto a skiff when fishing the flats for example.
PROS
- High cut around the ankles improves wading stability
- Very lightweight and highly packable
CONS
- Reduced versatility because of the sole
11. Redington Pro Bowler Fishing Boots: Best Price to Value
Main features:
– Very lightweight
– Conventional laces
– Heel and toe sections are reenforced
– Drainage holes
Why we picked it:
The Redington Pro Bowler is a great price to value choice and offers all the features of a premiere wading boot. They come with felt soles or rubber soles and almost feel like a tracking boot – very light and comfortable to wear all day.
At the heel and at the toe cap, the Redington Pro Bowler for fishing are reinforced for increased abrasion resistance. The lacing system high up the ankle provides ample stability. Go for the felt soles if you are wading a lot on slippery rocks. The rubber soles are a good choice if you often walk longer distance to get to the water. If you want you can add studs to the Redington Pro Bowler. Redington recommends up to 3/8-inch studs for sticky rubber soles and up to 1/2-inch studs for felt soles
PROS
- Quality drainage system
- Quick drying
CONS
- Not as comfortable around the insides of the ankles as other pairs tested
12. Patagonia Forra
Main features:
– Very lightweight
– Lacing system without any metal parts
– Heel and toe sections are reenforced
– Mesh fabric dries quickly
Why we picked it:
The new Patagonia Forra Wading Boots (read our in-depth review here) are an excellent choice if you are looking for a lightweight boot but don’t want to compromise on ankle stability and traction. Their looks are not particularly sexy with their all grey/black design but they can shine with their “inner” qualities.
Out of the box they offer a high degree of traction thanks to their vibram sole (the outer and inner areas of the sole are much sturdier than on the Simms Flyweight for example). Their lacing system does not feature any metal parts and hence the boot is also well suited for saltwater use (rinse them afterwards of course). And finally we were impressed with the amount of stability they provide around the ankles. They are really a great fusion of low light and stability. Hence if you find yourself putting in a few extra miles to get to your favorite fishing spot, make sure to check out the Forra.
PROS
- Excellent mix of low weight and stability
- Great traction with vibram rubber sole out of the box (without studs)
CONS
- The color design of the boot is not particularly sexy
What you Need to Know about Wading Boots
In this section we want to touch upon some of the most important topics when it comes to picking a pair of fly fishing boots.
What Size Wader Boots for Fishing should I Get?
Another word of advise: every wading boot recommended in this guide is to be worn with a pair of stockingfoot waders which are the gold standard in modern day breathable waders. Stockingfoot waders are fly fishing waders that have neoprene booties. Over these, you wear a pair of fly fishing boots. This often brings up the question. What size wading boot should you get? Since these neoprene booties are quite thick, most of the wading boots have to be one size more than your street shoes. Most of the manufacturers have special sizing charts for their products.
What if I want to do wet wading? That’s another good question that we often get in the summer. Wet wading means you only wear fly fishing boots. In order for you to not have to get another pair of fly fishing boots, we recommend using neoprene socks with your boots. This means they will have the same fit plus they will keep you warm. Because even if the temperatures are hot outside, the water temperatures are much lower and your feet will most likely get cold if you wade for hours.
What about the best fly fishing boots boots for women? Just like with women’s waders, the times when women had to pick from men’s wading boots are luckily gone. That’s why we compiled a separate guide to “The Best Women’s Wader Boots“.
Weight of Your Boots for Waders
The shape and built of your wader boots has an influence on its weight. If you prefer a really light boot you should go for one with a lower shaft such as the Orvis Men’s Ultralight. If you want increased stability and sturdiness a product such as the Simms Freestone is the way to go. They are basically indestructible and will last you for years.
Taking Care of your Wader Boots
The most important thing to make your wader boots for fishing last longer is to dry them properly after every use. Make sure they are completely dry before storing them for longer periods. If they are still wet they can mould.
Durability
You might ask yourself why you should pay hundreds of dollars for a wading boot? You don’t have to of course but here’s an aspect to consider. Oftentimes the premium manufacturers such as Simms, Orvis, Korkers or Patagonia use the best materials for their high-end products. This means they are more expensive to purchase in the beginning but might not be more expensive on the long run in fact. The reason: durability.
Wading boots such as the Simms G4 Pro, the Korkers River Ops Boa or the Patagonia Danner are made from the most durable fabrics out there. And in the case of the Patagonia you can even resole your boot further extending its lifespan. That’s not only more economic in many cases but oftentimes also more ecologic.
Conclusion
Wader boots for fishing are one of the most important pieces of your gear to have fun at the water. Furthermore, they provide stability in all situations and are hence crucial for your safety when wading. It’s worth to invest a bit of money into a quality pair of wading shoes. You can’t to wrong with any of the fishing boots we reviewed above. Here are a few things to pay attention to when choosing your boots for waders.
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Why You Should Trust Our Reviews
Leonard Schoenberger and his team spend countless days on the water testing new fly fishing gear. Our goal is to use our experience, give you our honest opinions and recommend the best products so you can make a solid purchase decision. We never get paid for reviews and are proud of our editorial independence. Our focus is on you – thanks for reading and supporting The Wading List.
Best Wading Boots: Frequently Asked Questions
Why are specialized wading boots important for fishing?
Wading boots provide anglers with the necessary grip on slippery riverbeds or lake bottoms, support for the ankles, and protection against potential hazards like sharp rocks, shells, or unseen underwater obstacles.
What’s the difference between felt soles and rubber soles in wading boots?
Felt soles provide excellent traction on slippery rocks and riverbeds. However, they can carry invasive species between water bodies. Rubber soles, on the other hand, are more durable, eco-friendly, and versatile but may provide slightly less grip on certain slippery surfaces.
How should wading boots fit?
A good wading boot should fit snugly, with room for neoprene-booted waders and a pair of socks. It shouldn’t be too tight, which could restrict circulation, or too loose, which might cause blisters.
Are wading boots waterproof?
While wading boots are designed to be submerged in water, they aren’t necessarily waterproof in the sense of keeping water out. They are made to drain water quickly once you step out, ensuring you don’t carry extra weight.
Do I need to consider the type of waders I have when purchasing wading boots?
Yes, especially if you have boot-foot waders (where the boot is attached). Stocking-foot waders (separate booties) are more versatile, allowing you to pair them with any wading boot.
How do I maintain and care for my wading boots?
After each use, rinse them thoroughly with fresh water, especially if you’ve been in saltwater. Remove insoles and let everything air dry completely to prevent mold or mildew. Periodically check for wear and tear.
What should I consider when buying wading boots for colder environments?
Look for boots with insulated linings and ensure there’s room for thicker socks without compromising circulation. Proper fit is crucial, as maintaining blood flow is essential for warmth.
Do wading boots come in different ankle heights?
Yes, wading boots can come in low, mid, or high ankle designs. Higher ankle boots offer more support and protection, which can be essential in rocky or uneven terrains.
Can I use wading boots for activities other than fishing?
While wading boots are designed specifically for fishing, they can be used for other water-related activities. However, they might not provide the comfort or support required for extensive hiking or trekking.
Are there any environmental concerns associated with using wading boots?
Yes, especially with felt-soled boots which can trap and transport invasive aquatic species between water bodies. Always clean, drain, and dry your boots thoroughly after each use to minimize this risk.
Read more about wading gear here:
BEST POLARIZED SUNGLASSES FOR FLY FISHING
PATAGONIA SWIFTCURRENT EXPEDITION WADERS
REVIEW: A SEASON WITH PATAGONIA’S DANNER BOOTS
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