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Wader pants can come in handy when you’re fishing in warm conditions and don’t need chest waders to wade deep. Here’s an overview of the best wader pants out there.
A quality pair of waders is an essential investment in fly fishing. They make sure you stay dry, warm and safe on the water. Most waders used in fly fishing are chest waders. However, wading pants (often also called hip waders, waist waders or pant waders) have found more and more fans in recent years.
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 Look: Some of our Favorites
In this review we want to give you an overview of the best wading pants out there on the market. You can get a solid pair of wader pants starting at around $100. If you want to get some of the best hip waders on the market like the Simms G3 Guide you have to invest a bit more but these hip waders will last a long time.
Best Wader Pants for Fly Fishing on the Market in 2023
We made sure to offer options for all sorts of budgets in this test so you can make a solid choice afterwards to have a great time on the water. Let’s go.
Best Entry Level: Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking-Foot Pant Waders
Key features:
– Integrated gravel guards
– Adjustable hip belt
– Triple layer knee protection
Why we picked it:
At only a little more than $100 the Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking-Foot Pant Waders are a great entry level product. If you want to see if wader pants can replace your chest waders without spending a fortune these can be a good fit.
The Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking-Foot Pant Waders are made from a micro denier shell and have an extra strong triple-layer around the knees where most of the abrasion happens. The seems have been taped on the inside as well as on the outside for long-lasting performance. We liked the neoprene booties that feature anti-slip bottoms and come with integrated gravel guards that will keep sand and gravel out of your wading boots.
Pros:
– Gravel guards fit tightly
– Fit is comfortable and provides freedom of movement
– Fabric is durable
Cons
– Seam connecting the neoprene booties and the pants was a weakness in our test
Best Intermediate Wader Pants: Redington Escape
Key features:
– Integrated gravel guards
– Hip pockets for storage
– Adjustable waist belt
Why we picked it:
The Redington Escape Wader Pant is our favorite choice when you have a little more money to spend. Redington is well-known for manufacturing quality products at affordable prices. The Redington Escape Wader Pant is no exception to this rule. Made from a waterproof, highly breathable four-layer nylon fabric, we particularly liked the two big pockets with drainage holes to store items such as fly boxes or tippet spools.
An adjustable waist belt makes sure the Redington Escape Wader Pant fits tightly so you don’t have to worry when wading. The integrated gravel guards with lace hooks make sure no gravel or sand hinders your wading experience.
Pros:
– Big pockets are great for storing items such as a fly box
– Gravel guards efficiently prevent gravel and sand from entering
Cons
– Neoprene booties lack a bit of comfort
Best Premium Wader Pants: Simms Freestone
Key features:
– Big pockets on each side
– Wide, adjustable waist belt
– Zippered fly
Why we picked it:
The Simms Freestone Wading Pants are some of the best hip waders money can buy. Although they are Simms’ entry level pair of waist waders, they have many features that make for a great product. The Simms Freestone are made from Simms’ 4-layer toray quadralam technology. Compared to its big brother – the Simms G3 Guide – the Freestone feels a little softer and provides great freedom of movement.
Simms’ gravel guards are second to none and provide great comfort all day long. The Simms Freestone Wading Pants also feature hip pockets to store essential items. They come with the great Simms warranty.
Pros:
– Zippered fly for extra comfort
– Pocket provide storage space
– Wide belt secures a safe fit
Cons
– A little bulky around the gravel guards
GET THEM AT TRIDENT FLY FISHING
Best Premium Hip Waders: Patagonia Swiftcurrent
Key features:
– Pockets on each side
– Heavy duty scuff guards
– Single seam construction
Why we picked it:
Patagonia’s Swiftcurrent Pants are made from the company’s 100% recycled polyester membrane they call H2No®. It is highly waterproof on the one hand and highly breathable on the other which is great because fly fishing wading pants are often used in warmer conditions.
Just like the Simms Freestone, the Patagonia Swiftcurrent feature hip pockets and an adjustable wading belt for a tight fit. The pants’ single seam construction ensures a long lifetime and a high degree of abrasion resistance.
In terms of the wearing experience, the Patagonia Swiftcurrent also feel quite similar to the Simms Freestone. The gravel guards feature extra durable patches on the inside of the leg where a lot of the abrasion happens.
Pros:
– Wide wading belt secures tight fit
– Plenty of space thanks to side pockets
– Good abrasion resistance
Cons
– Cut is a bit wide which can be felt in fast currents
– Neoprene booties not as comfortable as the Simms ones
Best High-End Hip Waders: Simms G3 Guide Wading Pants
Key features:
– Extra wide wading belt
– Zippered fly
– Gore-Tex fabric
Why we picked it:
The Simms G3 Guide are probably the toughest and most durable hip waders on the market. Made from 4-layer-GORE-TEX® Pro Shell from the thighs downwards, they offer the utmost in abrasion resistance.
The Simms G3 Guide feel a bit like an elephant skin and give you confidence they won’t back down to the elements. Simms’ patented front and back seams contribute to this feeling as they relocate the seams to areas of less abrasion. The Simms G3 Guide feature anatomical gravel guards that guarantee all-day comfort at the water. Made in the USA.
Pros:
– Most durable hip waders in the market
– Zippered fly
– Great fitting neoprene booties
Cons
– Fit is quite athletic – so choose a wider one if you want a bit of extra freedom of movement
Conclusion on Hip Waders for Men
Fly fishing wading pants can be a great alternative to chest waders. They make sense when you know you won’t be wading deep. They are also a good choice for warmer climates and for travelling since they are often lighter than their chest wader counter parts.
As you can see from our review, there are hip waders for all budgets. It really depends on what you expect from your product. If you just want to see if wader pants are for you, you can’t go wrong with the Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking-Foot Pant Waders or the Redington Escape Wader Pant. In case you want high quality products as a replacement for your chest waders, take a look at the Simms Freestone or the Patagonia Swiftcurrent.
If you want the best wading pants money can buy, the Simms G3 Guide are for you.
Notice: We take part in so-called associate programs and earn a small commission at no extra cost for you if you end up purchasing a product after clicking one of the links in this article. We only recommend products we are convinced of and use ourselves.
Our Expertise/Expert Knowledge
Why you should trust us: Leonard Schoenberger and his team have tried and tested hundreds of rods, reels and other fly fishing gear over the years. We always express our honest opinions about a product to help you make a solid purchase decision. We never get paid for reviews and are proud of keeping our editorial independence. Our focus is on bringing you the latest in gear so you can have a great time at the water. Thanks for being a reader of The Wading List.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Wading Pants
What are wading pants?
Wading pants are waterproof pants designed for fly fishing in shallow waters. They are typically waist-high and paired with wading boots, providing an alternative to chest waders for situations where deep wading isn’t required.
What should I look for in wading pants for fly fishing?
When choosing wading pants, consider their material, fit, durability, and features. Good wading pants should be made from a breathable, waterproof material. They should fit well without restricting movement, and reinforced areas can add durability. Look for features like integrated gravel guards, pockets, and a good wading belt.
What are some of the best brands for wading pants?
Some of the top brands for wading pants include Simms, Patagonia, Orvis, and Redington. These brands are well-respected in the fly fishing community for their quality and durability.
Are wading pants suitable for all types of fly fishing?
Wading pants are best suited for fly fishing in shallow waters, such as small streams and creeks, or the edges of lakes and ponds. For deeper waters, chest waders are typically a better choice.
How do I take care of my wading pants?
After each use, rinse your wading pants with fresh water and allow them to dry thoroughly before storing. Check for any damage regularly, and repair any leaks or tears promptly to maintain their waterproofness.
What’s the typical cost of good wading pants?
The cost of wading pants can vary widely based on the brand, material, and features. You can find decent options starting around $100, while high-end wading pants from premium brands can cost upwards of $300.
Can I use wading pants in cold weather?
You can use wading pants in cold weather, but you’ll need to layer underneath them for warmth. Look for thermal, moisture-wicking base layers to keep you warm without adding bulk.
Read more of our Gear Guides here:
Ultimate Guide: Best Wading Jackets
Buyer’s Guide Best Wading Boots
A Guide to the Best Fly Fishing Starter Kits
