>>1039378I'm going to go Contra and suggest bootfoot waders. Unless you are wading 7mph current over greasy bowling balls like the Yellowstone, the Madison or maybe the Muskegon stocking foot are overkill. They take 5x as long to put on, they take 3x as long to take.off. You may end up needing gravel gaiters. Don't even take stockingfoots into mud or muck. They DO offer better ankle support and are best if you need to hike far.
In my experience the bootfoot are warmer, more convenient, and adequate for most situations. Either way you'll want a belt.
I've had the following bootfoot
RedBall rubberized canvas, Hodgeman 5mm neoprene, gander mountain hippers.
Stocking foot - 2mm Cabela's, Sims G3
Worn with a tall Danner felt sole boot.
Neoprene are easily repaired, and most durable. Also too hot in summer.
I do love the breathable Sims, just wish they made the bootfoot model when I bought them.
The 5mm bootfoot lasted almost 20 years, many of those years I fished 2-3 times a week. I could have kept them servicable but threw them out during a move. There was a 4" rip from sliding down an icy riverbank. The 2mm Cabela's are still gtg after 20 years. They weren't used much, only in summer, because stockingfoots are a pain in the ass.
I'll buy another pair of bootfoot neoprenes this year for winter, spring trout and duck hunting.
