Stay protected in fishing waders
Spending the day waist-deep in water when you are fishing can be a lot of fun, but it is important you stay protected from the cold. Fishing waders allow you to venture into the water while keeping you warm and dry all day.
Types of fishing wader
Fishing waders come in a variety of styles depending on how deep you need to go and how much protection you want. Hip fishing waders will cover your lower leg and some of your thigh. Waist waders cover the length of your legs as well as your hips, much like a pair of trousers. Chest waders cover you right up to your chest, like a pair of dungarees.
Fishing wader materials
Most fishing waders are made of PVC, nylon or neoprene, as these materials offer the best waterproofing and flexibility, combined with a long-lasting durability that you simply don't get with perishable rubber. If you are going to spend a long time wearing your waders, look for a breathable material, as this will keep you feeling fresh and comfortable.
Choosing fishing waders
Waders come in two styles: those with an integral wellington style boot, and those with a fitted sock. The boot style fishing waders are sold by shoe size, while the sock style will be sold in more general sizes, such as small, medium and large. You can also choose your waders in ladies and gents' fittings, for added comfort, and you can choose camouflage or muted colours to match the terrain you are hunting or fishing in.
Extras to look for
The active way in which fishing waders are used means they are prone to punctures, so look out for waders that come with a free repair kit, including a matching patch of spare material to fix any holes. This will give them a much longer life. Other features to look out for are reinforced knees and a hand warmer ‘kangaroo' pocket on chest waders.