Wading Boots

[dug]

Looking to get a new pair of wading boots that are light weight yet durable. Got a $30 off $100 purchase coupon from Cabela's and thought I might try a new pair. I currently have the Simms Freestone boots that seem to get really heavy after a few hours of fishing and was considering the Simms Guide Weight, Simms L2, or the Chota STL. Any suggestions or advise on these brands or others would be appreciated.

Doug

[FlyBy]

I have a pair of Simms L2s that are very light yet provide good ankle support. If you find the Freestones heavy, I wouldn't think that another pair of mostly leather boots like the Guides would be noticably different that the boots you have now.

FlyBy

[hook]

I've been wearing a pair of Simms lightweight felt soled boots for the past year. They're very comfortable and I've had no problems with support.

[mcgyver]

I have a pair of Cabelas' Backcountry Wading boots and like them. They've held up pretty well over the last few years. Also have a pair of Simms Lightweight convertibles (can put studs in them), but haven't finished beating my other pair to death yet.

[dwood]

I have a pair of the Chota STS. I'm thinking of ordering another pair for when they inevitably discontinue these. They are terrific boots!. Lightweight, lots of support, and the st in uds in addition to the felt is a real plus. For an affordable, lightweight boot, they can't be beat.

[FlygURL]

I love my chotas with the removalbe studs. Takes about 15 mintues to add/remove the studs. Makes wading at the dam a piece of cake.

[dug]

Thanks to all for the advice. Looks like I can't go wrong with the Simms L2 or Chotas.

Doug

[TheEndlessEnigma]

sorry to take this in another tangent but does anyone have any experience with hodgman boots

[chrisfish]

My first pair of boots were a pair of entry level hodgman boots. They were okay. For $40 they were great! I then went to a pair of llbean west branch (I think) and love them.

[flyflicker]

I think you would be hard pressed to beat the Simms lightweights. Have had mine for 2 years and they show little wear after miles of hiking in lava country. Had Hodgemans in the past and the felts fell off after about a years use. The Simms are sewn on. Haven't had to stud mine, the felt alone seems to work fine.

[outdoor7or24]

dug - I have use the Patagonia Wading boots for some time. While they are a glued sole vs. other boots that have a glue/sewn sole, they hold up great. Simms lightweights are good too.
Dont buy heavy boots, go with the lightweight ones! Makes a day on the water much more comfortable and enjoyable.