Fishing from a boat is fun, but have you ever tried getting into the water with the fish? There’s something innately raw and natural about wading into the water and making your way to where the fish are hiding. With the best waist high waders, you can do this more easily and effectively.
The best waist high waders are an excellent option for every angler, from beginner to expert. If you have been looking for a new pair, here are some of the best options on the market today.
Waist High Wader Reviews
1. UNISPO Waist Wader Pants – Best Ergonomic Design
Made out of extremely durable and lightweight 4-ply polyester material, these UNISPO Waist Wader Pants are highly water-resistant and wear and tear-resistant, making them one of the most durable pairs on this list.
They feature a highly ergonomic design that provides you with the utmost comfort. These UNISPO Waist Wader Pants also come with a custom-made belt that uses a quick-release locking buckle for an ideal fit and ease of use.
Featuring large storage pockets and a waterproof zipper closure for your valuables, the waders have taped seams and integrated gravel guards for extreme functionality.
Pros
- Comfortable fit
- Easy to use belt
- Quite durable
- Comes with a large storage pocket
- They feature a pair of welded neoprene soles
Cons
- Doesn’t come with suspenders
2. Kylebooker Breathable Stockingfoot Waist High Pant Waders – Best All-Season Option
These Kylebooker Breathable Stockingfoot Waist High Pant Waders are designed for people who want to use their waders in any given season. These waders are geared towards providing you with ultimate comfort; these waders come with an adjustable belt that features a quick-release locking buckle that works well to fit your body regardless of type.
The design of these Kylebooker waders allows you to move freely during your fishing expedition. Made out of 3-layer TRICOT fabric, the waders are waterproof and wear and tear-resistant, making them quite durable.
Fully equipped with integrated gravel guards, reinforced knees, and welded neoprene soles, these waders help you stay warm and dry in any season.
Pros
- Easy to adjust belt
- Comfortable
- Reinforced kneesIntegrated gravel guards
- Waterproof
- Wear and tear-resistant
Cons
- It isn’t a convertible option
3. 8 Fans Fishing Waist Waders – Best Women’s Option
The first thing that the manufacturer says when introducing these 8 Fans Fishing Waist Waders to the market is that there are 5 different sizes available from S to XXL. This is basically to highlight that they care about the comfort of their clients, who come in all shapes and sizes.
Other than that, this is a stellar pair of waders that is 100% waterproof, breathable, and quite durable. Made out of 3-ply breathable material, these 8 Fans Fishing Waist Waders are not only wear-resistant but also tear-resistant and work well for both fishing and hunting.
Finally, these waders feature a convenient design with removable neoprene knee pads for your convenience and a belt that uses a quick release buckle. They are well-suited for both men and women.
Pros
- 100% waterproof
- Made out of breathable material
- Features removable knee pads
- Easy to use belt
- Durable and tear-resistant
- Comes with a mesh storage bag
Cons
- The sizes are manually measured and, as such, don’t always fit very well
4. Orvis Ultralight Convertible Wader – Best Ultralight Option
If you are tired of wearing heavy waders, these Orvis Ultralight Convertible Waders are probably the best option for your consideration. They are breathable but waterproof and feature a 4-layer nylon fabric.
Equipped with multiple external storage pockets and an integrated tool base on the front pocket, these Orvis waders are as practical as they come. The new low-profile seam construction of these Orvis waders also has strategic reinforcement in more high-stress areas.
Finally, they feature Fidlock Snap magnetic closures that make them super easy to convert.
Pros
- Convertible option
- Waterproof
- Ultralight waders
- Lots of external pockets
Cons
- Higher Price
5. Simms Tributary Fly Fishing Waders – Best Men’s Option
Yet another pair of easily convertible waders, the Simms Tributary Fly Fishing Waders comprises four layers of polyester material (legs and seat) and three layers for the torso, making them quite comfortable reasonably waterproof.
These Simms Tributary fly fishing waders come with front pockets that are fleece lined, making them warm and comfortable. The waders are anatomically engineered to make your fishing life easier. It comes with a nylon waist belt compatible with almost every tool you might need when fishing.
Pros
- Easily convertible
- They are quite durable
- Offers high level performance
- Comfortable and warm pockets
- Allow for natural mobility
Cons
- Basic design
6. LINGVUM Waist Waders – Best Breathable Option
These LINGVUM Waist Waders are a good option for people who only want a waist high pair of waders instead of a convertible option like what we have had on this list so far. Not only are these waders durable, but they are made out of high-quality 3-ply waterproof and breathable material. This material is slightly different from the traditional nylon and PVC options and weighs much less (65% less) than the competition.
Designed to offer you ultimate comfort, these waders not only keep the water out but also let perspiration through, making your fishing experience more comfortable. It comes with two zippered pockets and a one-button belt that can easily adjust to fit you well.
In addition, you will find multiple size options suitable for all types of anglers. Finally, the 4 mm neoprene stocking foot provides warmth and comfort for your feet while preventing gravel from entering your shoes. These LINGVUM waist waders offer comfort and support for long days on your feet.
Pros
- Easy to use, one-button belt
- 65% lighter than the competition
- Durable and comfortable
- Plenty of zippered storage pocket
Cons
- Limited size options
7. FROGG TOGGS Grand Refuge 2.0 Bootfoot Waist Wader – Best Value for Money
If you aren’t keen on getting a convertible pair of waders but would still love to have the advantage that comes with the suspenders, these FROGG TOGGS Grand Refuge 2.0 Bootfoot Waist Waders are the best option for you.
Not only do they come with a set of easy-to-adjust suspenders, but they also have an adjustable wading belt that features a locking buckle which is just as easy to use. Made out of 100% polyester material and heavy-duty 5mm neoprene and nylon, these waders are abrasion-resistant and comfortable.
These Frogg Togg waders come with a pair of neoprene-lined boots with cleated outsoles and comfortable midsoles for added warmth.
Pros
- Come with a pair of suspenders
- Features an easy to use wading belt
- Comes with a pair of abrasion-resistant boots
- Ideal for fishing and hunting
Cons
- Features liners, which may not be ideal for every angler
- Higher price point than others on our list
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Waist High Waders
As you can imagine, many different factors come into play when choosing a pair of waist high waders. Most of it comes down to personal preference, but a few practical factors must also come into play.
Here are some of the most important factors you must bear in mind when shopping for the best waist high waders.
Breathability and Durability
This is all about the material that the manufacturer used to make the waders. If the waders aren’t breathable, you will be more uncomfortable than is ideal, especially on those hot summer days when you want to enjoy a long fishing day.
Convertibility
As you may have noticed on this list, there are some strictly waist high waders while others are chest high but convertible. One of the biggest advantages of buying a convertible pair of waders is that you get the best of both worlds.
Chest high waders tend to have more features than simple waist high waders. They have more pockets, suspenders, and a belt. They have most of the features of waist high waders except for the addition of suspenders in some.
Finally, there are issues such as pricing and brand, which are all purely subjective, but some brands such as Simms and Orvis have been known to produce the best waders in the industry.
FAQ
Still have questions as you narrow down your choices for the best waist high waders for fly fishing? Read through our brief FAQ below for answers to some of the more commonly asked questions.
Are waist high waders better than chest high waders?
This is all a matter of personal preference. While some anglers prefer waist high waders for the inherent features they provide, such as being lightweight, easy to wear, and easy to remove, others think these waders don’t have enough pockets for all their gear.
Once you get past the added material weight issue, you will find that either wader style works just as well as the other in many cases. Besides, some chest high waders are super light and can be converted into waist high waders as needed.
Which is better, stockingfoot waders or boot-foot waders?
The answer to this question depends on where you intend to go fishing. If your fishing grounds are typically soft and don’t have many rocks underfoot, then you might be better off with boot-foot waders.
However, if you are unsure of the terrain underneath, stockingfoot waders would be better. Stockingfoot waders require a separate wading boot that provide you with much-needed ankle support and foot protection, whereas boot-foot waders fit like rubber boots and don’t provide much ankle support.
Can you repair waders?
There are several ways to go about this: if the waders are still under warranty, you can simply send them back to the manufacturer. However, if they aren’t under warranty, you might want to use something like a UV repair adhesive of your choice to seal any holes there may be.
A good pair of waders is necessary for people who enjoy fly fishing. The options laid out here are excellent, relatively affordable, and quite durable.
Looking for more product reviews? Check out our Buyer’s Guide to the Best Fly Fishing Gear.
