Photo by Field & Stream Online Editors

Related Articles

• Camo Gear for Your ATV
• Best New ATVs and UTVs
• Always On Sale: Find great gear for cheap on eBay
• Boots
• All-Terrain Vehicle

Tags

No Related Topics

1. L.L. Bean West Branch
$170; 800-441-5713; llbean.com
The lower third portion of these waders is tough enough to withstand hiking on the thorniest trail. Three generous loops keep the belt in place. And on the front, a soft, lined pocket provides a comfortable place to rest your hands. Best Features: With 11 different sizes and articulated knees, the fit is great. Points to Ponder: It sacrifices some breathability due to the extra layering.

2. Patagonia Watermaster LT
$225; 800-638-6464; patagonia.com
One of the lightest waders Patagonia has ever made, this simple, no-frills version is deceptively durable and weighs in at a mere 36 ounces. Supple to the touch, the LT has a cut that's roomy enough to leave you plenty comfortable as you row the drift boat. Best Features: It has a great fit in the legs and crotch and breathes better than many we tested. Points to Ponder: They only come in five sizes.

3. Simms RiverTek
$279; 406-585-3557; simmsfishing.com
This pair of waist-highs converts into full chest waders in seconds for deep crossings. The section above the belt line is made from a light rip-stop breathable nylon that comfortably tucks out of the way. Best Features: You get guide-proven construction, and a great belt system that stays adjusted. Points to Ponder: The narrow shoulder strap was a little uncomfortable.

4. Cabela's Dry-Plus G-II
$100; 800-237-4444; cabelas.com
If you're fishing less than 40 days a year and not trekking through nasty brush to get to the river, consider these waders. They are the lightest of all the models tested. Best Features: The three-layer laminate expels more perspiration than heavier constructions, and the price is sweet. Points to Ponder: They're not as durable as some other models.

5. Hodgman Guidelite Zipper
$300; 630-879-7555; hodgman.com
Coffee drinkers, pay attention: Unlike other zippered waders that practically require a pair of pliers to open, these Hodgmans are effortless to unzip. A back-brace-style belt makes it a little easier to stand in the river all day. Best Features: This smartly designed wader is exceptionally durable. Points to Ponder: The price is steep-but hey, when you've got to go...

TIP
Breathable waders are just like breathable rain jackets: To work effectively, they have to be clean. After every 15 days of use, machine-wash them with warm water in the gentle cycle. Do not use a granular detergent; use Sport Wash or Revivex Fabric Cleaner. Toss them in the dryer inside out for 10 minutes and then reverse them and dry for another 10.

The Test
I took a nymph tied on a size 10 laser-sharpened hook and knotted it to a piece of mono. Then I hung the full weight of the waders from the hook at the knee to see if it would create a leak. After placing each pair of waders on the hook, I gave the mono a hard tug. All of them passed with no leaks.