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Waders are waterproof clothing that is worn over base layers. They are designed to allow the user to walk or “wade” into the water without getting their clothes or themselves wet. Waders are useful pieces of gear for hunting and fishing. There are different styles of waders designed for different situations. For example, there are insulated and uninsulated waders, as well as hip waders or chest waders, with each one catering to various needs. There are even breathable waders for warmer conditions, too.
This guide explains the differences to help you determine which ones work best for your situation. While you can often use Fishing Waders and Hunting Waders and Bibs interchangeably, you may find you want to buy a pair of each for the warmer conditions of most fishing and the cold weather of most waterfowl hunting, like duck hunting. Also, there may be special features and pockets that are better for each activity, very similar to the differences between Fishing Vests and Hunting Vests.
Hip Waders
Hip waders are two separate waders that go on each leg up to the user’s hip. These waders usually have built-in boots and will have a latch or buckle to attach them to the user’s belt to keep them from falling down. These waders are used in situations where the water is not very deep and the temperature is relatively warm, such as fly fishing. Since most waders are made from neoprene or rubber they can become hot when wearing them, especially when doing a lot of walking. However, they are an excellent way to stay dry while out in the water, easily blocking the rushing water from getting inside your shoes and ruining your trip.
Chest Waders
Chest waders are a one-piece design that comes up to the user’s chest. These waders typically have straps that come up and over the shoulders which then buckle in the front to keep them on. Chest waders oftentimes come with built-in boots but some will have no boots but built-in neoprene socks that can slip into your hunting boots. These types of waders will then allow the user to select what type of boots they want to wear with the waders. Chest waders are used in situations where you will be in deeper water. Chest waders are typically used for waterfowl hunting because they cover a larger portion of the body and can also be insulated, which is crucial in the low temperatures that are common during waterfowl hunting seasons.
Insulation
Waders can be uninsulated as well as insulated with various levels of insulation. Insulated waders typically range from 200g to 1600g. The heavier insulated waders are great for waterfowl hunting in the winter. However, when hunting or fishing in warmer conditions lighter insulation is often the better choice to prevent you from overheating. There are waders that also have layered insulation. These types of waders will have a layer of insulation inside that is removable when not needed. This is useful if you plan on using the waders in both warm and cold conditions, as you can quickly change them to match your environment.
Wading Boots
Some waders come with built-in boots and others do not. Waders that have built-in boots use the same boot measurement sizing as if you were to buy just the boots. These boots will also come insulated if the waders you have are insulated. Waders that do not have built-in boots will often have neoprene socks in replacement of the boots. This allows the user to determine which type of boots they would want to wear with the waders. Often times these types of waders are paired with felt bottom boots that are designed to prevent slipping while wading in creeks or rivers with mossy or slick rocks on the bottom. Boots are size-specific, so make sure you get the right pair of Men's Wading Boots or Women's Wading Boots.
Recapping Fishing Waders & Hunting Waders
Waders are a useful piece of equipment to stay dry while hunting or fishing. When selecting waders you need to consider the depth of the water and the temperature at which you will be using them. Waders with removable insulation are a good option for anyone who plans on using the waders during cold and warm weather. One other thing to consider is if you want waders with built-in boots or not. If you have a specific type of boot you want to wear with your waders, such as felt bottom boots, get a pair of waders without boots. If you would rather not select a separate type of wading boot, waders with built-in boots will work just fine. Staying dry while hunting or fishing will make the overall experience more enjoyable and let you get out in the field more often.
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