Haven't had a pair of waders in a long time. Getting old I guess but would like to start wading again and would like to get some ideas from some of you guys that do it all the time. Mostly Port O'Conner area. Don't like the cold! Need to be insulated! THANKS!!!

I've recently started thinking about getting some new waders for fishing too. Haven't had any since duck hunting in the cold, 20 plus years ago. Based on my experience from then and recent research, I think breathable waders, combined with warm wool pants and socks will be a better choice than insulated waders. Do "layers" with your clothing inside the waders to stay comfortable with cold temperatures.

If anybody disagrees let us know and why.

You will be better off with Cabelas Dry Plus waders (breathable) and insulated clothes - super lightweight and I wear mine stocking foot with some neoprene flats boots over the stocking foot - you can wade MILES and never get tired - three years on current pair and not a leak ONE - they get used hard and put up wet weekly --

Wear wool socks to wick away sweat.

IMHO insulated waders are a waste of money - the clothes you put on under em are what counts

I'd go check in Academy. they have 2 Magellan breathable stocking foot options under $100. I've used them about 20 times without any leaks, and I'm not gentle with them.

Yep, breathable is the only way to go. You can adjust what you wear under the waders as the temperature varies. Many days I wear the breathable waders all day without getting in the water. They're comfortable and wind proof.

I wear stocking foot and buy boots to fit over. In the summer I wear neoprene socks so the boots still fit without the waders and I have only one pair of boots.

When shopping, make sure the stocking foot fits well. Too big and you have wrinkles inside your boot. Too small and the pressure will make your feet cramp. The stocking foot sizes seem to vary wildly. I don't buy Magellan because their feet are too big. I like the waders themselves to be fairly loose. There's no reason to be tight and it allows room for extra clothes if needed.

I've ruined multiple pairs of different brands of breathable waders. Their's things they don't do well. Duck hunting in the heavy brush ruined one pair, walking into a crab trap ruined another.

I'm saving up for a pair of Simms waders, but for now Hodgeman's are working fine.

What about we who are large in girth and small of foot? I have a terrible time finding waders that fit. Right shoe size, can't get into 'em. If I can get in 'em, fott too big...what to do?

I have the same problem. My girth to shoe size ratio is way off.

Just keep trying different brands until you find the right one. I believ with Simms you can order the right shoe size for your girth.

+1
Simms is also life time replacement if it leak and stuff, but you have to fill up the card that come with the wader and send it out.