Hip Boots/waders

[skeeter 7MM]

Hey all it's time to replace some hip boots and was thinking about neoprene ones instead of PVC type. Anybody have any info they'd like to shair about their hip boots/waders. Also has anybody used the Stearn Mad Dog 3.5 mm Neoprene ones or similar??

I use them when hunting in the forest mostly moose but sometimes bear & elk when blazing trails into camp or animals. When hunting moose I may wear them more depending on location and years moisture. Won't be used in super cold tempsslightly below freezing 30ish to 70F. They will see some brush so I need something with some durability to twigs, sticks, etc.

Thanks

[oldreloader]

I have a pair of Cabela's 3mm neoprene waders and they work fine for duck hunting

[jpg2esq]

Down here in South Florida we wade in some pretty nasty stuff in the FLorida Everglades etc. We use the 3mm Cabelas or Hodgmans bc its just too hot to wear anything thicker. Unfortunately the heavier duty Cabelas' brush buster type stuff is great for what u describe if its colder. May wanna look at those on Cabelas site.

[thumper50]

Been wearing my lacrosse hippers for a long time not ins though highly rec them

[mustad]

skeeter,

Have you looked at some of the Goretex waders? They are MUCH lighter and easier to move around in than the neoprene waders. If you get them a little bigger than you need, it would give you space to layer up if it gets cold. I use mine in the middle of the winter fishing rivers in upstate NY where the temp will get to -20 and water temps close to 0. At the same time, I could use them to hike in the middle of the summer without overheating.

It might be a better option for you.

I also have a pair of neoprene waders (5mm) for duck hunting here in QC. They also are the Cabelas brand and have worked well. When they are done though, for sure I'll switch to something more comfortable like Goretex.

Good luck

[4RCH4NG3L]

ORIGINAL: skeeter 7MM

I use them when hunting in the forest mostly moose but sometimes bear & elk when blazing trails into camp or animals. When hunting moose I may wear them more depending on location and years moisture. Won't be used in super cold tempsslightly below freezing 30ish to 70F. They will see some brush so I need something with some durability to twigs, sticks, etc.

Thanks

Assomeone who's been a flyfisherman for about 30 years, I'm going to give you some very solid and practical advice about wadersand believe me, I've used em all.
Right now, I use Sim's Guidereinforced, breathable gortex($600.) during fishing season, before that I had 3mm neoprene and before that,(25 years) PVC or 'rubber'.
Goretex is light and breathable, but definatly not warm ordurable enoughfor 'blazing trails'/'twigs and sticks', also Neoprene($2-400.) is warmer than goretex but it isthe worst choice for rugedness,as it tears and leaks easiest of all and believe me, with your gear demands,they will...as in the first time you use them and filling them with water to find those tiny holes/tears, is not the easiest thing to do at home in the bathroom with plenty of light, nevermind in camp with a Coleman lampand the patch kits/Marine Goopnever hold permanetly, as the adhesive pulls and stretches and comes loose eventually.
Actually ? What you've been using is the best AND least expensive choice of all. I would recommend either Redball or Hodgmans. If you need felt souls for wet rocks and better overall traction, you can buy felt sole replacement kits with the Barge Cement includedfor around$10-15.( if the kit does not have Barge Cement, get some on the net or where-ever)Scuff the bottoms with a bastard file to get theadhesive to hold better and glue em on.
The chest waders have advantages but you will sweatyour butt off,if you're doing a lot of hiking,(neoprene is the hottest, as it insulates).For what it seems like what you want to do in them, I would definatly go with the hip waders(for comfort reasons)in PVC/'Rubber'(for rugged durability)as my first and only choice. Plus it's the least expensive choice which is nice bonustoo.
Hope I could be of some help.
Take care and good luck. -Scottie

[JW]

I have a pair of 5mm Neoprene now for over 10 yrs. They are still in good shape - tho I am not so I gave them to my son in law.

I went to Cabelas 3mm Camo Neoprene that zip up from the crotch and yes they are water tight.


good read here too
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/content/community/product_features/buyers_guide/pages/footwear/waders_pacboots/pf_sigler_hnt_wad.html



I am an avid duck hunter.

Then I went and bought the Neoprene 3 mm hippers and absolutley love them.

Not only for the warmth but the beating they take.

JW