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Apparel Review
(Built for Fly-Fishing) |
A new level of durability and breathability, the Simms "Guide Weight" Stockingfoots
Date: |
3/18/02 |
Tackle type: |
Clothing |
Manufacturer: |
Simms |
Reviewer: |
Buzz |
Total Score: 8.75
Introduction: Whatever type of fishing you do, the choice of waders can
be absolutely crucial to your enjoyment of the sport. There are many different
types of waders on the market today. Having the right waders for your type of
fishing and preference may not necessarily mean more fish brought to hand, but
will definitely increase your level of comfort and enjoyment while fishing.
With recent advances in technology, new materials have produced fishing waders
that are lighter, more breathable, and more durable than ever before. The Simms
Gore-Tex Guide model stocking foot waders are some of the most advanced waders
on the market today.
Simms Guide
Wader Specs |
Material |
Gore Tex 5-Layer fabric |
Sizes Available |
Small to 3XL |
Color |
Sage Green |
Fastening (Adjustment) |
Nylon X-Strap, Plastic Buckles |
Price as tested |
$375.00 |
Impressions:
Before trying
the Simms Gore-Tex Guide model breathable waders, I had extensive experiences
with typical neoprene waders. After trying these on in the shop, and using them
the very first time, it was evident that the advantages to these lightweight
waders were incomparable to any other waders I have tried. The range of motion
I found in walking through river is better than the constricted feel I have
observed in neoprene waders. Simply trying these waders on in the store will
allow you to see the difference immediately.
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The Simms
Guide Waders features an X-Strap suspender design that allows easy
conversion of sizes |
Features:
Constructed from immersion Gore-Tex technology, these waders serve as the top of
the line fishing waders in the sport. From the thigh down, these waders are
re-enforced with 5 layer Gore-tex laminate. This helps prevent punctures
and holes from dreaded thorns, barbed wire, and of course barbed hooks.
The micro-fiber outer fabric also keeps noise levels to a minimum while stalking
fish in the stream. The stocking feet are constructed of high-density
neoprene with a rubberized seam tape to prevent the splitting of any seems for the life
of these waders. Simms Guide chest waders are held up by an adjustable “X”
strap suspender that is easy to adjust to your body, and a synch to convert into
waist highs for fishing those hot summer days. Every pair also comes with a
wading belt, and a patch kit should a puncture occur.
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The
"Blackfoot" stockingfoot is made with high-density neoprene and is the seams
are rubberized to be abrasion resistant |
What
are breathable waders?? Anybody who has ever fished
with neoprene waders knows that when you are finished your legs and socks are
doused with sweat and moisture from your own body. Often times we are left so
drenched that we wonder if our waders are actually leaking. The rate of which
moisture passes through your waders refers to “breathability”. As a result, the
more “breathable” your waders are the drier and more comfortable you will be
while stalking fish. When moisture gets trapped to your body, the garment being
worn cannot keep you insulated against the frigid environment that you might
find yourself in. The result is that you will feel wet, uncomfortable, and
possibly at risk to hypothermia. It is proven that when the human body is wet,
we loose body heat many times faster than when we are dry. Finding a material
that repels water from the outside is only part of the solution. Simms Guide
waders not only do this, but successfully use Gore-Tex to bring you the most
waterproof yet “breathable” fabric available.
Tests:
I have had the luxury of testing these waders in many conditions while fishing
the great waters of Montana and Northern California. In my opinion, breathable
lightweight Gore-Tex waders can be used to fish a wide variety of waters under
any conditions. With the right combination of undergarments, you can keep the
moisture wicked off your body. This will allow the waders to pull the moisture
away from you as they are intended to do. Choosing the right long-underwear for
your condition will be essential in getting the absolute most from these
waders. Garments made from 100% polypropylene or 100% polyester are both
outstanding at performing this function. Depending on conditions and your
preference you may want to keep both on hand until you find what works best for
you.
Ratings:
Simms Guide
Wader Ratings (?/10) |
Construction/Quality |
Gore-Tex Micro-Fiber
construction with 5-layer Gore-Tex laminate from mid-thigh down.
|
10 |
Performance |
Outstanding durability,
quiet in the water, offer wide range of motion. |
9 |
Price |
$375.00 MSRP isn't cheap,
but cheaper waders are not built with the same materials |
7 |
Features |
Adjustable “X” strap
suspenders, easy conversion from chest waders to waist highs. Stocking feet
made of high-density neoprene. Flip out chest pocket, nylon wading belt
and chest pocket included. |
9 |
Design (Ergonomics) |
Excellent all around
design from stocking feet, all the way up to Gore-Tex material. Could have
straps that are more durable than nylon, and thicker male and female
buckles. Sometimes current buckles slip forcing user to re-adjust strap
tension while fishing. |
8.5 |
Application |
Excellent for all summer
and spring fishing. In winter it will be a necessity to have a good
combination of socks and undergarments to stay warm. |
9 |
Total Score (avg) |
8.75 |
Pluses and Minuses:
Plus
Minus |
J
5 Layer Gore-Tex |
L
Price |
J
Good Wader Durability |
L
Strap Durability |
J
Great Construction |
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Conclusion: These waders are absolutely the best for summer and spring
fishing. They will keep you dry from the outer elements, as well as your own
perspiration. Simms Guide model Gore-Tex waders make covering water easier than
conventional waders. The difference between this model and the Gore-Tex
lightweight stocking feet is mainly the extra layering from the thigh on down.
If you only fish occasionally they are a great alternative especially at the
price. However, if you fish 50+ times a year I would recommend forking over the
extra dough for the extra layering. If you have only been fishing with neoprene
waders you must try “breathable” waders. You will find that you will be fishing
longer days and more comfortable days. After all, the longer your line is in
the water, the more hook-ups you can expect to have.
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