Most Comfortable Wading Boots

[jjtroutbum]

By the way, are the Chota's that good and are the soles sewn on? I looked on line and read mixed reviews. Some people loved them and some hated them.

Yes Sir sewn on.

I could not send the extra cash on the STL Chotas but did by the Abram Creek (probably spelled that wrong) Entry level boot still sewn on and plenty comfy . Great boot maker. IMHO

[Terry Beeson]

I switched to Choatas last year. I talked to too many guys who had worn everything from ElCheapo brand to Simms then switched to Choatas and swore they would never go back. I was in BCO last year and asked Michael about them. He just went and got a pair, gave me some neoprene socks, and stood back while I slipped on the Choatas... SOLD!!!!

I will say that Simms has some great looking boots and have a couple of nice ones that just came out this year. But you'll have a hard time getting me to give up my Choatas.

[flyfshn]

After 5 fishing trips, I can tell you that these are the most comfortable I have worn. Terry is correct, Simms changed a couple of new designs recently and they look pretty good......but as Mr. Beeson said, you would have a hard time getting me to give up my Chotas!!

[Piscator]

Does anyone have any experience with

1. New non-felt soles - seems like this is the way it will be in the future with Didymo, snails, and other hitchhikers. I've heard New Zealand has banned felt soles.

2. Korkers? I have a pair of their sandals and have been happy. They have a trick lacing system on their Guide model using SS cable and a tensioner.

[Terry Beeson]

I have heard a lot of "skeptical optimism" or "optmistic skepticism" about the new soles that Simms introduced at the fly fishing show in Denver. I have not tried them yet, but the Simms guys swear by them. Of course, they are SELLING them...

I know the idea is great, but I don't know if I want to invest my money on version 1.0. I may wait until at least SP2 or version 2.5 is out...

[Snow Fly]

I have wore the LL Bean wading boot brand quit a few years, which have what LL calls the Aqua Stealth sole and which Simms also offers on some of their brands. I have not had any trouble with this type of sole which I guess is some special type of rubber. Wear is good, no problems with wading, good for hiking, and they are exceptional on wet grass and muddy banks and the sole will not freeze in the cold winter air while walking.

I look for all the wading boots to go to some type of sole other than felt, to reduce the chance of carrying invasive organism from one area to another. You cannot depend on a large segment of people cleaning their boots in the recommended fashion.

I think Simms will put out a product which will be very dependable for safe wading for the individual and the environment