In the first part of this series, we discussed the prudent use of creepers to gain an advantage and safety when traversing rocky shore lines. In this installment, let's take a step back and discuss the types of waders that are on the market, features and some of the pros and cons of each style.

In general, modern waders fall into three categories: Rubber waders, Neoprene waders, and the most recent material to be used in waders Gortex has been very popular. For our purposes as saltwater flyfishing anglers we will be discussing full length chest waders. While hip waders and even boots can sometimes be used in calm surf, these are more common to freshwater situations.

Rubberized waders are made by vulcanizing a cloth wader form with a synthetic PVC rubber or vinyl. Most often the cloth side is inside the wader while the vulcanized side is outside the wader. Rubber waders are usually booted waders; that is they come with the wading boot/shoe attached to the feet. A few lighter weight rubber waders are stocking foot style (requiring you wear a wading show over them), but these aren't as commonly used in the surf.

Among the various manufacturers of rubber waders, certain brands have become more commonly used. Gra-Lite waders are often considered the "Rolls Royce" of waders. They are insulated, fairly light weight, resist wear well and are often made custom fit. They are, however, on the higher end of the price range. Red Ball makes several styles of waders. I especially like the Red Ball Master waders. These waders have the unique feature of having the fabric on the outside and the rubber on the inside. The result is the fabric provides greater protection to the rubber from scrapes and abrasions. The Red Ball Adirondike waders are also well made and are very light but aren't insulated, thus requiring extra warm cloths to be worn underneath. Red Ball models tend to be in the average price range for a good set of waders. There are other manufacturers of rubberized waders too, but in general features and comfort should be emphasized over any particular brand.

Neoprene waders have the advantage of providing more thermal insulation than rubber waders can because neoprene itself is a very good insulating material. Neoprene is made when compressed gas (usually nitrogen) is blown into a special synthetic rubber material. The gas bubbles get trapped in the rubber and form thousands of insulating "pockets" in the material. Neoprene waders tend to be very light weight, flexible, and provide a tighter fit than rubber waders. Also neoprene is a very buoyant material and can provide an extra margin of safety in the surf. However, while some neoprene waders have the booted foot, most are stocking foot style that require a wading shoe to be worn. Sand can get into the shoe as you use them and it uncomfortable to walk in after awhile. Also neoprene waders tend to be a bit more difficult to patch when you get the inevitable hole or tear.

The latest material to be used for constructing waders is Gortex. This material has the advantage of being "breathable". Thus perspiration and moister can be pass through the material while keeping ambient water out. This makes for  more comfortable wearing. The cost of breathable waders has come down dramatically since they were first introduced several years ago.

Choice of which kind of wader to get is purely up to individual taste. When neoprene waders fist came on the market they were substantially more expensive than rubber waders while both selection and features were lacking. However, as more manufacturers began marketing neoprene waders, selection increased and the cost came down to the point where now neoprene and rubber waders are about equal in price. It's not uncommon for an angler to own pairs of each -  rubber, neoprene and breathable waders -  one for early/late season fishing and the other for warmer conditions.

Waders are most commonly measure by the foot size. When buying waders a comfortable fit in the foot, legs and crotch are important. However, bear in mind that you will probably be wearing heavy/warm clothes under your waders so get a size that has room for your garments.

One final note: Be careful when using your waders. Always be aware of the water level around you and don't go out too deep. Remember that each step away from the beach is one more back to the beach, and it's possible the depth of water behind you might be greater than where your are. When used properly and with prudent judgment a good pair of waders can make your fishing trips more enjoyable and productive.

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