- 1). Consider how much you'd like to spend on waders. A major factor in price is the material they're made from. Latex rubber waders are the cheapest option and can be patched like a tire, but they don't breathe very well. Gore-Tex waders breathe well, but are more expensive. Neoprene waders are like a wet suit for colder water and weather but may not be suited for all fishing situations.
- 2). Choose between the two boot options for waders: stocking-foot or boot-foot. Boot-feet waders have the boot connected to the wader as one piece. Stocking-foot waders end in a sock and you have to buy wading boots to wear over the top of them. The boot-foot is heavier and doesn't have as much ankle support, but you don't have to buy a separate shoe either. Stocking-foot waders take longer to put on, but offer more foot support while sliding over rocks in the water.
- 3). Remember that wading boots are not supposed to fit as close as a hiking boot, but should have stiff soles and ankle support. They can have felt or rubber soles. Felt gives good grip on rock or gravel-bottomed water; rubber soles are best on muddy-bottomed waters.
- 4). Get gravel guards if you buy stocking-foot waders. They seal the seam between the wader and the boot to keep gravel out.
- 5). Decide how high you want the waders to go. Chest waders offer the most versatility; you can wear them in any water level. Waist-high waders are for more shallow water. Hip boots offer the least versatility and are less practical for getting out into the water to fish.
- 6). Consider adding a wading belt. It will keep your waders from filling with water in the event that you slip and go in.
- 7). Look into getting elastic straps to hold your waders up instead of webbing. They're more comfortable for all-day wear. Also make sure you have enough room to move in your waders - they shouldn't be skintight.
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