The Essential Fly

Wade In Style Shallow Or Deep... Keep Dry!

5 March 2022  |  Sarah
Wading:
Deep Dunks
Shallow Strolls
Top Tips
 
Wade In Style

Whether you’re replacing worn/leaky waders, or investing in a pair for the first time, let us give you the low down on the various types and fabrics to help you when it comes to making that leap of faith into a deep pool!

With regards to fabrics there are four principal types here; breathable, neoprene, nylon and rubber.

As for wader styles there are three types; chestwaders, waist waders and thigh/hip waders.

Of these style, you can also have stocking-foot or boot-foot waders. Stocking foot waders have a neoprene boot to which a wading boot, or shoe needs adding. Boot-foot waders have a boot that’s integral to the waders, very much like a wellington boot.

Whether it’s chest, waist or thigh waders, all three style of wader can be designed with any of the four materials above.  For example you might have a breathable waist waders that are stocking foot. 

Without question chestwaders are the most popular, simply because they offer protection right up to your armpits, allowing you to wade much deeper.

Most chestwaders come with a belt, which we recommend wearing at all times to prevent shipping in water in the event of falling in. 

To that end, it’s advised you wear an automatic life vest too. 

Chest waders come in both boot and stocking foot.  
Fashioned like a pair of trousers, waist waders are perfect where deep wading isn’t always necessary, or for those when long walks are the order of the day, like yomping through tussock grass to a remote hill tarn.

Waist waders come in both boot and stocking foot and offer greater scope than thigh waders.

Thigh waders reach to the top of your thighs that are held in place by straps and a waist belt.  In many respects thigh they should be viewed as a sort of glorified wellington boot.  That said they are just the job for fishing small streams and walking long distances.

TOP TIPS!

Do not leave your waders crumpled up when storing them for long periods.  They’re much better opened out on a coat hanger for example. 

When storing for long periods, it’s advisable to turn your waders inside-out and treat them to a light dusting of talcum powder to prevent mould, or mildew developing.
 
Breathable Waders
As the name implies, breathable waders are manufactured from fabrics that breath, like gore tex and supplex for example.  They prevent you from getting too warm when moving about, especially during summer.  By using thermal layering you’re also able to stay warm during winter. 

The only issue is that compared to other materials, breathable waders are that bit more flimsy, so care needs to be taken to prevent punctures. 

That said breathables are by far the most popular amongst anglers these days. 

Wychwood Gorge Waders are tough and hardwearing yet incredibly lightweight which offer security and comfort for fly fishermen that are active and on the move.

The coating combined with a tough, durable face means they are reliable and comfortable to wear the whole year through. In winter add base layers for additional warmth, the perfect solution to year round wading. No more sewating on a hot day, truly breathable fly fishing waders.
 
  • Adjustable shoulder straps and waist belt for comfortable and close fit, to eliminate current drag
  • Ergonomic make up without any side seams for greater durability and freedom of movement
  • Taped, spacious front pocket with water resistant zip
  • Daisy chain lanyard for essentials
  • Two internal pockets, one featuring a clear-welded pocket providing waterproof security for valuables
  • Adjustable top edge for fitted feel, ideal for deep wading
  • Gravel Guard, hardwearing, wader fabric featuring elasticated gravel guard with stainless steel boot lace hook, for extra protection
Vision Koski Zip Waders are made from the latest technical fabric for performance & comfort. The lower part is woven using thicker material for stronger durability. A curved no seam cut provides the perfect fit.
This Zip model has a high strength TiZip Masterseal 10 waterproof zipper which is made from high strength fabric coated with thermoplastic polyurethane. The extra strong plastic teeth are fixed the top and bottom of the zipper tape. The zipper’s coupling elements keep the sealing edges tightly sealed together when the zipper is closed.
  • Two water resistant pockets in front
  • D-rings & accessory loops and straps
  • 2 heavy duty belt loops
  • Built-in gravel guards
  • Neoprene feet with left and right side design
 
Neoprene Waders

Neoprene waders offer unparalleled protection when it comes to warmth.  For this reason alone they are a favourite of anglers who spend long periods of time waist deep in water during winter. 
Neoprene waders are usually available in various thickness, from 2-5mm with 3, or 4mm being the most common thicknesses. 

As they are not breathable they are not recommended for summer use, or where lots of walking is involved, like on Scottish burns for example.
 
Nylon & Rubber Waders
Whilst nylon waders are strong they are both thin and do not breath, in many respects they where the forerunner to neoprene and eventually breathable waders.  That said they are dependable and offer excellent value for money, especially if you only plan to wear them occasionally. Like breathables they fold down to nothing.

Rubber waders are generally quite thick and warm, however like nylon, they do not breath.  Whilst rubber is extremely strong and therefore puncture resistant, it is prone to perishing over time, so extra specially care needs to be taken when storing them. Ideally they should be hung upside down by their boot/heel.  Due to their extra thickness, when kneeling they can be a little uncomfortable, especially at the back of your knees.  
 

Free Hatch Chart!  Yes Free!


Our hatch charts are full of wonderful rich information timed for the coming month, giving you time to prepare accordingly. 

They are offered free of charge to registered customers only as a thank you.

They offer a reference chart by way of a guide as to what should be hatching in normal weather conditions.

More information is below - please check the access instructions.

Accessing The Hatch Chart

  1. Go to www.theessentialfly.com
  2. FIRST login to your account using your own email address and personal account password
  3. From the main menu bar across the top of the screen look for the Hatch Chart link
  4. Hover over this link and from the sub menu that appears the relevant months Hatchchart link will appear
  5. Open up the hatch chart and use it to identify relevant flies for your UK trip be it river or stillwater anywhere in the UK!
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