best waders for fly fishing

10 Best Fly Fishing Waders

Our Top Pick:

#1 Best Fly Fishing Waders

Fly Fishing Waders by Foxelli

★★★★★

Best Value:

Fly Fishing Waders by Yiwu Bode

★★★★★

Editor’s Choice:

Oxyvan Waterproof Waders for Men and Women

★★★★★

If you want to be a successful fly fisherman, you cannot always stand on the bank or the shore and cast your line. You will have to get into the water and that is why all fly fishing enthusiast look for the best fly fishing waders. With the right pair of fly fishing waders, you not only enjoy protection while you are in the water but also flexibility so that you can cast the fly even in areas that are just out of your reach. A good quality fly fishing waders is just as important as a good fly rod and fly tying kit.

With so many fly fishing waders on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which is the best one. Thankfully, you needn’t worry as we have gone through the trouble of checking out different waders and shortlisted the 10 best fly fishing waders in 2023 just for you. We provide unbiased reviews, which are based on real user’s comments. We also have a buying guide so you know the essential features your fly fishing waders should have when you are looking for one online.

Related article: Surf Fishing Waders

Table: 10 Best Fly Fishing Waders in 2023
Product Name Price
#1 Fly Fishing Waders by FoxelliCheck Price »
#2 Fly Fishing Waders by Yiwu BodeCheck Price »
#3 Oxyvan Waterproof Waders for Men and WomenCheck Price »
#4 Chest Waders from TideWeCheck Price »
#5 Redington Willow River Fishing Chest WadersCheck Price »
#6 Tailwater Fly Fishing Waders by Compass 360Check Price »
#7 Taupe Stocking Foot Waders from Caddis Wading SystemCheck Price »
#8 Fly Fishing Waders for Men and Women by Dark LightningCheck Price »
#9 Fly Fishing Waders by 8 FansCheck Price »
#10 Neoprene Chest Wader with Cleated Boots by HodgmanCheck Price »

10 Best Fly Fishing Waders in 2023

#1. Fly Fishing Waders by Foxelli

These fly fishing waders makes it to the list of the 10 best fly fishing waders due to the positive reviews it has received from users. It has a camouflage design that allows you to blend with the environment without frightening away shoals of fish. The best part is that this waders is multi-purpose. If you are not using it while fishing, you can put it to good use while gardening or an emergency, such as flooding.

Product Specs

  • Made from 4mm thick neoprene
  • PVC boots with anti-slip soles
  • Chest and inner pockets for carrying accessories and small items
  • Durable nylon belt with carabiners
  • Nylon carry bag to transport the wader

Why We Recommend This Product

These fly fishing waders is lightweight and flexible, making it easy for you to move in any direction without any hassles. It comes with chest suspenders that are adjustable and made from elastic. It comes with knee pads that are reinforced for additional protection. 

Fly Fishing Waders by Foxelli is made from strong nylon and it has double-stitched, glued and taped seams that make sure the waders does not tear and allow water to enter through the seams. The boots are of PVC and they have an anti-slip sole for optimal traction on damp and wet surfaces.

Pros

  • Made from a flexible material that enables free movements
  • Tear-resistant, making it durable and leak-proof
  • Boots come with anti-slip sole and hence, provide optimal traction and grip
  • Comes with a two-year warranty

Cons

  • There could be an issue with the boots, which are not completely waterproof

Tip: The wader is made from neoprene, making it perfect to wear on a cold day as it will keep you snug.

Info alert: The wader comes with a hand warmer chest pocket that allows you to keep the fingers warm on a cold, windy day.

#2. Fly Fishing Waders by Yiwu Bode

These fly fishing waders by Yiwu Bode allows fly fishermen to wade into deep water without worrying about getting wet. This chest wader comes with boots and is designed for use in any season. While the wader is made from nylon and offers insulation, it does not have a lining so make sure you layer up snugly for winter fly fishing.

Product Specs

  • Made from nylon
  • Boots made from PVC and have thick insoles
  • Chest-high design
  • Adjustable suspenders

Why We Recommend This Product

We recommend these fly fishing waders because they are 100% waterproof. The wading boots and trousers can be used in all seasons. It is made from resilient and tough nylon and the seams are glued, taped and double-stitched to ensure they do no rip very easily. The suspenders are adjustable. 

The boots are made from PVC and have ultra-thick rubber outsoles for added protection. The soles provide good traction on wet surfaces, thereby preventing slipping and skidding. The waders are quite water-resistant.

Pros

  • Durable and resilient; it can take a lot of wear and tear
  • The soles of the boots offer good traction on wet and slippery surfaces
  • Made from nylon, making it water-resistant
  • Quick-drying fabric

Cons

  • The material is not very elastic, making it challenging to crouch or bend
  • The insole of the boots is hard, making it uncomfortable to wear for an extended duration
  • The fabric makes these not breathable waders and hence, can make the legs sweaty

Tip: Joints and seams are taped and sealed, making the waders completely waterproof.

Info alert: The waders can be used not just for fly fishing, but for hunting, cleaning the swimming pool, digging up lotus roots and cleaning fishponds.

#3. Oxyvan Waterproof Waders for Men and Women

The attractive part about Oxyvan Waders is that you can put it good use when you are not fly fishing. It can be used while working on the farm, cleaning your swimming pool or even during hunting. The waders is lightweight, water-resistant, strong and resilient. It is made from nylon, PVC and neoprene.

Product Specs

  • 70D nylon and PVC blend
  • PVC boots with thick PVC soles
  • Inside pocket that has loops and hooks
  • Adjustable suspenders and belt

Why We Recommend This Product

These fly fishing waders by Oxyvan is more than just waders. You can comfortably use this lightweight waders while you enjoy fly fishing, and you can do it without worries while farming, pool cleaning and even hunting. It is made from a blend of nylon, neoprene, and PVC, making it waterproof, resilient and durable. 

The stitching of the seams is strong and the seams are glued and taped to keep you dry while you are fishing in the water. The boots have an extra thick PVC sole to ensure good traction. The buckles are adjustable and easy to clip. It has an inside pocket with a loop and a hook to secure small items like smartphones and key rings.

Pros

  • Multipurpose waders
  • Completely waterproof
  • Lightweight – the weight does not wear you down
  • PVC boots offer good traction

Cons

  • Although it is waterproof, the insulation is not the best
  • Shoulder strap buckles tend to come off during use

Tip: The cleated soles of the boots offer skid-proof grip on boulders, rocks and other slippery surfaces.

Info alert: Opt for one size bigger boots so that you can get the right fit with your fly fishing wader.

#4. Chest Waders from TideWe

The Chest Waders from TideWe is made from 2-ply nylon and PVC blend. It is waterproof and can be used effortlessly for fly fishing as well as hunting. It is nearly 35% lighter when compared to other waders made from rubber. It can easily fit into a backpack and you can carry it without any problems when you go fishing.

Product Specs

  • Made from nylon that is reinforced with PVC to ensure that the waders are 100% waterproof
  • Adjustable suspenders
  • Flip-out chest pocket
  • PVC boots
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Top drawcord

Why We Recommend This Product

These chest waders from TideWe are designed to be functional, durable and convenient to use. Above all, it is affordable and offers value for money. The nylon fabric is reinforced with PVC, ensuring that the waders are 100% waterproof. The suspenders can be adjusted for a comfortable fit. 

The PVC boots are waterproof, and with the properly sealed seams of the waders, you can be certain that you will stay dry for long hours while you enjoy fly fishing.

Pros

  • The waders are designed for men and women
  • Affordably priced
  • High-quality construction
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Available in two colors
  • Chest pocket for storing accessories and small items
  • Waterproof case for storing phone

Cons

  • Boot size can be an issue and best to opt for one size bigger than your normal shoe size

Tip: The H-back suspenders can be adjusted to ensure an optimal fit. The buckles are durable and come with quick-release clasps.

Info alert: The hip belt ensures that the waders can be worn as a chest or hip waders, depending on your choice and requirement.

#5. Redington Willow River Fishing Chest Waders

The Redington Willow River Fishing Chest Waders is different from other waders out there and makes it to the list of the 10 best fly fishing waders because it is specially made for women, unlike other waders that are made for men or claim to be unisex. The 3-layered waders comes with opposing buckles that allow it to be converted to chest or waist waders.

Product Specs

  • Constructed from fabric coated with DWR
  • Booties made from high-density neoprene
  • Neoprene gussets located under the arms
  • Pocket lined with fleece
  • Water-resistant pocket with zipper

Why We Recommend This Product

For one, it is designed specifically for women who enjoy fly fishing. It is quite resilient as it is made from fabric that is coated with DWR and comes with three layers. The material is also flexible, allowing smooth movements while fishing. The booties are made from waterproof neoprene and this keeps the feet dry even while fishing in deep waters, but we recommend that you invest in a good pair of wading boots. The opposing buckles allow the waders to be chest-high or waist-high.

Pros

  • Made from waterproof material that is also breathable
  • Pockets lined with fleece to keep them warm
  • Knee pads are reinforced to ensure added protection
  • Accurate measurements for a perfect fit

Cons

  • Just the chest pocket is water-resistant and not the other pockets
  • Booties not sufficient and fly fisherwomen will have to supplement with wading boots

Tip: Chest pocket is water-resistant, making it ideal for storing items that you do not want to get wet.

Info alert: The waders comes with a homeostat holder that allows you to store inside or outside.

#6. Tailwater Fly Fishing Waders by Compass 360

These waders are made from 4- and 6-layer water-resistant fabric, which makes them nice and breathable waders, so there is no worry about sweaty legs and feet. In the lower third of the legs, it has a 6-play wrapping. You will find just a single seam at the crotch, with no seams on the leg. The water-resistant ability of the waders are further enhanced with taped seams and a coating of water-resistant material.

Product Specs

  • Made from 4-ply and 6-layer water-resistant nylon
  • 4mm thick neoprene booties, which are stretchable
  • Booties have gravel guards and lace hooks
  • Adjustable suspenders and drawcord at the chest
  • Flip out pocket to store accessories and small items

Why We Recommend This Product

The reason these waders has made it to the list of the 10 best fly fishing waders is its comfort and flexibility. Both are superior and the fabric is highly breathable, allowing you to wear it for a long period without experiencing any discomfort. The upper portion of the waders is made from 4-layer nylon while the lower part is made from 6-layer nylon. The fabric is reinforced to ensure durability and toughness.

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Stretchable booties to accommodate different sized feet
  • One year warranty for manufacturer’s defects from the date of purchase
  • Breathable and water-resistant
  • Taped seams

Cons

  • Can develop leaks after constant use

Tip: Comes with lined pockets to keep hands warm during winter fly fishing season

Info alert: The inside flip-out pocket is made from high-quality thick material, letting store your phone, wallet, and keys with relative ease.

#7. Taupe Stocking Foot Waders from Caddis Wading System

These waders is made from polyester, which is treated with CaddisDry technology. As a result, it allows the fabric to breathe but keeps water out. So, there is no risk of perspiration wetting the legs and feet. It comes stocking feet that are stretchable, and double-stitched, glued and taped to keep water at bay and ensure optimal water-resistance. 

Product Specs

  • Stockingfoot waders
  • Adjustable suspender
  • Gravel guards
  • Hand warming pocket
  • Polyester fabric treated with CaddisDry technology to ensure the fabric stays waterproof

Why We Recommend This Product

We recommend this wader primarily because it is high-quality and durable. The fabric uses CaddisDry technology that ensures that the waders is not just waterproof but also breathable waders. As a result, it allows sweat to escape but prevents entry of water into the waders. The chest pocket is zippered and useful for keep fishing accessories and other small items. It even features a hand warmer pocket. Perhaps, the only thing we found lacking is the boots, but Caddis Wading System recommends boots that you can use with the waders.

Pros

  • Breathable fabric
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • High-quality construction
  • Handwarmer pocket for the winter season
  • Can be used for fishing, clamming or cleaning a fish pond or swimming pool

Cons

  • The wader comes with stocking foot and hence, you will be compelled to invest in a good pair of boots

Tip: Purchase one size bigger boots to accommodate the stockings and ensure a comfortable fit.

Info alert: These waders is recommended for anyone who enjoys rough usage as the fabric is designed to take a lot of wear and tear.

#8. Fly Fishing Waders for Men and Women by Dark Lightning

Opt for this multi-purpose wader if you are looking for quality and reliability. This fly fishing waders from Dark Lightning can be used for fishing, clamming, farm work, and cleaning ponds and swimming pools. It is made from nylon and PVC, making it long-lasting, durable, and flexible.

Product Specs

  • Made from 2-ply nylon reinforced PVC material
  • Taped seams
  • H-shaped suspenders
  • Hanger for boots
  • Textured heavy-duty soled boots

Why We Recommend This Product

We really liked that this chest-high wader can be used by men and women. It is made from nylon that is reinforced with PVC, giving it durability, flexibility, and sturdiness. We found that out of all the waders we tested and checked, this was the lightest. It is completely waterproof and the seams are reinforced with tape. Even the chest pocket is high to minimize contact with water. We loved the boot hanger that allows you to hang up the boots to dry after use.

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable
  • 100% waterproof
  • Sealed and reinforced seams
  • Unisex waders
  • H-shaped suspenders with quick fasten and release buckles

Cons

  • May not provide adequate protection against the cold

Tip: Wash waders with warm water and detergent every two to three trips

Info alert: It is best to wear sweatpants under the waders to ensure you stay warm and snug while fly fishing in cold water.

#9. Fly Fishing Waders by 8 Fans

These fly fishing waders are made from waterproof and breathable fabric that makes them very comfortable to wear while fishing. It is a chest-high waders, where the seams are double-taped to minimize the risk of tears.

Product Specs

  • Made from 3-layered breathable fabric
  • Neoprene stockings
  • Knee pads come with gravel guards
  • H-shaped back suspenders with adjustable elastic and quick-release buckles
  • Available in 6 American sizes, namely S to XXXL
  • Flip out pocket that is zippered

Why We Recommend This Product 

We recommend these waders as they are 100% waterproof. It allows sweat to pass through but does not let water in, keeping you dry during your fly fishing expedition. We really liked the D-rings on the shoulder straps. These rings are rust-proof. Even the zipper of the flip-out pocket is waterproof, allowing you to store your phone, wallet, and keys without worries. Since this is a chest wader, you can go into deep water without worries. The stocking feet are snug and waterproof, as they are made from neoprene.

Pros

  • Waders comes with a quick-drying feature
  • Has adjustable suspenders
  • Suspenders come with quick-release buckles
  • Material allows sweat to go out but prevents water from entering

Cons

  • May not be as well-insulated as the manufacturer claims
  • Comes with neoprene stocking rather than boots

Tip: This lightweight wader comes with its own carry bag, making it portable and easy to carry.

Info alert: Best to wear sweatpants under the waders to ensure you stay warm while fly fishing.

#10. Neoprene Chest Waders with Cleated Boots by Hodgman

This wader is made from neoprene, ensuring that it is lightweight and flexible. It is great for fly fishing in deep water as it is a chest-high waders. The knees are padded and reinforced to ensure optimal durability. The seams are stitched, glued and taped to ensure you stay dry while fishing.

Product Specs

  • 3mm thick neoprene for optimal insulation and dryness
  • Knees are reinforced
  • Thinsulate rubber boots that have cleated soles
  • Y-shaped back elastic suspenders that can be adjusted
  • Shoulder straps with D-rings at the front
  • Rear D-ring
  • Handwarmer pocket lined with fleece
  • Internal pocket

Why We Recommend This Product 

We really liked these waders with boot foot. It is made from neoprene, making it completely waterproof. The rubber boots with cleats are ideal for fly fishing in cold weather. The boots are insulated to keep feet warm. They keep the feet warm and dry. The knees are double-layered and hence ensure durability.

Pros

  • Affordably priced
  • Comes with boots so you save money
  • The rubber boots come with cleated soles for optimal traction and grip on wet and slippery surfaces
  • Ample storage spaces to keep fishing accessories and small items
  • Handwarmer pocket that is lined with fleece

Cons

  • Not designed for warm or hot climates
  • Sizing the boot can be a pain

Tip: Air the waders after receipt to get rid of the odor that they may have.

Info alert: It is advisable to wear long and thick socks under the waders to cover the leg area where the waders meets the boot.

The Best Fly Fishing Waders 2023 Buying Guide: Things to Look For

Having the right fly fishing waders can make your fishing expedition an enjoyable experience, just like having the right fly fishing combo can. On the other hand, a poorly chosen waders can ruin your experience. Hence, that is why you should look at the following features to ensure you make the right choice. 

Place of Fishing

Where you intend fishing will determine the kind of fly fishing waders you should choose. The weather and water temperature will decide whether you should go with insulated neoprene or breathable waders. The terrain you fish in will determine if you should choose bootfoot waders or stockingfoot waders. Just remember that if you enjoy fly fishing in cold water in winter, opt for waders made from heavy-duty neoprene. In hot weather, you can go with breathable waders that are not insulated. 

Material

The material of the wader is extremely important as you need a pair that provides protection and comfort while you are fishing. Most waders are made from nylon and PVC. Some are also made from polyester that has a coating of waterproof or they can be made from neoprene. It is best to opt for a wader that is waterproof, lightweight, flexible and breathable. Most waders with neoprene have these features. 

Weight

The ideal fly fishing wader should be lightweight so that you can easily move in water and also carry it with you. Most breathable waders are lightweight. You can go with neoprene waders in cold weather. It will keep you insulated and will also be light and flexible. 

Bootfoot or Stockingfoot Waders

A bootfoot wader comes with waterproof boots made from rubber or PVC. Usually, they are integrated with the wader and the preferable if you are not looking to wade a long distance into the water. Usually, just boots are insulated and waterproof. The downside is that the boot is usually basic and will not provide the fit you are seeking if you are looking to wade long distances. 

On the other hand, with stockingfoot waders, the stockingfoot is part of the wader and is usually made from neoprene. You would need to invest in a pair of wading boots and wear it over the stockings or booties. These waders are ideal for tough terrain and deep water. Since there are no boots, the wader is extremely lightweight and portable. 

Size

The wadersaaaa should not be too loose or tight. It should provide a relaxed fit so that you can move around freely and at the same time it should have space for you to layer up when the need arises. Always check your measurements and compare them with the manufacturer’s size chart so that you get the right fit when ordering your fly fishing wader online. 

Features

While insulation is important as is the breathability of the fabric, you should not disregard reinforced knees, gravel guards, pockets, adjustable straps, quick-release buckles, waterproof pockets, and waist belt.  

Our Verdict

We believe that the Fly Fishing Wader by Foxelli is the best choice. It is flexible, tear-resistant, leak-proof and durable as it made from heavy-duty neoprene. It comes with a two-year warranty for manufacturer’s defects. The boots have an anti-skid sole, making it perfect for wet and challenging terrain. The best waders has adjustable straps, nylon belt, chest pocket, and inner pocket. It also has a carry bag, making it portable.

Updated: October 27, 2022