One of the more important parts of your fly rod gear is having a good quality set of fly fishing waders. These waders are specifically designed to keep you dry while you are in the water, which is important because that’s where the fish are.
When choosing the best fly fishing waders, it’s important to consider what your needs are. Since there are many more options available on the market, you no longer have to deal with the old-fashioned type that made you sweat a lot. Modern designs were created to fit well and be more comfortable.
As you are choosing your new fly fishing waders, it’s important to consider the size you need as well as the style and material of the waders. Always remember to think about what type of fishing you will be doing as well as the type of water and climate you will be fishing in. here are a few tips and reviews to help you find the best fly fishing waders for your next fishing trip.
Best Fishing Wader Reviews
| Image | Title | Prime | Price | Buy |
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Top | Piscifun Breathable Chest Waders | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | Simms Mens Freestone Waders | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | Orvis Men’s Pro Wader | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | Frogg Toggs Hellbender Breathable Stockingfoot Chest Wader | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | Dark Lightning Fly Fishing Waders | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
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Top | Foxelli Neoprene Chest Waders Camo | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
These good quality and breathable waders are made with thick nylon that is reinforced. Offering elasticity, the Piscifun Chest Waders allow you to easily move around in the water. Made with several layers of polyester, these waders give you great resistance against wear and tear.
Featuring 4 mm neoprene booties, the Piscifun Chest Waders give you a great fit and won’t cause bunching. These waders are breathable and completely waterproof thanks to the polyester material. Plus, they have a moisture-wicking feature that removes sweat so you can stay dry all day. Weighing only 2.53 pounds, these waders help you to stay comfortable and move around easily without a lot of hassle.
With an ergonomic design, the Piscifun Chest Waders are well-suited for standing on your feet for long periods of time. They also include a zippered, waterproof pocket that can keep your phone protected or other important items. These waders also come with a storage bag made from high-quality mesh that allows them to dry out fast.
The Piscifun Fishing Waders are also equipped with an elastic belt measuring 1 1/2-inches long and a quick-release buckle to give you the best fit. These affordable waders include features normally see in a high-end pair of waders. Plus, they come with a one-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects.
Pros:
- It is made with 100 percent waterproof material
- These waders have a removable hook keeper
- It comes with a waterproof phone case
Cons:
- These waders can leak when they are not handled properly
- The fit is a little awkward
Ideal for both wet and cold weather, the Simms Freestone Fishing Wader is a great choice for use in harsher weather conditions. Featuring an articulated fit, this heavy-duty wader allows for enhanced mobility on the trail and in the water. Available in variable sizing, each user receives almost a customized fit.
Equipped with fleece-lined, waterproof chest pockets, you can easily keep your hands warm in these waders. The chest area also has a four-layer design to give you the most safety for your chest, plus this is a breathable product that offers improved comfort. The included zippered pockets allow you to carry smaller items safely while the built-in gravel guard and the elastic bottom hem increase your safety and comfort.
This is an anti-microbial pair of waders that will prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. The Simms Freestone Fishing Wader provides incredible protection from the cold with its super comfortable design.
Pros:
- They have an anti-microbial design to keep bacteria from growing on them
- The fit is pretty comfortable
- They comes with gravel guard built-in, so you don’t have to buy that feature separately
Cons:
- The fit of the shoe is pretty small
- The location of the zipper means you have to undo the waist band to zipper it
Equipped with a stocking foot design, the Orvis Men’s Encounter Wader is made with a four-layer nylon design and pockets made of nylon and mesh. This is a breathable pair of waders that includes elastic shoulder straps and wading belt accessories. Easily wear up to two pairs of pants under these waders and still bend and move as much as you want and not feel restricted.
The included zippered pockets help you to protect smaller items from the water. One is found inside the waders while the outside pocket is found in the chest area. The gravel ground feature helps to seal the wading boots off from debris and gravel allowing you to stay comfortable in the water for long periods of time.
These durable and long-lasting pair of waders are affordable and great to wear in any type of weather. The Orvis Men’s Encounter Waders give you a tight and snug fit and are available in several sizes allowing you to find just the right fit.
Pros:
- These waders feature pockets that have a Kangaroo pouch style
- They are great for warmer spring weather
- They are super durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- It’s hard to figure out the right size
Ideal for a wide range of body types, the Frogg Toggs Chest Waders features four-layers of polyester and uses a stocking foot design that keeps you dry no matter what the weather is like. Using DriPore microfiber that is ultra-lite, the Frogg Toggs still let your skin breathe while also sealing out water. Plus, you get a two-layered reinforcement on the shins and knees.
Designed so that you feel safe, this protective pair of waders should not leak or get punctured. The Frogg Toggs Chest Waders are also equipped with belt loops that ensure that your belt stays attached to the waders preventing you from losing it. The X-back suspenders are adjustable and help to keep any body type comfortable, plus the easy to release buckles help to ensure that you can easily take them off.
With an extremely practical design, the Frogg Toggs are some of the best fishing waders on the market. The microfiber material makes it almost impossible for water to get through the material while the four-layers of polyester helps to ensure that your skin will not stick to the waders if you sweat a lot. And it’s breathable allowing the wind to go through the waders helping to cool you off.
The Frogg Toggs are also equipped with gravel guards that use integral lace making it super hard for dust and debris to go inside the waders. Featuring incredible detail, these waders also offer a one-year warranty.
Pros:
- It comes with a one-year warranty
- These waders have a handy and large chest pocket
- The gravel guard has a design that uses integral lace
Cons:
- The seams tend to come out
- The pocket on the chest isn’t waterproof
Durable and reinforced, the Compass 360 Deadfall Chest Wader is made with four-layered nylon that is fleece-lined and includes two-layer reinforced shin and knee protection. With its strong and robust design, you can easily and safely walk around a dense river area without ever hurting yourself. It also includes a practical zippered chest pocket that allows you to keep small items safe and waterproof.
With this durable design, you can even flip out the chest pocket to help prevent bunching. The Compass 360 Deadfall Chest Waders are versatile enough that you can use them in either freshwater or saltwater without fear of the material deteriorating. Offering incredible comfort, you can wear these waders for eight hours without feeling like they have added a lot of weight to your body.
The Compass 360 Deadfall Chest Waders offer high-quality with tons of built-in accessories that include hand warming pockets, suspenders, a belt, and gravel guards. It is comfortable enough that you can wear them for hours without getting tired thanks to their lightweight design. And you can easily layer your clothes underneath the waders and still feel comfortable.
Pros:
- The pocket helps to keep your hands nice and warm
- You can comfortably layer your clothes underneath it
- It comes with a gravel guard
Cons:
- The included storage bag is not made of high-quality material
- They are a little high in the crotch
Made with three-layers, Redington Crosswater Wader is waterproof and breathable. The included belt will allow you to adjust your waist length to give you a tight and secure fit. With gravel grounds made of neoprene, you can easily tighten your booties to make it hard for debris to get inside the waders.
Keeping you warm and dry, the Redington Crosswater Waders also includes a handy inside pocket that helps you keep smaller items safe. These waders can be used for either surf or tube fishing in saltwater, but they aren’t insulated, so you shouldn’t use them in freezing temperatures. More lightweight than other waders on the market, you can easily move around and walk in these waders without your movement is limited.
Featuring a waterproof design, the Redington Crosswater Waders have seams that are not only stitches, but also glued and taped. And the three layers of material comes with a fluoropolymer coating. So, these waders are definitely waterproof making it impossible for water to go inside them.
Keeping you dry no matter how long you stay in the water, the Redington Crosswater Waders also includes gravel grounds that keep you from getting cut by sharp objects in the water. Plus, you can comfortably wear a layer of clothing underneath these waders without it limiting your flexibility.
Pros:
- It won’t limit your flexibility as you move
- You can wear several layers underneath it
- It has loops to help keep your belt attached
Cons:
- It can take a while to dry It takes a long time to dry
- The foot fit runs a little large
A convenient multipurpose set of waders, the Oxyvan Chest Wader is a great choice when working on the farm, hunting, or fishing. With a special design, these waders are able to handle a lot of wear and tear. Made with a mix of PVC, neoprene, and nylon, these waders are lightweight but super strong, so they won’t weigh you down when you wear them.
Equipped with great welding techniques and strong stitching, the Oxyvan Chest Wader are also waterproof thanks to its highly enhanced materials. Made with extra thick PVC, the sole offers a strong grip that will help to prevent slipping. Plus, the buckles and belts are adjustable making it easy to take on and off.
The Oxyvan Chest Wader were design to fit snug on any sized person. It also comes with a handy inside pocket with a loop and hook that you can use to hold items safely like keys and phones.
Pros:
- You can use these waders for a wide range of purposes
- They are made with durable and waterproof materials
- These are lightweight and easy to use waders
Cons:
- The shoulder straps can come loose easily when in use
- They don’t have a lot of insulation
For anyone that wants to fish in deep water without getting their clothes wet, the Yiwu Bode Chest Wader mixes trousers with a nice-quality wading boot that you can use no matter the season. Made with PVC and nylon, the Yiwu Bode Chest Wader has strong seams that won’t rip apart easily.
Featuring extra-thick rubber outsoles, the Yiwu Bode Chest Wader ensures that the outsoles are not only double taped, but also stitched and glued to the boots. Super water-resistant, these waders have very little risk of leakage. They are also wear- and tear-resistant and will dry fast.
The outsoles on the Yiwu Bode Chest Wader help to stop skidding and slipping while the overall design provides all the insulation you need for colder weather. They also come with suspenders that you can adjust, and a belt that you can fasten at the waist.
Pros:
- They will hold up against a lot of use
- These waders are water-resistant and insulated for cold weather
- They come with thicker outsoles that can prevent slipping
Cons:
- The materials aren’t very stretchy, so can limit crouching and bending
You will sweat easily in them
Perfect for use in mud and deep water, the Dark Lightning Chest Wader are also handy to wear when working on a farm or other similar situations. They are a lightweight option allowing you easy all-day wear without feeling any strain. Made out of a mix of PVC and nylon, these sturdy waders are durable and long-lasting.
Made with a reinforced seal, the boots on the Dark Lightning Chest Wader come with a heavy sole that offers thick textures that will prevent you from skidding. These waders are completely waterproof and are equipped with a wide seam that is reinforced with a tape seal. They actually pass an inflation test when placed under a high amount of water pressure.
Equipped with a chest pocket found high on the wader’s chest, you can keep smaller items safe and reduce their contact with the water. The included suspenders are adjustable and create an H-back with quick to fasten and release buckles. Plus, the waders have a boot hanger that easily allows you to dry your boots.
Pros:
- These are lightweight and waterproof waders
- They have reinforced seams
- The suspenders are easy to adjust
Cons:
- They aren’t insulated well
Available in a camouflage design, the Foxelli Fly Fishing Wader lets you handle any outdoor weather situation easily. Suitable and efficient, these waders were made to be used for gardening fishing, or any emergency situation such as flooding. Lightweight and flexible, these waders will move in any direction with your body easily.
The chest suspenders are adjustable and made with elastic to guarantee a good f
it all the time. The Foxelli Fly Fishing Waders are equipped with knee pads that are reinforced for additional production. Made with strong nylon material, these waders are tear-resistant and also won’t leak.
The seams on the Foxelli Fly Fishing Waders are not only double-stitched but also sealed using tape to ensure that you have complete water protection. Made with PVC, the boots feature anti-slip soles that provide great traction on a wet surface. And the internal and external pockets are perfect to hold small objects and keep them safe.
Pros:
- They are pretty flexible and won’t limit movement
- These waders are tear-resistant and reduce leakage
- They have anti-slip soles on the boots that also give you a good grip
Cons:
- The boots aren’t fully waterproof
Choosing the Best Waders – Buyers Guide
What Are Fly Fishing Waders?
A necessary piece of clothing for any fly fisherman, fly fishing waders will allow you to fish in any temperature water, even water that has reached subzero temperatures, and not get wet or catch a cold in the process. When you wear the right type of fishing waders, sport fishing can be super enjoyable.
Typically made out of nylon material, fly fishing waders use a special membrane that water cannot permeate, but it’s still breathable. While they will let heat escape, fly fishing waders will not allow water to get near your body. Basically, they protect your body while also allows you to easily fish while still have flexibility and comfort.
Fly fishing waders also allow you to fish in water in the extreme cold without feeling chilled thanks to their insulation that will keep water out of the waders and from your skin. You can choose from two types of fly fishing waders, either non-breathable or breathable waders.
You will find that there are two types of fly fishing waders either breathable or non-breathable waders. With the completely breathable and uninsulated fly fishing waders, you can easily use them in warmer summer months when the water isn’t super cold. However, they will still have those base layers that help to keep you warm in cold weather situations.
Non-breathable fly fishing waders are made with a neoprene polymer that is super popular in those colder weather months. Totally waterproof, non-breathable fly fishing waders will keep in all the moisture and heat from your body, which isn’t great in the summer but is ideal for cold weather fly fishing.
When you use this type of fly fishing wader in warm weather conditions, your body can get wet as you sweat and you may also get overheated. A neoprene fishing wader is typically used by a duck hunter than they are used as fly fishing waders.
Benefits of Using Fly Fishing Waders
There are several advantages to using fly fishing waders. They can be used during hunting for water games, or rowing in the water when you are in a boat, or while you fish. You can also use them for off-roading when you use an all-terrain car.
You can also use them as you work. A pair of heavy-duty fly fishing waders can be very effective when working in a chemical plant or on a farm. They can also be a good choice if you work in water system maintenance or sewage. A clergyman could wear waders when they conduct an immersive baptism or if you live in an area prone to flooding, they can be very helpful in emergency situations.
When you spend a long period of time in the water without the right type of protection, you can experience certain medical issues like trench foot.
Any time you spend a long period of time in water non-stop, you want to make sure you are wearing something like fly fishing waders to keep yourself well-protected.
Whether or not you need a pair of fly fishing waders depends on the type of fish you are trying to catch. Certain types of fish require that you go out and stand in the water to land them. This means that more than your legs will get wet, often you will get soaked up to your chest.
A pair of waders can also be helpful when you need to stay warm when temperatures tend to be super cold, especially if you need to stop cold water from touching your body resulting in or other complications. You can also wear a pair of fly fishing waders in the summer so that you stay dry when you are standing in the water. However, they can become super uncomfortable at times, and typically no clothing is worn underneath.
Typically, fly fishing waders have a lightweight design, so you can enjoy your time fishing and not feel like you have a ton of extra weight on you. These waders also often come with coupling points that let you hang your equipment as well as added pockets for carrying important items that you don’t want to get wet like keys and phones.
Waders that have a breathable design are super lightweight and let you fish a lot longer since you won’t be carrying a lot of added weight. Also included D ring to attach equipment to and extra pockets, these waders usually have an inner waterproof pocket. You can also easily wash these waders in the tub using soapless detergent since soap can damage the fabric and make it susceptible to water infiltration.
Pros and Cons of Wearing Waders
Varying depending on the type of wader you wear, fly fishing waders have specific advantages and disadvantages including:
Pros:
- They are often made of a neoprene polymer
- Waders are good for fishing in super cold water
- They are completely waterproof and airtight
Cons:
- When worn in hot weather, you will sweat a lot and possibly overheat
Types of Waders
Hip Waders
Allowing you to stay mobile and cool, hip waders are super lightweight and perfect for fishing in shallow and small streams. Easily attaching to your belt, these waders will cover everything up to your crotch.
In comparison to large waders, hip waders are lightweight and small. They are also a good choice for warm days when you don’t want to wear anything bulky or hot. Large waders tend to be more tiresome and cumbersome to walk around in, especially in warm weather.
Waist Waders
A combination of the small and lightweight hip waders with the benefits of large waders, waist waders help to cover and protect you up to your belt line. In the summer, you want something less cumbersome and bulky than chest waders, but still need something to wear in deep water that is still protective like hip waders.
Chest Waders
Of all the wader choices, chest waders are the most protective and largest wader. Handling deep water easily, there are a few disadvantages of the chest wader. Heavy and waterproof, chest waters can be pretty tiring and hot to wear, especially in the summer when you can get super sweaty.
The benefits of chest waders are their protection in deep water as well as against nasty cold and rainy weather.
Wader Safety
You also have to remember a few safety tips when you wear waders since it is actually possible to get yourself killed wearing waders. Remember that you want to wear waders that are four to six inches higher than the water level you will be fishing in. also, when you wear chest wader, you want to wear them with a wading belt, which will stop water from filling up the inside of the chest waders. If this happens, and you fall into a huge underwater hole, it can become a very dangerous situation.
Wader Materials
After you choose the type of waders you want to use, you then have to decide on the best material. Every type of wader is made in the materials below and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Neoprene or Insulated Waders
Created for cold water situations, insulated waders are made of neoprene, but they can also be made in other ways. Varying in thickness, neoprene waders are a lot like a wetsuit. Basically, the thicker the waders are, the warmer they will also be.
You can usually find the comfortable temperature range of a pair of insulated waders listed on them by the manufacturer. It’s not uncommon for thick and large waders to feel awkward and clumsy. And, if you get a pair that are really thick, you can also find that they have a buoyancy that is dangerous and awkward.
Waterproof Breathable Waders
Waterproof and breathable fabric will use innovative membrane materials in construction. One well-known waterproof and breathable fabric is Gore-Tex, but pretty much any type of breathable waterproof fabric can be just as good as another. Not everyone is fond of these types of materials since the benefits of the breathable fabric is only useful for the area above water. That means moisture and sweat are only able to escape from those areas that sit above the water.
Rubber Waders
Effective, affordable, and durable, rubber waders are made with a combination of PVC and sturdy rubber. Typically, most waders have some amount of rubber in them, particularly in the boot area. Hip waders are sometimes made completely of rubber, but typically chest waders do not use rubber since they can become uncomfortable and heavy.
Non-Breathable Waders
Using a simple waterproof fabric, non-breathable waders are effective and inexpensive. These are a great choice for beginners since they get the job done at an affordable price. Breathable waders have certain disadvantages and they are pretty expensive, so you may want to wait until you have more experience before upgrading to that design.
Wader Sizing
The size of the waders you choose needs to be based on the correct foot measurement as well as waist and inseam measurement. Measurements aren’t as important for hip waders, but your size and height will be needed for chest and waist waders.
Always check out the sizing chart that the manufacturer provides, but it’s also helpful to read reader reviews and consider their comments. They can tell you also about the sizing of waders and whether sizes run large or small.
Weight
Also, consider the weight of the wader aside from the material it is made out of. By considering the weight, you can ensure that you won’t feel tired from too much weight and that you will be able to walk for long periods of time through dense currents and rivers. Anytime you wear a wader that feels like it’s a part of your body will help to ensure that you can stay in the water for longer periods of time.
Construction
You will find that there are two different types of construction when it comes to waders, either stocking foot or boot foot.
Boot Foot – Since it has a simple design, this is a popular option for waders. It’s super easy to just put your foot inside this style, and they are perfect for steady streams and rivers where the ground isn’t too rocky. They also don’t fit very tight around your ankles, so they feel a lot like rubber rain boots.
Stocking Foot – The stocking foot style gives you added stability if you have to walk in a fast stream with a lot of rocks. This style offers more comfort and better traction. They are, however, more expensive, but they can be super helpful and effective.
Height
You have three different heights to choose from when it comes to waders including chest, waist, and hip. Designed like overalls, chest waders are often suggested thanks to the full protection they provide. They allow you to walk in dense and high water, plus they keep you warm by protecting you from high wind. They are also ideal for trout fishing.
Features to Look for in the Best Chest Waders
Durability
Chest waders are created to keep you warm and dry as you fish, especially in harsh weather. Any pair of chest waders that can’t deliver on this promise is just a waste of money. The durability and construction of the waders are very important when it comes to your overall comfort. So, it is important that you take your time and find a pair that are well-made.
Layers – It’s not always possible to walk right into the river or stream as soon as you get there. Some fly fishing trips include a hike, so you want to make sure that the chest wader you are wearing will have multiple layers that are puncture-resistant to keep you protected from thorns that could rip the material. Reinforced seats and knees will also provide protection if you have to walk through thick brush.
Seams – When standing in the water, the seams are the most likely spot where water can seep into your waders. Always look at the seams in potential chest waders to see if they are taped or glued as well as stitched. You will also see some waders that have just one single seam and no seam inside the leg. This design helps to reduce leaks and chafing points. You can also add waterproof sealant and adhesive to the seams before you wear your waders as an additional protective measure.
Material
Whether they are chest, hip, or waist waders, fly fishing waders can be made out of many materials that include waterproof and breathable fabrics, canvas, rubber, neoprene, polyester, PVC, and nylon.
Nylon or PVC that is nylon-reinforced PVC – All three of the wader types can be made out of nylon. This is a lightweight and inexpensive material that isn’t as breathable as some of the other materials. In warm weather, sweat can get trapped inside making them uncomfortable to wear.
Nylon also isn’t as durable as some of the other materials and doesn’t have the give that other fabrics do. Keep in mind that if you do choose fabric without a lot of stretch, you will want to buy a little larger size. While they aren’t the longest-lasting material to use for waders, nylon is an inexpensive choice that is good for beginners.
When you fish in warmer weather, look for nylon waders that feature a breathable membrane which will let water vapor and seat out while preventing water from coming in. if you wear shorts and a T-shirt, you should be super comfortable in the summer while layering can be helpful to stay warm in the winter.
Polyester – Breathable and insulated, polyester waders use several layers of polyester microfiber that will include a layer of insulating material like Thinsulate.
Neoprene – Typically, a pair of non-breathable and insulated waders will use a warm and stretchy neoprene that can range between three and seven mm in thickness from three to seven millimeters. Waterproof and durable, this is the same materials that a wetsuit is made out of and is perfect for fly fishing in super cold water and weather conditions.
However, this is not a very breathable material, and really thick waders can have buoyancy that can be dangerous when standing in a deep river that has a fast-moving current. You will also see neoprene in the attached booties on stockingfoot style chest, hip, and waist waders.
Rubber – You will find that some waders are made completely of rubber making them affordable and waterproof. They can also be heavy and bulky in comparison to other materials. The boot foot style of chest, hip, and waist waders will use rubber in the attached galoshes.
Canvas – Some hip waders will be constructed with PVC and multiple layers of canvas that you can wear for both fly fishing and hunting.
Gravel Guards
Gravel guards that are built-in can be found on many types of waders. Basically, gravel guards are cuffs on the stocking foot style wader that will keep the top of your boots covered to keep out rocks and dirt.
Pockets
Another handy features to see on waders are pockets. This is especially true if you don’t use a fly fishing vest. These convenient pockets are a great waterproof option for carrying your keys, phone, or even gear. Plus, some of them are fleece-lined and can help to warm your hands after a cold day of fishing.
Often using water-resistant zippers and hook-and-loop fastening closures, these are handy and waterproof storage areas.
Belt and Suspenders
Belt – Sometimes included with a pair of chest waders, a wading belt fits over the waders and will help to stop flooding in the waders in case you fall into the water. You will also see some chest waders that come with belt loops.
Suspenders – Suspenders are found on chest waders and often on waist waders. They are adjustable, so you can make sure to get a good, comfortable fit. Straps made of neoprene and elastic will provide more mobility in comparison to inflexible suspenders. Also, look for suspenders that have a quick release feature for added convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to wear shoes under my waders?
It really just depends on the wader type that you have. With boot foot waders, the botts are attached to the waders, so your feet won’t become dirty with gravel and sand. Boot foot waders are very comfortable when saltwater fishing and when you have to stand for long periods of time in the surf. In comparison, stocking foot waders include a sock-like bootie on the end, so when you fish in these types of waders, you will need to wear a pair of wading boots as well as use gravel guards.
How do I make sure that I have the right size waders?
When choosing the right size wader, you need to consider the measurements of your hips, waist, chest, and inseam as well as your shoe size. When you have all the correct measurements, you should be able to easily find the right size wader for you.
How do I keep my waders protected?
You want to make sure that your waders fit well, so they don’t have any loose fabric. You also want to make sure to dry them out correctly when you get back home and store the waders on a hanger with the feet up. Do not store them in a warm and wet area, but make sure the space is dry and cold.
You can also use a waterproofing spray on waders that are not completely waterproof. Wash the waders by hand and do not throw them in the washing machine, which will help to shorten their life. Also, do not dry the dryer, which can damage them.
