FS Digest

Got my final Christmas gift today. In the market for new stocking foot waders + boots.

My budget is $500 for waders + boots. What combo would you recommend?

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by 616GoBlue

MAS fish Loc: Peoria,IL

Look into "Banded" brand waders. They have several styles.
MAS fish

Ben Bragg Loc: Dayton Ohio

The set I have hanging in my garage that I haven’t used in 3 years

FixorFish Loc: SW Oregon

I go cheaper than most do on the waders, I like FroggToggs. About $130-150, I believe I paid. At 5'5", about 170lbs, fit comes into play and they fit better than the $500 Simms, and at the price, I can easily replace when necessary (as in 3 times for same $). I have 6 yrs on my present pair.
Boots ? That's a different story. I have a pair of Hodgdon Aesis that I bought 3 years ago and doubt I will ever replace. Swap out soles, one-handed BOA lacing, I paid about $260(?) for the boots and two extra sole options... came with rubber tread, added studded rubber and studded felt. As comfy as any hiking boots I ever owned, even my Danner's. That would leave you enough left to grab another rod, or something.

BTW.. first tried Korkers, looking for the switch out soles... biggest pain in the *** to change, not easy, not quick, had to remove from foot to change out. The Hodgdon Aesis ? ....sit on a boulder or log, give a proper twist, click off, click on, on my way in less than 5m... & spent about half that time retrieving soles from pack and stowing the originals....try that with Korkers... won't happen.
My 2¢.... for however much that gets you ! Good luck !