Got a pair of 3.5 mm neoprene stocking foot waders for Christmas. Need some advice on whether to get felt bottom wading boots or just wear an old pair of sneakers. Also looking on recommendations on sporting good stores in the Portland area besides GI Joe's. Also heard about a fisherman's suply store off by the race track exit. Will the stores let you try on waders to fit the boots?

After spending bucks on wading boots over the years, only to be disappointed in the construction, durability, or comfort, I finally went to the thrift shop, bought a great pair of soft hiking boots for $10, glued on some felt, and now have the best wading boots I've ever owned. And the extra bonus is that these babies are great to wear in the summer, without waders, just with a pair of wool socks. Good way to go if you have the time. I figured, for $20, including materials, I'd give it a shot, and I haven't been disappointed.

you can use a tube of goop for 3 bucks to glue on a piece of old rug instead of felts also.

My first pair of neoprem waders I wore the light weight nike hiking shoe with a soft sole.Worked great,but then bought the felt soled hodgemans and really like them better.
My opinion is if you are on the bank a lot and want to save money due what was mentioned
above.If your in a drift boat most the time then go with the felt soled hodgemans.Good luck, STRIKE ZONE

My first pair of neoprem waders I wore the light weight nike hiking shoe with a soft sole.Worked great,but then bought the felt soled hodgemans and really like them better.
My opinion is if you are on the bank a lot and want to save money due what was mentioned
above.If your in a drift boat most the time then go with the felt soled hodgemans.Good luck, STRIKE ZONE

I've tried just about all of them, and this is my opinion.
First: Use boots not tennis shoes. With the rocks and uneven bottom you need the ankle support.
Summer: Use felt or carpet on the bottom, studs are good also. Rubber soles will put you on your butt.
Winter: Boots with good rubber soled traction. Felt is like ice-skates in mud and even worse when they freeze in a driftboat.
Basically, that means you need two pairs if you fish year around. My personal favorite is Danner's wading boots. They are expensive, but since you can send them in for repair/resole they are the last pair you need to buy (cheaper in the long run). They only make them with felt soles, but you can send them in after a little wear and they will put danner-bob soles on them.

Do yourself a favor and buy a pair of Danner wadding boots with carbide metal cleats. Hands down the best boots I've ever had.

[This message has been edited by FreeDrifter (edited 12-31-2000).]

I have been wearing the Danner wading boot with felt soles and find them light and easy to hike in. I have noticed that the side panels are breaking down fairly quickly. During one of my bush-wacking trips I tore a hole in one side of the boot. I hope to get the boot replaced or repaired depending on what Danner will do for me.

I went with these after purchasing a Hodgemens model that didn't last one trip.

Ed

Anyone who buys the Danners should coat all the stiching with Aqua-Seal...makes them buletproof.

Just got a set of Cabelas kevlar guide series wading boots ,pretty sweet

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Row Quietly and fish a Cataraft
Release all Wild Fish----<'))>>{

I have had a pair of Sims felts for about 5 years. Spendy....$80, but they last, and have more support than shoes. Much better if you fish Alaska and have to do any walking. Those Danners are also sweet! Probably more money....

I have to agree with Osprey. The Calelas Guide boots are the ticket. I bought the Danner boots when they were only $100.00 and have gone through 2 re-soles. I have a wide foot and they only make narrow models. Had to go two sizes up for a good fit.

Now that I have the Guide boots, which fit perfectly, I notice they have more support covering the sides of my feet. Which is great when you happen to scrap the side of a sharp rock.

As far as what to use in a drift boat, the felt soles put alot of dirt in the boat. My last trip instead of using hip or chest waders I used LaCross boots and bib rain pants. What a treat! Warm feet and no mess. If there is no requirement to get out frequently this is the way to go.

Rob