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10 Best Chest Waders for 2023

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Best Overall
Simms Mens Tributary Stockingfoot Waterproof Chest Fishing Waders, Tan, Small
Most Comfortable
Simms Mens Freestone Waterproof Stockingfoot Chest Fishing Waders, Dk Gunmetal, Large 9-11'
Best Storage
FROGG TOGGS Sierran Transition Breathable Modular Stockingfoot Wader, Slate/Gray, Size Small
Feature 1
Breathable and waterproof 3-Layer upper and 4-Layer lower
Heavy-duty engineered fabric with a micro-porous waterproof coating
Super-sized multifunction pocket lined with pile backing
Feature 2
Two belt loops with a 38 mm nylon waist belt
Feature a reach-through fleece-lined hand warmer chest pocket for chilly days
Dual adjustable, locking buckles to cinch waders snug
Best Overall
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Simms Mens Tributary Stockingfoot Waterproof Chest Fishing Waders, Tan, Small
Feature 1
Breathable and waterproof 3-Layer upper and 4-Layer lower
Feature 2
Two belt loops with a 38 mm nylon waist belt
Most Comfortable
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Simms Mens Freestone Waterproof Stockingfoot Chest Fishing Waders, Dk Gunmetal, Large 9-11'
Feature 1
Heavy-duty engineered fabric with a micro-porous waterproof coating
Feature 2
Feature a reach-through fleece-lined hand warmer chest pocket for chilly days
Best Storage
Thumbnail
FROGG TOGGS Sierran Transition Breathable Modular Stockingfoot Wader, Slate/Gray, Size Small
Feature 1
Super-sized multifunction pocket lined with pile backing
Feature 2
Dual adjustable, locking buckles to cinch waders snug

If you love fly fishing, then you’ll need a good pair of the best fishing waders.

Besides keeping you warm, it can allow you to fish in water that comes right up to your chest without making you uncomfortable.

Here are our top 10 picks for the best chest waders for fly fishing that you can get for yourself or gift to a loved one.

10 Best Chest Waders Reviewed and Updated

1. Simms Mens Tributary Stockingfoot Wader

Best Overall

Simms Mens Tributary Stockingfoot Waterproof Chest Fishing Waders, Tan, Small
  • DESIGN – Our Mens Tributary Stockingfoot wader offers a…
  • PERFORMANCE – Great for any season. Suspenders and…
  • UTILITY AND CONVENIENT – Anatomically engineered neoprene…

This fishing wader is designed to keep you warm while fishing chest-deep in cold river water. It offers a breathable and waterproof 3-Layer upper and 4-Layer lower so that you won’t damage it easily in rough water.

It has two belt loops, a 38 mm nylon waist belt, a reach-through fleece-lined hand warmer pocket, and a front zippered top stash pocket.

The Simms Mens Tributary also boasts zippered handwarmer pockets lined with fleece for extra warmth and is great for any season.


2. Simms Firestone Stockingfoot Waders

Most Comfortable

Sale
Simms Mens Freestone Waterproof Stockingfoot Chest Fishing Waders, Dk Gunmetal, Large 9-11′
  • MEN’S FREESTONE STOCKINGFOOT HEAVY DUTY WADERS: The SIMMS…
  • MULTI-LAYERED TORAY QUADRALAM TECHNOLOGY: The Toray fabric…
  • CONVENIENT POCKETS: The waterproof waders feature a…

The Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders have everything you need to spend a relaxing day out on the water. This includes three chest pockets that you can use to store lures and other small items and warm your hands in.

The Stockingfoot waders are anatomically designed to mold to the contours of the feet and boast a microbial finish so they won’t get smelly.

The chest waders possess abrasion-resistant Gravel Guards with boot hooks so you won’t slip out on the water. For improved durability, it has a 2-layer coated fabric.


3. Frogg Toggs Sierran Transition Breathable Modular Chest Waders

Best Storage

FROGG TOGGS Sierran Transition Breathable Modular Stockingfoot Wader, Slate/Gray, Size Small
  • Zip/Flip Tray – super-sized multifunction pocket lined with…
  • External fly-storage area with keyhole accessory patch
  • Net keeper D-ring on center back

Frogg Toggs are breathable waders with excellent features for a great fishing experience. The neoprene waders boast a zippered flip-out security pocket where you can keep valuables without getting them wet.

They also come with external fly storage complete with a keyhole accessory patch and an oversized multi-function pocket with a zip/flip tray whole with pile backing.

In other words, the Frogg Togg is ideal for fly anglers who want their tools and flies within reach while they are fishing.


4. Simms Ladies Freestone Z Stockingfoot Waders

Most Reliable Waders

Simms Freestone Z Women’s Stockingfoot Waterproof Chest Fishing Waders, Side Zipper, Striker Grey, Medium Full
  • WOMEN’S FREESTONE Z STOCKINGFOOT WADERS: The Simms…
  • MULTI-LAYERED TORAY QUADRALAM TECHNOLOGY: The Toray fabric…
  • CONVENIENT POCKETS: The waterproof waders feature a…

The Simms Ladies Firestone are robust fly fishing waders that are designed to enhance rather than impede mobility. With these breathable waders, you can trek farther and wade deeper to increase your chances of catching that river monster.

Made from durable 4-layer Toray QuadraLam fabric, these reliable fly fishing waders can handle brush approaches without getting damaged.

They will keep you warm during wet or cold weather. They also boast a sizeable fleece-lined warming pocket, a chest pocket for essential tools, and a dedicated fly patch for sidelined flies. 


5. Hodgman H5 Stocking Foot Chest Wader

Best for Adventurous Anglers

Sale
Hodgman H5 Stocking Foot , Bronze/Dark Charcoal , Large
  • Durable puncture resistant 5-Layer seat and legs with no…
  • Breathable 3-Layer upper for moisture vapor transfer
  • Stitched and taped waterproof seams

The Hodgman H5 is the best waders you can get if you are an adventurous angler. Whether you find yourself climbing over brushy banks or fishing from sand-covered beaches, the 5-layer construction on these fly fish waders will prevent punctures.

There is no inner leg seam, which is often the first thing to get damaged. Instead, the design is anatomically created to ensure knee articulation for a better range of motion. It also boasts gravel guards designed to provide a comfortable fit.


6. Magreel Chest Waders

Best for All Types of Terrain & Conditions

Gonex Chest Waders, Hunting Fishing Waders for Men Women with Boots, Waterproof Bootfoot 70D Nylon Wader for Duck Hunting Fly Fishing, M7/W9 Green
  • Lightweight & Durable: Due to the dual-layers construction…
  • Wear-resistant & Comfortable: The boots are made from PVC,…
  • Convenient & Humanized: Equipped with waist belt & chest…

Battle all types of fishing terrain and conditions with the Magreel Chest Waders. These have dual-layer nylon and PVC construction for protection and come at a bargain price point.

These are great if you need an extra pair of waders for non-fishing activities or would like to have a loaner pair for a buddy who comes into town.


7. Compass360 Tailwater Breathable Chest Wader

Most Durable Waders

2111145-XL Tailwater Breathable Waders
  • DESIGN – The Tailwater breathable stockingfoot wader is…
  • FEATURES/BENEFITS – The upper body is made from a premium,…
  • EXTRAS – The Tailwater has 4 in 1 pocket design made with…

The Compass360 fly fishing waders are designed for strength and durability. These are constructed from 4-ply nylon and attached with 600 gm Thinsulate rubber wading boots that keep the water and the cold out.

The chest waders also boast a single seam crotch with wrapped reinforced lower legs that are extra durable. The web wading belt comes with a quick-release buckle and can be adjusted easily also.

The waders also have an internal pocket lined with fleece, a 3-in-1 nylon BAP (Big Ass Pocket) chest storage system where you can keep essential tools within easy reach, and a flip-out security pocket for valuables.


8. Compass360 Point Guide Z Waders

Best Water-Resistant Waders

The Point Guide Z Waders from Compass360 boasts water-resistant yet breathable multi-layered fabric with an extra thick seat. It rocks 4mm neoprene booties for that added warmth you’re looking for.

The bib-style neoprene suspenders come with hook and loop attachments, which can be adjusted easily for a custom fit. The chest pocket can be used to warm up chilly fingers. 


9. HISEA Neoprene Chest Waders 

Most Flexible Waders

HISEA Chest Waders Neoprene Duck Hunting Waders for Men with 600G Insulated Boot Waterproof Camo Bootfoot Fishing Waders
  • PLEASE MIND THE SIZE CHART AND CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE BEFORE…
  • Durable & Sturdy – made of incredibly warm and flexible…
  • 100% Waterproof – besides the armor weld double-stitched…

The HISEA Neoprene Waders are made for warmth, comfort, and durability. As one of the best fishing waders, they contain 4.5 mm of neoprene for warmth and flexibility.

They also consist of a cleated boot foot, which includes 600 grams of Thinsulate for better traction and heat.

These features alone make these fly fishing waders the best for fly fishing. The waders also boast oversized D-rings and a front cargo pocket for accessories to have essential items within easy reach.


10. Dark Lightning Chest Waders

Best Design

Dark Lightning Fly Fishing Waders for Men and Women with Boots, Mens/Womens High Chest Wader with Boot Hanger (Brown, M11/W13)
  • Lightweight By Composite Material | Nylon-reinforeced PVC…
  • Waterproof by 100% seam taped process | Dark Lightning high…
  • Durable&reliable by 100% Inflatable Test | To ensure the…

The Dark Lightning Chest Waders feature a simple, yet efficient design without the high cost. The secret behind the quality these fly fishing waders offer is the fabric, which creates a waterproof and breathable layer that prevents water from getting in while allowing sweat to dry out.

Without any moisture buildup in the waders, you can spend hours on the water without getting uncomfortable. Wader fishing doesn’t get any better than this for the price. A perfect entry-level wader.


Things to Consider When Buying the Best Chest Waders

Material

There are three materials you should search for when you are shopping for the best chest waders:

Neoprene

Waders made from neoprene are great for anglers who like to fish during the fall and winter. These are thicker than the other two materials, so these will keep you warm for hours.

However, it is far from breathable, and since it is quite thick, you may have trouble walking through chest-deep water with these on.

Rubber

Waders made from rubber can withstand a lot of wear and tear, so it is ideal for exuberant anglers. However, like neoprene, it is not breathable, and it can restrict your movement in and out of the water. 

Breathable Nylon

These are the most popular options for waders. Breathable nylon waders are made of nylon or polyester and a completely waterproof membrane.

It is versatile, light, tear-proof, and won’t make you swelter while fishing. Breathable nylon is ideal for warm months since it allows perspiration to evaporate without letting water in.

Fit

The size and fit of the best waders you need depend on your chest, waist, inseam, hip, and shoe size. These can differ by brand, so make sure you examine the manufacturer’s sizing chart in detail before buying. 

Protection

Besides waders, some anglers also go for hip waders and waist-high waders for fly fishing. However, these do not provide as much protection from the elements as chest waders can.

best chest waders for fly fishing
Chest waders help you reach those hard to reach fish. Source: Thomas Cizauskas

The one-piece garment has built-in suspenders and a wading belt to adjust the fit even if you are fishing in chest-high water.

This comes in handy during the cold season when coming out of the water into the frigid air is not an option. You may need to get wading boots separately, though. 


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best material for fishing waders?

The best material for these is breathable nylon since it keeps you cool and keeps water out at the same time

Are neoprene waders waterproof?

These are stretchy, durable, AND waterproof, making them perfect for cold weather. Just make sure you have a breathable pair of waders for the summer months. Otherwise, you will be sweating profusely, which can put a damper on your fishing trip.

Do wading boots get wet inside?

These aren’t waterproof, so yes, they can get wet from the inside. However, you can prevent that by wearing stocking foot chest waders inside them.

Can I wear socks inside my wading boots?

Never wear cotton socks inside your wading boots. These will only soak up your sweat and make your feet cold. Go with socks that are made from wool or polypropylene instead.


Insider Advice

The best chest waders for fly fishing fit you perfectly and can be comfortable irrespective of your fishing environment.

Rather than buying just one, buy at least three made of different materials. That way, you can be ready to fish anytime.

Jon Stenstrom
Founder & Angler
Jon Stenstrom is a fishing enthusiast. He has over 25 years of fishing experience, and 6 years of spearfishing experience, and is currently learning how to boat. Jon has his Open Water PADI Certification and FII Freediver Level 1 Certification. Jon has traveled the world to fish and dive, most notably in the Great Barrier Reef, Baja Mexico, Thailand, and Malaysia. More Articles
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Articles » Gear Reviews » 10 Best Chest Waders for 2023