Simms sent me a pair of their G3 Guide Stockingfoot waders, which I compare to the Cadillac in breathable waders. The G3’s are constructed with 5 layers and 3 layers of Gore-Tex fabric. They have a Quick drying hand warmer pocket; a flip out Tippet Tender Pocket; a 3mm high-density neoprene stockingfoot; built in gravel guards, a built in wading belt loop and they are Deet and Saltwater resistant. I have to say that I could hardly wait to try them both in my float tube and on the river.
My first experience using the G3 waders was in my float tube, submerged for hours in the cold water of our high mountain lakes. In the past, I have always worn my neoprene waders for warmth, because I have never found a pair of breathable waders that would keep me warm. Our lakes being 8000 ft and above here in the White Mountain of Arizona are very cold especially at the
end of April and May. The G3 waders kept me warm and because of this, I was able to fish for hours without having to get out of the lake to warm up. They are lightweight and comfortable and I had no problem sitting for hours in my float tube wearing them.
The next was to try them on the fishing trip to the San Juan River where the water temperature is a constant 44 degrees. Standing in the river from my waist down with my other waders has required me to get out and warm up. With the G3 waders quality of construction I found this is no longer necessary. Comfort is important since during spring and summer I may fish up to 10 hours in one day. The Simms G3’s have lightweight construction shoulder straps where you hardly know you have them on, except you are not cold. One of the other things that I liked about the Simms G3 waders is that they are not binding and allow for great flexibility of movement. The flexibility of waders is important to me since I knell at the rivers edge to net and release fish, change flies or sometimes just to take a rest. Once out of the water the Simms G3 waders dry in a matter of minutes.
The Simms G3 waders are the best waders I have ever worn and they are built to last for years. I would recommend the G3 waders to any avid fly fisherman. Their website is www.simmsfishing.com.
