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| Apparel Review 
(Built for Fly-Fishing) |  
A new level of durability and breathability, the Simms "Guide Weight" Stockingfoots
 
 
 
  
    | Date: | 3/18/02 |  
    | Tackle type: | Clothing |  
    | Manufacturer: | Simms |  
    | Reviewer: | Buzz |  
 
 
 
 Total Score: 8.75
 
 Introduction: Whatever type of fishing you do, the choice of waders can 
be absolutely crucial to your enjoyment of the sport.  There are many different 
types of waders on the market today.  Having the right waders for your type of 
fishing and preference may not necessarily mean more fish brought to hand, but 
will definitely increase your level of comfort and enjoyment while fishing.  
With recent advances in technology, new materials have produced fishing waders 
that are lighter, more breathable, and more durable than ever before.  The Simms 
Gore-Tex Guide model stocking foot waders are some of the most advanced waders 
on the market today.
 
 
  
    | Simms Guide 
    Wader Specs |  
    | Material | Gore Tex 5-Layer fabric |  
    | Sizes Available | Small to 3XL |  
    | Color | Sage Green |  
    | Fastening (Adjustment) | Nylon X-Strap, Plastic Buckles |  
    | Price as tested | $375.00 |  
Impressions: 
Before trying 
the Simms Gore-Tex Guide model breathable waders, I had extensive experiences 
with typical neoprene waders.  After trying these on in the shop, and using them 
the very first time, it was evident that the advantages to these lightweight 
waders were incomparable to any other waders I have tried.  The range of motion 
I found in walking through river is better than the constricted feel I have 
observed in neoprene waders.  Simply trying these waders on in the store will 
allow you to see the difference immediately.
 
 
  
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    | The Simms 
    Guide Waders features an X-Strap suspender design that allows easy 
    conversion of sizes |  
Features: 
Constructed from immersion Gore-Tex technology, these waders serve as the top of 
the line fishing waders in the sport.  From the thigh down, these waders are 
re-enforced with 5 layer Gore-tex laminate.  This helps prevent punctures 
and holes from dreaded thorns, barbed wire, and of course barbed hooks.  
The micro-fiber outer fabric also keeps noise levels to a minimum while stalking 
fish in the stream.  The stocking feet are constructed of high-density 
neoprene with a rubberized seam tape to prevent the splitting of any seems for the life 
of these waders.  Simms Guide chest waders are held up by an adjustable “X” 
strap suspender that is easy to adjust to your body, and a synch to convert into 
waist highs for fishing those hot summer days.  Every pair also comes with a 
wading belt, and a patch kit should a puncture occur.
 
 
  
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    | The 
    "Blackfoot" stockingfoot is made with high-density neoprene and is the seams 
    are rubberized to be abrasion resistant |  What 
are breathable waders??  Anybody who has ever fished 
with neoprene waders knows that when you are finished your legs and socks are 
doused with sweat and moisture from your own body.  Often times we are left so 
drenched that we wonder if our waders are actually leaking.  The rate of which 
moisture passes through your waders refers to “breathability”.  As a result, the 
more “breathable” your waders are the drier and more comfortable you will be 
while stalking fish.  When moisture gets trapped to your body, the garment being 
worn cannot keep you insulated against the frigid environment that you might 
find yourself in.  The result is that you will feel wet, uncomfortable, and 
possibly at risk to hypothermia.  It is proven that when the human body is wet, 
we loose body heat many times faster than when we are dry.  Finding a material 
that repels water from the outside is only part of the solution.  Simms Guide 
waders not only do this, but successfully use Gore-Tex to bring you the most 
waterproof yet “breathable” fabric available. Tests: 
I have had the luxury of testing these waders in many conditions while fishing 
the great waters of Montana and Northern California.  In my opinion, breathable 
lightweight Gore-Tex waders can be used to fish a wide variety of waters under 
any conditions.  With the right combination of undergarments, you can keep the 
moisture wicked off your body.  This will allow the waders to pull the moisture 
away from you as they are intended to do.  Choosing the right long-underwear for 
your condition will be essential in getting the absolute most from these 
waders.  Garments made from 100% polypropylene or 100% polyester are both 
outstanding at performing this function.  Depending on conditions and your 
preference you may want to keep both on hand until you find what works best for 
you. 
Ratings: 
  
    | Simms Guide 
    Wader Ratings (?/10) |  
    | Construction/Quality | Gore-Tex Micro-Fiber 
    construction with 5-layer Gore-Tex laminate from mid-thigh down. | 10 |  
    | Performance | Outstanding durability, 
    quiet in the water, offer wide range of motion. | 9 |  
    | Price | $375.00 MSRP isn't cheap, 
    but cheaper waders are not built with the same materials | 7 |  
    | Features | Adjustable “X” strap 
    suspenders, easy conversion from chest waders to waist highs.  Stocking feet 
    made of high-density neoprene.  Flip out chest pocket,  nylon wading belt 
    and chest pocket included. | 9 |  
    | Design (Ergonomics) | Excellent all around 
    design from stocking feet, all the way up to Gore-Tex material.  Could have 
    straps that are more durable than nylon, and thicker male and female 
    buckles.  Sometimes current buckles slip forcing user to re-adjust strap 
    tension while fishing. | 8.5 |  
    | Application | Excellent for all summer 
    and spring fishing.  In winter it will be a necessity to have a good 
    combination of socks and undergarments to stay warm. | 9 |  
    | Total Score (avg) | 8.75 |  
Pluses and Minuses:
 
  
    |                  
    Plus                                    
    Minus |  
    | J 
    5 Layer Gore-Tex | L 
    Price |  
    | J 
    Good Wader Durability | L 
    Strap Durability |  
    | J 
    Great Construction |  |  
Conclusion: These waders are absolutely the best for summer and spring 
fishing.  They will keep you dry from the outer elements, as well as your own 
perspiration.  Simms Guide model Gore-Tex waders make covering water easier than 
conventional waders.  The difference between this model and the Gore-Tex 
lightweight stocking feet is mainly the extra layering from the thigh on down.  
If you only fish occasionally they are a great alternative especially at the 
price.  However, if you fish 50+ times a year I would recommend forking over the 
extra dough for the extra layering.  If you have only been fishing with neoprene 
waders you must try “breathable” waders.  You will find that you will be fishing 
longer days and more comfortable days.  After all, the longer your line is in 
the water, the more hook-ups you can expect to have.
 
 
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