Waders - breathable vs. neoprene

[dp3200]

What are peoples thoughts on neoprene vs. breathable for waders? Based on the reports, it looks like breathables are preferred, but what about in the winter? Is a pair of fleece pants enough under breathables to keep warm?

 

Personally I have always used neoprenes. I never fish in the summer months and I've always found 5mm of neoprene nice in the cold waters of the eastern tribs. Now that mine are leaking I've been considering a pair of breathables. My main concern with them is a)keeping warm and durability.

 

I know there is a big price difference between the two, but I buy a pair every 10 years, so I'm not too worried about $200 for breathables instead of the $100 for neoprenes.

[kentooley]

I used neoprene waders for years. Pain to get on and off and you sweat like a pig in milder weather. Bought a pair of breathables last year (way more comfortable)...fished 3-4 times a week all winter...no problem. Polypropylene socks and underwear in extreme temps and in milder weather you can go commando. :lol: :lol:

Edited November 19, 2008 by verminator

[kentooley]

Sorry. Double post.

Edited November 19, 2008 by verminator

[tbayboy]

I've got breathables and even with long underwear and double wool socks I found myself going a bit numb fishing the rivers in October (wading up to my waist at all times). That said they're great for every other time of the year but I think next season I'm going to have both available.

[anders]

i have both. I really like the neoprene waders in the winter and fall, with long underwhere and wooly socks, very rarely do i get cold. The breathables are awsome in the summer.

[DANIMAL]

I find breathables a lot more comfortable. And if you buy them big enough to fit 3 or 4 layers of fleece under them they are plenty warm.

[jdmls]

Simms Rivertech breathables at BPS for 50% off..Regular $399 on sale for $199..Simms has discontinued them and due to this BPS doesn't know any better so they put them on clearance... They have 3 or 4 pairs left ... 1 small , 1 large king , and 2 or 3 XXL .... They had 2 large Kings but I changed that

 

You should be in your car driving there right now as these waders are the cats AZZ for $200 .... For a reality check, you can go try on their White River Breathables, :D and see what $79 gets you !!!

Edited November 19, 2008 by JDMLS

[dp3200]

In about 15 minutes, we can make that 0 large kings!

 

Thanks for letting me know!

Edited November 19, 2008 by DP3200

[jdmls]

You'll be PM'n me a thank you after your first trip

[Dozer]

I use neoprene... early winter make sure you have some T.P. handy, its a quick and unexpected assault most of the time, especially after a long hike

[Paulus]

I switched to breathables a long time ago, and have no issues with cold. My only beef with them is that they are not as durable - but since I fish late into the spring with them, I'm happy compromising durability and a bit of cash for comfort and ease of use.

 

They also dry a lot faster, inside and out. That's a big plus in most conditions.

 

p.-