5 Best Fly Fishing Wading Pants – 2024 Buyer’s Guide

Wading pants are convenient when in warmer weather, and you don’t need to wade deep with chest waders. This review will highlight 5 great choices for wading pants to help you make an informed buying decision.

In addition to a good fly fishing combo, a good pair of waders are essential in fly fishing. They keep you dry, warm, and safe while out on the water. Chest waders are used most in fly fishing, but wading pants (hip waders, waist waders, or pant waders) are becoming more popular.

Quick Look: Some of our Favorites

• Redington Escape Wader Pant.
• Patagonia Men’s Swiftcurrent Wading Pants.
• Simms G3 Guide Wading Pants.

The most common price point for a good pair of wading pants is around $100. To get a premium pair like Simms G3, you will need to invest a little more. Keep in mind that an investment in a good pair will last you a really long time if you take care of them.

Top Wading Pants For Fly Fishing – 2022

In this buyer’s guide, we did our best to offer a variety of solid choices for any budget so you can make a solid buying decision. Let’s get started!

Best Budget Option: Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking-Foot Pant Waders

Cabella’s make a great entry-level product for around $100. Cabella’s Premium Breathable Stocking-Foot Pant Waders can replace your chest waders without costing a fortune.

The Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking-Foot Pant Waders have a micro-denier shell. They have an extra-strong triple-layer around the knees where most abrasion happens.

The seams are dual-taped inside and outside and perform even on the most demanding days. The anti-slip neoprene booties have an integrated gravel guard that blocks both sand and gravel from getting into your wading boots.

Best Intermediate Wader Pants: Redington Escape

If you have a little more in the budget, the Redington Escape Wader Pant is are our favorite choice. Producing quality at an affordable price is something Redington is well-known for. Escape Wader Pant falls right in line with the perfect mix between affordability and quality.

These wader pants have a four-layer nylon fabric that is waterproof and highly breathable. You can stuff your fly boxes and tippet spools in the two big pockets.

Getting the perfect fit is easy with the adjustable waist belt. There is no need to worry about these wader pants sliding down or adjusting. The gravel guards come with lace hooks and prevent sand or gravel from ruining your day.

Best Premium Wading Pants: Simms Freestone

Although they are an entry-level option, the Simms Freestone Wading Pants are running for the best waders available. They are entry-level have many features that make for a great product, and that says a lot about Simms as the top provider of waders.

With Simms 4-layer technology, the Simms Freestone provides excellent freedom of movement. Compared to its big brother, the Simms G3 Guide, the Freestone feels lighter and softer.

For all-day comfort, you can’t go wrong with Simms’ gravel guards. You can fit all of the essential items in the Simms Freestone Wading Pants hip pockets. All of these features are wrapped up tight with the incredible Simms warranty.

Best Premium Hip Waders: Patagonia Swiftcurrent Wading Pants

Patagonia’s Swiftcurrent Wading Pants are waterproof and highly breathable. They are made from H2No®, the 100% recycled polyester membrane designed by Patagonia. The Swiftcurrent Wading Pants are excellent for fly fishing in warmer conditions with high breathability.

Hip Pockets, an adjustable wading belt, are similar to the Simms Freestone. The Swiftcurrent will last a long time given the single-seam construction and a high tolerance for abrasion resistance.
The Patagonia Swiftcurrent feels similar to the Simms Freestone when you slip them on. The gravel guards feature extra-durable patches on the inside of the leg where a lot of the abrasion happens.

Best Top-End Hip Waders: Simms G3 Guide Wading Pants

The Simms G3 Guide is likely the best hip wader available in 2022. With the 4-layer-GORE-TEX® Pro Shell at its core, the G3 offers maximum abrasion resistance!

The fantastic durability feels a little heavier when you first wear them. The elements definitely do not stand a chance at ruining your day as these pants can take anything mother nature can dish out.
Simms’ front and back seams are patented for a good reason and are placed perfectly to avoid abrasion. This contributes to a longer lifetime and a better return on your investment.

With anatomical gravel guards, the Simms G3 Guide will provide all-day comfort in the water with little regard to harsh weather. To boot, these are 100% Made in the USA.

Conclusion – Hip Waders For Men

Fly fishing wading pants are a perfect alternative to chest waders when fishing in shallow water, on warmer days, or when you are traveling and need to pack light. Indeed they are an essential piece of gear if you want to maximize comfort and mobility without getting wet.

This buyer’s guide covered some great options no matter your fishing experience or budget. If this is your first purchase, we recommend the Cabela’s Premium Breathable Stocking-Foot Pant Waders or the Redington Escape Wader Pant.

If you want to kick it up to the next level or want to replace your chest waders entirely, have a look at the Patagonia Swiftcurrent or Simms Freestone Wading Pants.

If you want to get the best with no compromises, treat yourself to the Simms G3 Guide Wading Pants. Really any of these options will take care of you without regrets!

Frequently Asked Questions: Fly Fishing Waders

What are wader pants?

Unlike full waders, wader pants, or hip waders, are waist-high rather than chest-high. They are best for warmer days or shallow water. Chest waders are a much better option for deep water or cold weather. The main difference is that chest waders are waterproof all the way up to your chest. Wader pants only offer protection to the waistline.

What material is best for waders?

Chest waders and hip waders need to be both waterproof and breathable, in addition to having excellent abrasion resistance. Most waders are made of multi-layer Gore-Tex or similar technology like Patagonia’s H2No®. Neoprene is often used waders for cooler temperatures where breathability isn’t a concern. 

Are high-end waders worth it?

High-end waders cost more, but they also perform better and last longer. Sometimes, it is better to buy less expensive waders when you are starting and upgrading once you decide you like fly fishing.