CHEAP vs EXPENSIVE Waders - Which one should YOU Buy?! [Review]

Here is a review of cheap vs. expensive waders, hopefully you can use this as a helpful resource to help you choose which one is the right one for you to buy!
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Cheap Wader Options:
Dark Lightning - amzn.to/3aUgB22​​
Fishingsir - amzn.to/3qpPq5s
Hisea - amzn.to/3ekF4S7
Tidewe - amzn.to/3qx4y1j
Expensive Wader Options:
Compass 360 Deadfall - amzn.to/3va03NJ
Compass 360 Tailwater - amzn.to/3sXs8FO
Simms Freestone Wading Boots - amzn.to/2Py1aGo
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[@soundbwoikilla764]

I'm super cheap when it comes to fly fishing (like don't spend over $50 for a reel 5wt and under). The exceptions I found are waders and boots. I classify cheap waders as around $100-150. It really depends on how hard/conditions you fish and how often. Do you walk 25 ft from the car and step into shallow water? Or do you hike, bushwack, boulder hop and stream crawl? Now I can't imagine anything under $100 lasting for long even under light conditions. I fish very hard and tough conditions and this is what I've found. Cabela's are the best at around $120. The Compass Deadfall ($150) are junk and lack durability. I slid on a rock, nothing dramatic, and got a leak and the outer shell didn't even tear. Very evident that the fabric is not durable (and not covered by warranty). Replaced with Compass Ledges II ($170) and these are a beast! I fished/hiked 40x this year alone in demanding conditions and these held up well. Unfortunately, I think Compass might have discontinued them. At this price point I'd go with Simms Tributary ($200). I bought a pair of Simms Freestone ($300) but haven't worn them yet cause the Ledges II are still going strong. I have a pair of Patagonias that cost around $300 a few years ago but I blew the seams on them. Were fantastic up until them. A few caveats and notes: a lot of waders will begin to leak around the boots, Cabela's and Compass 360 included. Sucks when its cold out during the winter and that is when I'll switch to my new Simms. Second, look for sales: I got my Cabelas for $100 on sale, a 2nd pair of Ledges II for around $100 on sale and the Simms Freestone are on sale right now for around $225. Simms Tributary are on sale for around $140!

[@daveveon2104]

Thank you. I would be interested in Seeing a comparison between the Compass Deadfall at $140 and Simms Tributary at approx $180 for example.

[@Flies_the_limit]

Absolutely excellent review man. Really appreciate the time and effort. Thanks man.

[@lawrencelymanii6943]

Thank you for another great, informative video. I'm hoping to get by this season with Keen water shoes, and booties, with waders.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you always for your support and encouragement Lawrence. I'm sure what you've got will serve you just fine!!

[@paula.2422]

Excellent review! What a pleasure to watch a proper, informative review...compared to so much garbage some people are posting. Thanks for your efforts. Much appreciated 🙏

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I really appreciate that Paul, thank you very much!

[@jamesfrost7465]

Perfect!!! The first pair you showed with the boots built in look like they will be perfect as rain gear while riding my motorcycles! That's why I'm watching this video, I need rain gear for my motorcycles.

[@youngun1978]

Great video. I ended up buying the Dark Lightning waders after watching your video. They have been good waders for keeping me dry. My problem with them has been I get blisters on my big toes every time I use them. Now I'm watching KZbin reviews again to try and find some better ones. For the price that I paid for them I've been happy with them but I'm sick of getting blisters.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Appreciate the thoughtful comment here, thank you for sharing your experience. If you're ready to upgrade, maybe take a look at nicer boot chest waders (maybe from Simms?). Otherwise consider getting some stocking foot waders and investing in some boots that fit you best. I'm still wearing the Simms boots that I reviewed in this video and it's going on 3 years. Not sure if they would fit you best, but I'm sure there's a pair out there that will be best for you!

[@lifelongfit5997]

Awesome Benji! Thx for that vid. I was wondern how waders work too. Great video bro.👍Helpful for many I bet

[@paulhoughland8505]

Thank you, some very good advice

[@zzww9483]

Great video! Very informative, thanks!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thanks so much for watching and the positive stoke, thank you!!

[@emmanuelislas7314]

Just on time!!!! I’m about to buy a pair. Thanks!!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Awesome, I hope this video gave you a place to work from and helped you make a good choice for yourself!

[@Parekoy_Adventures]

Hey Benjie, another great video brother with very valuable and insightful information. Since I am new to the surf fishing hobby and probably will be going out to fish once or twice every month I’ve decided to give a cheaper brand (FishingSir) a try. Based on my first try out in the surf I can definitely tell you that comfort on the boots was missing. To help with that issue I added a Dr Scholls gel insoles. That helped a bit but still a bit loose and my feet are sliding inside. I can see why getting an actual boots/shoes would be the ideal comfort for you and pairing it using a more expensive waders would be the way to go. Anyway, looking forward to meet you at Pismo in three weeks🤙

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thanks for sharing your insight and experience Greg! Yea, its hard to have any true complaints from $40 waders cuz they're well...$40. And imo they serve their purpose well! The nicer options definitely offer some extra comfort and hopefully added durability for those that are able to spend a little more. Awesome man, excited to meet you. Make sure you introduce yourself!!

[@leocam3880]

I just started surf fishing since I moved out to SF from Jenner (which is all rock fishing) - the information you provided was perfect in getting me some waders and catch me some fish. Thanks man!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Welcome to the west coast and glad this was helpful!

[@jerrywenzesr505]

I have had questions for a while on waders thanks. I can now look with knowledge.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thanks Jerry, hopefully this can be a good starting place for you to choose your perfect set.

[@diabetichoneybee8796]

You might want to check out waterproof hip packs or sling packs. Fly fishers use them. Pricey, though.

[@williamfox3765]

Thank you for the information.

[@mohammadaarifkhan737]

Awesome stuff !

[@rogerwkim]

great info and video thanks!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I appreciate the encouragement and glad that it was helpful!🤙

[@mganut37]

Great review of both high price and low price waders! thank you very much.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Greatly appreciate the encouragement, thank you so much!

[@thomasjablonski8963]

Thanks, you made a lot of sense.

[@jumbug11]

So helpful video brotha, I've been looking for my first waders and this helps me pick n choose which one to get....thanks n see u on the sand👍 🤙

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Awesome Eli, glad that it can be helpful! Haven't seen you a long time bro, hopefully this year sometime!

[@jumbug11]

@@BenjieKimFishing oh for sure...maybe at the csa meet in a couple of weeks👍🤙🎣

[@logictd567]

Thanks man. I just got into surf fishing and will get the DL as my first pair

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Oh awesome man, it is a solid bang for buck wader, I put a LOT of miles in those things.

[@liedebunker1253]

Thanks for the review, especially showing that the cheap ones are also fine.

[@kevinramponi]

I have the tailwater. The pockets still get wet. Those zipper pockets are just an addition. There is still the same fleece passthrough pocket as the deadfall included. Its not a huge deal breaker for me but would definitely like it to be addressed. I personally like the compass360 brand and feel the pros outweigh the cons. Great video bro! Im sure it will help a lot of people.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Dude, I was about to message you yesterday when you posted your halibut because I thought you were wearing the Tailwater (the hali was great too lol). Thanks for that info, I obviously haven't worn them and was curious to know more outside of an Amazon description. Can't wait to see your next legal brotha!

[@noahfarmer9542]

So soft and comfortable, yet they provide great support. I would highly recommend

[@heyreddin2.0s10]

Thank you sir very helpful

[@joselindo3016]

Great video Benjie hope to see u soon thanks great info 🎣

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thanks Jose, yes that would be great!!

[@stuntznfx]

Great video!

[@gerardperlas270]

Got a great deal on the Simms Freestone waders -paid less than a $100 ( on line retail made a mistake $89 in the am. Then went back to $250 in the afternoon ) the SIMMs FS boots at their website had it on sale at $130 a week ago …. Haven’t tried them out yet ….need to go Surf fishing with you Benjie

[@rublizz]

Excellent video, just want to ask if you've had a problem with sand getting inside the stocking foot with boots vs the boot foot waders?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you. I've never had any sand get inside the stocking foot as of yet!

[@reysabs288]

I have the $40 waders but i want to try the 369 waders.and the Simms boots too.

[@csmats5374]

I'm real lucky that the $40 waders I got are very comfortable on my feet. I frequently do long sessions covering several miles both Saturday and Sunday with no problems at all. My son has the same waders and gets hot spots on his feet when we fish over long distances. Come summer I'll ditch the waders, though, so a pair of wading boots are in my future because as much as I like fishing barefoot I've seen several surfers get stung stepping on stingrays.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Ahhh yes, you were mentioning before that you picked up the Dark Lightnings. They are great!! Yes, I'll be shedding the waders in the Summer as well, we are lucky to be in SoCal that's for sure! And absolutely, some kind of footwear is pretty important cuz of those rays. Stepped on one once and I've been wearing shoes ever since!

[@user-tv3iy7rq9h]

sold buying guide, well done.

[@ronmodafferi8202]

You need to try the basic Redington "escape" (not the "zip" escape) waders. They come in a size large (size 10+ boot) in the short length. The shorth length fits an average sized person's inseam great. Pair them with a Shimano Evair wader boot/sandle. Sandles are supper light, draining and dry quickly as they are composite material.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I appreciate the pro-tip, I will have that on my checklist when it comes time for my next pair!

[@chrisnakaishi]

I have the same Simms boots. I do like them but I recently switched over to Duck&Fish Neoprene Wading Shoes which are much lighter and easier to get on and off. I only paid $35 for them. So far they have worked very well. I am a fan of FrogToggs waders but they are a bit pricier. Having breathable waders is key for me as I sweat easily.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Some really great insights and experience here, thank you Chris. If those shoes have longevity in them, that would be superb! Wishing you a great start to the week!

[@messagestoson]

Have you ever tried a pair from Ali express (120$) vs simms ( 170-500$)... I bought a lure killer bass rod with high power and spiral x...same materials in a shimano dialuna...works great for only 100$... dialing is 260 minimum... Is Simms just that much better or is it just a typical mark up game they play... hate to be paying for the owner's Mercedes nc I like to fish....

[@TripFishingMyLife]

Good review... 👍

[@eddiep6468]

Great Video!!! 👍

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Appreciate it Eddie, thank you!

[@Royalltop1]

Came across some new waders S1 Mars stretchable waders. Not only are the stocking foot they sell their wading boot at a discount with the waders just under $200 for both. Recommended to buy off of their site best price

[@anhl5091]

Nice hoodie BK!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you!🤙

[@Imjoshuabailey]

I use the compass deadfall and love them! Currently using frogg togg boots. My boots are ok. Would like to upgrade to better boots.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

When we fish together we can be twinsies!! 😜

[@shaunlehman9158]

Korkers!!!

[@Imjoshuabailey]

@@BenjieKimFishing we 100% were 😂

[@pescadeportivacardumen]

Buena bro.... Excellent review!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you!

[@mrevan00]

I Did a cheap 80$ pair for my first time. Upgraded to the Frogtoggs Hellbender 2 for my 2nd pair. Blew both out in the neoprene bootie after about a year and a half each. I fish a couple times a week and usually do a mile or two of walking, so I wasn't too upset about it. Ordering The patagonia expedition swift current wader. Hoping to not have to replace every year and a half

[@xacob3]

in my experience all waders have the same duration. I use them for a couple of years and then they start to leak. Ive tried Simms and the regular bass pro waders. Both are the same.

[@lanceornelas2897]

Thanks for the reply appreciate your videos tight lines

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Absolutely!🤙

[@SnipFishFab]

Thanks for the video Benjie. Imma buy the cheap ones...lol. 🤙

[@CastNreeL82]

I’ve used cheap ones only. I think it’s time to jump up to better ones. I still have no issues but I’m tired after walking miles. To money is always the matter but not for this item. Thanks for details of explanation. Made me move to better ones lol Thanks bro 😎

[@BenjieKimFishing]

haha! I think you'd enjoy slightly nicer waders considering how devoted you are to fishing. Not a necessity, but man, every little bit of added comfort makes a difference! Wishing you a great week and please hang in there with all the work! 😩

[@risajajr]

Thanks for doing this review. It's helpful to me as someone just getting into fly fishing. But I have a question. Did you say the Simm boots are waterproof? I don't understand the holes on the side that allow water to drain out of boots that are supposed to be waterproof. In fact, wouldn't those holes allow water to get in the boots?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hey there, this is a mistake on my part, my sincere apologies. What I mean by "waterproof" is that they are made for the water (obviously). Water still gets into boots as evidenced by the drain holes. They are designed to be worn with waders that have neoprene booties which keep your feet/body dry. Again, my apologies and thank you so much for the comment.

[@lanceornelas2897]

What do think about the cabelas waiders brown run about 140 havnt used them yet got them from work seem to be pretty heavy cuz there thick just think walking large distances might be tough

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I'm not familiar with the cabelas but after a quick google search I believe they may be very hot. Either way, can't beat free!!

[@christopherharpster9330]

One thing I will never buy again is felt sole wading boots. I read an article online about how those were supposed to be good for rocky surfaces. The streams and rivers I fish around my area are rocky, so I figured I would try it. After losing my cellphone, a box of flies, and getting stiches from falling in, I went back to lug boots. Felts may be alright if your ONLY fishing rocks. Once they get muddy, they get like ice slick

[@mohammadaarifkhan737]

Wouldnt you feel colder in Simms boots where the water can move in and out vs the boots that are attached to the Wader itself ?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I've never had any issue with cold as the Compass 360 has neoprene booties that are completely insulated...so warm and dry even though water is running through the Simms.

[@trippingonfaith7094]

Bass pro white river $100 last about a year and the shin leaks but they are comfortable and light

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thanks for the great tip!

[@andrewcpham]

Very informative Benjie. I think I’m going for the deadfall. Can I wear a basic cheap low profile water shoe as a start? If I like surf fishing wearing it then will get real boot like u later on. Will my feet get totally wet if my basic water shoe let water in? How much water seal is the attach booty?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hey thanks so much Andrew. You can absolutely wear any basic water shoe. A lot of guys I know will even wear crocs over the booty. Your feet should stay dry considering my boots get plenty of water filtering through during my sessions. Unless there's a leak, your feet will stay dry!

[@andrewcpham]

@@BenjieKimFishing good to know bro! Thanks for your quick response...you are a gentleman and a scholar👍 is it an overkill wearing waders in SoCal in summer? Do you only wear in winter spring fall?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

@@andrewcpham not overkill but in the summer I’m primarily in board shorts targeting corbina. But if I’m targeting halibut, I’ll still strap on the waders to get into deeper waters with a bit more comfort. Tight lines brotha!

[@andrewcpham]

@@BenjieKimFishing morning Benjie. Thanks for your comment. I just bought the deadfall. Much prefer the tailwater but got a super deal. Will upgrade next year...will see how it goes.

[@Photowrm]

Not sure if you monitor these old videos? I'm in the market for waders. Seems that the styles change somewhat over time? Would you still recommend these? Also if money were no object which are best, (toss out the high$ and the low$)? So many choices. After reading some of the reviews a lot of brand name players in this field leak. I'm liking the stocking foot option for comfort and sure footing. I'm getting too old to tough it out on chilly mornings. Thanks!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hi Bob, I'm currently still wearing the compass 360 Deadfalls and I'm very happy with them. For the price, I think they are a great option. My first set lasted over a year (maybe 1.5 years?) of pretty heavy use. I was satisfied with that given how often I wore them. I'm currently on my second set and I think I'm close to, if not more, a year in and they are working great. I'm sort of the opinion that all waders are gonna EVENTUALLY spring a leak so I'm mainly looking for value (money spent vs time worn). From what I hear, high end Simms and such will last a long time and if money were no object, I'd probably give those a shot. Hope that helps!

[@SMC4117]

Ha! I wear board shorts year round!

[@bsmdude1]

If you are only fishing in the surf the cheap ones are great, but if you are going to hit up some rivers you need the better waders and boots especially the boots.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you for sharing your insight and experience. I've yet to fish rivers and that is good to know!

[@lanceornelas2897]

For free I have to give them a shot watching your videos can’t wait to get out there grew up surf fishing got away from it but it’s in my genes

[@BenjieKimFishing]

That's awesome Lance, it'll be just like riding a bike! Every style of fishing has its own rewards and challenges. For me personally, it will always be my favorite because of the challenge of adaptation to ever changing conditions. Tight lines!

[@theflux00]

Hey Benji so water can get into the boots but the neoprene is waterproof? so your feet stay completely dry?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hey Anthony, that’s correct. My apologies on confusion with me saying the boots are waterproof. They are made for the water but the boots have holes, which is a good thing to allow the sand out. The neoprene booties on the waders are completely water proof so you do stay completely dry.

[@theflux00]

@@BenjieKimFishing thank you! Makes perfect sense!

[@raywalteroutdoors]

Simms cheap waders...a special edition between Tribs and Freestone lasted me 4 years. I get a wet butt in deep water. Dilemma is new waders or pay $60+ship to repair.

[@OFFTHEBEATENPATH_YT]

Benjie do you get sand in your boots? I wear crocs and I feel the sand between the feet and crocks will ultimately be where mine will start leaking first. That or the crotch which is showing some wear too.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hey Steve! When I'm washing out my boots there is some sand but I don't feel any when I'm fishing. I'm sure some gets in but I think it is somewhat minimized because I strap those bad boys on tight! I'm hoping these will last a good while, I'm doing my best by rinsing after every use (somewhat, kinda/sorta thoroughly 😬

[@OFFTHEBEATENPATH_YT]

I too will eventually be replacing mine and was considering going the cheaper route but don’t like the idea of the giant uncomfortable boots. I like to walk and occasionally climb on rocks etc. I might have to bite the bullet and upgrade to the Simms or similar. Another benefit to the stocking foot waders is the ability to use them with fins if float tubing. 🤙

[@trippingonfaith7094]

HOT TIP Walmart Velcro shoes are killer wader shoes! $14 last a year super comfortable easy to put on ! Buy one to two sizes up from your regular shoes.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Oh wow, that sounds like a GREAT deal, thanks for sharing that info. Walmart always has some great budget friendly options for sure!

[@hunter8turkey1]

Thanks, Benjie. Go CSA

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Woohoo, thanks for watching and the comment brotha!

[@jwestfishing3229]

It's impossible to relieve yourself in those things. Staying dry is nice, but I have needs 🙃

[@BenjieKimFishing]

lol, true story Jason!

[@BwBandit446]

I've never actually had to piss at all in waders I have been very fortunate

[@jwestfishing3229]

@@BwBandit446 wow! Color me impressed.

[@Kivas_Fajo]

I have heard that no matter cheap or extraordinary expensive, both get holes, rip apart and leak after two seasons or earlier. So I would say buy cheap?

[@whalekock]

In SoCal Surf Trunks are my waders. Also waders ar not fun in any sort of rough surf.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Can't argue with that. SoCal is one of the few places where board shorts are ok year round.

[@jeremypriest4062]

Wore the same pair of neoprene maddog waders for almost 20yrs, seen hundreds of duck blinds and hrs of fishing. Those $40 ones will fall apart.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thanks for sharing your experience! Neoprene runs a bit too hot for me personally but its certainly a viable option. And agreed that cheaper waders will fail sooner than other options, but some folks are just starting out and others are on a tight budget. Tight lines 🤙

[@gary3692]

My $40 bootfoot waders have out lasted my $80 stockingfoot breathable. I've tried patching the neoprene booties but still leaks so instead I just went with $20 knee high waterproof socks. Thats working for me for now.. Shoe wise I'm still searching for a good closed toe sandal that are wide enough for my foot + booties.

[@FisharoundandfindoutHtown]

Best

[@FishonRob]

Amazon’s foxheli waders are great for the price! Waterproof pockets and super durable! Just add in some cushioned foot souls in the boots and it makes them much more comfortable! Only like 50-60$ I think it’s the best cheap option in my opinion.

[@FishonRob]

I had my pair for over a year and used them over 100 times. I’ve fallen in blackberry bushes and no leaks so far. Walked plenty of miles, crawled over down trees and it still holds up. Definitely recommend foxheli.

[@fishduckdog]

SIMMS all the way.

[@shaunlehman9158]

Dryft waders are the best deal on the market

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thanks for the pro tip! I looked them after reading this and they indeed look legit. I'm gonna keep that in mind for the future. Thank you 🤙

[@FisharoundandfindoutHtown]

Bet review

[@matthunt7390]

The grommets on your simms boots will ruin the skirts/gravel gards on you waders.

[@fishduckdog]

SIMMS

[@577buttfan]

Throw some cheap insoles in them good to go.

[@jedediyahaaronyisrael7118]

I will never purchase any simms product EVER again. Bought one of their heigh end waders which needed repairs during the warranty window. Spent over 2 months calling and writing to them but they never responded. Horrible!!!

[@DeeFromBrooklyn]

You're better off buying one good pair with a warranty once than a cheap pair three times

[@MohammedMiara]

Cheap ones work great, as long as you don’t fart on them because they are non breathable.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

This made me literally lol😜!!

[@MohammedMiara]

@@BenjieKimFishing 😂😂😂😂

[@FishingwithNoel]

I just bought some tidewe. Let's go pound the sand.

[@Alawicous]

I will say I didn't watch the video in its entirety and won't. That being said I find it amusing that your take on a "pricier" wader is the compass wader. In my opinion the Compass waders (I own compass deadfall) is a much better value for a similar Simms product that sells for 2x & 5x the price. I have more than 300 days in them with zero problems or defects. Maybe I'm one of the lucky ones.

[@hypnosiscenternyc]

I bought the Tidewe .... nice waders .... under 40 bucks .... leaked after 3 uses, but Jeff bezos was kind enough to refund me.

[@Nickkrete1]

Math is hard.

[@georgetullis7216]

Thanks for your video but expensive waders are $650 to $850 and cheap waders are around $300. That’s the review I’m looking for. $200 waders are a joke these days. You’d be amazed if you tried out some “real” waders.

[@keving1774]

Your feet get wet in the more expensive pair

[@michaelchapman1258]

You did a dirt cheap vs cheap. Not a cheap vs expensive. You do get what you pay for.