Wading Boots & How They Could KILL YOU

[@cmbullit]

Studs on my wading boots were a game changer for me. I'm not cool enough to have a boat or even any friends with a boat so that's a non-issue and my safety / stability was increased 200% after putting them on.

[@steven-scoggins-riverrunfly]

I've had 5 pairs Korker's over many, many years. I hike in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina and Alabama in them. Sometimes 8 miles a day. I'm brutal on them. Never had a failure.

[@mintdigggity]

Yea but they're not Simms or Orvis 🤣🤣

[@kinomorrison8004]

@@mintdigggityexactly! They are better!

[@justal4844]

Ben, it's amazing how we all have different experiences. I've had two pair of Korkers over the past 12+ years and have NEVER lost a sole. I switch my rubber soles for hiking to felt when I'm wading and back, as I need (which isn't often). I'd still have the first pair if they didn't change the interface / tabs and didn't stop selling the old felts 🤑🙄😕

[@mandovapehater6988]

Ive had several myself over the last 10 or 12 years. Their quality has gone down and price went up. Like many other things...

[@ithacaster]

I had a pair of Simms Freestones for maybe two seasons before they just completely delaminated. From what I've heard, the regulations on the kinds of adhesives that can be used changed a few years ago and the stuff in use now just isn't as effective. I replaced the Simms with Korkers not only have I never lost a sole (though, I"ve debating selling mine after the 47th refusal by a big tailwater brownie) but I find them extremely comfortable. I also frequently wear muck boots for fishing smaller creeks.

[@rugrboutdoors2491]

Had korkers for about 6 years. Mainly because they are one of the few boots that come in size 15. Never lost a sole. Usually tough to swap out soles. Heard they used to have problems years back until they did a redesign

[@jonesfishing]

I was gonna say the same thing. I've had mine for about the same amount of time and have put miles in them. Never had any issues, still actually have a little difficulty changing them out sometimes like you said.

[@BuffaloWill]

I'be had them for 4 years and about everything on them was busted by year 2.

[@MarcTelesha]

Wore them for a bit and yeah tough rivers tear them apart.

[@marcburrows5783]

same here. used the crap out of my Korkers with no problems.

[@larrythompson2896]

Never lost a sole with mine either after about 5 years.

[@steveb.2326]

I'll admit, I love wearing my Keens when wading, but that's only when I wet wade, they work awesome. But it's only during the summer where I do that. The other three seasons I use Korkers and I happen to love them and yes, I've had to replace the soles, but haven't had them fall off while in the river.

[@rickoie]

I'm a 100% fan of the BOA lace system. I keep a replacement in my wader back in case of a break when least expected but honestly those wires last a LONG time and generally you start noticing some fraying before a full-on break. The thing I really like about the BOA system is that it stays tight. With lace up boots, which I used for years, I would cinch them down and when they got wet they would loosen up or come completely untied.

[@joeg5414]

I've only had snowboarding boots with the boa system, and that was 10 years ago so I'm sure they've improved. They lasted 2 seasons of heavy use before breaking. I was happy. I assume they'll last a lot longer on wading boots. Actually, the soles started falling before the boa did. Once the wire broke, I still was able to Jerry rig it with a lace to make it work.

[@elffirrdesign2063]

Sand is kryptonite to BOA laces...got side cutters?

[@xplicitfishin]

Or you could just be smart and use hockey skate laces.

[@obliqueangler]

I had Korkers Devil's Canyon boots with Boa laces and the problem I had in the 3rd year was the even tension of the laces up the entire tongue could not be modified to optimize fit for the foot pitched downward. I tightened the boots until they hurt up the ankle but my heel wasn't locked into the heel counter, allowing my toes to jam into the the front of toebox with every step, and damaged a toenail so badly that it came off. Granted, ultimately the last wasn't the right shape for my foot so the boots didn't fit properly. But with the 3 pairs of lace-up Korkers I've had since, I can lace tightly over the instep to the ankle and tie a non-slip double overhand knot to lock my heel in the heel counter preventing blisters and giving me plenty of toe room, then either lacing looser up the ankle for comfort and flexibility, or tight up the ankle for greater support like I did for alpine climbing boots. I won't be going back to Boa again unless they change the design to tweak the lace tension at different levels up the boot.

[@garyadamson4844]

I have replaced 3 boa wires on my simms boots in the last few months, 2 over the winter and one just last week. They are complete garbage. I recon I’m on about a dozen new wires in the last ten seasons

[@tpalmer4829]

I’m in Year 12 with Korkers…fishing 2-8x per month, also a yearly 7-9 day trip. Never had a problem. 👍🏼 Had some separation of the rubber lower and the fabric upper this year, repaired with shoe goo. When these die… I will buy another pair of Korkers

[@BuffaloWill]

I'm in year 4 with Korkers... fishing 2-8 times a year, lost soles, back sole-straps both snapped, from sole-holder busted, glue holding the seams in place. These carcasses will be replaced by Orvis Pro boots...

[@clintonfunkhouser7960]

Great video as usual. Just have to say I bought a pair of rubber sole Patagonia a few years back. I really liked them. After two years, I was fishing and the sole came off one of the boots. No problem. I called Patagonia to see about repair. The gal I talked with told me the soles shouldn't fall off and she sent me a return label. Instead of fixing them I received a brand new pair within 10 days. I like companies that stand behind their products.

[@Richmon122]

After reading some of your feedback, I can tell you don't know what you're talking about but I have to admit, you are entertaining...

[@scottasin]

One comment I'll add about using boots that aren't specifically made for using with waders is that they're much more likely to chew up the stocking foot of your waders. I had a pair of waders that I destroyed in less than 6 months due to wearing them with random boots bought from a thrift store, the neoprene just wore straight through.

[@Odhege8262]

Dude, bought those same Orvis boots a couple years ago. Best boots I’ve owned by far. Light, cozy, and stable.

[@ronschlorff7089]

sounds good, but where are they made? Not china I hope!

[@davidschultz5652]

I was on the recent 3 day canyon float with Ben and had just bought the Orvis ultra light boots. Man, we're they nice. I have Simms guide boots which are so much heavier. Good if your pounding through boulders though.

[@Odhege8262]

@@ronschlorff7089 Vietnam.

[@Odhege8262]

@@davidschultz5652 glad you dig them. I stuffed them after one day of fishing without. The rivers where I’m from are slicker than snake snot, bub. Fwiw

[@ronschlorff7089]

@@Odhege8262 Better, just barely! ;D

[@markgraves8397]

Hey Ben, about Korkers. I have lost a felt sole while fishing, and I did take a soaker due to Korkers original Kling-On rubber sole. NO traction when wet. Must use the Vibram rubber sole, or Yes, felt. Be sure to disinfect the felt and dry properly between uses regardless of boot brand. Great video. Keep them coming!

[@peconicgp]

I am now on my second pair of the Orvis Pro boots now myself. And I can confirm that they are very comfortable. I will also say that the rubber on those boots is pretty gripy. I was nervous when I first bought them because of just going straight rubber but they surprised me how grippy they were. Another plus for going straight rubber is if you jump spots like I do, driving up and down rivers here in the east, you can't run into a store or a fly shop with studs in and they chew up your floors of your car.

[@gemstatefisherman3409]

A good substitute is aluminum bars, they wear out a little faster in my experience but they grips very well, “still bad on boat floors” but they are smooth enough to not damage your vehicle floors

[@silvercreekflyfishing]

Just wanna put my 2 cents out there. I've owned my pair of korkers for about 2.5 years and so far I haven't had any problems. I fish the deschutes and some other slick areas, so felt and studded felt have been the way to go for me. As for the bottoms falling apart, that hasn't happened to me yet. The very top of the boot, where the plastic of the replacement insert and rubber of the boot connect has ripped so that will occasionally pop off. That's due to me being too stingy to replace them though 😭😂

[@chasecook3854]

They have an excellent warranty service. Even if you're past the warranty date, I'd make a claim and see what they offer you.

[@milehyandriver]

Yeah korkers almost killed me too. They are so slippery on everything. I slipped on rocks and then dirt on the hike back to the car. Switched to simms Freestone and really happy that I did. I have not slipped with them and they have great ankle support. My friend slipped on a rock with his korkers and ended up breaking his rod trying to catch his fall.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Yup, if you feel yourself falling always throw your rod away from you, if you can, never hurts them, especially in grassy meadows, like using them to break your fall. Something will "break" alright, like your 800 buck Sage! Ouch!! Hurts a lot worse than any fall on your big clumsy ass, or your skinny one, right Ben?!! ;D LOL

[@realityobservationalist7290]

Okay.... I understand the felt "infection" problem, but I haven't found a rubber sole that came anywhere close to felt when it comes to grip. I will slip and fall all day in rubber, never with felt. Am I crazy, or maybe I haven't had the right rubber, or something else? I hear all the time, "Vibram only", but Vibram was the same story for me. Studs are great when you are in the river, but the second you are trying to navigate rock banks, they become completely useless. Studs will slip on dry rock like it's ice. Basically, felt seems to be the only option if you care about grip and safety both in and out of the river. That's my opinion.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Yes, lots of things with this sport, or anything really, are that the technology has "advanced" but is not that much better than when first the problems, of slipping, in this example, were addressed and mostly "solved" years ago. Felt in this case in point. Also, most of the fishing products today are made in foreign lands, some Not our friends, so I boycott them. That leaves you with the old stuff that is molding away in your closet but is still the "best option" for the task at hand. Sort of like my small collection of 1964 -67 classic American muscle cars. Never been better cars made, not today, anywhere, and they all "appreciate" in value annually, some really crazily!! Could buy more over-priced fishing stuff, or finance a trip to a remote fly-fishing lodge, if I sold one. I'd be a high-roller like little (not huge) Benny then. So, keep your Prius and Tesla, otherwise known as coal/gas power plant fired cars!! LOL ;D

[@MichaelJohnson-lx1lc]

I have a pair of Patagonia Tractors, and have added metal bars to my Simms boots. When I am in a boat or raft I put on rain overshoes that I can easily slip off to wade. Make sure and buy very large overshoes!

[@troyclift7569]

Currently living and fly fishing in Alabama, all while wearing my chacos. I usually stay in the boat, but everytime I have to wade/push the boat through a shallow shoal I break a toe nail... Thanks Ben!

[@ronschlorff7089]

Another good use for duck tape, make a temp toe protector, it will stay on until you are done with the boat push chore, then it will succumb to the water but saves your toenails, clippers help too, prior to going in the water. I also like my Oofos clogs for such duty, but at 70 bucks a little risky!

[@StewForTheGospel]

I haven’t lost a korker sole. I’ve picked them up on the river though and have heard about mud pulling them off, but I’ve yet to experience that issue. I couldn’t explain why mine have kept without issue. I think buying cheap korkers it’s a waste of money, the boot will wear out by the time the sole goes bad to be replaced. The only reason the korker bottoms are a good idea, assuming you don’t lose one, is the higher priced korkers will last through several soles. I do own different types of soles for my korkers. I like the rubber with studs for the winter ice, I’ve hit my head hard slipping on ice, love the metal studs. I’ve got rubber ones that I insert for the non-resident water I fish. I’ve also never worn a boot by a different company. I would consider if losing soles became a problem for me. With more expensive korkers I’ve found the toe of the boot is a problem. It’ll wear out until eventually no sole will hold in place, the rest of the boot will be just fine too. I’ve never had a comfort issue except when I tried to cram socks during the winter. I moved onto a size big boot, which has been great for winter fishing. But it’s not wise to hike in the summertime with a size big boot. Stay huge!

[@brettpanzer]

I have a pair of rubber Simms Freestone boots. I’ve only used them in sandy-bottomed MN & WI streams, but I have no complaints. Cheap and well made. I have some old Frog Toggs zip-up surf booties also, but they wore out pretty quick and accumulate sand like crazy.

[@Wicked03GT]

Nice video, I personally wear a pair of Korkers. They have been fine for years and just this year I finally lost a sole. Having said that, the studded felt soles is king here in the Chattahoochee river, just below the Buford Dam. The rocks and wading area is so slick, it’s impossible to navigate it without them. Otherwise you will be the whale doing belly flops into the 52 degree water all day long. Pretty cool little river we got here in Atlanta, full of natural reproduction browns and stocked rainbows.

[@Thespanglerangler]

I can confirm: the river below Buford dam is the slickest place on earth. It’s the reason I have felt soles and a wading staff. It’s a fun place to accidentally swim!

[@Coenen2517]

@@Thespanglerangler no BS, I did a section of one of the creeks in Clayton GA that was somehow worse than the Hooch Tailwater. It was like ice skating. The Hooch can definitely be treacherous though! I usually end up getting baptized in pea-gravel sections that end up being more like ball bearings. It looks so safe until you step!

[@BuffaloWill]

Korkers were my first and current pair. Will never buy them again. I probably use them 6-10 times a year. They do suck. I've had them for 4 years and Korkers have sent me six replacement soles (3 pairs, for free, cause they know they suck) from the soles failing/breaking floating down a steam. Also the back hooks on the boots to hold the soles on had both snapped by year 2, and the front sole-slots are busted also. After writing this, I realize I should get rid of them right now...

[@outdooropportunitiesguides8797]

Korkers are predominate in the North East. I am on the Salmon River for over 90 days a year and at times, walk over 40 miles a week . With consistent flows in the 1200cfs, fishable highs in the 2200cfs range and the bottom geography, carbides and felt with stud soles are what 95% of anglers wear here. I have never lost a sole in 18 years up here but I have torn and destroyed well over 6 pairs. I have miners moss in the bottom of my boat so that cleats and studs can be worn. I would much rather deal with replacing that and a little damage to my boat than have my customers try to navigate the conditions here with only felt or rubber. Korkers customer service is awesome and they will gladly send you replacements if there was a quality issue. Thanks for another great video.

[@LeakyWadersAdventureClub]

Ive worn korkers for over 10 years and hike in them a lot. Love every pair and have never lost a sole. Currently have the new river ops. They’re heavy but built like tanks. Swap soles all the time. Only issue I’ve had is sand likes to get in them through the drainage system.

[@jayfxdx]

80% of days I’m in my Simms flyweights, they’re like wearing sneakers! My G3s are heavy and not very comfortable but I prefer them in fast current situations. I might look into those Orvis you r rocking.

[@ronschlorff7089]

stick with Simms they are American made!

[@jayfxdx]

@@ronschlorff7089 are the boots? I thought just the waders were

[@ronschlorff7089]

@@jayfxdx Old ones are American, now???Checked my ordered cheap ones, my "backups", Frogg Toggs, Box "mute" where made, tiny label on boot says China! ;D

[@ronschlorff7089]

@@jayfxdx Getting "tricky" to order stuff, might be better shopping at the shops, checking labels, if it matters to you! ;D

[@patrickbaca6719]

Thanks for sharing. Good to know about different boots. Don't own a pair YET but will. This will help. Thanks again.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Yup, when he does these product vids the comments discussion is as good/useful as huge Ben talking!

[@arlie57]

I had some Korkers once. Used them steelhead fishing in the Pacific NW. They were fine wading the banks crossing slow to medium speed streams. BUT... I quit wearing them when I found a MAJOR flaw. To hold the sole in place, there is a hard plastic ridge around the inside and outside edge of the boots. It is about an eighth of an inch wide, about a 1/4 inch high and made of really hard plastic. Well, I went to cross a fast deep rocky section of a river, and as I made my way, the current pressed hard on my legs and waist. As I have done a thousand times I leaned into the current. I never realized when I did that it forces you to dig into the river bottom with the upstream edge of your shoes/boots... Leaning into the river, the plastic edging-ridges made contact with the rocks and WHOOSH! My feet shot out from under me and I was into the quick current. Luckily, the water entered a pool, deepened and slowed so I could grip the rocks once again with my felt soles. I was soaked from going neck deep! I always wear a belt so my lower legs stayed dry. So, with my feet flat on a rocky surface they were fine. But that was enough for me! I put them up at home and never wore them again, even though they were very pricey for me. I have never had the same experience with regular felt sole boots ever, it was that hard plastic edging... If you don't wade fast waters, you will be fine. Fast waters, danger, beware...

[@TheACEEChannel]

Hey I'm one of the guys you can ask about korkers.... Also had them for years as the commenter above me has and LOVE THEM! Fish around 70-80 days a year in them and no problems so far. Not a shill just needed to chime in to correct the inaccuracy of this video haha

[@vincecaporale3544]

but...what do you wear during the summer when you aren't sporting waders?

[@timthompsondp]

Korkers are very durable, everywhere but the sole. My soles would pop pff, but then the felt just peeled off completely. Then I changed to the rubber soles, and the exact same thing happened.

[@bingusluvr]

I used the same pair of korkers for 2-3 years. Never had an issue. Just keep an extra pair of bottoms in the truck if they're getting old.

[@johnbush2499]

I owned a pair of Korker's hatchbacks, and I loved the idea of them because of how easy they were to get in and out of. I never lost a sole off of them, but the studded soles I had pretty much disintegrated (separation and losing studs) within a year or 2 of use, and almost all the thread seams on the boots came apart in a fairly short time. I was really disappointed with the durability and bought a pair of the Orvis Pro boots to replace them.

[@jbreezy93.]

I'm on the fence about the Orvis Pro boots myself. How do you like them so far? They would be a lighter upgrade for me

[@johnbush2499]

@@jbreezy93. So far I really like them. I have had to replace the laces on them once already, but part of that is because I have really odd feet that tend to make them wear out faster. This is true for me with any shoe, not just a wading boot. Aside from that, I bought the studs to go with them and they've been very sturdy and provide plenty of ankle support. They're comfortable as Ben mentioned, and about normal as far as getting in and out of them.

[@BuffaloWill]

@@johnbush2499 I'll be upgrading to Orvis Pro boots too, Korkers have been horrible and I've just been tolerating them for the 4 years I've had them.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Yup, all this discussion reminds me of the time I went for float tubing, in my little Caddis, a while back, not much lately though as there are other problems with that mode of fishing of course, like "worrisome" slow deflation out in the middle of a small lake with the wind blowing you away from shore. LOL.. Still like the "fast water", but it can be tricky, and costly, as you all note, especially at a "certain age"!! ;D LOL

[@johnbush2499]

@@BuffaloWill Agreed. I also had a lot of problems with them filling up with rocks where the seams broke almost every time I used them. I'd shake out a small pile at the end of every trip.

[@CONEHEADDK]

Free tip - I use ordinay nylon or similar rope from harware sores as shoe laces. Strong as fook, slide better through the eyes, and practically free compared to brand crap - and you get the exact lenght and often colour you prefere, if you go to a boat place - but will pay more.

[@donotrobme9295]

Love the vid. I use mucks also. Also crocs for chilling next to small river/ drift boating etc.

[@robertlynn7332]

I replaced my (worn to shreds) 4 or 5 season Korker Buckskins with the Simms Flyweight boots with Idrogrip soles this season. They are SO comfortable, by comparison. I'm concerned about the durability of such a light boot with a thin sole, but at least I know where the bottom of my feet are with these. I've put in 5 studs (2 rear, 3 front) on each sole and it seems to be a good balance between grippiness without skating/sliding on rip rap.

[@JC-rf9px]

The first time I tried Simms studs in my Simms boots they last about 12 minutes. That felt like wadding up a couple twenty dollar bills and tossing them into the river. Except metal, not paper. And the counter point to your Korkers story: I have a friend who was wearing studs when he stepped on a large smooth rock and, yep, feet up ass down. Hard. He whacked his head, thought he broke his tail bone, and then realized that his thumb was pointing at his armpit. 40 miles to nearest quickie care med center and day lost. I guess it matters where you are, but plane rubber year round is safest.

[@kentthomas2174]

Love this one. FWIW, I've had 2pr of Korkers for the same reason as your Orvis: Free. 1st pr lasted 2yrs with all the problems/issues you hit on. 2nd pair is now on year 4 and going great. Like others have said, a re-design seems to have helped. All that being said, if I could afford them - I'd slide into a pair of the Danner/Patagonia's tomorrow if I could...

[@ZapartiMan]

I hate my muck boots for fishing anymore. I just always have to get in the water a little, and those things are slick! When I'm Not in water at all, I agree with you.

[@raywalteroutdoors]

I've been rocking the same pair of korkers with felt for 10 years with zero issues. I heard the newer korkers were trash. 90% of the time they're great but tonight kicked my ass. I may go Simms G4 with cleats

[@hunterkeil8324]

I’ve worked in a tackle shop that sells a lot of korkers for the last two years and have been using korkers throughout that time and I’ve never heard of, or had the problem myself of soles coming out. Might I suggest using korkers that aren’t outdated by 10 years before reviewing them

[@thomasgallo7271]

I think its a myth. I've never lost a sole either in 6 yrs of using korkers. I fish both freshwater and saltwater so need multiple soles, korkers has the best solution for that

[@AboutTrout]

Cletus with the goat level knowledge. Crocs in the boat all summer, muck boots all winter.

[@tysonreid5863]

I have used Korker's for over a decade and never lost a sole. Have had Simms and Orvis before that but the Korker's have lasted better than any of the others, surprisingly. Switching soles for the boat or greasy rocks takes moments. Probably not the best option for lots of hiking but they've held up to pretty significant abuse just fine. If you don't wear out the uppers you can just replace the soles when they start to go, I think I just paid $55 CDN this winter for a new set of studded rubber soles.

[@edp1801]

My size 14 Korkers for my size 13 feet have been working great for the last 5 years so far. My soles are intact, but I have found them on trails.

[@jasonbeary5771]

1) never lost a Korkers sole. 2) BOA laces are amazing. I've had one fray in over a decade of wear and it wasn't hard to replace. If they break on you, you're probably an idiot.

[@davehyer4178]

Exactly my thoughts.

[@randallbarron3226]

100% agree on korkers. Had the button on the back break off on the only pair I've owned. Tabs wore out quick, too. Hard to go wrong with simms.

[@Billflyfish]

I've had the Orvis pros for about a year and a half. They were great but one bott separated from the sole along the inner edge so my foot would hang out. Orvis said that shouldn't have happened and replaced them for free so all good in my view.

[@milehyandriver]

There are no rules in fly fishing, says the rulemaker of fly fishing. Rule number 1. Always bring fried chicken. It's the law. By far my favorite rule.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Yup, need protein if you fish all day, kale won't cut it. Saw a health vid on best proteins; eggs, some fish, and liver at top, but chicken and steaks close seconds. Eat all you want, some good news on the tube for a change, eh? ;D LOL

[@ericnortan9012]

I had a blowout in my wading boots one year so went to Walmart and bought some hiking boots, sized up for my waders, worked great for the rest of the year. They were totally shot at the end of the season though. I use rubber soles, I have a pair that are studded, and a pair that isn't. Depends on the river or if I'm in a boat which ones I use. In the summer I drift in my kayak, I will either go barefoot or wear aquasocks.

[@1MarkBevans]

Great subject today, yes many love Korkers, and I understand why, they’re affordable and don’t stretch out for at least 6 months of daily fishing, but then they get really loose starting to stretch to a point where they’re that they honestly start to feel like slippers which are great but really do not offer any sizable protection (I’ve owned 2 sets of them) and bought into the changeable sole thing, which work (mine never fell off) BUT PROTECTION, they honestly are marginal when hiking over loose rock. I have crappy ankles (old broken feet problems) and the Korkers got down right scary after six months! If anyone REALY hikes to great fishing spots the Orvis PRO boots are the king of wader boots for a serious fisherman/woman, period, test over, pencils down

[@williammitchell8612]

Picking up lost souls on the river...must be bait fishermen...you're a good man! Fly fishing helps my soul tremendously.

[@Scrub_Zero]

Korkers have been great for me. I've never had a sole fall off. I heard they used to be really crappy and the soles fell off all the time, but I have to literally pry them off with an implement of some kind. They actually rule. The wet then dry then wet again then dry then wet then dry over and over is just always gonna be hard on any boot. I wear them a lot so I usually get a couple years out of a pair of boots. I've had simms boots that lasted really well, but I always find their boots to be uncomfortable on my long skinny feet.

[@paulcolson3220]

Paul in…wait for it…Alabama. Love my Korkers, dude. Had one pair for a 4-5 years now and my soles are still difficult to take off by hand. Don’t know if they improved them over the years but I’ve been stuck in some serious mud and done some crazy rock crawling and haven’t even had the strap on the back pop loose. True story.

[@smr9981]

Cletus from Alabama here. I really like my Simms Freestones, despite all the weird looks I get from the guys in old tennis shoes. If I want to get lots of rock bruises in my arch, it’s Chacos all day.

[@K3Flyguy]

Apparently my experience is somewhat unique, as I wear insulated with built-in rubber boot in very late fall, winter and early spring. I use stocking foot goretex waders with rubber boot in mid spring and mid fall. I wet wade later spring, summer and early fall and wear rubber boots. I wade midsized rocks, sand, in clear water and stay out of the mud. I hike several miles each outing. I have never felt the need for spikes or felt. I am rarely wet over my hips, I don't wade real fast water for any reason and I always fish alone. Edit: I like what another poster said, " there are no rules in flyfishing", lolol that certainly applies to me!

[@jimholland1592]

Good morning Ben☕️☕️ Thanks, I was just about to buy some korkers. But I wear Choco’s and I am from Banner Elk not really but I have been there🙂 Are use the Orvis Pro and love them. I’m like you use whatever the situation calls for. And enjoyed the video thanks!👍

[@BrushfiresofFreedom]

“But great for kicking over those stupid rock towers” 😂

[@TNtreasurehunter]

Get you some felt soles. The old felt soles transport crap was a simms gimmick sales pitch years ago to sell their rubber boots. May notice that after they told everyone how bad they were for several years and got felt even banned in some areas. They went back to selling felt boots because they were missing out on dollars. There is nothing that grips as good a felt on wet rocks. Yes they probably do transport micro organisms from one place to another. But your shoe laces your neoprene booties on waders and everything else does also. Also ducks herons and any other bird that fly from one body of water to another. So if you are going to stop micro organisms from being transported simms you need to get busy killing a lot of birds. Just wear what you fill safe wading in and clean what ever you use if you are moving between streams. Just because the soles are rubber does not stop the rest of the boots and wader material from picking up the same nasty critters.

[@BuffaloWill]

Agreed!

[@CONEHEADDK]

I believe it was Hugh Falcus on the danish "leather neck", who wrote "Seatrout Seatrout", who made a film (looong ago) where he showed, how to use them to help you survive. Never seen it though - but for those who might be intrs, now you know (Kurt Malmbak-Kjeldsen - was jis name)

[@brewercain]

Great perspective. Live and fish in the Great Lakes. Boa laces will freeze solid and trap you inside your boots, and we all buy boots +1 whole size because we have to wear 9 pairs of socks.

[@falcosalmo3613]

Canyoning shoes ½ a size larger than fit. Spanish brand Bestard, replacement sole for 50 euros. Super light and helps moving faster. Super when needs quick reacting while guiding. Also designed for neoprene socks or stocking foot. Can add motorcycle studs...

Yeah.... except where and how easy can you access a pair of those to check them out before buying? It's like Andrew's shoes it's really hard to find in North America. While I had no issues wading in most rivers. The freestone will chew gears faster and basketball boulders rivers are just asking to squeeze your feet whenever you slip. Softer and lighter boots usually mean less protection. I've read a few review of the Bestard but gave up the idea due to shipping cost and taking a chance to order the wrong size.

[@syrenstomb]

I have lost soles, never left them on the water though. Love my Korkers because they are comfortable and come in clown size. Rubber soles with carbide cleats turned me into Spiderman on the big rocks in the Kenai.

[@jeffcowles5328]

Two seasons into my first (and last) pair of korkers. Still alive (barely but not the boots fault) and never lost a sole (or my soul). My.biggest issues are that they are falling apart already and that damned wire clampy lacing system. Laces rule Huge. Thanks for more Monday distractions.

[@lawrencelyman3372]

I did Salmon and Steelhead habitat restoration for years, starting with the C.C.C. ,through to Forest service and Fisheries work, and I have hade to wear a lot of waders and hip waders. Felt soles for or regular waders, vibram soles on our hip waders. The only time I had issues is with hip waders, I got swept down stream once and my hip waders filled up, and I almost drowned. So, I guess, wear what you like. I like my keens these days, but i mostly fly fish the surf.,

[@tracyb1577]

Happy Huge day everyone!

[@Lochsa89]

I’ve worn out two pairs of Korkers and never had a sole come off. Maybe that only happens when you’re fishing for invasive brown trout on some skanky Colorado tailwater since they are usually full of muck and silt.

[@joshblancher7429]

I had a pair of korkers for about 5 years and one day I was fishing and my foot literally went through the boot boa is convenient but laces are better bring Para cord and if they break super easy fix I now have simms G4 boots I have had them for over a year and they are great

[@susanbrettdavis8839]

I use grip studs in felt and rubber. They stay in until I want to take them out, due to wear or move to a new pair of bootz.

[@swimmaster406]

Never had an issue with my trusty Korkers. Have worn them wet wading big rivers like the Susquehanna and never have lost a sole. My only complaint is that the korkers studs seem to wear down pretty quick.

[@ephjay6t87]

Ben, you are a straight shooter. You confirmed my hunches and gave me some great tips. What's the best bait for when the fish are biting like mad but you just want to enjoy a beer? 😄

[@brandono3139]

I think korker soles being on the river side could more likely be from people swapping out and forgetting or just dropping them.

[@ericsingleton7736]

Astral Rassler is an awesome lightweight choice for big hikes and alpine lakes.

[@williammitchell8612]

Ahhh, lost SOLES, went completely over my head there for a minute. 😁

[@jeffmorris7691]

What about old waders that have to boot integrated? Easy on and off and if you’re not walking far perfectly adequate. Thoughts?

[@loganvance195]

Studs in your boots makes a huge game changer if you've got lime stone and ice 😅

[@obliqueangler]

Huh, I've had 1 pair of Korkers boots with Gen2 soles from 2004 to 2007, and 4 pairs with Gen3 soles since 2007. While I can understand why Gen2 soles might have pulled loose in boot sucking mud, and not having the sole extend fully to the edge of the boot sole was inferior, I never encountered a loose Gen2 sole when in mud even when I had to rock my feet back and forth to move or get out of it, or on any type of rocky streambed. And I cannot even imagine a Gen3 sole ever coming loose unless I didn't attach the heel strap.

[@adamw8469]

@Ben, can you do a video on end of day, putting everything away and what to wash

[@jarredstark7692]

Awesome video, but heads up for new guys, RUBBER WILL NOT WORK AT ALL IN SOME PLACES and felt will be the only safe option. For example the middle Provo of Utah rubber was fine, but here in the mountain streams of western Washington you will not be able to get in the water without hurting yourself. So look at your stream, is it a free stone with large rocks and boulders everywhere? Or a spring river with small pebbles and sand. And Also yes korkers suck everyone I’m on my second and last pair ever.

[@garyslade6509]

Agree. Here in the Northern California Sierra where the substrate is often granite slabs, even studded rubber will get you killed.

[@differentfins]

Great video! I have dabbled in almost every style of fishing but wading is my next style to learn. I live close to Lake Superior and tributary fishing for steelhead and salmon is very popular and I feel like i am missing out without wading. Cheers!

[@paulj.waldron1976]

I miss my felt-bottom boots, but unfortunately, my state has outlawed them. My rubber studded boots aren't as effective when walking on greased bowling balls disguised as rocks in a swift current.

[@roballen3026]

1. never had korkers sole fall off. however maybe it's cause the boots wore out before the soles came loose? I seriously miss my Weinbrener ultimate wading boots. the best wading boots ever made.. Simms Freestones a reasonably close second.

[@winnguyen443]

Just found the channel bro and liking it.I’m not a fly fisherman , but looking at wading boots for in and out of a canoe and hitting the old portage trail. Any recommendations ?

[@mandovapehater6988]

The only problem i have with korkers is they dont hold up long. Always stitching coming loose or wearing a hole in them somewhere but ive never lost a sole. Dont know what people are doing to lose them. I may start using something else because their quality has went downhill in the last decade and the price has shot up. Felt aint a problem for me. My boots are dry as a bone when i go fishing because ill only go once a week or so. Korkers does offer studded soles. Got some with my last pair but haven't used them yet.

[@Blues2cool]

Hey Ben pretty much spot on as always. I'm fishing simms ultra lights without studs for wet wading and in the drift boat. No aggressive studs in the drift boat. If you fish alot at leat two pair of boots is a must boots really need to dry out between uses. The deal with boots is stay away from gimmicks keep it simple.

[@baileywagner4576]

I use felt because I bought Simms Freestones with felt 6 years again and they haven’t completely fallen apart yet. I’ve made my bed and I’ve had to sleep in it for 6 years.

[@theodorerzepski8491]

I had early Korkers. Soles delaminated. Felt like down hill ski boots. Pleased with Simms saltwater boot for the salt and fresh water.

[@Slotty_Botfast]

Been wearing Korkers for six years and never had any issues. I assume that when soles become detached, they were not properly checked prior to placing them on the feet. Now that I say this, I am sure to lose a sole this year.

[@44070Swinger]

This is 100% truth! My best friend damn near drowned when his boot came off. We were walking in the river next to a set of falls when his boot became untied came off, the river sucked him down in seconds and by the time I got there his waders were already filled up, and there was seconds to spare before he got dragged over the falls to his death. When people say in extreme situations we get super strength to be able for someone to pick up a car to save a child, its true with my buddies waders completely filled and his weight I literally picked him up out of the water before he got pulled over the edge. It will be something that haunts me for the rest of my life.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Good story of a good buddy. Good idea to have a good fishing buddy along after a "certain age" too. ;D

[@1965JB]

Banner Elk, NC? I was there in 1978, nice little place!

[@glencamblin]

Nice job as always, I am on my 3rd set of korkers and love them for everything except super sharp loose rocks. They get chewed up too easy. Or maybe I'm too hard on them.

[@glenndotter5065]

Good vid, but how do you wear 3 pairs of shoues when fishing. Do you just get fitovers? And yes, Ive picked up Korker soles!

[@deanf8642]

Ben- with low water on small streams I do wear Mucks BUT on wet rocks above or below the water they suck. They are like wearing cowboy boots on ice. Zero traction combined with exposed stream rocks = broken bones. So be carful.

[@edkent9817]

I’ll admit Korkers aren’t the most comfortable boot I’ve worn. That being said, I’ve been stomping around in them for 5 years now and never had a problem with the soles.

[@mikekuczynski1552]

You almost got me , just thinking WTF what happened to his buddy who almost died with the Korkers and then came the end :-) I have never owned a pair of Korkers either but have found lots of detached bottoms . Thanks for the video and stay Hugh

[@CONEHEADDK]

I don't wade, but I see the danger of hooks ad libitum and line catching onto boots and doing the corker-attempt thing as a scary possibilty.

[@chabib23]

I have never had my korker soles fall off, had em for 2 years. That being said I have never once taken the sole off. So maybe when you start swapping them in and out they stretch and become less secure?

[@Newlegacy1517]

My korkers have never even felt close to coming off, going onto 3 years use

[@johnkinsfather6369]

Wait there are more lace option than 2. I use elastic speed laces. You can cut these to exactly the length and tightness you want and never tie another pair of laces. Definitely the best way to go. My opinion.

[@jasonwalker1959]

Ha. For sure, Korkers do fail, especially if you walk and wade a lot (unlike the HUGE). Many times I've had the soles sucked off due to mud. Not cool, especially if you have a big fish on. Good thoughts on potential failure and potential problems.

[@rmaricich]

Comment about guy from Banner Elk/Chacos was spot on...well done sir.

[@josemarquez21]

What I bought my korkers one size up because the seller told me too to one size up my normal shoe size. To be fair I could not get my foot into the boot of when I tried the size I usual wear.