The designers at Simms are constantly developing and inventing new ways to improve their already legendary waders. The updates and additions to the new G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders prove that at Simms, there is no such thing as “good enough.”
The G3 Guide Waders perform similarly and have a lot of the same features as the waders in the G4 line, but in a more affordable package. If you are in the market for a new pair of chest waders, now is the time to take a good, hard look at the G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders.
The Basics
Gore-Tex Pro Shell is Gore’s most durable and breathable waterproof fabric. The G3 Guide waders are made from the thigh down with heavy duty five layer Pro Shell. From the thigh up with the lighter, but just as waterproof, three layer Pro Shell. This combination keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable no matter how cold, wet, and humid the weather is.
The weakest points on any waterproof outerwear are always along the seams. The seams on the G3 Guide waders are cleverly placed along the front and back of the legs to ensure that they do not wear down from rubbing against each other on long hikes to and from the river. Less wear near the seams means that your waders will keep the water out for years to come.
New Features for 2014
This year Simms added a few ultra-practical features to the G3 Guide waders. One of my favorites is the reach through microfleece hand warmer pocket with storm flaps. The small guards along the edges of this pocket keep rain, sleet, hail, and snow out of the pocket. The new storm flaps fix this problem.
The next notable addition to the 2014 G3 Guide waders is the new removable flip-out Tippet Tender pocket. The pocket has two tool retractors for pliers and nippers. Giving anglers extra compartments to keep tools and terminal tackle organized and close at hand.
To round out the improvements, Simms beefed up the neoprene gravel guards with abrasion resistant jersey knit outsides, and incorporated laser cut welded belt loops for a more streamlined look and feel.
These new waders are getting some serious attention from anglers, guides, and gear testers this year. The Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders won the Field and Stream Best of the Best Award and were voted the Best Waders at the International Fly Tackle Dealers Show.
Visit Vail Valley Anglers in Edwards or shop online to check out the new G3 Guide waders. And the rest of the Simms wader line.
Andy “Otter” Smith, Guide and Content Writer
