I’ve gone the cheap and easy route and used running shoes, chacos and even gone barefoot and I’ve always ended up regretting it. While there are a few soft, sandy flats in the Bahamas where it’s possible to wade the saltwater flats for bonefish barefoot, invevitably anglers will run into obstacles that require a good durable, protective wading boot that provides traction, comfort and support. Cuts and abrasions on your feet or ankles will quickly end any wading session in a harsh, saltwater fly fishing environment. Here the best options for saltwater wading boots from Simms:
Simms Flats Sneakers
This is the model I currently use and they have performed extremely well on the flats of Belize and the beaches of Baja. They’re light, tough and I can stay on my feet all day. These high-top wading shoes offer better support than booties, more sand and gravel protection than most wading boots, and they’re light in weight and in color, both of which keep you running cooler when fishing in hot weather. Simms uses Schoeller Dynatec stretch softshell material in the side panels of this saltwater-specific shoe for durability, and a puncture plate in the sole prevents unwanted intrusion by sharp coral or rocks. For $120 you get a great pair of saltwater wading boots that frankly should be priced higher.
Features:
· High-top design for added support and protection
· Fully synthetic
· Schoeller Dynatec side panels
· Padded tongue and collar
· Non-marking sole
· Puncture plate sole reinforcement
· Sized for use with wading socks
Simms Ocean Trek Boots
Features:
· Vibram sole for traction holds Simms HardBite studs
· Nylon speed lacing for custom fit
· Neoprene lined boot is sized to be worn with wading socks or waders
· Waterproof synthetic leather and full rubber rand for abrasion resistance
· Made for tough saltwater fly fishing conditions
Simms Zipit Bootie 2
Features:
· Lightweight, packable convenience
· Molded rubber sole for traction
· EVA sockliner and Bi-Fit lasting board for comfort
· Perforated neoprene upper drains quickly
· Rubber overlays for durability
· YKK corrosion-resistant zipper for easy on-off changes
With these three options from Simms, anglers can a wading boot that will handle any saltwater fly fishing scenario. From chilly surf pounding a rocky striper cove to permit tailing among coral heads or redfish sliding across a sandy Laguna Madre flat, these wading boots will keep your feet protected and comfortable.
Brody Henderson, Guide and Content Writer