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Hivemind: I am in the market for new wading boots. I have been buying Simms boots for the last few years. I get 18-24 months out of a pair of boots before they completely fall apart. I put in a lot of footwork every season. From May until the end of September, I think guessing 20km per week walking the banks would be a completely fair assumption. I have worn G3s. I found them to be heavy and cumbersome. My favourite boots ever were the Simms Vaportrail (or Vaportread or something like that), but they have been discontinued. These boots were light and comfortable---I was leery of the synthetic materials, but they drain and dry much faster than leather. The only downsides to the synthetics is during colder conditions. I have my eye on the Orvis ultralight, but I do not know anyone who has tried them. Does anyone have any experience with them? In fact, the whole Orvis line of boots looks great, but it seems Simms dominates the market here. I have owned a couple pairs of Korkers, but I have not found the comfortable, and the first pair barely made it 3months before the upper started falling part. I like the flexibility, but comfort is paramount. What boots do you wear? How do they hold up to walking?

I had Chotas (Felt) and got about 1.5 seasons out of them. Bought them from Springbrook (The TFO guys). Candidly fair for what I paid for them. I switched to Patagonia Foot Tractors (heavier boot but far better traction) and have been thrilled. Heading into my second season. Patagonia has lighter versions as well (think they are ultra lite). Both Patagonia and Orvis have fair satisfaction assurances on their gear.

Here's a tip if using felt soles. Apply a 5/8"wide layer of ShoeGoo to the toe area of the sole. Not to thick not to thin. Reapply as needed when it wears off. Since I started doing this I get an extra season out of a pair of soles. It's the toe area that always wears out for me. Soles must be clean and dry before applying! Peel away any loose Goo before cleaning and reapplication. Apply on new soles or boots for best results.