the biggest argument for using your regular wading boots in my book is safety. boots are good with waders--why not without waders? made a huge mistake the first time i went bass fishing: the sandals just didn't keep my feet and ankles safe amongst the rocks, and the lack of support made me really tired at the end of the day. add that tale above about the huge hook in the side of sonny's boot...that just confirmed my opinion. heavy sox and neoprene booties may seem bulky when you're wearing a swimsuit on top, but the hazards under the water don't change with the weather...feet need more than a bikini!