In "the old days", as ducksterman says, I used an old pair of high top basketball shoes. They were slippery as heck, but somehow I survived. If you go that route, I would glue felt to the soles. You would probably want a size bigger than normal. Too tight wading shoes lead to cramped toes and cold feet. I also remember guys getting Vietnam era "jungle boots", grinding the lugs off the soles and gluing on felt or carpet. By the time you do all that you might as well buy dedicated wading boots.

I think there are still economy wading boots available or look around for closeouts etc.

I have no experience with these and they probably don't provide much ankle support but if you happen to be a size 8 or 10: http://www.cabelas.com/product/Cabel...h-All+Products