Finally got out today… first outing of the season and discovered a leak, isn’t that how it usually is?
I have breathable waders, but the leak is right down on the neoprene booty. A hole has worn almost through the booty from rubbing against the boot. It is small and not in a seam. It isn’t right through the neprene but worn enough to easily let water in.
Any suggestions on how to repair this would be very much appreciated?
Thank you.
-Grant
Get a product called Flexseal. It is made for exactly this situation.
In my experiance most of the leaks occur in the booty, I think the neoprene takes a beating when I force my foot into the boot, especially in the heel area.
I have had good results using aqua-seal for the repairs. I try to work the adhesive well into the hole with a toothpick then smear some over the surface. Pin hole leaks can be tough to find, it will take some water pressure to make the leak show up. I usually turn the waders inside out and fill one of the legs up with water to the knee level. Note: water is heavy, don’t overfill the waders. I’ve read stories of plumbing being pulled out of the wall by overfilled waders.
Anyone have a good way of marking a leak area in wet neoprene? I’ve tried a lot of stuff, colored pencil or tiny pieces of duct tape are sort of working.
why not send them back to the manufacturer for some new booties??
Just buy new waders, if you’ve worn them enough to wear through the bootie it’s time to replace them.
I’ll look for which ever I can find in my area. Thank you for the suggestions.
There is only the one hole and it is small so if it can be repaired that’s what I’ll do. These waiders have served me well over the past four seasons or so and if I can streatch more life out of them…
thanks: Grant
I would suggest you use whatever…I happen to use Marine Goop…but I would also suggest you…after sealing the hole…put a layer of nylon or whatever ever material you probably have for a patch and seal it in place with the sealant of your choice…less likely for the boot to have it’s way with that spot again.
bobby, funny, thats the same reply I got when I post the question on the ‘Red Green handy man fix anything’ board.
If you decide to get rid of your waders, cut the booties off and use 'em as reel cases. With the use of velcro you have a new pair of reel cases.
Adios Philip
I have used the Aqua-Seal very successfully for the same thing.Give it a couple of coats and let dry thoroughly.
Mike
I picked up some Aqua-seal today and will give it a try tonight.
Thanks everyone!
I use hot melt glue to patch my waders. Sesms to work very well