I have some stockingfoot waders and want to get some comfortable wading boots to wear with these. What size wading boot normally fits these? For example, if I normally wear 9.5 size shoe, would I go up one full size (10.5) in a wading boot? Or, if most boots are full-size only (no half-sizes), then I suppose I would just go with a 10? Or, are wading boots already sized to accomodate a stockingfoot wader?
Obviously the best scenario would be to take my waders to a store to try on wading boots…but I don’t foresee that happening. :shock:
If you wear a 9-1/2 shoe, I would definitely go with a size 11 boot. What may feel comfortable on dry land can be tight in 3 or 4 feet of water due to the pressure of the water. And that will be miserable. You can always put some heavier socks on and some insole inserts in if they are too lose.
I quit using waders, I just go into the water wearing cotton slacks! Wearing some of my "Seen Better Days " shoe wear.
My left foot is a size 11-1/2, my right foot is a size 10. I was born in 1949 when there was no Vitamin D, because of that I developed Rickets, which I still live with to this day. I have another pants, dry socks, and other shoes to switch to when I am done fly fishing.
Other reason I do not use waders is I also have be confirmed having Aklosiis Spondolitis (hereditary from my mothers DNA). So I have a extended Colon and nothing seems to fit. My inseam use to be 31 inch inseam, now it is 27 inch inseam, and all my trousers have to be hemmed before I can wear them.
My foot size is also 9.5. Even though over sized to accommodate the bootie, I found a sz 10 a little tight. size 11 were a better fit, especially if you wear thicker socks in colder weather. Both boots above were Simms.
Excellent point, as they do vary. Once you pick a brand also post on several boards to get feedback from others who have actually purchased the same brand.
Even different shoes within a brand or the “same” shoe with an updated design can fit differently. I wear a size 8 street shoe. My old Weinbrenner boots are a size 8 and I have plenty of room in the boot. I have some 10 year old Simms Freestone boots that are also a size 8. However when I got a pair of new Freestone boots last fall I had to get a size 9.
If at all possible, take your waders to your local fly shop, or big box and try the boots on with your waders and the socks you plan to wear with them. If that is not possible, then I agree with oldfrat.
I wear a size 10 but found I needed to go up 2 sizes for the Simms Freestone boot I have; also have the Freestone stockingfoot wader. An 11 was okay in relatively warmer water but for winter/early spring tailwaters, the heavier socks/liners I wore constricted my feet a bit (I have very wide feet with a high instep), and that always means cold toes. As others have posted, all boot/waders are different and it would be best to try them on in person, if possible.
Dave
The last wading boots I bought were at bass pro. I asked the salesman if I needed to put the waders on to be sure they fit. He said no and brought out a pair of neoprene socks to put on. Lots easier than waders. BTW I wear a size 9 1/2 shoe and my wading boots are 11. Jim
I purchased a pair of new wading boots from LL Bean about 5 or 6 months ago and phoned them to inquire as to what size to order. The very helpful gentleman I spoke to said they had started having their wading boots made in a larger size than a “street shoe”. I ordinarily wear an 11 or 11 1/2 shoe; he suggested I order the wading boot in size 11. He was right; it fit perfectly over my waders. Moral: good idea to check with the folks you’re going to buy the wading boots from and get their opinion.
George
Most, if not all, fly shops that sell waders also carry neoprene socks for wader boot sizing. As Jim mentioned above it is much easier that putting on waders. I also got a pair of the neorprene socks so the boots will fit right when I’m wet wading. Otherwise they would be pretty loose fitting.