I logged on to post my question on wading jackets and saw fishyboy’s post. I am not limiting my interest to wading Patigonia jackets but wading jackets in general. I am looking at any brands including store brands (Cabelas, LL Bean)and was wondering positive and negative experience you have had? How about breathable vs non-breathable, Gore Tex vs private label breathable fabric, general sizing and fit, etc? All feedback is valuable. I am planning on using the jacket over waders when needed in wet weather.
No need to repeat your comments if you have posted under fishyboy’s question.
…I have one from LLBean that I like. I don’t like to wear a vest in the rain so this has 2 huge pockets in front which generally handles most everything I need.
Another feature I like is you can adjust the sleeve cuffs pretty tight around your wrists so in the event you put your hand, arm or whatever in the water it does a surprisingly good job at keeping water out.
Another key is it has lined hand warmer pockets…those have come in handy this spring. I’ve also worn it in the summer with just a t-shirt and it seems pretty breathable…
My choice would be Simms or Patagonia. But in any case, true Gore Tex over any substitute. I had a pair of LLBean waders that were “breathable” until I bought a pair of Simms and discovered what “breathable” really meant.
Just make sure the sleeves don’t have tabs to catch your line!
I use a non-specific breathable jacket with a cord at the bottom that can be used to cinch it up to whatever height I need. Far cheaper than wading specific jackets. I have it in a size larger than I normally use so it will fit over my chest vest.
Thanks. Sooooo many choices. I have not been caught in the rain too often while fishing so I figure I will use this wading jacket about 3 - 5 times per year. Am I missing something here? Do you find you use it more than just in the rain? That would justify the higher priced jackets.
Ken’s Goretex boat gear (rain bibs and parka) are going on their 5th season. Doing so well that he wants their new wading jacket for Father’s Day…Cabela’s! $100!
do not buy the william j packable jacket, it is the bigges pos iver ever used and threw it away. half the seems threads came undone, strap on the cuff broke, and it doesnt repel water anymore, plus water got into the light and now that doesnt work.
Just a reminder to all the folks using Gore-Tex jackets for more than a season: Do take the time to replace the water repellent coating sometime. It really brings the garment back to life. Nikwax Tech wash or some of the other washes do it, and its really easy. They sell this at mountaingear.com
Thanks everyone for your comments. The bean Emerger looks like a great deal at $79 and as I said, it is not something I expect to use unless it is raining. I think I will also enter the May drawing too. Tim, you bring back some great memories with the trash bag duct tape approach. When I use to take my 3 boys fishing (spinning gear)when they were small, that was our standard foul weather gear. By the way Tim or is it Red, duct tape forever!
I have a Cabela’s wading jacket, that has more than earned it’s price tag. It is the Gore Tex model, but not the top of the line one. I strongly suggest buying one that is Gore Tex. I am still amazed at how well this stuff works.