Thread: Wet Wading
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Old 01-27-2008, 11:11 PM   #22
Chris in Mass
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Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Recently relocated to the shores of Rhode Island - East Bay!
Posts: 505
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Originally Posted by ...I'll post a review at the end of the season...[url
http://www.altrec.com/shop/detail/3509/[/url]
Following up on a review of these boots. Purchased them before last season based on discussions here and research. Used them during the meat of the season at rock spots and a little open beach fishing. Wore these with splash bibs and I was very pleased with this combo for stated use (switched to boot-foot waders and dry-top for the more aggressive trips/spots).

You wear this boot like a wet suit sock. When fully dry, goes on very easily. When wet, you take off like a wet suit sock (push'em down from the top and keep going - the boot can take it). Has a very durable outer rubber shell that incorporates the lacing system. Also has a wide, top velocro strap (see picture). Very snug and light even with K1100+ Korkers attached. Feels like you're wearing sneakers. I thought there would be more ankle support. However, by design, it's more like ankle protection.

For breachway nights I felt more confident and sure footed going up and down, and also less worried about going in the drink compared to my wader outfit. For rocky beaches, you are basically wet wading. I expected this and didn't mind it at all, even on the coolest summer nights. Threw on a bathing suit, bibs and these boots - all set (Didn't do this early spring or fall).

On open sandy beaches, I did collect some sand between the sock and the outer shell (not in the boot itself - the top strap takes care of that). However, I was able to minimize this by taking some extra time during the lacing process (snugged it down more than usual from the bottom up).

Overall - very pleased and will continue to use this system as described. Oh Yeah, These boots are somewhat narrow. I wear a size 12 1/2 shoe. I don't have extra wide feet, but I had to get a size 14 in these. They fit like a glove. So if you are thinking about these, try'em on.
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