I am new to fly fishing and wanted boots and waders I could feel confident in and that were also flattering to the female form. I thoroughly researched all different brands and models of women's apparel, and finally settled on Simms. I purchased the Simms Freestone waders (size M) and the Simms Vapor Boots (size 9). I normally fit perfectly into a size 8.5 shoe. In my local fly shop, I was able to try on a variety of sizes. According to the size chart, my measurements (34, 27, 36) aligned with a size S waders, except in the feet. Size S offers only a size 6-7 bootie. Just as the size chart suggested, the S felt perfect everywhere, leaving enough room to layer comfortably underneath, but the neoprene of the wader booties was a bit too tight. Moving up to the waders in a size M (8-9 foot), the booties actually feel a size too large, and the waders themselves are roomy (especially on top), even with a warm layer underneath. Fortunately, though, the wader belt cinches well enough to prevent a Bozo The Clown look. There is enough vertical room to bend and flex comfortably, and the suspenders allow for a customized torso length. While the reversible suspender buckles do allow an easy conversion from chest to waist waders, I find it easy enough to simply fold the top of the waders down to my waist if I am feeling warm with them up. They are breathable enough to maintain a comfortable body temp, both in the (not too cold) stream and out with just shorts, but I do recommend a light base layer to prevent sweat sticking to you and making you feel like you're wearing a trash bag. With the M waders, the size 9 boots fit quite well. The gravel guard loop on the Vapor boots is in the perfect location for the hook on the Freestone waders, and when combined, my feet stayed nice and dry. The waders are easy to get in and out of, and the neoprene dries rather quickly, so you can easily store them in a vented bag for travel. To top it all off, the color combination is rather flattering, especially when combined with the Freestone waders. Trying them on in the shop got quite a few compliment from the other female customers. My only real recommendation to Simms is to offer different options of bootie sizes attached to the waders, as I would have preferred a size S, but my feet would have been uncomfortable, and we all know the importance of foot comfort on the stream. Bust: 34 Waist: 27 Hips: 36 Shoe size: 8.5 Size: M (would have preferred S)
Jessica G, backcountry.com
July 13, 2015