The best hip waders are the ones that you feel the most comfortable in. There’s nothing worse than getting 30 minutes into a day on the water and finding out that your waders don’t fit.
On top of that, hip waders should also allow you to get to all the spots where you want to fish. They should be strong, flexible, and durable. This might be tough to find since a lot of hip waders are on the cheaper end, but I’ll help you out today.
Our Top 3 Hip Waders
Best Overall: Frogg Toggs Rana
Best Budget: Kylebooker Breathable Stockingfoot Hip Waders
Best Top-End: Frogg Toggs Canyon II
So, if you’re looking for a pair of hip waders, check out the information below. I’ll go over several different brands and materials so that you know exactly what kind of waders you need for your next trip.
Quick Look: Best Hip Waders 2021
★ #1 Best Hip Waders Overall: Frogg Toggs Rana ★
- Best Bootfoot Hip Waders: Frogg Toggs Rana
- Best Stockingfoot Hip Waders: Frogg Toggs Canyon II
- Best Budget Hip Waders: Frogg Toggs Rana
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Why Are Waders a Worthwhile Investment?
Waders can make or break a fishing trip. A good pair of waders will allow you to get to just about anywhere in the water that’s walkable. They’ll also keep you wet and comfortable all day.
On top of that, they’ll keep all your gear and other important stuff dry. Many different waders have sealed dry pockets that you can utilize to keep your phone, keys, and wallet from being sprayed with water.
So, below, I’ll go into a little bit more detail to help you understand all the benefits that waders can provide. Check out some of the features and see which ones you like best.
Keeping You Dry
If you plan on spending a whole day out on the water, then chances are you’re going to get wet. More often than not, you’ll need to wade through knee-deep water to get back to the plunge pool or run in the river.
So, that’s where waders come in handy. A pair of waders will keep you dry and comfortable. Sure, you can wade in a bathing suit or quick-dry pants, but when you get out of the river to hike to your new spot, you’ll be walking with extra weight because of all the water.
Protection
On top of keeping you dry, waders also give you an extra layer of protection against anything in the river that may cut you. What might be a bad cut in a pair of shorts might just be a small scrape in waders.
When walking the river, you’ll find there are a lot of different hazards, such as boulders, sunken trees, and just about anything the river could throw at you. So, having that extra layer can make the difference between something small and large.
Keeping Valuables Dry
Most waders have a dry pocket. It can be used to hold all of your important non-fishing gear that can’t get wet. Most pockets are large enough to hold a phone, wallet, and keys.
You can keep them in your dry bag if you want, but pockets are usually a little bit easier to access. So, when you need to pull out a phone to take a photo, it’ll be within easy reach.
The Best Hip Waders of 2021
Below, I’ll go over five different hip waders. Each of these has its own pros and cons, so check out the following products and see which ones will work best for you.
So far, no new hip waders that would make this list have been released in 2021, but I’m keeping my eye out and will update the list when new sets are available.
Kylebooker Breathable Hip Waders
- Pros: Waterproof and 100% breathable
- Cons: A little bulky and uncomfortable
If you want a pair of Kylebooker Breatable Hip Waders that breathes just like chest waders, then these are the ones for you. You can easily hike up and down the river all day while staying cool and refreshed, unlike you would in a pair of rubber hip waders.
The neoprene socks are 4 mm and are designed to help keep your feet warm while you’re standing in the river. They’re perfect for those days where the water is just a little bit chilly and you need your toes to have feeling in them.
These also come with 3-ply reinforced shins and knees, allowing you to walk around the river and stream with confidence that if your waders get a hole in them, your shins are protected.
Frogg Toggs Canyon II
- Pros: Attached gravel guards with lace hooks
- Cons: Not very breathable and the inseam can run long
The Frogg Toggs Canyon II are some solid waders if you’re looking for a reasonably priced pair of hip waders. They aren’t ideal for fishing in hot weather because their breathability isn’t perfect, but they’re great for fall, spring, and cool summer mornings.
You’ll find that these waders also have a very convenient and easy-to-use belt located right at the top. It’s really easy to clip on and off and allows you to quickly slide your waders on and off.
These are very diverse waders too. You can easily use them for hunting and hiking as well. They’re lightweight and functional, so they won’t wear you down during a day of fishing.
Frogg Toggs Rana
- Pros: Great price, quick adjusting boots
- Cons: Boots aren’t comfortable and don’t have great support
The Frogg Toggs Rana are great waders for the price. Coming in at under $30, this pair of waders could be used as an introduction to the sport by a beginner angler. With the price being so low, you don’t have to worry about spending too much.
They could also make a great backup pair of waders. Keep these in a box in your truck and bust them out if your main pair has a leak or if you just need a quick pair of hip waders to slide on.
The boots on these aren’t insulated. So, keep that in mind if you plan on fishing in colder weather or in cold water. They are better suited for fishing in warmer waters.
Caobin Wading Pants
- Pros: Very durable, adjustable hip drawcord
- Cons: Run a little long
If you’re tough on your gear, then this is the pair of waders for you. The CaoBin Wading Pants allow you to walk through the harshest environments with confidence that you won’t put a hole in them.
There are also adjustable belt lashes and quick-release buckles, making them easy to take off after you’ve spent a full day out on the water.
8 Fans Men’s and Women’s Waders
- Pros: Breathable and comfortable
- Cons: Needs a belt, and the knee pad area holds water
Technically the 8 Fans Men’s and Women’s Waders are not hip waders. They are instead waterproof pants that come up and sit on your waist. I put them here just in case there’s someone out where who wants something in between chest and hip waders.
So, if that’s what you’re looking for, check these out. They’re very comfortable and can be used in many different fishing conditions. They’re great for wading in small creeks where you need to stay dry but want a lot of mobility.
On top of that, they also come in seven different sizes, allowing just about anyone to have a pair of these to use on their next fishing trip.
Hip Waders: Buyers Guide
Below, I’ll go over in more detail what you should be looking for when purchasing the best hip waders. Check out the information below and see which features will work the best for you.
Types of Fly Fishing Waders
Below, I’ll go over the three different types of fly fishing hip waders. Each has its own pros and cons, so check out the list below and see which ones you like best.
Stockingfoot Waders
These have neoprene socks on them and are meant to be worn with wading boots. So, you’ll have to purchase boots as well as your waders. They’re great at keeping your feet warm, and the boots you purchase can fit you perfectly.
Boot Foot Waders
These are waders that have boots already attached to the waders. They’re great because they’re usually the best budget hip waders, and you also don’t have to purchase any boots with the waders. All you have to do it slide them on and you’re ready to go.
Hip Waders
These are what I’ve been talking about. They’re waders that come right up to your hip. These are great for wading in shallow water and typically allow the wearer to have great mobility.
Hip Waders Important Features
Check out the list below. I’ll go over some of the most important features of hip waders.
Breathability
If you plan on fishing in warm weather and hiking a lot in them, then a pair of breathable waders is crucial.
Hiking back to your favorite spot in a pair of neoprene waders will overheat you if the weather is too hot.
Adjustability
Most hip waders have straps on them for you to adjust your waders to fit more comfortably. I don’t recommend getting waders that don’t have any straps. They’ll be uncomfortable.
Seam Reinforcement
If you want durable waders, then you need to find something that says on the packaging that the seams are reinforced. The seams are one of the biggest spots where leaks can come from.
Pockets
Pockets are not needed, but can be a great asset when out on the river. You can keep your flies, tools, or any other essentials in them. It can be great to keep your phone and wallet in them too, as long as they’re waterproof.
Price
The good thing is that they’re normally the best affordable hip waders. Most are under $100, so they’re great for beginners or the angler on a budget who’s looking for the best inexpensive hip waders. However, if you want a really nice pair, then you can find some that are $100 or more.
Durability
It doesn’t matter if you fish four days a week or just a few times in the summer, you need a pair of waders that are durable. Otherwise, you’ll be buying a new pair every season, and you’ll be wasting money.
Comfort
If your waders aren’t comfortable, then your fishing experience won’t be as much fun. Always look for straps that make them fit you better. If you don’t have a comfortable pair of waders, then you won’t be out fishing as much.
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Conclusion
Hip waders for fishing are a great tool for anglers. They help keep you dry, as well as your valuables. So, if you plan on bringing your keys, phone, and anything that can’t get wet, a pair of waders is the way to go.
On top of keeping you dry, they also help protect you from the elements. They don’t only keep you warm in the cold water but also protect your legs from boulders and fallen trees.
So, after reading the above information, you hopefully see the benefits of purchasing a pair of hip waders. Think about what you need in a pair of waders, use the above article, and check out Amazon for a pair of your own!
