One of the main complaints I hear from women who are just getting into fly fishing are that waders are unflattering.  And it’s true.  I mean, who feels elegant wading out to the river in a baggy pair of breathables?  Neoprene waders are somewhat better in the fit aspect, but in all fairness, can only be worn during the colder months of the year, or else you will roast.  So where does that leave we ladies when we shop for a new pair of waders to buy?

Thankfully, several manufacturers have come out with women’s-specific wader designs.  Cut to better allow for our figures, women’s waders are both more comfortable and more flattering for ladies out on the river.  Some companies have even gone so far as to add cute little details, such as the purple fish trim and wading belt Redington features in their Chena River women’s waders.  I can guarantee that at least in the store I work in, these waders receive far more attention than all of the other’s women’s waders combined. 

Other women’s waders are more simple – but just as comfortable.  Hodgman features several women’s cut waders, from their classic design, the Wadelite, to the sturdy A/P Classic waders, which feature a nifty outside hand warmer pocket on the chest (let’s face it, we do tend to get chilly out on the water faster than the boys!)  Simms and Patagonia also have excellent lightweight, well-cut breathable waders for women.  Simms Gore-Tex women’s waders are as hardy as any your will find out there (and they are made right here in Bozeman!)  A fleece lined hand warmer pocket and several internal pockets are features ladies will enjoy, and their fit-specific sizing includes options for tall, short, and full sizes.  Patagonia’s Watermaster waders feature an internal suspensions system that allows “relief” without your having to pull off your fleece of jacket.

Ladies options for neoprene waders are still somewhat limited.  Hodgeman offers the most options; their Caster neoprene waders offer an affordable option with basic features such as hefty 3.5 mm neoprene for warmth and durability, sliding gravel guards, and reinforced knees.  The Brighton by Hodgeman is similar to the Caster, but with a few more features.  A chest hand warmer pocket provides a toasty place to stick your hands on a cool fall morning, and a higher-cut back provides more protection and warmth.  The knees on the Brighton feature a sturdy reinforcement for long life.

The options for women’s waders just seem to be growing.  You are certain to find a wader that will fit your needs and your body.  Manufacturers are realizing the facts – we are women, after all, and girls just like to shop.  We have a decent selection available now… who knows what choices we will have in the next few years?

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