Wader Advice

[Nu_2_MI]

I'm looking to get a pair of waders and I'm looking for a little advice. I have no experience with this piece of equipment, but I do know it will certainly open my opportunities for fishing in MI. So a couple things to consider before making recommendations. I am not a small man. I'm 6'5 and 300 lbs (though rapidly losing) so something roomy but adjustable will be necessary. Not sure I will need a ton of warmth....I have enough natural natural insulation at this point ....LOL. Some storage capabilities and a few D rings for attaching accesories will be nice. The other part I am not entirely sure on. I see waders with boot foot and stocking foot(which would necessitate buying boots as well. Is there a real difference? What do you recommend. I have also seen felt bottom and cleat bottom boots and chest waders. BTW...I am looking for chest waders. I hope the info I've provided helps in making recommendations. Your comments and recommendations are sincerely appreciated.

[thedude]

look into the cabelas waders. i've had neoprenes and breathables from them. the dry-plus breathables should afford you plenty of room they are huge on me and i'm 225 (6'1). if anything, the return policy is worth its weight in gold. cabelas really stands by their waders and will usually replace them for free.

i use mine for hunting and often times am out in below-freezing temps (in my breathables). so i don't think that insulation will be a problem and you will really love them when its hot out.

[kroppe]

For a basic pair of warm season waders, I would go with breathable stocking foot. The separate wading boots you will use are more comfortable to hike/walk/wade in than the boots. I have used a pair of Patagonia SST+ for the past 6 years with no complaints. Even worn them in 17 degree weather fishing the Au Sable in Michigan. Got cold after a couple hours, but I was crazy to be fishing in that weather anyway. ;) The ice on my fly line made casting (and fishing) impossible.

Neoprene boot foots would be my choice for a cold weather only wader.