The term "Micro-Fiber" refers to tightly woven synthetic materials such as "Supplex", etc., which are used in many types of outdoor garments (e.g., waders, fly vests, shirts, hats, pants, etc.). In regard to waders, "Micro-Fiber" cloth is usually used in conjunction with either a Gore-Tex type membrane or some proprietary "Coating" to create a "Waterproof", "Lightweight" and "Breathable" wader.

Micro-Fiber materials vary considerably from manufacturer to manufacturer. The tighter the weave, the less susceptible the material will be to "Thread Pulls" and "Tears". In addition, Micro-Fiber cloth varies from "Stiff" to "Supple" greatly affecting the comfort of the respective garment. Lastly, being "Synthetic", Micro-Fibers tend to be "Mildew" and "Stain" resistant.

My personal preference in regard to Micro-Fiber as it applies to waders is a very tight weave. This helps prevent tearing when pushing through brush, etc., by not allowing hazards to get "Hold" of the material. In addition, I look for a "Stiff" but not too stiff feel. If a wader is too stiff it will be uncomfortable, too supple and the wader "Collapses" allowing the outside water to press the wader against your body.

Note: Most quality "Breathable" waders use a "Multi-Layer" system to create the necessary amount of stiffness in key areas (e.g., front of leg, etc.) to protect the waders from wear and punctures while preventing collapsing.

Moving on to our old friend "Neoprene" (who hasn't owned a pair of Neoprene waders?), the first thing an angler needs to understand is that Neoprene Waders is a dying product! Once the primary material used in quality waders, most of the top vendors have stopped manufacturing Neoprene waders all together. Agree with them or not, finding a quality Neoprene wader is getting tougher and tougher.

The primary reasons behind the demise of Neoprene is the fact that it is not "Breathable", can be a bit uncomfortable, and is down-right hot (not always a bad thing)! With the advent of modern "Breathable" waders, the fate of "Neoprene" waders was all but sealed! However, there are still some conditions where a "Neoprene" wader is not a bad choice (refer to "Float Tubing" and "Winter Wading").

Regardless of some potential niches (and even that is debatable!), for all-around use "Neoprene" waders are definitely not your best choice. With that said, the one irrefutable reason for bucking the trend is economics! While it is tough to find a "Breathable" wader for under $150, "Neoprene" waders can be bought for less than $75 in some cases (e.g., Hodgman, etc.)