When deciding on a pair of Wading Boots, a major consideration is whether to buy "Studded" or "Non-Studded" soles (note that this applies to "Felt" along with some other options available). Much like selecting what type of "Soles" to buy (i.e., Felt, Rubber, etc.), the decision of "Studs" vs. "No Studs" should be made based on the type of water the angler fishes most along with some other considerations.

While both "Studded" and "Non-Studded" will work well (assuming that the right "Sole" material was selected to start with), in my opinion "Studs" adds an extra level of safety to ones wading albeit not without some level of negatives. However, "Non-Studded" is still (and in my opinion should be in many cases) the most common option for "Freshwater" wading due to the lack of limitations.

In areas where slippery rocks are the norm (like here in New England!), "Studded" Wading Boots can make a huge difference in regard to preventing accidental and often dangerous (and always embarrassing and inconvenient!) spills. In addition, the "Studs" add a little extra traction on mud or clay banks and stream bottoms as well as ice making them a little more versatile than standard "Felt" soles.

As such, unless the angler has the luxury of owning two pair of "Wading Boots" (then the answer is simple - buy one of each!), the decision in regard to "Studs" or "No Studs" should be made based on one factor, i.e., "Boats"! While "Non-Studded" soles are fine for any watercraft, "Studs" raise hell with the floors of most boats. As such, they shouldn't be worn in your boat and are not allowed in most "Guide" boats!

Assuming that the angler intends to buy just one pair of Wading Boots, if the angler is a hard-core "Wader" and never fishes from a boat (Float Tubes are ok), "Studs" are a good idea (the extra traction never hurts)! Conversely, if the angler fishes from a canoe, etc., or plans on hiring a few "Driftboat" Guides during the lifetime of the boots, then "Non-Studded" it should be!

Note: There are products such as Simm's "Lightweight" Wading Boots that come with "Removable" Studs. While Technically a "Non-Studded" boot in our opinion due to the temporary nature of the studs (e.g., they can get lost, etc.), this is not a bad option for the angler whom would like the assurance of "Studs" while requiring the option to use the boots without them.

Please note that there are some concerns in regard to the use of "Studded" boots and their potential effect on the environment. Considering that the "Studs" are usually made out of extra-hard steel such as "Carbide", there can be no denying the damage they can do to rocks and rock-bound vegetation and animal life. You can however lessen the impact by avoiding sensitive areas such as moss beds, rock art sites, etc.