With the growing number of options available today in regard to Wader Boot "Soles", an angler should select what is best for them based on the type of water they fish most frequently. A bad decision in this regard can literally land the angler on their "Butt". Regardless of the hype, there are options that work well and some that don't!

"Felt" is still (and in my opinion should be) the most common option for "Freshwater" wading. While many have tried to develop viable options to Felt, nothing has come near the effectiveness of Felt on slippery rocks, and some of the more heavily marketed products are downright dangerous in my opinion (and based on feedback from others)!

As such, in areas where slippery rocks are the norm (like here in New England!), "Felt" is by far the angler's best option in regard to Wading Boot "Soles". The characteristics of Felt allow it to create an almost amazing grip on slime covered rocks allowing the angler to wade reasonably safely in most conditions.

One of downsides of Felt is that it acts like a "Roller Skate" on mud or clay banks and stream bottoms. In addition, due to the fact that Felt absorbs water, it is not a great idea for Winter Fishing (i.e., each time you step out of the water and into the snow you build up ice and snow on the sole!).

Regardless of the issues noted above, as stated earlier, Felt is the best bet for most freshwater anglers. When evaluating Felt-Soled Wading Boots, pay attention to the "Density" of the felt. Low-quality Felt will appear "fuzzy" and loosely woven while high quality will appear "dense" and tightly woven, and as such will last longer.

Another consideration when evaluating Felt-Soled Wading Boots is how the Felt is attached. Many manufacturers simply glue the felt on and although this works most of the time, there is always the chance that the Felt could accidentally tear off. Some manufacturers however "Sew" the soles on (full sole or tip only) - a much better idea!

As for "Rubber" (often referred to as "Lug") soles, they are best suited for muddy areas such as Beaver Flowages, slow-moving Meadow streams, etc. In addition, while "Rubber" soles won't collect ice like Felt, they are not recommended for Winter use unless "Studded" (they are dangerously slipper on ice!)

Also note that there are new products on the market that while not the traditional "Rubber Lug" type Soles, have similar characteristics. Today, many manufacturers offer an "Environmentally Friendly" Soles made from a "Rubber-Like" material that will not spread "Whirling Disease" (a legitimate threat to our "Wild" trout populations!).

While a great idea and clearly suitable for sand-bottom waters such as those found out west, these have not fared well here in New England based on my experience and on feedback I have received from fellow anglers. As such, while I wholly support the concept, I must put "Angler Safety" first and as such do not recommend them.

Note: While "Whirling Disease" (WD) is a real threat out west, it has been of little consequence here in the Northeast (although it has been found in some hatcheries in the Middle Atlantic). However, there is always the possibility that it could rear up here and as such, anglers need to take care not to spread this harmful ailment. There are a few products available that can be used to kill WD "Spores" on waders that we will be looking into. Additionally, when traveling out west be sure to be careful not to transfer this dreaded disease from one watershed to another (a real possibility). The best bet when traveling is to consult local Fly Shops and ask them how to best safeguard against the accidental transfer of WD.

As for "Saltwater", we recommend that you treat it the same as noted above (i.e., depending on the conditions). If you frequently fish sandy beaches, a "Rubber Lug" Sole will work great. If you spend time on rocky outcroppings, etc., you may want to experiment with Felt or other products available on the market.