Float tubing some unique challenges to the angler beyond simply staying dry. While 60-degree water may seem comfortable when you are wading, try sitting in it without moving for 2 hours! In addition, an accidental swim (due to tube failure) in the wrong waders can be downright dangerous. As such, the float tube angler should consider a few things before they head to the water.

In order to remain comfortable while sitting in a float tube in the water for extended periods, the angler should use a pair of medium-weight neoprene waders or breathable waders with sufficient and proper layering underneath. While neoprene may sweat in warmer weather, you are unlikely to be active enough in a float tube to work up much of a sweat.

Conversely, while breathable waders help prevent sweating which can make the angler cold, they have absolutely no insulation qualities. As such, the angler must wear enough layers to combat the cold water. Layering entails multiple pairs of wicking long underwear and socks in variable thickness. However, the angler must be careful not to put too many socks on which will in turn cut off your circulation.

Another point to consider is that while neoprene waders fit tight and as such, will allow very little water to enter in the event of a unplanned swim. Breathable waders on the other hand are usually loose fitting and as such can allow large amounts of water to enter in the event of a swim - try swimming with 50 gallons of waters in your waders some time, not much fun!

In addition, while breathable waders have little if any inherent float to them (unless you trap air inside), neoprene waders will actually help keep an angler afloat. Regardless of what you choose, an absolute necessity is a wading belt that can be used to help keep water from entering your waders in the event of a spill. Also note that you need to make sure that your waders are high enough to keep the water out.

Lastly, due to the fact that effective float tubing requires fins, the angler is most often limited to "Stockingfoot" waders so that they can wear a standard diving fin over the booty or a "Boot Over" float tube fin over a wading boot (although Boot-Over fins will fit over most wading boots, they will not fit over most "Bootfoots").