One of the great things about summer fly fishing is the opportunity to ditch the waders and wade right into the cool mountain water. When you hear anglers refer to “wet wading” that’s what they’re talking about – wading wet, without the use of waders.

Summertime here at the fly shop brings up a lot of questions about wet wading. So we thought we’d publish some of the most frequently asked questions, along with our recommendations on the subject…

WHY WET WADE?

There are a number of reasons to go without waders in the summer. The first and perhaps the most obvious, is that it feels nice when outside temperatures get warm. Beyond that, we like wet wading in the summer when fishing our favorite backcountry destinations – high alpine lakes and wilderness creeks. In these situations, packing waders adds a lot of extra weight to the backpack. So instead, we’ll leave the waders behind and get wet. All of these reasons also apply to boating in rafts or drift boats. Leave the waders behind and stay cooler and more comfortable during your float.

Another great reason for wet wading is that it provides a nice entry point for new anglers. Instead of having to spend the money on waders right away, a pair of wading boots and some neoprene booties are an easier place to start. Then later on if you decide you’d like to extend your season, you can use those same wading boots and add waders.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WET WADING

Q: Can I wear sandals?

Yes, you can wear sandals. But we wouldn’t recommend it. The biggest reason is that your toes aren’t protected from rocks, submerged logs, sticks and other sub-surface hazards, not to mention the bushwhacking you may need to do to get to your favorite spot. Even sandals with toe caps aren’t ideal, as sand and gravel will constantly make their way under your feet, and you’ll constantly be doing the old one-legged Chaco pebble kick.

Q: What is the best shoe for wet wading?

There are two solid options for wet wading footwear. The first is a pair of wading boots that can be used with or without waders. Wading boots offer excellent support and stability. And it’s nice to have a boot that serves a dual purpose, with waders and without. The biggest downside, is that most wading boots aren’t the lightest option. That’s something to consider if you’re planning a backcountry mission.

Alternatively, low-top wading shoes are a great if you’re looking for a dedicated wet wading option. The Orvis Pro Approach Shoes and the Simms Flyweight Wet Wading Shoe are both good examples. These low-top wading shoes are lightweight, easy to pack and great for summer wet wading.

Q: What about wet wading socks?

With most wading shoes or boots, you will need to add a neoprene wet wading sock. There are a couple of exceptions – like the Orvis Pro Approach shoe comes with an integrated sock. But in most cases, a neoprene sock will allow your do it all wading boots to fit properly and keep you comfortable in the water. If you intend to wear the same wading boots with and without waders, the neoprene wet wading sock will provide a consistent fit.

Q: Do wet wading neoprene socks keep your feet dry?

No. The neoprene booties that you wear while wet wading do not keep your feet dry. Instead, their purpose is to keep your feet warm and comfortable in the water. Think of wet wading socks more like a wet suit and your waders like a dry suit. While waders are designed to keep you entirely dry, neoprene wet wading socks allow water to pass through. And just like a wet suit, they’ll help keep your feet warm while standing in cold water.

Q: What do I wear under a neoprene wet wading sock?

This is a question that doesn’t have a right or wrong answer. Here at the fly shop, some of us wear the neoprene wet wading sock with nothing else underneath. Others among the crew here prefer to wear a merino wool or polypropylene sock underneath the neoprene.

Keep in mind, the neoprene wet wading sock does not keep your feet dry. So if you choose to wear a sock underneath, it will get wet. For that reason, if you do choose to wear a sock under the neoprene, use a material like thin merino wool or polypropylene as these will help keep your feet comfortable when wet. Never under any circumstances wear cotton socks when wet wading. In fact, that’s true when wearing waders as well.

Ultimately, the decision to wear a sock under the neoprene is up to each individual angler. Try it with and without a sock and decide for yourself, which is more comfortable.

Q: Should I wear shorts or pants for wet wading?

While some anglers choose to wear shorts in the summer, we recommend quick-drying pants for wet wading. A few good examples are the Patagonia Swiftcurrent Wading Pants, the Simms Superlight Pants, and the Orvis Women’s Jackson Quick Dry Pants.

We recommend pants because they offer protection from bugs, brush and sun. Plus, any of the pants mentioned above will dry very quickly as soon as you get out of the water.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS? PLEASE LET US KNOW!

If you have other questions about wet wading or wading gear, please don’t hesitate to ask. You are welcome to visit us at the fly shop in Littleton. Or give us a call at 303-794-1104. We’d be happy to help with recommendations and make sure you are set up for success on your next adventure.