- Those fly fishermen that are in warmer climates or fishing during the summer months may not need waders. Often the water temperature is warm enough so that waders are not a necessity but rather a luxury. However, many fly fishermen are active when fishing season begins, which is in the early spring or during the fall months when water temperatures are too cold to simply wade into the current with no protection from the chill. Fly-fishing waders keep the fisherman warm by keeping in his body heat and helping him to stay dry.
- Fly-fishing waders come in three distinct types. Bootfoot waders go from the foot up to the chest, with the boot permanently attached to the waders. Stockingfoot waders have no boot connected to them but have a sock made of neoprene over which wading boots are worn. They can extend all the way up to the chest or just to the waist. Hip waders may come with boots or without and are the shortest of fly-fishing waders, going up only to the upper leg.
- Each type of fly-fishing wader style has its own benefits. Bootfoot waders make buying a pair of boots to go with the waders unnecessary. Stockingfoot waders are the lightest of the three types and easier to store and handle. They are also easier to put on and take off than bootfoot waders. Hip waders are handy for slow-moving and shallow rivers and streams, and getting them on and off takes less effort than the other kinds.
- By far the most popular fly-fishing waders early on were the nylon waders. They were a great upgrade over the old rubber waders, being lighter and less bulky. However, they can become very warm on hot days since none of the person's heat can escape from them. Sweat also is a problem, especially in cold weather when it condenses on the inside of the waders. This type also can easily be torn and punctured. Nylon fly-fishing waders are fine for novices and are the most inexpensive type.
- Neoprene waders, made of synthetic rubber, are excellent fly-fishing waders for cold weather. They come in varying thicknesses so that a fisherman has a choice as to which kind to purchase--for cold weather or warm weather. They share the same problems with being warm as nylon waders. Breathable waders are made out of newer materials and are made to keep water out but allow the angler's sweat and body heat to escape. Breathable waders will be more expensive due to their design but are the most comfortable fly-fishing waders and work in a variety of venues and climates.
