Boot-Foot Wader Repair

Make easy repairs to boot-foot waders and get back to fishing.

Boot-foot waders are a type of fishing wader used by stream and even surf anglers to help keep dry while fishing. These waders feature a rubber boot that is joined to a neoprene, rubber or plastic wader material that covers the angler up to the waist or chest depending on the model. The boot of the wader is typically made of rubber and will have a tread, stud or felt sole for gripping based on the type of fishing you will be doing. As with any rubber boot, boot-foot waders can periodically develop holes that should be patched as soon as possible.

Things You'll Need

• All-purpose shoe adhesive
• Patch squares
• Alcohol
• Rag
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Determine the location of the leak in your boot-foot waders. Typically, you will be able to find the leak by placing the waders in a container of water, the tub or a stream or pond. Hold your hand inside the wader and partially submerge the boot until you find the hole.

2. Clean the outside of the boot with alcohol. Use a rag and a small amount of alcohol to remove dirt, debris, oils and other matter from the area to be repaired.

3. Place a small patch made of the same or similar material on the inside of the boot. Hold the patch over the hole or tear.

4. Apply a small amount of all-purpose shoe adhesive to the area directly over the hole or tear. Use another patch to work the adhesive into the hole.

5. Coat the entire surface of the patch with adhesive and place the patch over the hole or tear so that it is centered. Allow the adhesive to cure for several hours before use.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the all-purpose shoe adhesive to repair felt soles that separate from the boot foot waders. Pull the felt back and coat the sole of the boot with adhesive. Press the felt sole in place and allow the adhesive to dry and cure thoroughly before use.

References

• Penninsula Fly Fishers: Wader Care and Repair