waders with a zipper

[johnzett]

I'm getting ready to buy a good set of breathable waders. If I was a lot younger and didn't need a zipper (you know what I mean), the choice would be pretty easy- I'd probably get the Simm's G-3 waders. Because of my particular problem, I'm looking at the Hodgman wader with zipper, but am extremely nervous about how it will hold up. I'm in the water at least three times a week, even in the winter, so these waders are going to have heavy demands placed on them. I'm not going to buy the Hodgman's unless I get some assurances and/or endorsements as to their toughness and dependability, but I frankly am stumped as to any alternatives. I would appreciate any input from anybody about this. Incidentally, I've figured out the best alternative to this that I could find. I use the Orvis sling pack when using waders. I can slip it around and lower the suspenders on the waders without having to set any thing down. If anybody has a better idea, I'd sure like to hear about it. This may not fit Jeff's idea of PG, so if you want, send me an e-mail at [e-mail]. Thanks

[JW Murray]

John,
I agree that I am quite hesitant about zippers on waders. A product developer in Jackson, WY told me a "joke" one time that was simply put, "There are two kinds of waders; Those that leak and those that are about to." With that philosophy, the addition of an extra place for waders to leak does not seem ideal. However, dry suits are made with zippers in them and though I have no personal experience, I have friends that use them and they don't complain about the zippers leaking. Simms is unveiling a new pair of waders with a zipper in 2007, I believe they call them the G4 Waders. I personally believe Simms is far beyond anyone in the wading gear R&D department so they must feel they can make a leak free zipper. Not a lot of help but I wish you Good Luck If you opt for standard waders, Simms has discontinued their Classic Guide Waders and we have them marked down to $230, $100 off the regular price.