When you're wringing your socks out after a day of fishing, it might be time to upgrade to the Simms Freestone Stockingfoot Wader. Made with a durable 4-layer Toray waterproof, breathable shell, the Freestone's will wade deep and easily handle long approaches in cold weather through the bush to your favorite stretch of river. Adjustable suspenders let you dial in the perfect fit while two fleece-lined hand pockets let you warm your fingers before you go to tie on that tiny dry fly. Built-in gravel guards protect the bottom of the waders against abrasive river bottoms, so you'll enjoy warm and dry wading season after season.
When you're wringing your socks out after a day of fishing, it might be time to upgrade to the Simms Freestone Stockingfoot Wader. Made with a durable 4-layer Toray waterproof, breathable shell, the Freestone's will wade deep and easily handle long approaches in cold weather through the bush to your favorite stretch of river. Adjustable suspenders let you dial in the perfect fit while two fleece-lined hand pockets let you warm your fingers before you go to tie on that tiny dry fly. Built-in gravel guards protect the bottom of the waders against abrasive river bottoms, so you'll enjoy warm and dry wading season after season.
When you're wringing your socks out after a day of fishing, it might be time to upgrade to the Simms Freestone Stockingfoot Wader. Made with a durable 4-layer Toray waterproof, breathable shell, the Freestone's will wade deep and easily handle long approaches in cold weather through the bush to your favorite stretch of river. Adjustable suspenders let you dial in the perfect fit while two fleece-lined hand pockets let you warm your fingers before you go to tie on that tiny dry fly. Built-in gravel guards protect the bottom of the waders against abrasive river bottoms, so you'll enjoy warm and dry wading season after season.
When you're wringing your socks out after a day of fishing, it might be time to upgrade to the Simms Freestone Stockingfoot Wader. Made with a durable 4-layer Toray waterproof, breathable shell, the Freestone's will wade deep and easily handle long approaches in cold weather through the bush to your favorite stretch of river. Adjustable suspenders let you dial in the perfect fit while two fleece-lined hand pockets let you warm your fingers before you go to tie on that tiny dry fly. Built-in gravel guards protect the bottom of the waders against abrasive river bottoms, so you'll enjoy warm and dry wading season after season.
Last updated at 11/29/2025 14:34:45
originally posted on simmsfishing.com
Santa brought me a pair of Freestone Stockingfoot waders this year. They replace a 6 year old Freestone pair that I really liked - they take a beating and fit well. This is my initial, have-not-been-stream tested review. The new pair are the newer, revised version with several changes - some good, some not so good for me. The good: The general fit is good, there is a new internal pocket you don't have to pay for, and a sewn-in nylon loop/strap in the back for hanging and drying. The not so good: The external pocket appears to no longer be waterproof. The very bad (for me- other might not agree): The gravel guard changed and they no longer have a hook to attach the guard to the boot. I'm OK with that part. But to compensate, the guard is now made of a somewhat ... MoreSanta brought me a pair of Freestone Stockingfoot waders this year. They replace a 6 year old Freestone pair that I really liked - they take a beating and fit well. This is my initial, have-not-been-stream tested review. The new pair are the newer, revised version with several changes - some good, some not so good for me. The good: The general fit is good, there is a new internal pocket you don't have to pay for, and a sewn-in nylon loop/strap in the back for hanging and drying. The not so good: The external pocket appears to no longer be waterproof. The very bad (for me- other might not agree): The gravel guard changed and they no longer have a hook to attach the guard to the boot. I'm OK with that part. But to compensate, the guard is now made of a somewhat stretchy, tight fitting neoprene-like material you pull over the boot. And I mean very tight fitting, making it a HUGE struggle to pull the waders off my feet and ankles. Who wants to fight with their waders after a day's fishing? I considered returning but decided to keep them hoping the guards will stretch out a bit. (I'm 5-10, 200, size 9, and ordered a LS).
originally posted on cabelas.com
I'll start with the positive, the fit was great. I used Simms sizing calculator and trusted it to fit me a medium even though I've never been anything but size large. Perfect fit. Super comfortable. Also Simms indicated that if the booties were a bit tight they would stretch, and they did, so also comfortable. However, within an hour upon first use my pants and socks were heavy damp above the ankles on both legs. I used them a second day and the same thing happened. This is something I'd consider normal after a couple seasons, not on first use. I just returned these today, very disappointed after paying up for what I thought would be good, reliable, Simms brand waders I was excited to get and try. Two fishing buddies have had great luck with Simms waders so I tried ... MoreI'll start with the positive, the fit was great. I used Simms sizing calculator and trusted it to fit me a medium even though I've never been anything but size large. Perfect fit. Super comfortable. Also Simms indicated that if the booties were a bit tight they would stretch, and they did, so also comfortable. However, within an hour upon first use my pants and socks were heavy damp above the ankles on both legs. I used them a second day and the same thing happened. This is something I'd consider normal after a couple seasons, not on first use. I just returned these today, very disappointed after paying up for what I thought would be good, reliable, Simms brand waders I was excited to get and try. Two fishing buddies have had great luck with Simms waders so I tried them. The primary function of waders is to keep the water out, so I can't give more than 2 stars, which may be generous giving how quickly they leaked. I'm deciding whether to try again with another pair or look at something else.
originally posted on simmsfishing.com
Extremely disappointed with the quality and lack of customer service at simms. After unboxing my new G3 waders I noticed a loose thread and hole in the gravel guard. After talking to customer service I was told to mail my waders to them to get “repaired”. They didn’t offer to replace the waders…..instead I’m supposed to pay to have them mailed back to simms to get repaired. I just spent close to $1000 on what are supposed to be the best quality waders out there. They should have been replaced no questions asked. Absolutely disgusting customer service. Will never buy another simms product again. Be aware when spending the big bucks, this is how you’ll get treated. Still waiting for my waders to get back to me. It’s been over a month of no fishing.
Santa brought me a pair of Freestone Stockingfoot waders this year. They replace a 6 year old Freestone pair that I really liked - they take a beating and fit well. This is my initial, have-not-been-stream tested review. The new pair are the newer, revised version with several changes - some good, some not so good for me. The good: The general fit is good, there is a new internal pocket you don't have to pay for, and a sewn-in nylon loop/strap in the back for hanging and drying. The not so good: The external pocket appears to no longer be waterproof. The very bad (for me- other might not agree): The gravel guard changed and they no longer have a hook to attach the guard to the boot. I'm OK with that part. But to compensate, the guard is now made of a somewhat ... MoreSanta brought me a pair of Freestone Stockingfoot waders this year. They replace a 6 year old Freestone pair that I really liked - they take a beating and fit well. This is my initial, have-not-been-stream tested review. The new pair are the newer, revised version with several changes - some good, some not so good for me. The good: The general fit is good, there is a new internal pocket you don't have to pay for, and a sewn-in nylon loop/strap in the back for hanging and drying. The not so good: The external pocket appears to no longer be waterproof. The very bad (for me- other might not agree): The gravel guard changed and they no longer have a hook to attach the guard to the boot. I'm OK with that part. But to compensate, the guard is now made of a somewhat stretchy, tight fitting neoprene-like material you pull over the boot. And I mean very tight fitting, making it a HUGE struggle to pull the waders off my feet and ankles. Who wants to fight with their waders after a day's fishing? I considered returning but decided to keep them hoping the guards will stretch out a bit. (I'm 5-10, 200, size 9, and ordered a LS).
I'll start with the positive, the fit was great. I used Simms sizing calculator and trusted it to fit me a medium even though I've never been anything but size large. Perfect fit. Super comfortable. Also Simms indicated that if the booties were a bit tight they would stretch, and they did, so also comfortable. However, within an hour upon first use my pants and socks were heavy damp above the ankles on both legs. I used them a second day and the same thing happened. This is something I'd consider normal after a couple seasons, not on first use. I just returned these today, very disappointed after paying up for what I thought would be good, reliable, Simms brand waders I was excited to get and try. Two fishing buddies have had great luck with Simms waders so I tried ... MoreI'll start with the positive, the fit was great. I used Simms sizing calculator and trusted it to fit me a medium even though I've never been anything but size large. Perfect fit. Super comfortable. Also Simms indicated that if the booties were a bit tight they would stretch, and they did, so also comfortable. However, within an hour upon first use my pants and socks were heavy damp above the ankles on both legs. I used them a second day and the same thing happened. This is something I'd consider normal after a couple seasons, not on first use. I just returned these today, very disappointed after paying up for what I thought would be good, reliable, Simms brand waders I was excited to get and try. Two fishing buddies have had great luck with Simms waders so I tried them. The primary function of waders is to keep the water out, so I can't give more than 2 stars, which may be generous giving how quickly they leaked. I'm deciding whether to try again with another pair or look at something else.
Extremely disappointed with the quality and lack of customer service at simms. After unboxing my new G3 waders I noticed a loose thread and hole in the gravel guard. After talking to customer service I was told to mail my waders to them to get “repaired”. They didn’t offer to replace the waders…..instead I’m supposed to pay to have them mailed back to simms to get repaired. I just spent close to $1000 on what are supposed to be the best quality waders out there. They should have been replaced no questions asked. Absolutely disgusting customer service. Will never buy another simms product again. Be aware when spending the big bucks, this is how you’ll get treated. Still waiting for my waders to get back to me. It’s been over a month of no fishing.
Developed cheap wader PTSD for years. I am an avid wade angler who does so in saltwater as much as possible. I take very good care of my equipment because of the harshness the saltwater environment has on it. No matter that I did, the seams would always blow out after a few months and I would buy 2-3 pair a year. Finally decided to make my transition to more quality waders and Simms delivered. Warranty, repair program, and stories of customer service were all selling points that pointed me towards simms rather than competing wader manufacturers. AI size finder was dead on for a nice fit and as soon as I received my Freestones, I realized I made the right choice. The quality in the material used even in the straps and belt, the fit, and obviously superior seam work. ... MoreDeveloped cheap wader PTSD for years. I am an avid wade angler who does so in saltwater as much as possible. I take very good care of my equipment because of the harshness the saltwater environment has on it. No matter that I did, the seams would always blow out after a few months and I would buy 2-3 pair a year. Finally decided to make my transition to more quality waders and Simms delivered. Warranty, repair program, and stories of customer service were all selling points that pointed me towards simms rather than competing wader manufacturers. AI size finder was dead on for a nice fit and as soon as I received my Freestones, I realized I made the right choice. The quality in the material used even in the straps and belt, the fit, and obviously superior seam work. I was so impressed I very quickly bought a pair of guide classics. The Toray material used in the freestones is thicker than the goretex used in the guide classics. Living in the Deep South, it does have less breath ability than the goretex but not much less. I am extremely satisfied so far and so far a simms customer for life. Thanks, simms
I sent in my leaking, 10 month old Freestone waders for repair and was instead given a store credit that did not cover the cost of a new pair of Freestone waters. I spent the extra $80 and so far have been disappointed in the new 2023 Freestone waders. They feel cheaper, and the sizing seems to be larger than my last pair.The Good:I like the blue color, its different. I also like the addition of the interior pocket sewn into the top of the waders, although it could be more accessible.The Bad:The new chest pocket is made from a thin mesh that doesn't seem very durable and sags with any weight in it. The old chest pocket was made from the same material as the rest of the waders and as a result offered some protection from splashes. If the new chest pocket gets ... MoreI sent in my leaking, 10 month old Freestone waders for repair and was instead given a store credit that did not cover the cost of a new pair of Freestone waters. I spent the extra $80 and so far have been disappointed in the new 2023 Freestone waders. They feel cheaper, and the sizing seems to be larger than my last pair.The Good:I like the blue color, its different. I also like the addition of the interior pocket sewn into the top of the waders, although it could be more accessible.The Bad:The new chest pocket is made from a thin mesh that doesn't seem very durable and sags with any weight in it. The old chest pocket was made from the same material as the rest of the waders and as a result offered some protection from splashes. If the new chest pocket gets wet, everything does, including the fleece handwarmer which becomes a lot less effective.Having only one belt loop means hanging things off your belt becomes a little more annoying.Overall these waders seem cheaper, and they are more expensive than the previous version of this model. The cons listed above feel like cost saving measures and the higher price doesn't feel justified. Hopefully they last longer than my last pair of Simms waders.
Had them for two days so far, day 1 it was solid hours of rain, I noticed my trackpants underneath were damp at the knees, from crouching and resting my arms there, and my butt, from sitting. Thought this was odd and saw the reviews that it might be perspiration so I thought I would double check. Went back out to the creek the next day, old boots had a leak (nothing to do with waders) but one of the boots had some solid water in the bottom. Took them off when I got home and noticed the "gaiter" portion was soaked through on both of them and I had slight water in the boot that didn't have the leak. Next thing I noticed is the stockingfoots are also drenched and both of my socks underneath are damp. My best guess is through saturation and/or pressure is pushing the ... MoreHad them for two days so far, day 1 it was solid hours of rain, I noticed my trackpants underneath were damp at the knees, from crouching and resting my arms there, and my butt, from sitting. Thought this was odd and saw the reviews that it might be perspiration so I thought I would double check. Went back out to the creek the next day, old boots had a leak (nothing to do with waders) but one of the boots had some solid water in the bottom. Took them off when I got home and noticed the "gaiter" portion was soaked through on both of them and I had slight water in the boot that didn't have the leak. Next thing I noticed is the stockingfoots are also drenched and both of my socks underneath are damp. My best guess is through saturation and/or pressure is pushing the water through and causing the dampness. I checked for leaks and found none. I am currently waiting to hear back from Simms on if this is normal or a faulty pair and if faulty what the replacement process is (I'm not paying for shipping for something under warranty out if the box defective, I'll just return them from where I purchased as the gas to get there is cheaper than the shipping to Simms) and if this is normal I am going to return to purchased location as over $800 for waders that are water resistant and not waterproof isn't the outcome I wanted. Will update when Simms gets back to me.Update: After talking to multiple people today and last night who have been die hard Simms fans throughout the years and will no longer touch their products due to a decline in quality and customer service (one guy said his 1 star review with a video of the leak has been deleted multiple times, he wrote it up after multiple times he sent them to Simms and they didn't fix the issue, being the seam, and instead charged him for pin hole fixes with no seam fix) I've decided to just return them and instead go get some Orvis ones instead. Long story short Simms is not what they use to be. As for me the only way I could see my issue occurring is if they cheaped out on the materials used as the older G3 waders did not have the same issue as mine (but had other problem). For further clarification I did not wash them with softener or use the dryer (or dryer sheet) which can and will ruin waterproof quality.
These are the best waders on the planet. Mine are the previous version introduced in 2018. They fit like no other wader and they perform like no other wader. I have never had a leak. I had them customised with a different bootie size for a modest additional charge. My advice is don’t sit down on anything with spikes and don’t march through any bushes with spikes. That seems like common sense to me. Superb waders. I anticipate writing an equally positive review of my waders in several years time. Worth every penny (I live and fish in Scotland) or cent.
The only reason for four stars is that seller requested a review before I fully tested the product. For a stocky guy(166# with 28 inseam) large short fit perfectly. I am able to sit or kneel in them without it being tight. When I stand up they feel baggy, one needs a longer inseam than with jeans because jean can slide up your ankle.I use these for clamming and surf fishing mostly. Built in gravel guards keep out gravel maybe, but not sand. I doubt that anything keeps sand out of boots when surf fishing. Front pocket seems water resistant enough for keys, cell phone, wallet etc. Just don't go swimming. Wader belt sems adequate. I have no experience with breathable waders. I got tired of the bulk of my $39 Cabela's neoprene waders I have used for at least 20 years, ... MoreThe only reason for four stars is that seller requested a review before I fully tested the product. For a stocky guy(166# with 28 inseam) large short fit perfectly. I am able to sit or kneel in them without it being tight. When I stand up they feel baggy, one needs a longer inseam than with jeans because jean can slide up your ankle.I use these for clamming and surf fishing mostly. Built in gravel guards keep out gravel maybe, but not sand. I doubt that anything keeps sand out of boots when surf fishing. Front pocket seems water resistant enough for keys, cell phone, wallet etc. Just don't go swimming. Wader belt sems adequate. I have no experience with breathable waders. I got tired of the bulk of my $39 Cabela's neoprene waders I have used for at least 20 years, completely waterproof. For longevity and toughness I suspect neoprene wins over breathable. These kept me dry for the two surf fishing outings so far. These were only 200 bucks, a good bargain, I think, for entry level good brand name waders.
These are my first pair of waders. I work in an outdoor store and I had to pass up a lot of opportunities to go steelhead fishing because I didn’t have the proper gear. After selling waders for the last year it was clear that I was going with Simms. The Freestone’s fit my budget while being available in my closest size without going up in model tier. I’m 6’ tall, 220 lbs, wear a 38 waist/ 34 inseam pant, and a size 14 shoe. I went with the regular large 12-13’s. The stocking foot could stand to be ever so slightly longer for me due to being a 14 but the bootie does stretch a little bit and ends up fitting well. The inseam allows for high-stepping and low-crouching. The body allows for a mid-weight jacket or a heavy-weight hoodie. I paired them with the G3 Guide ... MoreThese are my first pair of waders. I work in an outdoor store and I had to pass up a lot of opportunities to go steelhead fishing because I didn’t have the proper gear. After selling waders for the last year it was clear that I was going with Simms. The Freestone’s fit my budget while being available in my closest size without going up in model tier. I’m 6’ tall, 220 lbs, wear a 38 waist/ 34 inseam pant, and a size 14 shoe. I went with the regular large 12-13’s. The stocking foot could stand to be ever so slightly longer for me due to being a 14 but the bootie does stretch a little bit and ends up fitting well. The inseam allows for high-stepping and low-crouching. The body allows for a mid-weight jacket or a heavy-weight hoodie. I paired them with the G3 Guide Boots in size 14 and the fit is perfect allowing for mid-weight socks. I haven’t worn them in the water yet but if fit is anything to be desired, I have very high hopes for performance in the field. Overall, I’m pretty happy.
I purchased 2 pairs of G3's from my LFS this year. One size M 9-11 (summer) and the other size MK 9-11 (winter). Took both pairs to Colorado and both pairs leaked out of the box on the same trip. I had to use Loon UV wader repair on the inside of both stockingfoot top seams because they were peeling away. Sent one pair in for inspection/repair and held the other pair back to have something to get by. I was told that it passed the alcohol and leak test. Today was the first time wearing them since I got them back. 2 hours into this trip, two wet feet and a wet crotch. Beyond frustrated.
