The Best Women's Wading Boots

Three of the five women’s wading boots in this test were designed expressly for women—with a women’s-specific last. And not all models are intended for entry-level anglers: The Simms Women’s VaporTread Boot ($180) and Patagonia Women’s Ultralight Wading Boots ($189) are both built for diehards—and their price points make the most sense for those who wear such boots regualrly.

Fly-fishers who are looking for a bargain might consider the Orvis Women’s Encounter Wading Boot ($119) or the L.L. Bean Women’s West Branch Wading Boot, Studded ($149), which is an exceptional value in a studded sole.

Anglers who are sure-footed in the water—and fond of long approaches to less-trafficked fishing holes—should consider the Simms Women’s VaporTread Boot. Although it didn’t deliver best-in-test traction, it was the lightest, most agile boot we tested.

And women who have slender or low-volume feet should try the Patagonia Women’s Ultralight Wading Boots. Not only did they offer the best, most foot-hugging fit of this test, but they also delivered superior traction, comfort and support. For any angling ladies who believe it’s impossible to love your chunky, blocky wading boots—try these, and prepare to swoon.

What Are Women's Wading Boots?

by: Kelly Bastone

Until the last two or three years, there simply were no women’s wading boots. What stores sold were shrunken versions of men’s models, and they tended to fit women poorly: They were too roomy, too blocky, and too dumbed-down. Even now, most women’s wading boots cater to the beginners and occasional anglers. And most boots make no attempt to mimic the V-shaped foot (narrow at the heel and broader across the toes) that women tend to share.

In part, that’s due to manufacturing norms. “Wading shoes have horrendously large minimums,” explains Tom Rosenbauer, Orvis’s Marketing Manager. Whereas the factories that produce waders will agree to make smaller runs, footwear manufacturers expect to roll out huge quantities—or they’ll make nothing at all. And since women are still angling’s minority gender, that makes it economically challenging for brands to commit to women’s boots.

Review Year

Best in Class

Overall Rating

Price

Name	Overall Rating	Ratings	The Good	The Bad	Price
Patagonia Women’s Ultralight Wading Boot	93 Best in Class 2017	Fit 10 Traction 9 Support 10 Weight 8 Features 8 Durability 8	Women’s-specific design/Lower-volume interior Outstanding traction & support Comfortable ankle wrap Laces don’t loosen over time Expensive	No hook for gravel guard	MSRP $189.00 BEST DEAL N/A
Simms VaporTread Boot	87	Fit 6 Traction 6 Support 7 Weight 10 Features 9 Durability 9	Very light weight & durable Feels sensitive, not blocky Neoprene liner boosts warmth Dries very quickly High-volume fit compromises support	Traction is better on dry trails than wet rocks Uncomfortable ankle wrap	MSRP $179.95 BEST DEAL $179.95 Jans
Redington Siren Boot	85	Fit 9 Traction 7 Support 9 Weight 7 Features 7 Durability 6	Women’s-specific last Adequate traction Comfortable ankle support Fits a low/medium volume foot	Questionable durability	MSRP $149.95 BEST DEAL $119.99 Jans
Orvis Women’s Encounter Wading Boot	84	Fit 7 Traction 8 Support 7 Weight 7 Features 8 Durability 7	Versatile lacing options Solid support Sneaker-like flex and comfort Hook for gravel guard Good value High-volume toe	Somewhat weighty	MSRP $119.00 BEST DEAL N/A
Cabela’s Guidewater BOA Wading Boot	79	Grip 4 Comfort 7 Wet Weight 5 Durability 8 Treadlife 8 Value 7	BOA lace system Secure, comfortable fit Solid footing on uneven surfaces Durable construction Effective interior drainage	The boot feels heavy and clunky while walking Heaviest boot out of the box and out of the drink Slippery on slimy rocks if studs not applied	MSRP $149.00 BEST DEAL N/A