Redington specializes in affordable gear built for the kind of fishing that most people actually do—not the extreme needs of a handful of guides. And the Siren is exactly that. Ideal for fair-weather anglers fond of fishing when the weather’s pleasant (not in torturous sleet or freezing temperatures), this lightweight, three-layer option feels perfectly-matched to summer afternoons when airy comfort is paramount. It also comes in more fit options than most waders in its price bracket.

Fit
The Siren offers two fit silhouettes: The “Kate” (for slender to average figures) and the “Marilyn” (for fuller figures). Neither is particularly body hugging, though: The Kate model I tested uses a relaxed cut through the legs and becomes very roomy through the hips and seat. Seams along the outer leg avoid abrasion and resultant leaks.

I never once felt pinched while wearing these waders, no matter how high I had to scramble (or how big my lunch was). But although I love the unfettered freedom of movement the Siren affords, it looks a lot like the baggy waders we’re all used to seeing. Its fit is tried-and-true rather than revolutionary. And only one size (Kate 6-8 Tall) comes in anything but a regular length.

The bib, however, takes a novel approach, and one that I like very much. A narrow piece of elastic encases the bib’s upper edge, which cinches it slightly for a delightfully tidy, low-bulk fit through the chest. Two gussets under the arms further snug up the cut (or provide additional stretch, as variations in bust measurements may dictate). The result is an unusually comfortable fit that looks great.

The 3mm neoprene booties are also well designed, with ergonomic shaping for the left and right foot. There’s just enough ease to allow for thick socks, but the fit is close enough to keep them from balling up in my wading boots.

Breathability
The three-layer, DWR-treated construction uses a non-branded waterproof/breathable membrane that kept me adequately dry, especially in the cooler temperatures I experienced during this test. The thinner fabric certainly emphasizes breathability over durability. But hiking quickly through snowdrifts or thick brush generated enough heat and perspiration to discover the Siren’s moisture-management limitations: the fabric doesn’t keep pace with high-output exertion, but prevents clamminess in most situations.

Feature Set
The shoulder straps are thinner and lighter than most, which makes them feel less oppressive when worn for hours or beneath a pack. Opposing buckle ends let you shorten the Siren to waist-height (you just unclip the straps from the bib and click them together around your waist for a roll-down conversion). The Y-style straps join at a mesh panel on the back, which does a nice job of dissipating moisture from between the shoulder blades.

The fabric gravel guards just cover boot laces. A subtle (but pretty!) tone-on tone geometric pattern adds decorative flair to the bib. And two chest pockets (a Velcro-fastened interior mesh pocket and a zippered outer pocket) are each just big enough to hold a smartphone. The handwarmer pouch is similarly petite: This microfleece-lined feature is big enough for one chilly hand, but not two.

Versatility
If I knew I’d only face sunshine and mild temperatures, the Siren would be my pick. The comparatively thin, lightweight fabric is perfect for steamy climates, when thicker fabrics can feel leaden. But it’s probably too insubstantial for truly foul weather or hard daily use, when tougher armor would provide better durability and protection.

Value
The price seems fair for the Siren’s level of performance: good breathability, some attractive fit details, and functional features make this a serviceable choice for anglers who wade or row.

7 fit options: Kate (2-4, 6-8, 6-8 Tall, 10-12), Marilyn (6-8, 10-12, 14-16)