Simms 2025 Flats Sneakers Review

BULLA from Fiji.

Each morning, while carrying my Primal MEGA CCC, on my way to the breakfast buffet, I’d get asked, “Bring me something back” from one of the friendly resort staff. My answer was always the same “Yeh sure … I’ll see how I go”. After some coffee and pancakes I’d make my way down to the crystal clear waters edge, strutting my stuff in my brand new Simms 2025 Flats Sneakers. How does that saying go again? “All the gear and no…” 

While I’m still very green in the world of saltwater fly fishing, I knew enough that a good set of shoes were absolutely necessary to make wet wading the flats of Fiji on a family holiday more enjoyable while maximising my limited fishing time.

My first day out with the new Simms Flats Sneakers was fantastic, walking the flats on low tide was a breeze. The higher cut provides sensational ankle support while navigating the sometimes rocky flats. Team it up with a pair of Simms Flyweight Guard Socks and the annoying hitchhikers (stones, sand and pebbles) have a hard time getting in. 

My second day out was a bit more of an adventure. Walking the width of the flat out to the blue water and the channel that is used by the locals, the sneakers really started to prove their worth. The gum rubber sole provides awesome traction. The one thought I couldn’t shake from my mind was just how comfy these books are. Honestly, the word sneaker is spot on - it’s not a boot. Thanks to the non-absorbing foam and neoprene materials, they get a 10 outta 10 for comfort from me.

I know comfort and longevity can sometimes be a trade off… not these. As one who is known to be fairly brutal on gear, the battle scars on the boots by the end of the holiday are minor at best. Thanks to the moulded rubber toe and heel cap, the Flats Sneakers held up to the tough rock and coral conditions I put them through. I get the feeling the Simms Flats Sneakers are like that set of well worn trainers you have had for years and refuse to die. 

All in all, these are damn good sneakers for stalking your favourite pelagic species on the flats. Be it standing on a rocky point, or putting in the miles on the sand flats, do yourself (and your feet) a favour and get a pair. Best of all they are extremely well designed and made to last for a long time. Size them the same as your regular wading boot, to allow enough room for a set of Simms Flyweight Fly Fishing Guard Socks and you will be set to tackle whatever the salty flats can throw at you.

Now if you don’t mind - I’m off to have another Mojito by the pool as I wait for the tide to turn and the flats to come to life again. 

About the Author

Dan Simms (yes that's right) was bitten by the fly fishing bug later in life. After taking part as a participant at one of The Fly Program retreats, he became utterly addicted to the fly fishing pursuit. Understanding first hand just how life changing the retreat was, Dan now works alongside Matt and Rusty at The Fly Program helping run these World class retreats out of the NSW Snowy Mountains.

Follow Dan on Instagram @leakywaders_flyfishing