2023 Simms Freestone Fishing Waders | Review by Chris Schrueder
REDESIGNED FOR 2023
Freestone Wader review by Chris Schrueder, professional fly fishing guide from Wilderness Fly Fishing
Maximum bang for your buck
In these times of high inflation and mortgage interest rates it can be hard to justify a new purchase to your significant other. You don’t want the Minister for Finance to suddenly become the Minister for War as well! But on the other hand there is nothing so uncomfortable as a leaky pair of waders when it’s cold out. With the new trout season just around the corner, I am here to offer you a solution to your suffering that won’t end in domestic tears. I recently got my hands on (or should I say my feet in) a pair of the newly designed Simms Freestone waders and they sure do look the biz.
Quality materials
The Toray fabric in the body is a great looking brighter grey colour, it’s almost a silvery tone. It’s also super tough in the legs, the Toray QuadraLam being a 4 ply construction which means it should last longer than thinner waders in this price range. The neoprene stocking feet are thick and generously sized for those with bigger feet.
Warm and comfortable
The micro-fleece lined hand warmers have been awesome when I’ve been out guiding on the Millbrook Lakes in the dead of winter. Conversely, the super stretchy suspenders make it really easy to convert them from full length to waist high when things get hot.
Zip and flip out pockets
You can never have too many pockets when guiding and the zip pocket is great for storing my Loon Payette paste. I also use the flip out tippet pocket to stash my phone for easy access when I need to quickly take pics of my client’s captures.
Great styling and value
Simms sure know how to style waders. The Freestones look great and are tailored perfectly, like their more expensive models. If you are on a budget or in need of a back up pair of waders, give the new Simms Freestone Waders a crack, you won't be disappointed.
About the Author
Chris Schrueder is a full time guide for Wilderness Fly Fishing and Millbrook Lakes. Contact him via Instagram @tubbsflyfish