Simms G3 Guide Boot | Review by Chris Dore
The Simms G3 range has always been designed to guide standard. Built to be tough, with only the bells and whistles we need for day in, day out on-stream punishment. I’ve had the privilege of putting the new 2024 G3 Guide boots to the test for the best part of last season. I put the boots through punishing backcountry hikes, and often freezing, winter big water wading and they have certainly earned their right as fan favourites and lived up to my expectations.
For 2024 Simms have returned to a tough, full leather upper with a double stitched and glued abrasion resistant rand, built in true work boot style. The Vibram Idrogrip outsole provides some of the grippiest instream traction on the market and is compatible with both Simms Hardbite, and Alumibite star clears and Hardbite studs. The new sole pattern has a larger surface area right to the edge of the boot to improve overall traction and durability.
The new Norwegian Welt sole system is both sewn and glued and is replaceable, for when the many miles these boots will travel catches up to them. The extra-large surface area of the sole provides additional contact and traction with the stream bed and allows lugs right to the edges for more sideways stability. Conveniently, the new G3 boot comes with two sets of laces so you can always keep a spare on hand in case you need it.
Having put over 70 solid guide days into these boots already I’m happy to say they have more than lived up to the G3 Guide standard. I’ve found them comfortable and relatively light while wet and a pleasure to both wet wade, and don waders in. With very little noticeable wear on the upper, and still providing all day comfort for the many miles we have walked these boots have surpassed my wear and tear expectations of any boot.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Chris Dore is a battle-tested fly fishing guide with over 18 years of professional guiding experience, battling the demanding, ever-changing conditions that our New Zealand rivers throw at us.
In 2006 Chris became one of the first New Zealanders to successfully pass the internationally recognised Federation of Fly Fishers Certified Casting Instructors examination and has since taught many thousands of anglers to up their skillset.
For more in person and on river fly fishing advice and upskilling why not book Chris for a day or three?