Simms G3 Guide Wader Review
Some products are classics and some even reach the status of iconic. The Toyota Landcruiser or the Apple iPhone spring to mind; great design, functionality, years of technological development and outstanding performance. When a new model comes out people around the world look forward in anticipation. Will it be as good as the old version? Will it stay true to its heritage? Have they taken on our feedback to improve it? What new features does it have?
As a fly fishing guide the G3’s have always been the pick of the bunch for me in the Simms wader line up. It hits the sweet spot between features, looks, cost, practicality & function and the new Simms G3 2022 model takes it up a notch.
MY SIMMS G3 GUIDE WADER REVIEW
When I opened the box and pulled out the new G3’s for the first time, the first thing I noticed was the new very cool darker grey-green colour and how soft and light they are. When guiding and fishing on the rivers and lakes, I put in some kilometers, so being awesomely breathable and lightweight is massive for me. This is down to the new GORE-TEX PRO fabric and how super tight the weave is. What that means is that it’s going to be really durable over the coming seasons. I’m really hard on waders, so it’s comforting to know that the 4-layers on the legs and 3-layers on the body are going to last and keep me dry for the long haul.
THE FIT
The 2022 version of the G3’s fit better than any other wader that I have ever tried, hands down. Personally I don’t like to look like I’m wearing a saggy elephant hide, but hey that’s just me. Less bulk means that there’s less water pressure on your legs and body; that translates to less fatigue and therefore more time on the water. Looking back on some old fly fishing magazines in the shed the other day, I was reminded how far we have come with wader technology and fit, and Simms has always led the way in this regard.
THE NEW G3 HARNESS SYSTEM
The new strap design is a game changer. The way that the straps on most waders on the market get twisted and therefore uncomfortable, especially when you put on a backpack or jacket, is one of the most annoying aspects of wearing waders. Well no more! Simms has solved this problem through a clever new air mesh suspender system. This is worth the price of admission alone. The padded shoulder straps are really comfortable on those long hikes into the river or long days on the water and the air mesh doesn’t leave you with a sweaty back when things start to heat up.
The wading belt has also been redesigned with fit and comfort in mind. The belt is thinner and there is now only one belt loop at the back positioned lower than other waders. This means that when I’m wearing my backpack it’s not pushing into the belt or loops and if you want to wear a hip pack, then even better due to the low profile.
BUILT IN GRAVEL GUARDS & NEOPRENE STOCKINGFEET
Another one of those little annoying issues that can also result in you potentially losing the fish of the season, is the hooks on gravel guards. These always somehow seem to end up popping off your boot laces, creating a place for the fly line to potentially get caught on.
In this latest version of the G3’s, Simms has also solved this by removing the metal clips and making the gravel guards fit more snugly. Initially I was worried that these would ride up allowing sand to get in your boots, but after field testing on the local streams this has not been a problem for me.
The neoprene feet have an anti-microbial finish which on those longer trips without access to a laundry is a god-send (for your mates sharing the car probably more than you!).
INTERNAL POCKETS AND GEAR HOLDERS
The attention to detail sets Simms apart from the competition. I usually don’t wear gloves in winter, but on those cold days on the lakes guiding clients, especially after releasing a fish, your hands get chilly and it’s a great relief to be able to pop them into the micro-fleece lined kangaroo pouch and get toasty ready to be able to tie up the next knot without being all thumbs.
Another really helpful feature is the Simms Tippet-Tender™ pocket. This is a removable zippered pouch that you can use to store tippet, a fly box and forceps should you wish to go minimalist or as I do, it’s a great place to stash your keys and keep your phone nice and handy to grab a fish pic.
THE NEXT LEVEL FLY FISHING WADER
I love well designed gear and as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for and in the case of waders even more so. Simms G3 waders have a long history of delivering the best in fit, technology and reliability for guides and anglers and the new 2022 model takes this iconic product to the next level.
Go try on a pair at your local fly shop and you'll see what I mean.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Chris Schrueder is a Millbrook Lakes and Wilderness fly fishing guide, as well a self confessed gear junkie. Chris loves the way that fly fishing combines technology, skill, travel and the beauty of the great outdoors in a way that few other sports can match.