When the summer heat hits, standing in heavy waders can be brutal. That’s where wet wading comes in. Wet wading—ditching the waders and stepping into the water in lightweight boots or shoes—is one of the best ways to stay cool, comfortable, and mobile during hot-weather fly fishing.
At Drift Outfitters , we wet wade all summer long, whether we’re chasing smallmouth bass, carp, or exploring warm-water rivers and Great Lakes shorelines. Here’s everything you need to know about how to wet wade properly and the best wet wading gear to use this season.
What Is Wet Wading and Why Try It?
Wet wading simply means wading without traditional fishing waders. Instead, you wear neoprene socks and wading boots, or lightweight wet wading shoes designed for warm-weather fly fishing.
Why wet wade?
✅ Stay cool in hot summer temperatures.
✅ Protect your waders from unnecessary wear and tear—saving them for colder months.
✅ Move lighter and faster when hiking, bushwhacking, or fishing shallow water.
If you’ve been sweating through your waders on 30°C days, wet wading will change the way you fish in the summer.
Best Wet Wading Boots and Shoes
The right footwear makes all the difference. Here are our top recommendations:
1. Using Your Regular Wading Boots
If you already own wading boots, you can wet wade with them—you just need to fill the extra space left by your wader booties.
- Neoprene Guard Socks – A must-have for proper fit and blister prevention or Patagonia Yulex Socks – Another great neoprene option.
- Thin Wet Wading Socks (polyester) – For comfort under neoprene, we love Simms Wet Wading Socks. They’re quick-drying, abrasion-resistant, and stay cool in hot weather.
2. Lightweight Wet Wading Boots
Purpose-built wet wading boots are cooler, lighter, and don’t require thick neoprene socks.
- Simms Flyweight Access Wet Wading Boots – Lightweight with a cinchable top to keep gravel out. Designed specifically for warm-weather wading.
- Simms Pursuit Shoe – Perfect for Great Lakes shorelines, sandy flats, or paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking. They’re ultra-light and comfortable but not ideal for very rocky terrain.
Many anglers wear shorts, but we recommend lightweight pants for better protection. Simms Superlight Pants are quick-drying, breathable, and protective against sun, thorny bushes, and scrapes when hiking into fishing spots. Pair these pants with the right socks and boots, and you’ll stay cool, comfortable, and protected all day.
Get Set Up for Wet Wading This Summer
Wet wading is one of the best ways to enjoy summer fly fishing. With the right wet wading boots, neoprene socks, and lightweight clothing, you’ll stay comfortable and extend the life of your waders.
If you need help picking the best wet wading setup for your local waters, swing by Drift Outfitters & Fly Shop or give us a call—we’ll get you set up with the right gear.
