SOMETIMES the adage "you get what you pay" for is more true than at other times.  Am wondering if this is true with chest waders.  I'm in the market for some chest waders which might actually stay dry for more than just a few uses.  Any recommendations?  Anything I should absolutely stay away from?

I’ve had great luck with my cabellas chest waders. I purchased them 8 years ago and they are still good. These are the insulated ones for cold weather. They were just under 300 bucks but well worth it. You probably won’t get the same quality since bass pro took over.

Are you looking for insulated or non insulated?

Although I don’t own them, I have heard good things about the cheaper Simms waders. They will likely be my next pair. 

Really depends on the use and what time of year. I have some neoprene camo chest ones that I primarily use for duck hunting in September and October. They are fairly thin neoprene because it can get warm that time of year and when I’m trudging around in a marsh I work up a decent sweat. If it’s colder out I simply put a base layer on underneath.

 

The seams are usually what break down first. There is stitching at the knee and the crotch. I’ve had the same pair now for about 5 years but if they make it to 10 years without coming apart I would be surprised.

38 minutes ago, optimator said:

Are you looking for insulated or non insulated?

Will use mostly in late fall and early spring.  Probably insulated BUT if I can wear long johns (are they still called that?) underneath, I could get by with non-insulated.

7 minutes ago, Ratherbfishing said:

Will use mostly in late fall and early spring.  Probably insulated BUT if I can wear long johns (are they still called that?) underneath, I could get by with non-insulated.

I prefer non insulated with layers underneath when fishing. Check out the Lacrosse Alpha Swampfox. They're tough waders. And you do get what you pay for. 

Honestly I believe this is one time where you don’t really get what you pay for. I’ve worked as a part-time flyfishing guide for over a decade and seen lots of brand new $300-$400 waders leak not too far from jump street. I’ve also seen the base model breathable waders from several brands last for about a decade. There’s also some middle ground, but if you use them like a true fishing addict, you will eventually wear them out no matter how much they cost