Over the past decade, I’ve had wading boots fail in just about every way imaginable. I’ve had grommets rust and snap off. I’ve had a cable lacing system jam with sand, forcing me to cut the boots off my feet. I’ve had soles tear off, and I’ve had boots that just fell apart at the seams. After coming to accept that wading boots just weren’t meant to survive a full season of hard fishing, I saw the Simms OceanTek Boots.
On paper, they looked great: made with corrosion-resistant materials and a heavy-duty sole capable of receiving screw-in studs for added traction. But, how would they perform when the rubber hit the road … and the rocks, beaches and rivers?
After six months of heavy use, the Simms OceanTek boots hardly show any wear at all. They fit comfortably, are easy to get on and off, and feel great even after long walks to out- of-the-way fishing spots. The boots are heavier than some others on the market, but that’s a trade-off I’ll happily make for their greater durability.
how would you size them with a 2mm neoprene sock underneath ? same as regular shoe size(12) or size up 1 like an athletic shoe or more ?
Charlie,
I went with the same size I go with for regular shoes, and they are a perfect fit over stocking foot waders.
how about trapping sand?
John hit the nail on the head , EVERY pair of wading boots/shoes fails the sand test , they all allow sand to sneak through the mesh or top and it builds up in the toe box even when wearing protective gaiters .
For the love of God somebody make comfortable wading footwear that truly keeps sand out !!!!
Just noticed foot sole started to separate from the shoe, will try to get them either repaired or replaced if it still possible. Really used to like my Oceanteks.