This review dives into the iWaders, a budget-friendly cold-weather wading option ideal for surf fishing. We put them to the test during a cool, cloudy day on the coast, experiencing firsthand their performance in terms of warmth, dryness, and overall comfort. This honest assessment covers not only the iWaders themselves but also the crucial pairing with Simms wading boots, which significantly impacted the overall fishing experience. We'll explore the waders' construction, durability, and their ability to keep you warm and dry even in moderately cool water temperatures.From initial unboxing and the noticeable (but fixable) odor to extended wear during a real-world surf fishing trip, we'll detail the pros and cons. Expect a comprehensive look at the comfort level, the effectiveness of the insulation and waterproofing, and how well they handled the demands of navigating a beach and shallows. We’ll also touch on the fishing success (or lack thereof) to give a full picture of the experience, making this a helpful guide for anglers considering iWaders for their next cold-weather fishing adventure.
Read more: Top 5 Fishing Waders of 2024
First Impressions and Unboxing
Upon receiving the iWaders, I was immediately struck by a rather strong, unpleasant odor. The manufacturer notes this is likely due to the plastics and manufacturing process. It's crucial to air them out for a few days before use to dissipate this smell. The initial feel was quite comfortable, even over my Columbia fishing pants.
Packaging was standard, nothing remarkable. The waders themselves seemed well-constructed and durable, with reinforced seams in key areas that I'll test in action.
I also tested the Simms wading boots which are extremely comfortable. I will link both products in the description.
On-the-Water Performance
I wore the iWaders during a cloudy day of surf fishing in relatively cool water (around 61-62°F). Even without wearing sweatpants underneath, I stayed remarkably warm and completely dry throughout the fishing session. This was a pleasant surprise given the temperature.
The waders' warmth was so effective that I had to remove my jacket at one point. This suggests excellent insulation and water resistance.
The Simms wading boots provided excellent grip and stability on the uneven beach and in the water. They maintained their comfort even after several hours of wear.
Fishing Results and Tackle
My fishing success was moderate. I caught a small surf perch after a couple of hours using Lucky Craft lures and a Carolina rig with a sandworm. The hooks on the Lucky Craft lures are known to bend easily, which I experienced. I recommend replacing them with higher quality hooks for better results.
I was fishing during low tide, which has yielded good results for me in the past. The structural reefs in the shallows near the beach have consistently proven to be productive fishing spots.
Overall Conclusion and Recommendation
The iWaders exceeded my expectations, offering superior warmth and dryness in cool conditions. The comfort level, even during extended wear, was exceptional. The Simms wading boots are a perfect companion.
For anglers seeking a budget-friendly option that provides excellent warmth and performance in colder temperatures, the iWaders are a strong contender. They are highly recommended for surf fishing. The only notable drawback is the initial smell, but proper airing resolves this issue.
Overall, the combination of iWaders and Simms wading boots provided a comfortable and successful fishing experience. For the price point, this setup is well worth considering.