The Simms G3 Guide wading boot, a long-time favorite among anglers, has been redesigned for 2017 with significant improvements focused on enhancing performance and durability. This review examines the key upgrades and provides a comprehensive assessment of the boot's capabilities in various wading conditions. From its redesigned sole offering superior grip to strategic reinforcements extending its lifespan, we delve into the details of these enhancements and their impact on the overall user experience.This in-depth review covers extensive field testing, comparing the boot's performance with different cleat options—the Tungsten Star and the Illuma Bite—to determine their effectiveness in diverse terrains. We explore the increased interior volume, providing enhanced comfort and warmth, and discuss the overall comfort and performance during extended periods of use. Finally, we consider the boot's value proposition, weighing its price and features against its competitors in the high-end wading boot market.
Pros And Cons
- Solid wading boot
- Top of the wading boot lineup
- More room inside for layering with heavy socks
- Higher volume boot
- Durable
- Improved sole with new tread pattern and more mounting points for cleats
- Sizing differences compared to older model
Read more: Top 5 Neoprene Fishing Boots for Ultimate Comfort & Protection
Simms G3 Guide Boot: A First Look
The Simms G3 Guide boot, a long-standing favorite, has received a refresh for 2017. This review delves into the key improvements and changes made to this popular wading boot. The manufacturer has retained the core elements that made the original boot so successful, focusing on subtle enhancements to improve overall performance and durability.
One of the most significant changes is the sole. A completely redesigned tread pattern provides enhanced grip and stability. More mounting points are included for both standard and star cleats.
Additional reinforcements have been added to high-wear areas. These strategic additions are aimed at extending the lifespan of the boot and increasing its resistance to damage from abrasion.
In-Water Performance and Comfort
The reviewer tested the G3 Guide boot extensively in various water conditions. The updated sole provided excellent traction, even on slippery rocks. The boot's design ensured stability and maintained comfort throughout.
The increased volume of the new G3 boot allows for layering with thicker socks, offering greater warmth and comfort in colder temperatures. This increased volume is possibly a result of neoprene reduction in the tongue or an entirely new sizing design.
Overall comfort and performance during extended periods of use, while wading through different water depths and terrains, were a high point of this review.
Cleat Comparison: Tungsten Star vs. Illuma Bite
The review also compared the performance of the Simms G3 Guide boot with different cleats: the Tungsten Star cleats and the Illuma Bite cleats. While the Tungsten Star cleats offered adequate grip, they did not extend as far, limiting their effectiveness on smooth, algae-free surfaces.
Conversely, the Illuma Bite cleats proved to be significantly more effective in providing superior traction even in challenging conditions. The reviewer emphasized the Illuma Bite cleats' proven performance as a favored option.
Further testing under diverse conditions is recommended to definitively compare the performance of these two cleat types across a wider range of scenarios.
Final Verdict: Simms G3 Guide Boot Review
The updated Simms G3 Guide boot retains the quality and durability of its predecessor while incorporating meaningful improvements. The enhanced sole, reinforced areas, and increased interior volume contribute to an overall better wading experience.
Although the cleat comparison remained inconclusive due to the limited testing conditions, the Illuma Bite cleats continue to be a strong contender for superior performance. The improved comfort and fit make this boot suitable for a wider range of anglers.
Considering its price point of $229 and free shipping from Trident Fly Fishing, the Simms G3 Guide boot remains a strong contender in the high-end wading boot market. If you're looking for a durable and comfortable wading boot, the G3 is worth considering.