Reviewed this week
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GRUNDENS
Bedrock waders
These waders are surprising.
Read the tech specs (provided on the Grundens website) and you’d expect a fairly bulky product. Not so. Somehow, Grundens has managed to make a surprisingly light and very comfortable wader using an “Ultra-Dense 100% Nylon Outer Fabric with 4-Layer Bi-Component Puncture Resistant Laminate”.
“Bedrock includes a bevy of fishing-focused features like strategically placed tackle and utility storage pockets and stretch woven gravel guards. Complete with anatomically shaped, size specific, and warming neoprene stockingfeet.”
The Bedrocks also boast a significant 30K+ submerged waterproof rating.
The strategically placed tackle and utility storage pockets are a bit of a miss. The stretch mesh is top grade, as are the zippers – storage capacity is more than ample – but the centered, vertical zipper is a recipe for losing things, especially small items. There’s a good reason that kangaroo pockets are the norm in wader design.
The gravel guards are part of why these waders feel light. They’re optimal, with a good degree of stretch for easy on/off, very light (yet made of some tough, stretchy materials), they’re just rugged enough – without going overboard as many other wader makers do.
Fit is another strongpoint. From the architectural suspender system to the overall cut, right down to the warming neoprene stockingfeet, these are waders that you’ll be happy to spend a long fishing day in.
Other things we liked:
Suitable for a wide temperature range.
Wide wading belt.
The neoprene stockingfeet excel in colder temps.
Technology suite:
Ultra-Dense 100% Nylon Outer Fabric with 4-Layer Bi-Component Puncture Resistant Laminate Provides 30K Waterproof Submerged Rating
Grundéns Wading Mobility Patterning for Ease of Movement on and off the River
Size-Specific Stockingfeet with TiAlpha Warming Neoprene
Vertical Zip Entry Chest storage Pockets / Water Resistant Zippered Hand-Warmer Pockets
Stretch-Woven Gravel Guards; 38mm Stretch Safety Wading Belt
Highly recommended.
ORVIS
PRO Hybrid wading boot
Hybrid wading boots are a rare find, leaving anglers to wonder: are they a smart innovation or an awkward compromise?
The Orvis PRO Hybrid wading boot presents an intriguing answer.
Design and Construction
This wading boot combines synthetic materials and durable rubber for a lightweight and rugged build. A padded collar and tongue enhance comfort around the ankle, reducing chafing during extended wear. A brilliantly designed lace-up system ensures a secure fit, minimizing the risk of blisters while providing stability for long days on the water. The boot's abrasion-resistant construction and water-resistant synthetic leather upper keep it light and enable it to perform well in wet conditions.
Traction and Stability
Optimal traction stems from the Michelin brand sole, which provides good grip on wet, rocky, and uneven terrain. The rubber compound excels in both dry and wet conditions. The hybrid sole features a felt component that offers enhanced grip on moss-covered rocks. This hybrid approach allows anglers to adapt to varying conditions, making the boot versatile for different types of wading.
Comfort and Fit
Designers had comfort in mind. The boot features cushioned midsoles that absorb shock, reducing fatigue during long wading sessions. Overall flexible construction allows natural foot movement while providing ample support. Its unisex fit and customizable lace-up system ensures a snug fit. High-quality Ortholite X25 foam insoles offer the perfect balance of density for durability, stability, and comfort.
After extensive testing, we determined that overall, the hybrid design strikes an excellent balance between performance and comfort, proving to be highly adaptable to various water conditions. Additionally, the boot’s lightweight construction and excellent fit make it ideal for long, arduous days spent in the water.
The Orvis PRO Hybrid Wading Boot proves to be a top contender in the market, offering an excellent choice for anglers seeking a versatile, durable, and well-constructed wading boot at a very reasonable price.
The boots fit true to size.
Other things we liked:
Extremely abrasion resistant
Top-tier lace up system
Innovative PU-cage construction eliminates seams in high-wear zones to improve durability
High quality 3D molded OrthoLite X25 insoles are just the right density, increasing stability and comfort
Felt sole securely accommodates optional studs
Large heel pull for easy on-and-off
High density laces for extended durability
Pricing makes these boots a very attractive purchase
Highly recommended.
SAGE
SONIC fly rod
In a few words, a very good “generalist” fly rod with one important, defining attribute – a brawny blank.
Sage calls the SONIC a “multi-application” rod, but we found that it’s better suited to larger water where athletic casting is a big part of your fishing day (this is also a rod to take along to new fishing spots, where there might be some unknowns. Wind? Higher than expected flow? Larger than expected fish?) The SONIC will supply you with more than ample power to cast to and land large fish - it’s a rod that, quite simply, is capable of taking on the most challenging fishing situations.
Note that the series is underrated: the 5 weight we tested fared far better when strung up with a WF6F line.
Other things we liked:
Robust line guides
Excellent mending capability
Handles even stiff winds with ease
Balances well with both modern and classic (slightly heavier) reels
Build quality supersedes price point
Premium rod tube
The SONIC may not be highly suited for targeting small fish (in small water), but note that this is one of Sage’s more innovative blanks in the last half-decade – it excels at all casting distances - even short casts, as the rod responds extremely well to compact casting strokes.
