North 40 Fly Shop eMagazine March 2018 | Página 32

2018 TOP GEAR
G3 GUIDE STOCKINGFOOT WADER
The G3 wader is Simms’ bestselling wader and has
been so for many years. When word came out that
a redesign was in the works, many wondered what
they could really do to make it worthy of a new
release. Would it simply be repackaged in a new
color scheme or completely re-engineered? We were
happy to see that it is completely re-engineered and
deserves the title of being a new wader.
COMPLETELY RE-ENGINEERED
The first sign that something special occurred was
when, in July, the fly-fishing industry voted the G3 as
the best new wader of 2017 at Icast’s new products
showcase . That’s kind of a big deal.
WHAT CHANGED?
Notably, the color changed. Customer feedback said
the older model was kind of dark, so the new model
was lightened up. They look pretty good hanging on
the wall and they look pretty good in the pictures I’ve
seen on the water. Time will tell how the color scheme
fares, but they are definitely getting noticed.
One of the biggest changes is the new 4-layer
Gore-Tex membrane exclusive to Simms. Used on the
lower portion of the wader, the new 4-layer is lighter
in weight, suppler, significantly more breathable, and
more puncture resistant. That’s four big improvements
that make a difference on the water and influence the
longevity of the wader. The fifth fabric positive from a
design standpoint is that the 4-layer now extends up
the backside over the waist. If you spend time sitting
on wet driftboat seats, you will definitely appreciate
this detail.
In the middle, the new G3 wader features
upgraded low-profile belt loops and a 2-inch
stretch wading belt to go in them. I really like the
more substantial belt and the slight stretch factor.
Up on the chest, changes include the zippered
reach-through micro-fleece-lined hand-warmer
pocket. I was not a fan of the older fold over pocket
design. I appreciate the security of the zipper and
the micro fleece is a nice touch. There is also an
outer zippered top pocket with stretch material
for securing extra items. On top of that, there is a
Velcro patch. You can either stick flies right into the
Velcro or add on a foam Super-Fly patch—a small
detail, but a good one.
Inside of the wader there is a flip-out tippet
tender pocket. It has been slightly changed and
while there is not a big difference, the new pocket
seems to stay attached better. On my old G3’s, the
tender pocket was always coming loose.
WHAT STAYED THE SAME?
Features that did not change on top are the use of
the lightweight 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell fabric. It
is very light and highly breathable and perfect where
it is placed. The adjustable elastic suspenders with
opposing buckles are basically the same, though
the buckle is slightly beefier.
On the lower portion of the waders the
patented front and back leg seams and articulated
knee remain the same. No need to change anything
there. The abrasion-resistant built-in gravel guards
and anatomically engineered neoprene stocking
foot feet are also carried forth on the new model.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Good gear allows you to wear it without fighting
it. The new G3’s are like a favorite pair of jeans. I
immediately felt at home in these waders. They are
comfortable and you forget about them and just do
your thing. That’s the best compliment I can pay to
any piece of gear. These waders retail for $499.95
and also are available int a women’s model.
- Fred Telleen, North 40 Great Falls
G3 BOOT
When you look at a fly fishing boot, most of us
only see cosmetics. At a glance, the Simms’ new
G3 boots looks great and complement any of the
Simms wader lineup nicely. I’m sure many anglers
will simply buy the G3 on looks alone, but let’s dig
a little deeper and see what the new G3 boot has
going for it.
WHAT SURROUNDS YOUR FOOT?
The height of the boot is slightly lower than the
previous G3, though not as low as the Vaportread
model. It still covers the ankle and provides good
support while being easy to pull on and off. An
additional lace-point provide a more secure fit, and
locking hardware at the ankle provides a secure
contact point to hold tension, before final lacing
and tie off. Scratch-resistant rubber extends from
the toe to the heel clip. The inside of the boot is
neoprene lined. The neoprene adds a cushioning
layer and it matches up with nicely with your
neoprene wader feet.
The multi density footbed bends with your
foot. A hard EVA exterior and soft interior provides
durability and comfort. The molded thermoplastic
polyurethane heel counter with heel clip supports
the heel and the lateral and medial sides of the