Review of Simms G3 Wading Boots: Built for the Long Haul

When it comes to wading boots, the Simms G3 is a name that often comes up in conversations among seasoned anglers. Known for its durability and high-quality construction, the G3 is a boot that promises to withstand the test of time. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.

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Initial Impressions of Simms G3 Wading Boots

Unboxing a pair of Simms G3 boots is always a treat. The boots look massive, even for my size, and the craftsmanship is evident right from the get-go. With double and triple stitching, these boots are clearly built for those who spend a significant amount of time in the water.

Scoring the G3’s

I’ve put the Simms G3 Wading Boots through their paces over the course of at least 7 fishing outings to arrive at the scores you’ll see below. These ratings are based on comprehensive tests that I’ve conducted on a total of 11 different pairs of wading boots.

My evaluations included both in-water performance tests and bench assessments, where I used a scale to weigh each pair of boots. It’s worth noting that the boots I tested span a wide range of price points, from as low as $78 to as high as $499.

Characteristic	Score	Comments
Initial Impressions	5	Excellent craftsmanship, double and triple stitching
Comfort and Fit	3	Good toe area but could use more ankle cushion
Sizing and Fit	3	Wide range of sizes but confusing sizing information
Walking Comfort and Flexibility	3	Decent ankle support but stiff sole
Traction and Grip	4	Excellent felt soles for grip
Provisions for Cleats and Studs	3	Markings available but no bosses
Value and Cost	3	High-end pricing
Weight and Drainage	2	Heavy and poor drainage
Durability	5	Excellent construction with quality materials
Versatility	3	Good for specific conditions but not versatile
Lacing System	4	Strong eyelets but weaker laces
Independent Customer Reviews	4	Mostly positive but some minor issues noted

Final Score: 40 out of 60

The Simms G3 Wading Boots are a bit of a mixed bag for me. They excel in durability with top-notch stitching, but they’re not my go-to for a casual day on the river. The comfort is decent, but the ankle cushion could be better.

Traction is solid thanks to the felt soles, but adding studs is just average. At $300, they’re pricey and a bit heavy, and they don’t drain as well as I’d like. Overall, they’re built to last but have room for improvement in comfort and versatility.

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Comfort and Fit

The G3s offer a snug fit with adequate room in the toe area, which is crucial for those colder fishing days. However, the boots could use a bit more cushioning around the ankle area to prevent rubbing when laced tightly.

Sizing and Fit of Simms G3

The G3 comes in a wide range of sizes, from 7 to 16, but the sizing information is not as straightforward as one would hope. A quick Google search is needed to clarify whether to size up or stay true to size.

Walking Comfort and Flexibility

The sole of the G3 is on the stiffer side, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, the boots offer decent ankle support, making them suitable for longer fishing trips.

Traction and Grip of Simms G3

The felt soles of the G3 provide excellent traction, especially on slippery surfaces. The material feels softer than other brands, which seems to enhance grip while wading.

Provisions for Cleats and Studs

While the felt soles do not have bosses for studs, they do have markings indicating where studs can be added. However, the lack of bosses means that the studs will protrude more than usual, which could be a trip hazard or could tear out.

Value and Cost

Priced at $300, the G3s are on the higher end of the wading boot spectrum. While they offer excellent durability, their hefty price tag may not be justified for everyone, especially given some of the minor comfort issues.

Weight and Drainage

The G3s are on the heavier side, weighing 64 oz when dry and 77 oz when wet. Additionally, the boots do not drain as well as one would hope, retaining about 6 oz of water.

Durability of Simms G3

If there’s one area where the G3s excel, it’s durability. The boots are constructed with quality leather and feature double and triple stitching. The felt soles are both stitched and glued, promising a long lifespan.

Versatility

The G3s are not the most versatile boots on the market. While they would be excellent for winter fishing, the felt soles make them less than ideal for snowy conditions.

Lacing System

I’ve got the BOA system and honestly wouldn’t recommend this lacing system to folks. It adds complexity to something that should be simple.

The lacing system on the G3s is robust, featuring metal eyelets and quick lace loops. However, the laces themselves could be stronger, and the raised loops may catch on underwater obstacles.

What Other Folks are Saying about the G3’s

The G3s have received mostly positive reviews, with customers praising their durability and traction. However, some users have pointed out minor issues, such as the placement of the D-rings and the strength of the laces.

Final Recommendations

If you’re an angler who spends a lot of time wading in challenging conditions and you don’t mind splurging a bit, the Simms G3 could be the boot for you. However, if you’re looking for something more versatile and budget-friendly, there might be better options out there.

Testing Method

To evaluate these boots, I wore them on multiple fishing trips, focusing on their comfort, traction, and durability. I also tested their drainage capabilities by submerging them in water and measuring the retained water weight.

One Last Cast with the Simms G3’s

The Simms G3 wading boots are a durable, high-quality option for serious anglers. While they do have some minor drawbacks, such as their weight and lack of versatility, their strengths in durability and traction make them a solid choice for those willing to invest in a long-lasting pair of boots.

More information about the G3’s

I found three additional resources that provide reviews and insights on the Simms G3 Wading Boots:

1. Official Simms G3 Guide Wading Boots page
   • The Simms G3 Guide Wading Boots are designed for durability and support, ideal for professional guides who spend over 200 days on the river. They feature a waterproof nubuck leather upper, high abrasion textile, and a dual-density midsole for shock absorption.
2. Hatch Magazine – Review: Simms G3 Guide Boot
   • This review covers the grip, fit, and feel of the Simms G3 boots. It also mentions the high collar design for ankle support and the flexibility of the boot for hiking along unstable banks.
3. Simms G3 Guide Boot Review – Wadinglab
   • This review emphasizes the ankle support and flexibility of the boots. It also discusses the joint design that allows for more movement.