Overview

The Orvis Clearwater is the wading boot we suggest most when someone wants a good boot without spending a lot. It is a sturdy, comfortable boot at a value price. The synthetic leather upper has few seams to wear out, and scratch rubber on the toe, vamp and heel plus a heavy rubber toe bumper take the knocks of rocky rivers.

Inside, an EVA foam footbed gives a roomier fit and all-day comfort, and a phylon midsole with a stabilizing plate keeps you steady and holds studs well. This rubber version has an aggressive lug pattern with set spots for studs, so it works on the trail to the river and in the water. Men's whole sizes 7 to 15.

Which wading boot is right for you? Felt soles grip best on slick, algae-covered rock, but some states and parks restrict felt, and it is slippery on mud, snow and trails. Rubber soles are legal everywhere, better for hiking in, and take studs for extra grip. For the best value, the Orvis Clearwater comes in rubber or felt. Most Korkers boots let you swap soles in seconds: the Bantam Lite is the budget pick with felt and rubber included, the DarkHorse and Devil's Canyon add BOA dial lacing, and the River Ops is the toughest. The Simms Freestone is a proven mid-price boot, and the Simms G3 Guide is built for anglers who wade nearly every day. Try boots on over your wader booties, not bare socks.