Over the Hill
Posts: 515
Joined: 3/28/2007 Status: online
|
I got a pair of Redball lightweights about 12 yrs. ago. Not a drop of water inside yet, knock wood! Very light, great for walking long distances to honeyholes. They're extra tall too so I don't blow out the crotches like the other waders I had in the past. Factory felt soles are really good, great grip. In the winter, I put on extra wool/acrylic socks and a pair of sweat pants over my jeans. Cost me about $89.00 back then. If they still make them, I would recommend checking them out. Heard that LaCrosse bought them out. My dad and brother are Hodgen's fans. Tough boots that have lasted them many years. I'm pretty sure my dad had a pair that were Hodges and lasted him something like 35 years. That includes a 12-15 yr. stretch that he wasn't hitting the rivers much, more time in boats on lakes. Storing your waders properly will get you more years out of them. Moist cool area preffered. No direct sunlight. Don't keep them in the trunk of your car! Uh... they dry rot faster! Trust me! I keep a tube of GOOP sealant in my vehicle with good duct tape. In the field years ago I had seam and dry spot leaks. Cleaned off the wader with starting fluid (kept it in the truck because of damp day starting) put on the GOOP in a glob, then covered it with duct tape. Held for a 3/4 day salmon fishing, no more leak. Pealed it off that night in the motel and cleaned it, resealed it with a light coat, then a final coat. would last a pretty good time before I would have to reaseal it. GOOP is pretty good stuff, goes on "thick" so to speak and then it flattens itself out and spreads as it dries. I think it lasts longer than standard 100% silicone. I use it on my Sorel pack boots also. They're about 23-25 yrs. old? The rubber bottoms cracked on the boots and the GOOP bonds VERY well to the rubber and has yet to crack, flexes great and keeps the water out.
< Message edited by Over the Hill -- 9/4/2008 1:26:44 PM >
_____________________________
OVER THE HILL Some people are like slinky's; not really good for anything, but, they bring a smile to your face when you push them down the stairs...
|