Korkers

Author
OldSalt
Expert Angler
  • Total Posts : 307
  • Reward points: 0
  • Joined: 2005/08/19 18:50:56
  • Status: offline
2011/09/06 13:43:34 (permalink)

Korkers

Need some feedback...

I have been rebuilding my originals (many pairs) for the last 10+ years, lace up style and even the buckle type when they came out. I've put new buckles on, new laces, I re-do the screws with SS every year....so is it worth it vs buying the newer bootfoot version with the interchangable soles..

Has anyone here worn the new version year 'round thru moss,snow and ice...and have they held up ??

I'm also concerned about the wire lace snapping in the bitter winter temps.

Thanks in advance for the input

OldSalt
post edited by OldSalt - 2011/09/06 13:44:25

OldSalt
#1

21 Replies Related Threads

    ssgt12
    Avid Angler
    • Total Posts : 155
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2010/08/11 18:49:41
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 13:52:07 (permalink)
    i have the cabelas boot with the tungstin tips they work pretty good and have held up for a couple of years last year i bought a prair with the screws i go to lowes and buy the ss screws for a couple of bucks and get 50 per pack ive used them in -10 to 60 snow and ice no problems and they seem to be holding up the tungstin ones are good but i cant change them so when they wear out thats it
    #2
    AK Skim
    Novice Angler
    • Total Posts : 53
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2006/10/09 13:57:12
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 14:07:25 (permalink)
    I have worn Korker wading boots for years when they had the valcro straps holding them in place.



    The boots hold up extremely well, and the replaceable soles do take a beating, and with minimal care will surprise you how well they will last.



    Key is to inspect them often, and make adjustments as seen fit.



    My korker soles last about 4 years before I have to replace them.



    I don't think there is a better pair of wading boots out on the market.

    From spring creek fishing with the felt soles, to hiking through the snow without (not wearing the snow catching felts) a problem.

    Course I haven't worn and Chotas or Simms.

    They have the newer style with the wire twist lacing system, I just bought an extra pair of the same model boots I have because I understand they are being discontinued.

    I highly recommend these.
    #3
    hot tuna
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 6388
    • Reward points: 0
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 14:13:18 (permalink)
    Salt, my only experience from the Korkers wading boots are through 2 fellow anglers I fish with.. 1 is a full time guide, the other a frequent hiker - fisherman..

    Both gave me negative feed back.. over a short time the lock (slip ) in becomes worn & sloppy so they fall out while walking/wading.. Something you just don't want to happen while crossing a river..

    The only positive I got was that they were comfortable but still no matter how the feel it's about performance..


    Now more and more manufactures are coming out with the vibram sole with studs..
    In fishing with a friend using a new boot with vibram without the studs put in he hated them..
    I hate rubber soles too and am very fond of felt, just be it not in winter.. Sometimes I like studs, sometimes not . I have 2 pair wading boots, 1- felt w/studs, 1- just felt.. I guess if I was smart enough I would just remove the studs when I don't want them in but I still use the old style korkers sandals in winter and when needed duct tape the things to your boots..


    All that said, If you really want to try the korker boots, sierra trading post had them pretty cheap..

    "whats that smell like fish oh baby" .. J. Kaukonen
    #4
    AK Skim
    Novice Angler
    • Total Posts : 53
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2006/10/09 13:57:12
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 14:46:15 (permalink)

    ORIGINAL: hot tuna

    korkers sandals in winter and when needed duct tape the things to your boots..



    I have the sandals permanently attached my LL Bean 5.5 mm neoprene boot-foot waders.

    I saw how they used a sheet rock screw at All Season Sports to attach the heel of the korkers into the heel of the boot.
    Just have to lace up from front part and never have to worry after that.

    Just have to tie a good knot.

    I can spot a Jar Head a mile off by their knot tying ability or lack there of.

    Can't tie a knot, tie a lot
    #5
    dimebrite
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 3207
    • Reward points: 0
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 15:01:04 (permalink)

    ORIGINAL: AK Skim



    I saw how they used a sheet rock screw at All Season Sports to attach the heel of the korkers into the heel of the boot.
    Just have to lace up from front part and never have to worry after that.

    Just have to tie a good knot.

    I can spot a Jar Head a mile off by their knot tying ability or lack there of.

    Can't tie a knot, tie a lot



    Not dissing all seasons here as I go there primarily; but; I first witnessed the screw attachment to the heal in whitakers back when rusher was running it it is a great practice;

    Ps.... hey salt, my father has the newest edition of the korker boots with the built in/ removable soles.... he does like them but they are new, so no input on durability... IMO; out of all models and makes I've tried; nothing beats the original korkers....
    #6
    hot tuna
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 6388
    • Reward points: 0
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 15:04:49 (permalink)

    ORIGINAL: AK Skim


    ORIGINAL: hot tuna

    korkers sandals in winter and when needed duct tape the things to your boots..



    I have the sandals permanently attached my LL Bean 5.5 mm neoprene boot-foot waders.

    I saw how they used a sheet rock screw at All Season Sports to attach the heel of the korkers into the heel of the boot.
    Just have to lace up from front part and never have to worry after that.

    Just have to tie a good knot.

    I can spot a Jar Head a mile off by their knot tying ability or lack there of.

    Can't tie a knot, tie a lot



    good thing I'm a deadhead


    "whats that smell like fish oh baby" .. J. Kaukonen
    #7
    eagleed
    Expert Angler
    • Total Posts : 425
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2004/03/22 20:20:33
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 16:32:35 (permalink)
    I have felt soled waders that I soak in bleach, so I don't carry any creatures to the various spots I fish.  However, I also use titanium screws (3/4") attached to the sole that I get at Tractor Supply.  Best to use some Super Glue on them when putting them on the waders.  I then get a good style Dr. Scholl's Foot liner to put inside the waders to cushion my feet from any screws that may come through.
    Every other year (2 yrs.) I just attach another 16-18 screws to replace all that were on each wader sole/heel.  Seems to be doing the trick for me.  I've had my Hodges Chest Waders for over ten years.

    Eagle Ed
    post edited by eagleed - 2011/09/06 16:33:45
    #8
    fichy
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 1899
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2011/06/15 16:12:51
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 19:33:30 (permalink)
    The old convertible Korkers were pieces of crap. Some guide freinds and I  had a burning party for them on a river in Ca.  They were OK if you don't fish much, or don't go far. They  were unreliable. The new ones may hold thier soles better. I would look elsewhere if you fish alot.
    #9
    pistolpete76
    Avid Angler
    • Total Posts : 214
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2011/01/05 17:25:56
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 19:48:39 (permalink)
    Eagle, I tried what you do with the screws. Works great and cheap. Try Kold Kutter screws. They are made for motorcycle ice racing. Work great on the snowblower tires too.
    #10
    hot tuna
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 6388
    • Reward points: 0
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 19:52:38 (permalink)
    Thanks fichy, that pretty much confirms what they told me and reason I avoided them..
    It just seems that if something on the bottom of your foot is slid in and tabbed on, gets a lot of use will fail sooner then later..

    Now I bought a pair of Chotla stl boots when they first came out and HATE them.. To me they are sloppy , over priced and the screws (studs) are nothing more then hardware screws..

    I have heard RAVE comments on the old simms guide boots.. Sadly I opted for the cheap big box brand which work well but are toast by the end of second season..

    I recommend the Simms (not vibram) and here is something you might want to wait on..



    Simms will reintroduce felt-soled wading boots to our product line in Spring of 2012 on three of our boot styles: Guide, Freestone and Headwaters. This was not an easy decision for Simms.
    In the past few years, Simm's have received a lot of feedback regarding felt from guides, consumers, and dealers. After additional follow-up and serious consideration, they made the decision to give anglers a choice.
    post edited by hot tuna - 2011/09/06 19:54:19

    "whats that smell like fish oh baby" .. J. Kaukonen
    #11
    bingsbaits
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 5035
    • Reward points: 0
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 19:53:34 (permalink)
    If you are putting in your own screws, go to a motorcycle or snowmobile shop and get some ice screws.

    They will outlast the cheaper screws 10-1. Only $20 for a couple hundred of them..


    "There is a pleasure in Angling that no one knows but the Angler himself". WB
     
     


    #12
    metalslayer
    Expert Angler
    • Total Posts : 689
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2002/08/29 20:48:57
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 20:45:06 (permalink)
    Tunes--I LOVE my Chotas--feel like a feather---just keep the screws fresh(from a motorcycle shop)---in the winter I use the Hodgeman spikes--the in-laws brought a Dicks gift card and that was all they had---others have given bad reports---but the 2pr I have owned have held up well w/ ALOT of use--and I aint as thin as I used to b.

    Steel on a pin---so easy a caveman can do it.
    #13
    eagleed
    Expert Angler
    • Total Posts : 425
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2004/03/22 20:20:33
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/06 21:08:37 (permalink)
    Pete:

    I will give them a try and thanks for the advice.  They sure look like they would do the job.  Don't forget to use the Super Glue to seal them in place.

    Eagle Ed
    ORIGINAL: pistolpete76

    Eagle, I tried what you do with the screws. Works great and cheap. Try Kold Kutter screws. They are made for motorcycle ice racing. Work great on the snowblower tires too.
    #14
    OldSalt
    Expert Angler
    • Total Posts : 307
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2005/08/19 18:50:56
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/07 08:48:10 (permalink)

    ORIGINAL: fichy

    The old convertible Korkers were pieces of crap. Some guide freinds and I  had a burning party for them on a river in Ca. 




    Hey fichy,

    How old do you mean, the original type..? Saw some older models being discontinued with laces.

    Anyway thanks for the replies, guys...good info...think I'm gonna keep rebuilding my korkers..sandal type.

    Tuna...I like the felts also and with the korkers on they seem to fit snug and protect my feet from all my longer than needed

    screws..

    OldSalt
    #15
    fichy
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 1899
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2011/06/15 16:12:51
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/07 10:56:41 (permalink)
    OS, they were the ones that had a rounded front on the removable sole . Newer models  are squared off and have the Boa lacing system which  can freeze up . I've heard OK reviews on the fixed sole models. The sandals have been around along time and are great for what they are intended for, as you already know.  
    I use to use them on the breachways in Rhode Island. Slippery, and waves washing over. You needed all the help you could get, especially with a big striper on. Those removable POS's almost had me swimming off a mussel bar 1/4 mile offshore on the start of the incoming. I now use the screw in carbide studs in rubber soles. They are OK and a little less tiring to walk long distances in. No snow build-up in the winter is a big plus for me. Those sandals are SAFE.  I get a few more years on, I'll be using them again.
     
    Charlie
    #16
    OldSalt
    Expert Angler
    • Total Posts : 307
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2005/08/19 18:50:56
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/09 00:17:26 (permalink)
    Yea ...I agree... spent the day rebuilding some old pairs...






    post edited by OldSalt - 2011/09/09 00:41:33

    Attachment(s)

    Attachments are not available: Download requirements not met

    OldSalt
    #17
    waDerboy
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 1910
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2004/10/01 14:48:10
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/09 04:48:03 (permalink)
    I learned that whoever said get a GOOD prar of insoles is a genius.
    First stab at the screw deal.
    I will be working on the placement.
    Worked well on the rocks but the walk out was a bit slow.
    #18
    pistolpete76
    Avid Angler
    • Total Posts : 214
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2011/01/05 17:25:56
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/09 08:05:30 (permalink)
    I agree with the insole advise. The screws also came from this forum. First try, I did get a pinhole. No big deal, glued insoles in with Aquaseal or Shoo Goo. Working great. It was my best solution last winter when cash was REAL tight.Got my eyes on a pair of stocking foot breathables for this season.
    #19
    waDerboy
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 1910
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2004/10/01 14:48:10
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/09 10:10:01 (permalink)
    For me it wasn't anything more then bumps but it was like having a pebble in the same place while walking a couple miles.
    Not a problem till after the first mile and then knowing you have that same mile back out.
    Gonna work on the screw placement angle too.
    #20
    eagleed
    Expert Angler
    • Total Posts : 425
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2004/03/22 20:20:33
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/09 10:20:47 (permalink)
    Don't forget to use the gel type Dr. Scholls insoles.  They cover any screws that might come through and also give a nice cushion to relax your feet while fishing.  Even more important is to use the Super Glue to seal in the screws so there are no leaks.


    Eagle Ed
    #21
    pafisher
    Pro Angler
    • Total Posts : 3000
    • Reward points: 0
    • Joined: 2002/08/15 11:14:30
    • Status: offline
    RE: Korkers 2011/09/09 10:56:14 (permalink)
    I tried something that works for me.I have a pair of heavy neos with insulated boot.I added screws to the heel only because I did n't want to chance a leak on the soles and that works for me on those boots.
    #22
    Jump to: