06-24-2003, 07:37 PM
[cool]I haven't had any personal experience with the Stearns waders, although they do make them in XXL, and for about the same price range as the Hodgman. Overall, Stearns has a good reputation in the sporting equipment industry. They make a line of float tubes and also floatation vests and other accessories. I have never heard anything bad about any of their equipment.
I don't know where you heard they don't last long. I would suggest that you take good care of the ones you have and make your own decision. If they hold up for more than a couple of years of heavy use, they are as good as anything on the market. On the other hand, if they leak the first time you take them in the water, you need to replace them until you get a pair that does not leak. And, if they stay dry the first couple of outings, chances are they will stay dry until you poke a hole in them with a fish spine...or rip out a seam while trying to do more than you should while wearing waders.
How long have you had them...and do you rinse them in fresh water after fishing in the salt? That can help prolong the life too.
TubeDude
[signature]
I don't know where you heard they don't last long. I would suggest that you take good care of the ones you have and make your own decision. If they hold up for more than a couple of years of heavy use, they are as good as anything on the market. On the other hand, if they leak the first time you take them in the water, you need to replace them until you get a pair that does not leak. And, if they stay dry the first couple of outings, chances are they will stay dry until you poke a hole in them with a fish spine...or rip out a seam while trying to do more than you should while wearing waders.
How long have you had them...and do you rinse them in fresh water after fishing in the salt? That can help prolong the life too.
TubeDude
[signature]