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Rating:  [2 of 5]
Reviewed by: Erik on 05/06/2009
Experience Level: Amatuer - Ownership: 1 - 4 Months |
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Pros: Good construction from the knees down. Excellent neoprene and ergonomic design in feet and knees. |
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Cons: Convertible system is poorly designed. Velcro connection fails when moving under/over objects (climbing around things). The seat of waders if very thin, the G3 convertibles are not the same as the regular G3's in seat and chest material construction. I believe Simms used a lighter weight (or less layers) in an attempt to reduce bulk when wearing the waders as "pants" rather than chest waders. The neoprene gravel guards develop holes after two weeks of use, but I haven't found any gravel guards that hold up well to hiking long distances, so this is an insignificant point. Chaffing in thighs created holes, that leak (I'm 5'9" and 160lbs and own size Medium G3's, not chaffing because I'm bulking out the waders.). Elastic drawstring at top opening would be nice to keep in warmth and help prevent water entry on sketchy crossings. |
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Other Thoughts: I hike long distances in these waders (Up to 20 miles per day, 3 days a week, for four months). I wanted the G3's so I could vent while hiking by dropping the chest area down to the waist. This works, however the waders don't hold up well. I have owned the Patagonia Watermasters and use them in the same way, convert for breath ability when hiking. The Patagonia's hold up much better and have a far superior button system. I would of thought that Velcro would be better than buttons, but after owning both, I now know buttons are much more secure.
I'm in the process of exchanging my G3 Convertibles with Simms at this time. I would get my money back if possible, but I have a feeling all they will offer is credit.
The ideal wader would be the G4's with a button system that allows for dropping the chest part to waist for hiking. No fancy zippers or anything like that, just a simple system that allows for quick ventilation while hiking. They would also include an elastic drawstring at top to quickly seal around chest when needed.
Hopefully someone from Simms reads this... |
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[5 of 5]