Category:
fly fishing industry fly fishing waders redington sonic pro waders Review
Added Date:
Thursday, 23 Aug, 2012
Summary
I held my breath while doing it, but over the last two years I wore and reviewed two pair of sonic-welded seam fly fishing waders, and I'm happy to report I remain dry.
Content
Redington Sonic Pro Zip Front Waders
I held my breath while doing it, but over the last two years I wore and reviewed two pair of sonic-welded seam fly fishing waders, and I'm happy to report I remain dry. (I review the Orvis Pack & Travel waders here). The sonic seams never failed, and even better, I was impressed by the Redington Sonic Pro Zip Front waders. In simple terms, they're astonishingly good. The sonic seam technology is interesting; instead of sewing seams together -- which are taped to become waterproof -- Redington "welds" the two pieces of fabric together with sound, which they suggest results in a longer-wearing, more comfortable seam.
I can't speak to the durability of the Redington waders beyond the nine months I used them, but I wore a pair of Orvis SonicSeam waders for two seasons with no leaks. So far, so good. But first, a few words about that big zipper running down the front of the Sonic Pro Zip Front waders.
What's The Zipper Worth?
 Everyday waders -- which I liked a lotAt the start of this test, I viewed zippered waders with some suspicion. In this case, the zipper adds $100 to the cost of the Sonic Pro wader ($279 to $379), and the reasons often cited for its use (easier to put waders on, easier to take a wiz) aren't exactly compelling. In fact, after using them, I wouldn't consider paying $100 for ease of assembly. But I might consider paying the extra $100 for something else. Ventilation. The first time I wore the Redington Sonic Pros was early winter. Thinking I'd spend hours standing hip-deep in 45 degree water only a couple hundred yards from the car, I layered for warmth. So when I arrived and found someone else already fishing, I needed to take a hike down the railroad tracks. Which meant I was about to do a reasonable imitation of a sweat ball. Then I remembered the zipper. My brother told me about a backcountry equipment geek who attached sensors to his body so he could measure the breathability of hardshell jackets. He found differences between different jacket fabrics, but all those differences paled in relationship to the simple act of unzipping the zipper (or pit zips). In other words, breathable fabrics are all well and nice, but nothing works like ventilation. Which is what the zipper provided on these waders. Since that day I've fished these waders in cold and hot, and learned several important lessons:
- The zipper is a great way to ventilate yourself when hiking in waders
- Manufacturers who tout zippers because they make it easier to wiz are missing the boat
- You really, really don't want to forget you're unzipped when wading into icy, waist-deep water (zoinks!)
Zipper Or Not, They Were Excellent
Beyond the zipper, the Redingtons were simply excellent. For me, a key test of a wader is what happens when you try to step over a sizable log. Does it bind, leaving you stuck halfway over and feeling helpless? In that sense, the Redingtons were champs; the freedom of movement was exceptional, and I never once experienced a problem getting over obstacles (or even into trouble). It was a little like I was wearing jeans (given the differences in fit, I obviously can't guarantee the same for you). Two outside handwarmer pockets, two outside vertical zip pockets and an internal zip pocket provide more storage than waders probably need, and extra layers of fabric on the lower leg should help protect you from the dreaded pinhole leak.
The straps were substantial, and the waders include built-in gravel guards (which I could easily live without).
One caveat; the first time I wore the Redingtons the seams in the (ahem) crotch area were a little stiff. To say I experienced some discomfort on that first hike is akin to saying Donald Trump is a little irritating.
By the second trip the problem was gone, but I suggest your first trip in your shiny new Redington waders shouldn't involve a lot of hiking.
You've been warned.
Also, these are a traditional wader design; they don't quickly convert to a wader pant (like some other designs), though the existence of the zipper would tend to offset that limitation.
They also feature built-in gravel guards, which are common, but I don't love them. Call it a pet peeve.
The Big Summary
Somebody at Redington was paying attention; these are not bargain-brand knockoffs featuring an attractive price and an utter lack of refinement.
They function and fit beautifully, and I tended to forget I had them on. I won't pretend I've worn every wader on the market, but I will say I'd buy these and wear them every day.
I was impressed enough that when a guide started looking for a new source of waders for himself and his rental waders, I suggested he look very, very hard at Redington's gear.
Obviously, I didn't test these waders to destruction and can't speak to the years-long durability of the sonic seams, but then, I've never had a pair of waders last a year before the inevitable pinholes or seam leaks appeared.
My limited experience suggests sonic-welded seams are not a gimmick. Whether their advantages really accrue to anglers (last longer, more comfortable) or manufacturers (cheaper to make) isn't clear yet, though I know we'll see more of them.
One more thing: You can buy a pair of zipperless Redington Sonic Pro waders for $279 (MSRP) instead of the zippered model's $379 price tag, so the question of the zipper's value is more than philosophical in nature.
If you hike a lot then maybe... yes. If not, then consider saving your cash.
Either way, I liked these waders.
See you nice and dry, Tom Chandler.
(2)
This is a small town with a big heart, a veritable fisherman’s paradise. Located near the fish-filled Madison River, and surrounded by the waters of Ennis Lake, the Ruby River, Hebgen ... moreLake, Quake Lake, Henry’s Lake, the Big Hole River and scores of smaller streams, the town boasts what many consider the best trout fishing in the world. As well known for its wranglers as its anglers, Ennis has succeeded in maintaining the look and feel of its original, gold town roots. Warm and hospitable, the area offers a wide variety of accommodations ranging from simple campsites, rustic motels and gracious hotels, to full-service, luxury resorts. Fly shops are numerous, stocked by local experts ready to advise and assist, while guides can be booked for trips throughout the area.
Boredom is the only thing unavailable in Ennis. Throughout the summer season the city hosts a series of events, including its renowned 4th of July Celebration Parade and a genuine, old-fashioned rodeo. In August, fly-fishing luminaries from around the US, flock to Montana to compete in the Madison Fly Fishing Festival. Athletes also find their way to Ennis to compete in the city’s Madison Trifecta, two shorter races followed by a full Marathon at 9000 feet, the highest elevation run in America. For the true sportsman, October falls in with the annual Hunter’s Feed. What’s caught, typically elk, moose deer, pheasant and bobcat, gets cooked on the streets and served up to hungry spectators.
Flanked by three grand mountain ranges, The Tobacco Root, Gravelly and Madison, Ennis is scenic and entertaining – truly an authentic, fly fisher’s haven.
(5)
The Madison River is arguably one of the best trout fishing rivers in all of southwest Montana, if not the entire world! It’s certainly the most talked over, written up and frequented ... morein the state of Montana – which is considered by some the capital of fly fishing. Anglers will find plenty of great access sites to wade or float along the Madison’s banks and reservoirs (including Hebgen Lake and Ennis Lake). Rainbows, browns, cutthroats, and more abound in this majestic fishing stream.
The Madison begins its course almost twenty miles into Yellowstone National Park. Within the Park, fishing rules apply: no live bait and catch and release only. Once outside the Park the river meanders past working ranches, stately conifer forests and cottonwood lined banks, interrupted by riffles and quiet runs that contain large rainbow and trophy brown trout. Flowing alongside Yellowstone’s West entrance road, the river enters Hebgen Lake, created by Hebgen dam, until it reaches Quake Lake, a bit downstream from the dam. At this point the river is commonly called either the Upper Madison or the Lower Madison, although in fact, they are one and the same.
Upper Madison – Quake Lake to Ennis Lake
Directly below Quake Lake the river roars into 5 long miles of Class V whitewater with steep gradients and large boulders along the way. As the rapids decline, the magic begins. For the next 53 miles, often referred to as the 50 Mile Riffle, the cold river runs north and the fish jump high. Annual runs of spawning trout make their way from Hebgen Lake, rainbows in the spring and browns in the fall. Known the world over for its “hard fighting” trout, it’s not unusual to pull a 25” brown from these upper waters. In deference to the purists and fly-fishing enthusiasts, it’s wading only from Quake Lake to Lyons Bridge. Boats may be used to access the river, but if you’re going to fish, your feet must be on the riverbed. Fortunately, the Hebgen Dam releases water throughout the year, leveling its flows and relieving it of spring runoff issues and summer shrinkage.
Lower Madison – Ennis Lakes to Three Forks
A short section of the river between Ennis Dam and the power station maintains relatively low water levels and provides wonderful opportunities for wading. Past the power station the river regains its muscle and for 7 miles winds through Bear Trap Canyon. Hiking trails offer the only entry, great for those that like to walk and seek the solitude of a designated wilderness area. Floating is permitted but requires a lengthy shuttle and the ability to work through Class III-IV whitewater. Once out of the canyon the river flows in shallow riffles until it reaches Three Forks and joins the Missouri. From Warm Springs to Greycliff, the river is easily accessible for drifters and wading.
The Lower Madison provides memorable Montana angling adventures. The river begins below Ennis Lake, flows through the majestic Beartrap Canyon and 35 miles downstream to the Headwaters ... moreof the Missouri River. Because it is dam-controlled, the Lower Madison can be reliable when stream flows are higher in the Spring, and in late Fall when water temperatures start to drop elsewhere. Although not as well known as its upstream neighbor, The Upper Madison, the Lower is an exceptional fishery that can produce trout in attractive numbers and size. The Lower Madison is mostly known as a Brown and Rainbow trout fishery, though some cutthroats do exist in the river. Prolific hatches and large numbers of crayfish and sculpins make for very well-fed fish in The Lower Madison.
Come to the Madison River Valley for some spring fishing on the Madison River before run-off begins mid-May. Fly fishing the warmer days of spring can be very productive on the Madison ... moreRiver in Montana. Fish streamers, nymphs and baetis dries. The fishing pressure is minimal in springtime near Ennis and Cameron, Montana. Spend a day with a fly fishing guide from Riverborn Outfitters and the Rainbow Valley Lodge, and fish for huge rainbows and big brown trout in March and April.
As of 2016, there is no closed season for the Madison River. This is your opportunity to fish for hungry rainbows and browns which are coming off a long winter. And we have special prices! Two Nights Spring Fishing Package is based on Double Occupancy.
If you don't like dirt roads, small rivers and big trout, then this is not the river for you! Located in the heart of the Ruby valley and just outside the town of Alder, Montana, the ... morearea is brimming with history and rustic charm. The Ruby is a river you hear a lot about but don't get many specifics. And, that's the way the locals like it. That's where MFFT comes in--we know which turns to make, which flies to fish and which bridges are public and where all those Rocky Mountain jewels, that we call trout, live and play.
Welcome to Zach Neville Outfitters. With over 10 years experience, we are one of Bozeman, Montana's premiere fly fishing guide services. We offer float and walk/wade fly fishing trips ... moreon southwest Montana's finest trout waters. Here in Bozeman we are centrally located among The Yellowstone, Madison, Gallatin, Missouri and Bighorn rivers. In addition to this, we have access to some of the best private water in the region. At Zach Neville Outfitters it is our mission to provide you with a fun, safe and educational day on the water regardless of your background or level of experience.
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