“Wading boots” and “waders” are both types of specialized footwear used in activities that involve moving through water, such as fly fishing or waterfowl hunting.

Typically, waders are a one-piece garment that covers the body from the feet to the chest, with attached boots or booties made of the same waterproof material. Wading boots, on the other hand, are separate footwear designed to be worn over the neoprene feet of stockingfoot waders.

Here’s how you would typically pair them:

Bootfoot Waders: Bootfoot waders are essentially a one-piece suit, typically made of a waterproof material such as neoprene or breathable fabrics, that extends from the wearer’s feet to their chest. The ‘boot’ part of the wader is built into the suit, and it’s designed to be waterproof and relatively sturdy. This design is convenient because it eliminates the need for separate footwear, making it easier and quicker to put on and take off.

However, bootfoot waders can be heavier and bulkier than their stockingfoot counterparts, which might make them a bit more cumbersome to transport. Also, because the boot is integrated into the wader, you cannot customize the fit of the boot or replace it if it gets worn out or damaged.

Stockingfoot Waders: Stockingfoot waders, like bootfoot waders, are a one-piece suit that extends from the wearer’s feet to their chest. However, instead of having a built-in boot, stockingfoot waders end in a sock-like foot made of neoprene or another waterproof material. This sock is not meant to be used on its own, as it lacks the durability, support, and traction that would be needed to safely navigate a slippery riverbed or other water environments.

To make up for this, stockingfoot waders are meant to be used in conjunction with separate wading boots. Wading boots are designed to provide the support and traction that are missing from the waders themselves. They’re made to fit over the neoprene sock of the wader, and they often feature soles made of felt or rubber with added studs for extra grip.

The advantage of stockingfoot waders is that they offer more flexibility than bootfoot waders. You can choose a pair of wading boots that fits you well and meets your specific needs, and if the boots get worn out or damaged, you can replace them without having to replace the entire wader. They are also generally lighter and less bulky than bootfoot waders, making them easier to pack and carry.

In summary, whether you choose bootfoot waders or stockingfoot waders with wading boots will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Both have their pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on factors like the type of activity you’re planning, the conditions you expect to encounter, and your personal comfort and fit preferences.