Simms’ Freestone Wading Boot

Durability is a feature some companies don’t believe is important. I’m not sure why. With gobs of information available at the consumer’s fingertips, most customers are educated shoppers these days. A couple of bad reviews on a boot’s durability could mean the end for the boot, or even the company. That’s why I continue to shop with a company that values the customer’s needs. With Simms, you don’t have to worry about getting swindled into buying a boot that fails quickly.

My experience with the Freestone, old and new

I first bought a pair of Freestone wading boots in May 2015 because my previous pair of boots disintegrated somewhere along Idaho’s Henry’s Fork River. I was in desperate need of durable/affordable boots. I stumbled upon Simms’ Freestone boots in a shop, liked the feel, the look, and the price, so I bought them. Little did I know that these boots would turn out to be a home run.

I fish 100-to 125 days a year, so these boots took abuse. After several years, many miles, and some personal best fish, my beloved boots grew a slight tear along the inside. They were still comfortably fishable, but I knew it was time for a new pair. I was very satisfied with the performance and longevity of the boot considering they were in the bed of my truck 90 percent of time, exposed to all sorts of weather, including burning sun and freezing rain.

As I searched for my next pair of boots, I read up on the latest and greatest choices. Then, after a couple days of research, it hit me: Why would I take a chance of buying a pair of boots I might not like, when I could buy the pair of boots I know I’ll love? So, I bought the Freestones again.

I am now a couple months into my new pair of Freestones and I couldn’t be happier. My new boots have already seen 15 days of tough winter conditions and I'm smiling every time I lace them up.

An upgraded feature I noticed immediately is the tag on the outer heel of the boot. It changed from a horizontal 3-finger tag to a vertical thumb tag. The tag was something I always grabbed onto when slipping on each boot. I believe the upgraded thumb tag will last longer than the previous.

The new Freestone is available with Simms’ rubber or Simms thick felt soles. The latest version of the Simms’ Freestone wading boots should appeal to any serious fisherman looking for a durable and comfortable pair of boots for under $200. These boots, whether you go with  felt or rubber soles, retail for $159.99 —Dillon Given, North 40 Ponderay