Yukon Moose prep - Waders or good boots?

[lilharcher]

I am headed to Alaska to hunt Moose in a swampy unit. I have been told that Waders w/ neoprene botties + boot is the way to go, however, I have big feet (size 13) and am not a big guy (6’0” and 185lbs), so waders are usually huge to match my shoe size. Thus, was wondering if a great waterproof boot (like Hoffman) + alpaca sock w/ gaiters will be more comfortable? Anyone else prefer a bold set of boots vs. waders for a swampy moose hunt?

 

[medvedyt]

if your outfitter is telling you to have waders if will try to avoid a different option.

im using a size 14 and trust me im floating in them but at least in using the one in neoprene i never been cold and i can add layer if needed.

i ve been thinking on simms pants and boots but so far everytime i took my waders for swamp donkey hunts in the yukon i needed them ...

 

[AKDoc]

Go with chest waders as your outfitter recommended/encouraged...and figure out a way to make it work for your body rather than trying to talk yourself into an alternative. Make your top priority ensuring that your wading boots fit well...numerous trips walking on tundra and through those wet areas while humping moose loads on your back is an experience never forgotten.

The swampy moose areas where I've gone, it's chest waders all the way and knee-high insulated rubber boots for camp shoes.

 

[twall13]

I'm a similar build to you, 6'1" 180 lbs. Simms has some neoprene foot waders that work well for me. I also wear size 13-14 depending on the boot but they make a size large 12-13 that fit in the foot and I'm not totally swimming in them. I tried them on at Cabela's to ensure fit before purchase but it sounds like they should work well for you.

Sent from my Pixel 9 Pro using Tapatalk

 

[Dioni A]

I spent a week in Simms freestone waders on my Alaska moose hunt last year. I was so happy I spent the money and got a nice set. I couldn't imagine doing my hunt without them.

 

[lilharcher]

Ok, I appreciate the info and will be getting a good set of waders!

 

[roymunson]

I spent 10 days in my Simms chest waders in 2023. I'da had no business where I was in anything but those.

Sure they were cold and tacky in the morning, and sure they stank pretty bad on the inside after a week, but I was dry and have a moose on my wall and in my freezer to show for it.

If there's swamp, take the waders. Stocking foot variety.

 

[KU_Geo]

Simms and orvis have a variety of size options. I’d try some of them if you are looking for a more “custom” fit wader. Even if not in wet stuff all the time, simms guide waders are pretty dang nice to ware and I’ve hiked in them quite a bit.

 

[roymunson]

Simms and orvis have a variety of size options. I’d try some of them if you are looking for a more “custom” fit wader. Even if not in wet stuff all the time, simms guide waders are pretty dang nice to ware and I’ve hiked in them quite a bit.

but fair warning... The swamp butt is real in those. They don't breath and a hot fart will channel right up to your face... It's a good way to live.

 

[rtrevith]

Stocking foot variety and adequate supportive boots like the Simms fly weight are pretty nice when you have to cross a lot of swampy terrain or deal with wet chest high brush.