In the spring when I need to traverse and sometimes stand in a stream (mostly fishing, but sometimes turkey hunting requires me to cross streams many times), I prefer not to wear my chest high breathable waders. In the past, I've usually maintained a pair of hip waders in addition to my various sets of chest waders for those types of (crossing, sometimes standing in) wading. I've owned the solid rubber hip waders, which I've found to be heavy and terribly hot. I've also owned the rubber boot with PVC type uppers, but I find those to be too baggy and saggy and they sometimes allow water to dip in near the crotch. I'm debating on whether I should invest in a pair of breathable hip waders. I feel that they would be light, obviously breathable (more than rubber), and allow for a much better freedom of movement. Speaking in this sense from a strictly fishing point of view, my problem is, where I typically fish creeks, there tends to be a great deal of thorny plants. A $130 pair of breathable hip waders may not last long in that environment. I guess there is no such thing as a tough but light waterproof hip wader and this is probably a Goldilocks type problem. However, I figured I would ask if anyone has any experience with this type of wader. The brand I am looking at is made by Chota.

https://www.amazon.com/Chota-Outdoor-Gea...ta+wading+boots

I have a pair of FrogLegs made by Wick. Sadly Wick is out of business but someone may be making something similar . FrogLegs are LaCross rubber boots with a double layer of heavy water proof Nylon bonded to them up to hip high. They hold up to brush and briars and keep legs protected and dry crossing creeks.

Thanks Mark,

I have seen those and they are still being made. I forget the company's name just now though...

Search Google using Dan's Frog legs. Several hunting suppliers advertise them.

LaCrosse has a selection, I've had mine for ages and they are very good for stickers and briars. Lacrosse boots are very durable.

http://www.lacrossefootwear.com/men/hunt/waders/big-chief-32-od-green-600g.html

http://www.lacrossefootwear.com/men/hunt/waders/brush-tuff-extreme-ats-realtree-max-5-1600g.html

Check out Wiggy's waders. Super light weight. Slip them on over your boots when needed. Take em off when done crossing creek or ditch. Ive got a pair and they are very handy when you want to roam.

https://www.froggtoggs.com/mens/waders/?p=4
and also look at the other pages
Mike

I wear hip waders just about every day I hunt. I walk a couple of miles through water, mud, and marsh grass. My last 5-6 pair have been Dan Bailey breathable hip waders. They hold up well considering what I put them through.

Those are some really great tips gentlemen, thanks a ton!