Why Simms Gear is Worth the Investment: A Complete Guide for Fly Anglers

Every serious fly angler eventually faces the same question: is Simms gear really worth the price?

It is a fair question. Simms waders, wading boots, and jackets cost more than most competing brands. When you are standing in a fly shop comparing price tags, the difference can be significant. But after years of guiding anglers on the Gunnison River, the Uncompahgre, and the rivers of Western Colorado, the team at Ed's Fly Shop in Montrose has a clear and consistent answer: yes, Simms gear is absolutely worth the investment.

Here is why.

The History Behind the Brand

Simms Fishing Products was founded in 1980 by John Simms, a fishing guide from Jackson, Wyoming who set out to create higher performing gear for serious anglers. In 1993 the company moved its headquarters to Bozeman, Montana where it remains today.

Simms was the first company in the United States to introduce breathable GORE-TEX waders, setting a new industry standard that every other wader manufacturer has been trying to match ever since. For more than three decades Simms has set the standard in waders, footwear, outerwear, and sportswear, designing and developing gear specifically to help anglers maximize every second they spend on the water.

That heritage matters. When you buy Simms gear you are buying into over 40 years of innovation, field testing, and refinement by people who fish for a living.

Simms Waders: The Gold Standard in Fly Fishing

Nothing defines Simms more than their waders. The Simms wader lineup covers every angler from the beginner stepping into breathable waders for the first time to the professional guide who needs bombproof gear that performs in every condition every single day.

Simms Freestone Waders The Freestone is Simms's entry level wader and one of the most popular waders in the world for a reason. Built from rugged 4 layer Toray QuadraLam fabric with G3 fit blocks for enhanced mobility and built in neoprene gravel guards, the Freestone delivers exceptional durability and comfort at an accessible price point. This is the wader we recommend to anglers who are stepping up to Simms for the first time.

Simms G3 Guide Waders The G3 Guide is the workhorse of the Simms lineup and the wader you will see on professional guides across Western Colorado and beyond. Built with 4 layer GORE-TEX technology, the G3 delivers outstanding breathability, waterproofing, and durability in a fit designed specifically for guides who spend hundreds of days a year in the water. The G3 Guide is the single best selling wader we carry at Ed's Fly Shop.

Simms G4Z Waders The G4Z represents the pinnacle of Simms wader technology. Built with GORE-TEX Pro fabric and featuring a front zip entry for easy on and off, the G4Z is the choice of anglers who demand the absolute best. These are the waders you reach for on the most demanding days — early spring runoff, late fall cold snaps, and deep wading situations where staying dry is non negotiable.

Simms Women's G3 Guide Jacket Simms takes women's specific fly fishing gear seriously. The Women's G3 Guide Jacket features a 3 layer GORE-TEX build with strategically mapped fabrics for rowing and casting ease, a 3 point adjustable storm hood, and dual zippered hand warmer pockets set high on the body to prevent water from entering during deep wading situations. This is premium women's fly fishing outerwear built for the water not the parking lot.

Simms Wading Boots: Built for Western Rivers

Wading boots are one of the most important pieces of gear you will buy as a fly angler. The wrong boots can mean slipping on mossy rocks, sore feet after a long day on the water, or a dangerous fall in fast current. Simms has spent decades engineering wading boots specifically for the demands of western rivers like the Gunnison, the Uncompahgre, and the San Miguel.

Simms Men's Access Boot The Access Boot is one of the most exciting releases from Simms in recent years and one we are very excited to carry at Ed's Fly Shop. Built with Vibram IdroGrip and Vibram IdroGrip Flex in G.O.A.T. (Grip On Aquatic Terrain) construction — a technology unique to Simms — the Access Boot delivers game changing slip resistance on the slickest river rocks. The lightweight TPU woven upper eliminates wet pick up and the high cushion self draining EVA midsole provides outstanding comfort and quick water removal with every step. At 45 ounces this boot is trail worthy as well as river worthy making it the ideal choice for anglers who hike to their favorite water.

Simms Drifter AT The Drifter AT is Simms's answer to the demand for a water friendly shoe that performs on and off the water. Built with a water friendly EVA upper, gum rubber outsole, and self draining neoprene liner, the Drifter AT delivers unbeatable grip and quick dry performance in a lightweight package. Perfect for anglers who need a versatile water shoe for boat fishing, camping, or casual wear around camp.

Simms Jackets and Outerwear: Ready for Whatever the River Throws at You

Western Colorado weather is unpredictable. A bluebird morning on the Gunnison can turn into a cold rain shower by afternoon. Simms outerwear is designed to handle exactly that kind of rapid weather change without compromising comfort or performance.

Key Features of Simms Outerwear:

• GORE-TEX and GORE-TEX Pro fabrics for industry leading waterproofing and breathability
• Strategically mapped fabrics designed for the specific movements of casting and rowing
• Fly patches, rod holder loops, and fishing specific pocket placement
• Adjustable storm hoods designed for use with fishing hats and polarized sunglasses
• DWR treatments without the use of PFAs on select newer models

Whether you are looking for a full wading jacket, a mid layer fleece, or a sun hoody for summer fishing, Simms makes the most comprehensive lineup of fly fishing specific outerwear available anywhere.

Why Simms Gear Lasts Longer

One of the most compelling arguments for investing in Simms gear is longevity. A pair of quality Simms waders properly cared for can last five to ten years or more. Compare that to a budget wader that leaks in year two and suddenly the math looks very different.

Here are our tips for getting the most out of your Simms gear:

Rinse your waders and boots with fresh water after every trip on the river especially on rivers with high mineral content like the Lower Gunnison. Hang dry your waders inside and out in a cool shaded place away from direct sunlight. Never store waders in a hot car or tightly folded for extended periods as this can damage the GORE-TEX membrane. Re-treat the DWR finish periodically with a spray on treatment to maintain waterproofing. Inspect for small leaks regularly and patch promptly before they become bigger problems. Most Simms waders come with a repair kit for exactly this purpose.

Is Simms Worth It? Our Honest Answer

After years of guiding on the rivers of Western Colorado and outfitting hundreds of anglers through Ed's Fly Shop, our honest answer is this: if you fish more than a few times a year, Simms gear is absolutely worth the investment.

The difference between a day on the Gunnison in quality Simms gear and a day in budget gear is immediately apparent. You are drier, warmer, more comfortable, and more confident in the water. When you are not thinking about whether your gear is going to hold up you can focus entirely on fishing — and that is what it is all about.

Shop Simms at Ed's Fly Shop

Ed's Fly Shop in Montrose, Colorado carries one of the most complete selections of Simms waders, wading boots, and apparel in Western Colorado. Our team wears and fishes Simms gear every season and we can help you find exactly the right setup for your fishing style, the rivers you fish, and your budget.

Stop by the shop at 432 E Main St in Montrose, CO or shop our full Simms collection online at edsflyshop.com. Have questions? Give us a call at 970-964-9991. We are happy to help.

Shop Simms Waders at Ed's Fly Shop

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