The Freestone is the everyday wading boot — lighter and more affordable than the G3 Guide, with a genuinely useful upper: synthetic scratch leather that does not hold water, so it stays light instead of turning into a sponge on the walk out.
This is the rubber sole version, on Simms's updated rubber compound with toe and heel reinforcements.
Construction
- Synthetic scratch leather upper with toe and heel reinforcements
- Partial neoprene lining
- Dual-density EVA midsole — the reason it is more comfortable on a long walk than the numbers suggest
- Updated rubber outsole; studdable
- Weight: 54 oz (1,531 g) per pair, size 11 — roughly a pound and a half lighter than the G3 Guide
- Width EEE, sizes 5–16
Current pricing is on the selector above.
Where it sits in the Simms line
| Boot | Rubber traction | Ankle support | Weight (pair, sz 11) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tributary | 2 / 5 | 4 / 5 | 50 oz |
| Freestone | 3 / 5 | 4 / 5 | 54 oz |
| G3 Guide | 4 / 5 | 5 / 5 | 77.8 oz |
Those traction and support numbers are Simms's own ratings. The G3 Guide is the step up if you want maximum ankle support, better grip, and a boot Simms will re-sole for you — worth it if you are on the water constantly or wading heavy water. We stock it in Vibram and felt.
Rubber or felt? We carry the Freestone both ways. Felt grips slick rock better, but carries whirling disease spores, didymo, and mud between drainages far more readily. Rubber is the responsible choice in Colorado, and studs recover most of the traction on slick freestone. Either way, clean and dry your boots between rivers.
Sizing: boots go over wader booties, so Simms says size one full size up from your street shoe — street 9 becomes boot 10, and half sizes round up. Bring your waders and try them on over the top. Call 970-964-9991 and we will have sizes waiting.
Warranty: defects in workmanship and materials are covered; wear-related damage gets repaired for a reasonable fee. Simms's 60-day and one-year terms apply to waders only, not boots.
Ed's Fly Shop, 432 E Main St, downtown Montrose, Colorado.
