Simms calls the G3 Guide the grippy standard worn by far-ranging guides, and it is built like a work boot on purpose — traditional construction aimed at near permanence, with a re-soling program so a worn-out pair does not become garbage.
This is the Vibram Idrogrip version with Traction Lug. Simms claims it delivers 20% better wet-slip resistance than standard Idrogrip, and it accepts studs if you want more bite.
Construction
- High-abrasion textile mesh upper with synthetic and natural rubber and scratch rubber overlays — not leather, so it does not soak up water and get heavy
- Vibram Idrogrip outsole with Traction Lug; studdable
- Traditional work-boot construction; re-soling available through Simms
- Weight: 77.84 oz (2,207 g) per pair, size 11
- Width EEE, sizes 7–16 — the widest size run Simms offers
How Simms rates their own boots
| Boot | Rubber traction | Ankle support | Weight | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G3 Guide | 4 / 5 | 5 / 5 | Heavy | EEE |
| Freestone | 3 / 5 | 4 / 5 | Medium | EEE |
| Tributary | 2 / 5 | 4 / 5 | Medium | EEE |
| Flyweight | 4 / 5 | 3 / 5 | Light | D |
Top marks for ankle support, and it is the heaviest of the four. That is the trade: stability and longevity for weight. Current pricing is on the selector above.
Rubber or felt? We stock the G3 in both. Felt grips slick rock better than anything, but it also moves whirling disease spores, didymo, and mud between drainages far more readily. Rubber is the responsible default in Colorado, and studs recover most of the traction on slick freestone. Whichever you choose, clean and dry your boots between rivers.
Prefer not to tie laces in the cold? The G3 Guide BOA is the same boot with a BOA dial, sold as its own model. We stock it in Vibram and felt.
Sizing — this is where people go wrong
Wading boots go over your wader booties, so Simms's own guidance is to size one full size up from your street shoe. Their chart maps street 9 to boot 10, and so on. If you are a half size, size up.
Bring your waders to the shop and try boots on over them. That is the only way to know, and it takes ten minutes. Call 970-964-9991 and we will have sizes pulled and ready.
Warranty: Simms covers defects in workmanship and materials, and will repair wear-related damage for a reasonable fee. Worth knowing that the 60-day and one-year terms you may have heard about are waders only — boots fall under the general defect warranty. Simms publishes no country of origin for their boots.
Ed's Fly Shop, 432 E Main St, downtown Montrose, Colorado.
