Simms Ripraps Review

After wearing my Simms Ripraps for several years, they’ve begun to show wear.  I absolutely love them.  Light and flexible (after breaking then in), the Ripraps were a huge change of pace from Korkers and other wading boots.  I would’ve worn tennis shoes but I encounter slick stuff like limestone.  The Ripraps enabled me to cover ground a lot quicker than heavy boots and neoprene socks.  I tried my Keens but pebbles are painful.  

I made sure the Ripraps fit well but not too snug at the fly shop.  Honestly, my legs didn’t tire out near as much with those on such as with whatever wading  boots I’ve owned.  

Felt soles are incorporated into the bottoms and places for studs.  After several years of 2-4 wade fishing outings and up to 4 times a week for a month or so, the outer layer on the material is flaking off.  But they did spend some time drying in the sun and sometimes, I couldn’t get them dried out for several days.  Probably coulda done a little better taking care of them.

Honestly, if it wasn’t for the Simms Flyweights, I would buy another pair.  They can still be found online.  I’m gonna break in my Simms Flyweights as I use the last life left in my Ripraps this fall.  I’ll also do a review on the Flyweights but break-in time is going to take a while.

Whether it be shoe or boot or portage shoes, the Ripraps have been my favorite stream footwear.  They have a removable foam insert that provides comfort all day.

Since the Ripraps are being phased out, you can probably find them at an affordable price.