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Whether you are fishing in a float tube or in a wading, you have certainly already worn a pair of waders. denim est très à la mode. neoprene, in plastic or breathable material, allows you to fish in the water up to your chest while staying dry. It's kind of like XXL waders. However, like any waterproof suit, some leaks may occur after intensive use. Before buying a new pair, know that Neoprene repairs very well !
Repair them. When in contact with the thorns that are often found near rivers, holes can form. Before wading in your boots like in a duck pond, it is entirely possible to repair them. fix this leak and this with little means! When it's the seams or boots that end up losing their waterproofing, the repair will be much more complicated but some brands like Seland add a patch designed for seams in their repair kit.
If your waders are still under warranty, consider contacting the after-sales service in store or on our website here.
The steps to properly repair your waders
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For repair your hole and for the repair to last over time you will need:
- of a glue neoprene
- from a piece of neoprene
- of solvent
- of a pair of scissors
- of a brush
Do not neglect the products you are going to use. For them to be effective, they must be used by following the instructions to the letter. These are chemical products and very flammable, pay attention to your skin and eyes. Also, make sure not to breathe in the glue and solvent. Choose a well-ventilated place to carry out the repair.
When you buy your pair of waders, a glue stick as well as a piece of neoprene is provided so that you can repair it yourself. With some brands like Seland, you will also find a patch perfect for repairing seams.
Locate the leak
This is step number 1 of the repair, but how to spot it precisely? There are several methods to accurately locate the hole. Like a bicycle inner tube, fill your waders with air and immerse it in water. At the site of the leak, some bubbles rise to the surface. Another solution, once the waders are dry, put them on and go into the water for a few moments. This way, you can identify the wet area and the hole or holes to be plugged.
Repair a hole
Before anything else, the neoprene must be completely dry before proceeding with repairs. If the hole is large, you will need a pair of scissors and a neoprene patch (often provided with the waders).
- Cut out the area to replace on your waders in order to get smooth edges.
- Cut a piece from your neoprene sheet. identical form to the one cut in your waders.
- Spread a first layer of glue on the edges of the hole and on the edges of the room.
- Wait for the dry glue until it no longer sticks to the fingers.
- Spread a second layer of glue on the edges.
- Put your coin in the hole and press the edges so that they stick together.
- Clean up Dissolve the glue that may overflow.
- After 24 hours, your waders are waterproof again.
Repair a seam
- Once your waders are dry, return the waders from the inside out.
- Spread a thin layer of glue on the area to be repaired.
- Let the glue dry. Tip to know if the glue is dry: it should not stay on your fingers when you touch it.
- Place the patch on the seam then pass the iron (120°C) until it is flattened on the area.
- Wait for the waders to dry and cool completely and go back to fishing !
The benefits of neoprene
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The neoprene waders are the most warm. material that is perfect for winter or cold water fishing. They come in different thicknesses, from 2mm to 6mm. In addition to being warm, neoprene can be repaired once punctured, and this without much difficulty. It's a waterproof material, enough flexible and Elastic. Its thickness makes it less fragile than most other waders like the breathable ones. Although the breathable wader is very popular for its lightness and comfort, it is less warm and much more fragile than a neoprene wader.
Your choice should depend on how you are going to use it. If you are a fan of fly fishing while wading, without contact with branches or brambles, the breathable one will be very good. If you are the adventurous type, by the river, fishing all year round and in cold water, neoprene is more suitable because more resistant and warmer. Opt for a thin fabric (maximum 3mm) in order to maintain maximum mobility if you walk a lot.
Questions? Don't hesitate to write to us via chat or on our networks to learn about how to repair your waders, the equipment to use and the type of glue to choose. In any case, prioritize the repair kit provided with your waders!
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