In our latest Gear Review, we had the chance to test out the new Grundens Boundary Wader Line. Check out what we had to say below or in our first-ever YouTube Gear Review!
Waders are a piece of gear almost every angler utilizes throughout the year. When you are looking for a pair of waders, whether it is your first pair or you are looking to upgrade or replace your existing pair, you have a plethora of options to look over. In 2023, Grundens launched their waders into the market with the Grundens Boundary Wader, Boundary Zip, and Women’s Boundary Wader.
We have taken these waders all over the world since their release; here are our findings.
Upon Opening:
Before we hit the water with the new Grundens Boundary Waders, we had to unpackage the surprise shipment we had received from Grundens before the release of the wader. One major thing I noticed when unboxing the waders and any Grundens gear is the sustainable packaging. Everything Grundens sends comes in packaging which is recyclable. It is a small detail that does not go unnoticed by me.
When unboxing and holding the waders, I noticed they were exceptionally light. Not only weight, but the material felt light. The other noticeable detail out of the box was the straps on the waders. From Grundens’ website, they say this strap system drew inspiration from a climbing harness.
Field Testing:
First Impressions
When I first put the waders on, my thoughts during the unboxing about the waders being light were confirmed. The boundary waders definitely were lighter than the other normal waders I owned (excluding the specifically marketed lightweight waders from Simms and Orvis). It’s a good middle ground of having a 4 layer of Gore-Tex Pro on the lower half without feeling bound by having waders on. Another initial impression I had was that these waders do run big. So make sure to reference the sizing chart or try some pairs at your local fly shop before pulling the trigger on a size. Two things I did not like about the wader are the location of the fly patch on the Boundary Wader and the buckles for the suspension straps not being alternating male and female.
Performance
The first place we tested these waders was a steelhead mission in Southeast Alaska with Rick Matney. We spent a week chasing Rick throughout the Alaskan wilderness in search of steelhead. You can check out more about that trip in our film Chrome Chasers. Alaska was a great test for the waders’ performance. Hiking multiple miles daily in variable rain, snow, and sun conditions, I was comfortable the entire trip. The Gore-Tex Pro shed the sweat and moisture build-up inside the waders but kept the elements out. I was also able to traverse rocks, downed trees, and anything in the Alaskan wilderness with my full mobility. I will note that after testing the waders in many other environments, I need to focus on layering under my waders in colder climates to keep my legs warm.
Durability
From Alaska, we took the waders to a handful of other destinations around the world. Newfoundland, striper fishing in the salt in the Northeast, Argentina, Oregon, and our home state of Colorado. As you can see in the YouTube gear review linked above, these waders have held up to every test we have put them up to. Durability might be the most important factor for me in a pair of waders. When most high-end waders on the market are retailing above $500, you want them to last. I was concerned about the durability, considering how light they are. However, they have been surprisingly durable, and I beat the s#*% out of my gear.
Overall Specs and Features:
- Body mapped GORE-TEX Pro Wader laminate- 4 layers in the lower body for abrasion resistance and 3 layers in the upper body for breathability.
- Inspired by premium climbing harnesses, the fused contour suspension system moves with you through casting and rowing motions. Integrated D-Ring net holder and fully customizable fit for all day comfort.
- Neoprene booties use two layers of Titanium-Alpha to increase heat retention back to the body up to 40%.
- Double weave stretch woven gravel guards stay secure to the boot while wading, removing the need for a boot hook.
- Anatomically placed seams reduce wear in critical areas.
- Fleece lined chest pass through hand warmer pocket.
- Drop in chest storage pocket designed for three large fly boxes and oversized tippet spools.
- 2 inch elastic wading belt included.
Final Review:
Mobility:
Durability:
Comfort:
Warmth:
Price:
(MSRP: $599-$899)
Conclusion:
In conclusion, if I were to break down this entire review into a few bullets, they would be…
- Surprisingly Durable
- Lots of Mobility
- Lightweight and Breathable (great for warmer weather)
