As you may have heard, Alaska recently became the first state in the nation to adopt a statewide ban on felt soled wading products to help protect the state’s freshwater lakes, rivers and streams from becoming infected with aquatic invasive species (AIS.) It takes effect in January 2012 and Trout Unlimited applauds the move.
Alaska did this as a preventative measure because felt soles on the bottom of waders and boots easily carry AIS, which can threaten native species and the ecological stability of native waters, as well as cause harm to commercial, sport fishing and subsistence fishing, all of which is big business in Alaska.
Many anglers are asking about alternatives to felt soles and gear manufacturers are quickly responding. Here’s some information about a deal that Orvis is offering on the company’s new River Guard boots.
By Rob December 19, 2011 - 6:06 pm
I’ve recently purchased a set of wading boots with the new vibram soles rather than felt as I had heard about the AIS issue. All the old times (especially where there are algae covered rocks) swear by felt. Beyond adding cleats to the boots (which make them less desirable for jumping in and out of boats) is there another solution for slippery rocks without using felt?
By Bubba Greene October 14, 2012 - 7:50 pm
Doing away with felt sounds like a sound concept HOWEVER…I have talked to many many who have worn both the “new” river guard style soles as well as felt and no one…repeat NO ONE feels they are half as good as old felt. Given the need for stable footing river guard does not seem to deliver and I think the fishing community realize that. Orvis has their products “on sale” IMO because sales are not what they expected and not becuase they want to support the “movement”. The only person I ever encountered who had anything good to say about them was my local Orvis fishing manager. As far as I’m concerned, It’s felt forever! Honestly this river guard sole sounds like a congressional plot to conserve energy and make us all but light bulbs made in China because they outlawed the old fashioned ones.