Footwear & Waders

Stay drier.
Our fishing waders and waterproof fishing boots are made for proper wet work — flooded margins, soft banks and rain that doesn’t stop. Breathable chest waders, waterproof leather fishing boots, waterproof trainers for wet weather, whilst our bivvy shoes & sliders have you covered in summer!

Why choose Fortis footwear & waders?

Reliable rain and real weather protection. We build boots and waders for long sessions in mud, rain and cold, so you can hold position, wade safely and move gear without soaking yourself in the first five minutes.

What’s in the range

• Breathable chest waders: comfortable enough to wear for hours without steaming up.
• Waterproof fishing boots: leather and reinforced uppers to keep water out and give ankle support on soft ground.
• Waterproof trainers / bivvy sliders: quick-on, bankside-friendly footwear for moving around camp.
• Waterproof socks: wet-weather socks built to protect again rain but still breathe.

How to build your setup

Match your lower half to the session length. For quick hits in summer, lightweight boots and trainers are enough. Whilst our breathable chest waders with thermal base layers keep you warm in winter. For full-on rain, wear salopettes over your base layers to seal the gap at the top of the boot.

Fit & sizing

Waders and boots need to fit properly for safety and comfort. Check boot sizing and leg length before you head out. We only supply through approved retailers, so you can try on and get the correct size and cut for how you fish.

Care tips

• Rinse mud and grit off waders and boots after each session — grit kills seams and membranes.
• Dry naturally, away from direct heat sources.
• Keep leather conditioned so it stays waterproof and doesn’t crack.

Footwear & Waders FAQs

How do Footwear & Waders fit into the Fortis system?

Footwear and waders are designed to complement the Fortis clothing system from the ground up. Elements provides thermal foundations, Trail and Minimal handle layering, Marine and Tundra manage weather protection, while Fortis footwear and waders keep you dry, stable and comfortable in the areas clothing alone cannot protect.

When should I choose waders instead of waterproof boots?

Waders are designed for situations where you need to enter the water, fish flooded margins, access difficult swims or position rigs beyond the bank edge. Waterproof boots are better suited to general bankside fishing, walking and day-to-day mobility.

What should I wear underneath chest waders?

For colder conditions, start with Elements thermal base layers to retain warmth and manage comfort. During winter, many anglers add additional mid-layers beneath their waders depending on air and water temperature.

Are breathable waders better than traditional waders?

Breathable waders help moisture escape during long sessions, reducing condensation and improving comfort. They are particularly useful when walking, moving swims or spending extended periods wearing waders.

What footwear is best for winter fishing?

For colder conditions, insulated waterproof boots paired with Elements Merino Thermal Socks or Boot Socks provide the best combination of warmth, support and weather protection.

Do I need waterproof socks if I already have waterproof boots?

Waterproof socks provide an additional layer of protection and can be particularly useful during prolonged wet conditions, flooded banks or when footwear is exposed to repeated water ingress.

What's the difference between Trail Boots and Elements Boots?

Trail Boots are designed around active fishing, mobility and all-day walking comfort. Elements Boots place greater emphasis on warmth and cold-weather protection, making them particularly suited to autumn and winter conditions.

Are Trail Trainers suitable for fishing?

Yes. Trail Trainers are designed for anglers who stay mobile, cover water and want lightweight footwear with comfort and grip for long walks between swims.

What footwear should I choose for summer fishing?

During warmer months, Trail Trainers, Tech Sliders, Tego footwear and Bivvy Shoes provide lightweight comfort and convenience around the bank, bivvy and campsite.

How do I build a complete lower-body system?

Start with Elements thermal layers and socks when temperatures drop, add suitable footwear for the terrain, then combine with Marine waterproof trousers or salopettes when conditions become wet. Waders can be introduced when direct water access is required.

Related collections

Explore Elements for thermal socks and base layers, Trail for active outdoor footwear, Marine for waterproof outer protection, and Clothing for the complete Fortis layering system.