This winter, I Blogged about my recent issues with the older Simms Guide Boots - I literally split the sole of the boot lengthwise on a hike into Cheeseman Canyon, opening the boot up to sand, rocks, etc. It was an uncomfortable day on the water to say the least. Since then I have invested into two pair of boots the newer Simms Guide Boot with the Vibram Sole and a pair of Korkers Guide Model boots that came very highly recommended from two other guides and bloggers: Matthew and Matt Nery.
I was initially convinced that the Simms were going to be the better pair and began wearing them immediately after getting them. They were comfy, slid on and off easily due to the new neoprene liner, and had good traction, but holy crap were they heavy. I guess being bulletproof comes at a price!
It wasn't long until I began wearing the Korkers a lot. Mostly because they were so much lighter. To make it even better, I also got the "Kling-on"sole with spikes. They have excellent traction on the trail and in the water. They were quickly becoming my favorite boot of all time...that is until the sole kept popping out.
I always put a lot of stress on my left shoes - it's a long story that involves a football injury, two surgeries, and a slight limp. Anyhow, I suspected that the Korker's sole would eventually begin to break down, I just didn't expect it to happen so quickly.
After about 5 days on the water, I have developed a part of the sole that will not stay put. I can put it back in but to no avail, it comes right back out. It's only a small part of the sole but it bothers me that the very thing that is supposed to keep me stable and on the ground is loose. I am suddenly unimpressed.
Tomorrow I will fish in the Simms once again. Stay tuned...
Ethan Emery
Angling University Director
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