Breathable Vs. Neoprene Duck Searching Waders: Which Kind Is Higher?

It wasn’t until I began using both types of waders – breathable and neoprene – that I realized why the debate over breathable versus neoprene duck hunting waders rages on. Each has benefits over the other, but which one is better for your situation? Let’s find out which duck hunting waders are best! 

Breathable Duck Hunting Waders

I started wearing breathable waders over a decade ago, and I’ve gotta be honest: I don’t have any plans to start wearing neoprene waders unless I absolutely have to because of everything breathable waders offer. 

Pros

• Much easier to walk in
• More comfortable while sitting
• Surprisingly warm

The first time I put on breathable waders, I knew they were superior for one simple reason: they weren’t nearly as cumbersome. I’ve walked many miles in breathable waders with fewer complaints because they’re not as stiff, which makes putting them on, walking in them, and taking them off a breeze compared to neoprene waders. 

Staying on the comfort train, these waders are way more comfortable while sitting because they’re less stiff, so they don’t pinch you or cut off your circulation as much, whether you’re sitting in your boat seat, laying down in a layout blind, or sitting on the bench of your duck blind. 

The biggest surprise I got from using this type of waders was the warmth. I fully expected them to make me cold and force me to bundle up more than I would with neoprene, but that’s never happened. I’ve experienced some sub-zero temps while hunting without bundling up like Randy Parker from A Christmas Story. 

While I’ve been very impressed with breathable waders, they still have some flaws that need fixing before I recommend them to everyone. 

Cons

• More expensive
• Less durable

My breathable waders gave out on me earlier this season, so I began searching for a new pair but was shocked at how expensive they are; it’s honestly ridiculous what some companies are charging. The material and technology aren’t new, but the prices haven’t ever dropped; in fact, they’ve only risen. If you want a high-quality pair of breathable waders, be prepared to pay $1,000+. 

Now, one would think that since breathable waders are more expensive, they should last longer, but that has not been my experience. While the breathable waders I’ve owned have lasted multiple seasons, I haven’t owned a pair that has lasted longer than any of my neoprene waders.

Despite these flaws, most waterfowl hunters should wear breathable waders in the field. If you’re on a tight budget or don’t duck hunt often, you can live without them, but hardcore waterfowlers should own a pair.

Neoprene Duck Hunting Waders

Whether you’re just testing the duck hunting waters and haven’t developed the addiction or simply refuse to pay the ridiculous expense for breathable waders, neoprene waders still offer you a few benefits and will get the job done.

Pros

• Less expensive
• Warm
• A little more durable

Since we’ve already discussed the high cost of quality breathable waders, I won’t spend too much time on the significant monetary savings when buying neoprene waders. However, since they are an older technology, they tend to be less expensive.

Neoprene waders are very warm. The first pair of waders my dad bought me as a kid were neoprene waders, and it was my hands, nose, and feet typically got cold first; my body stayed warm. So you won’t have to worry about getting cold unless you have leaky waders. 

Lastly, when properly cared for, neoprene waders last longer and are more durable than breathable waders. However, I’ve poked plenty of holes in them by sitting on beaver Staubs, busting ice, and experiencing natural wear and tear, so I don’t think they’re indestructible.

As you can see, neoprene waders have some benefits over breathable waders. However, it’s just not enough for me to justify purchasing these waders as a serious waterfowl hunter. 

Cons

• Stiff and uncomfortable
• Heavy

In college, whenever we’d take someone new to duck hunting and noticed they brought neoprene waders, my buddies and I knew we were about to get a laugh. Neoprene waders are stiff and uncomfortable, which makes for awkward walking. However, our favorite part was watching newcomers try to wiggle their way into the waders without falling over. If they really struggled with it, we would show them the trick of rolling the waders down before putting them on. Neoprene waders are much stiffer and more uncomfortable while walking and sitting. 

The other thing I dislike about neoprene waders is their weight. I already carry decoys, a shotgun, and shells, so there’s no sense in adding to the load with heavy neoprene waders. Yes, they might be a little more durable because of the thicker material, but in the end, it doesn’t justify the increased awkwardness and weight of neoprene waders. 

If you plan to walk very far in your neoprene waders, you better start training now for next season so you’re in shape and don’t have a heart attack walking to your spot. 

Parting Shots

By now, it’s clear that I believe breathable waders are the only option. However, I should be honest and let you know that I had to start using my old neoprene waders this season because the seams busted on my breathable waders and I’m having difficulty justifying spending that kind of money on a new pair when I have a good pair in the closet. 

Whichever type of duck hunting waders you choose to use, you now know what pros and cons to expect from them.

Good luck! Keep your eyes to the sky.

Wes Littlefield

Wes is an avid outdoorsman from Oklahoma always on the hunt for the next adventure. When he’s not writing, he’s probably in his kayak reeling in a fish or trying to trick waterfowl into checking out his spread.