Patagonia Watermaster Waders
For my second review of Patagonia gear this week, I took out my Watermaster Waders to the water today. A few months ago I bought a the pair; this was the second time I took them into the water and decidedly less successful than the first. After finding most of the water in Eldorado Canyon State Park mostly iced over, minimal flows on South Boulder Creek east of the park, and then a New Zealand Mud Snail closure on Boulder Creek, I finally found some fishable water near the Backpacker office where I was rewarding with losing one small rainbow.
The Waders:
The Watermaster stockingfoot waders are extremely lightweight and fit well around my body; they allowed excellent movement without feeling too balky. Along with the breathable material, the unique suspension system makes these great for warm summer days as you can easily roll down and secure the waders at your hips. Patagonia makes a big deal about the material being puncture resistant; unintentionally to test this I slide about 10 feet down a hill after stepping on some ice. My fishing spot was next to a bike path and my blunder did not go unnoticed. While my dignity may have faltered, the waders did not and I stayed dry. Including again after I broke through some bank ice.
Boulder Creek
My one complaint with the waders was the integrated gravel guards. At first glance I was ecstatic to no longer worry about forgetting or losing my gravel guards. Now, particularly when the water is running cold, I found them annoying. It is extremely difficult to keep long underwear pants in place while putting on the waders. Even when on it was difficult, though not impossible, to force the long underwear (or whatever pants you are wearing) back under the tight elastic strap.
Overall I am extremely pleased with the Patagonia Watermaster Waders and would recommend them to anyone looking for a lightweight and durable wader.