7 Best Waders For Big Guys and Tall Guys
You might be thinking, “What the hell does a skinny guy like me know about the best waders for big guys?”
That’s a valid question, and I have a great answer.
As one of the top river guides in my area, I have guided over 3000 guys, including some really big guys.
Sometimes I need to provide waders for these big guys, which means I’ve done the research.
But…Sometimes, the big guys have their own waders, so I also get their honest feedback on what they like and what they don’t like about the waders they have. I also get to see firsthand the issues with some types of waders.
Let’s not forget I practically live in waders for 300+ days a year, so I know waders… And that I owned a fishing tackle store, so I needed to find the best waders to sell to bigger guys.
Guess what? It’s not easy to find good waders for big and tall guys since many top brands do not provide waders big enough. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
More importantly, there is a lot more to waders than just being comfortable and dry, and many guys, not just big guys, end up with the wrong type of waders.
Guys, some TYPES are better than others for many reasons, which include your safety. My experience is that bigger guys are often less stable on their feet, and any restricted movement from the wrong wader can make things worse, or even dangerous for them.
In this article, I’ll explain how to pick the right waders for you and what to avoid.
UPDATE 2025: I’ve found a new wader that bigger guys are talking about, so I’ve added it to the list below.
So let’s get into all the waders you should consider, and why.
Waders For Fat Guys, Tall Guys, And Guys Built Like Line Backers
Note: I do use the word “fat guys” in this article, which is only to help those bigger guys find this page when they search for “best waders for fat guys”. Please do not be offended by this term, I mean no disrespect; I’m only trying to help you all out.
The waders listed are well-researched for all you big guys, whatever you call yourselves.
Top 3 Big Guy Wader Brands and Max Sizes: Quick List
- Paramount Outdoors Deep Eddy Breathable Waders: Guide’s Choice
- Caddis NORTHERN GUIDE BREATHABLE STOCKINGFOOT – Chest and Waist from 52″ to 64″.
- Paramount Outdoors Deacons Marsh Camo Wader – Super big waders up to 65 inches wide.
Big Guy Waders Chart
Brand | Wader Models | Wader Sizes | Leg type | Max Girth (Chest and Waist) | Foot Size |
Patagonia | Swift Current | 2RM and 3LL | Regular and Tall | 52" to 56" | 11 - 13 |
Caddis | Deluxe Plus, Northern Guide, Zippered Delux Plus | 2XL | Regular, Stout, Tall | 52" to 64" | 11.5 to 13 |
Frogg Toggs | Hellbender, Steelheader, Grande Refuge 3.0 | 2XL | Regular and Stout | 53" to 65" | 8 - 15 |
SIMMS | Simms Freestone | 2XL | Regular | 51" to 52" | 12 - 13 |
ORVIS | Orvis Pro, Ultra Light, Clearwater | 2XL | Regular and Short | 50 " to 52" | 11 - 13 |
What To Consider When Buying Waders For Big Guys
Clothes: If you are going to be fishing in the colder months or in very cold water, you’re going to be layering your clothes, and this can create extra bulk. Therefore, I normally recommend buying waders that have a little extra room in them to accommodate your thicker clothes.
Right Fit and Comfort: Don’t go too baggy; otherwise, you might find some chaffing or bunching in the knees or crotch area, which can be uncomfortable but can also create faster wear and tear in those areas.
Wader Styles: There are three styles of waders to consider.
- Chest Waders: You have your chest waders, which I highly recommend, especially if you wade deep water or cross deeper water; however, for guys with big guts or a large chest size, these can be a tough fit to find.
- Hip Waders: Hip waders only cover your legs up to your crotch. I see a lot of big guys wearing these, just don’t wade too deep since these are the worst for deep water.
- Wading Pants: Lastly, you have your wading pants, which are waders that are waist-high and look and fit like a pair of pants.
Wader Materials: There are three primary types of wader materials.
- Breathable Waders: Breathable waders are the best and are what most guides where 12 months of the year. Even in winter, with proper layering, these are the best. They are lightweight and the most comfortable with good durability, and they will keep you the driest.
- Neoprene Waders: Neoprene waders are the next most popular; however, I rarely recommend them because they are bulky, heavy, not very mobile-friendly, and not very comfortable. Some guys prefer them for winter fishing, but I don’t.
- Nylon-Type: The third kind is made from PCV or Nylon, or rubber, and these are cheap, they often don’t last long, so I do not recommend them.
Wading Belt For Comfort and Safety: A large adjustable belt is also a must-have item for both comfort and safety, and as far as I can tell, all of these waders that I recommend come with an adjustable belt. Some will also come with a mesh bag to carry your waders.
Guide Tip: Always hang dry your waders before you store them to prolong the waders’ life and prevent mold and nasty odours.
BootFoot Versus Stocking Foot Waders
This might be the most important thing to consider when buying waders.
Stocking foot waders are what most guides and experienced anglers use, and for good reason.
Stocking foot waders combined with a good wading boot are more comfortable and provide superior ankle support and traction on the rocks, river, and trails. It means they are safer.
In my experience guiding many bigger guys, it seems like bigger guys are less sturdy on the rocks, so stocking foot waders is the better option, especially when combined with a great wading boot that has good ankle support. See my article on the Best Wading Boots.
The only time I prefer or recommend bootfoot waders for big guys, or for anyone really, is for winter fishing because they can be warmer on the feet, but only if you buy the right ones.
I reveal the best winter waders and why in my article: Best Waders For Winter Or Cold Water Fishing, and I bet you will be surprised by the ones that are the warmest, because it’s not what most guys think.
However, some guys like the fact that they don’t need to have a separate set of boots, so they prefer bootfoot waders. Also, for anglers on a budget, buying a set of wading boots might be more than they want to spend.
So, here is my list of the best waders for fat guys, big guys, and tall guys.
So, here is my list of the best waders for fat guys, big guys, and tall guys.
GUIDES CHOICE
1. Paramount Outdoors Deep Eddy Breathable Waders: Guide Choice
There’s a lot to like about these breathable bootfoot waders, from the 4-ply puncture-resistant nylon, to the under $200 price, to the 3XXL and stout sizes for you big guys.
They are durable with double-reinforced lower legs. Also, like many high end waders, these have pockets.
These are tested and proven with great reviews from bigger guys.
The sizing chart seems to be accurate with sizes from SM to 3XL. Check out all the details and pricing by clicking the big Orange button below.
If you want slightly better quality, but it comes with a bigger price tag, about $150 more, with or without the front chest zipper to help you in and out of these, check out the Paramount Outdoors Meridian Zippered Breathable Waders
2. Paramount Outdoors Deacons Marsh Camo Wader: BIGGEST WADERS
Up to 4XXL and a whopping 65 inch chest and a foot size up to 14, these are the biggest waders I could find. Which is why I listed them as number two on my list.
These waders come with plenty of great features too.
I’ve heard and seen plenty of great reviews and it seams like the sizing charts are accurate.
The price varies by size so check pricing and details below.
3. Patagonia Men’s Swiftcurrent Waders: Best High-End Waders For Big Guys
The Men’s Swiftcurrent Expedition Waders and the Men’s Swiftcurrent Regular Waders come in two XXL sizes.
Most waders from Patagonia are high-end and well-built with a great warranty and customer support, which is an obvious advantage for guys who are in their waders a lot. You’ll see the experienced fishermen and many guides wearing and recommending this brand.
For some guys, the quality is a deal breaker, so these are the best waders for the big man if they fit you.
The 2RM size has a 52-inch girth, with a regular leg length, and foot sizes 9 to 11. This wader fits most guys 5’10” to 6 foot.
The 3LL size has a 56-inch girth, with a longer leg for guys 6’1 to 6’4 inches, with a foot size of 12 to 14.
These sizes could be good for fatter guys and tall guys, but there are other waders even bigger if this one doesn’t have your size.
As with most high-end waders, these have everything you need in a wader from high-end breathable materials, durability, great seams, pockets, fit, and comfort.
Be sure to check the price, size chart, and all the details for these waders.
3. Caddis NORTHERN GUIDE BREATHABLE STOCKINGFOOT
The Caddis Northern Guide Breathable Stockingfoot Wader is great for very big guys. It is designed for hardcore anglers and guides. It comes in different sizes, from XXL-stout to XXL STOUT, with max girths from 52″ to 64 inches.
They call it “Guide Tough,” and I can see why! It’s super robust and adaptable, making it a real standout. It’s got all the top features you’d want, making it a fantastic wader at a bargain price tag.
It’s made to last through heavy-duty fishing in any weather. The breathable shell is soft and warm and resists scratches and tears. That’s impressive!
It’s got this cool two-tone color scheme that I really dig. The material they’ve used is a sturdy, soft 240-denier polyester. And the best part? It’s got this CaddisDry™ Breathable Technology that keeps you cool and dry all day. No more sweaty fishing days!
The knees and seat are reinforced for extra durability. It also features attached gravel guards. If you’ve ever had gravel get into your boots, you’ll know how important this is!
The wader’s seams are taped, glued, and stitched. Even the foot is taped from inside and out for added water protection.
It’s got a large front pocket for your gear, and a hand warmer front pocket for those chilly days. Super handy!
The soles are high-density neoprene, giving you excellent comfort and grip inside your wading boots.
These waders come with a free wader belt and a repair kit.
4. Caddis DELUXE PLUS GRAY BREATHABLE STOCKINGFOOT WADER
This new wader to the market is the Caddis Deluxe Plus Grey Breathable Stockingfoot, a mid-price wader that comes in XXL-stout and regular XXL, which covers up to a whopping 64-inches in girth.
These are serious waders for fat guys and large-chested guys.
Firstly, it’s really tough! The knees and seat are extra-strong. That’s important because we know how much wear and tear those areas can get.
Plus, it’s got this quad pocket. It’s just the right size to keep all your stuff in one place.
One of my favorite parts about these waders is the attached fabric gravel guards. If you’ve ever had stones sneak into your boots, you’ll know how essential this is!
Let’s talk about how it’s made. They really took the time to ensure it lasts – the seams are taped, glued, and stitched. Even the foot is taped both inside and out for that added bit of water resistance.
The CaddisDry™ Breathable Technology is something special. It makes it comfortable for all-day wear, even in warmer weather.
The soles are heavy-duty neoprene, so you get a good grip in wet and slippery situations.
And guess what? It comes with a free wader belt and repair kit! How thoughtful is that?
This wader is in a stylish two-tone gray color, which I absolutely love. It’s made from heavy-duty polyester, making it a sturdy choice for any fishing adventure.
The Caddis Deluxe Plus Grey Breathable Stockingfoot is certainly a winner in my book. I can’t recommend it enough!
5. Frogg Toggs MEN’S HELLBENDER PRO Stocking Foot Chest Wader
Largest sizes include 2XL and 2XL Stout
I used to sell Frogg Toggs in my store and have used this wader for my clients on guide trips so I know a lot about this one.
The Men’s Hellbender Pro SF Chest Wader from Frogg Toggs is a great option for bigger guys and taller guys.
Worried about finding your size? Don’t be. The Hellbender Pro comes in an array of sizes, from small to XXL STOUT, and is available in regular or stout fits. Now that’s what I call all-inclusive!
It has a ton of good features and a decent price. See more below.
For all the Frogg Toggs waders sizes, check out their size chart.
6. Frogg Toggs MEN’S STEELHEADER LUG SOLE BOOTFOOT CHEST WADER
The Men’s Steelheader Lug Sole Bootfoot Chest Wader is one I’ve recommended a lot. It’s one of my recommended waders for winter fishing or for guys who want a bootfoot wader..
It has a ton of features and comes in bigger sizes.
- Foot Size 9 – Size Husky – 55-inch chest
- Foot Size 10 – Size Husky – 56-inch chest
- Foot Size 11/12 – Size Husky – 58-inch chest
- Foot Size 13/14 – Size Husky – 60-inch chest
They are also very durable and come in at a decent price. The Lug soles are decent for traction.
See all the features and pricing:
7. Frogg Toggs MEN’S GRAND REFUGE 3.0 BootFoot WADER
Available in a size 7 foot Husky build to a size 14 foot with Husky build ranging from 53.5″ to 64.5 inch Max Chest.
So let’s get straight to it – the Men’s Grand Refuge 3.0 BootFoot Wader is definitely one you should add to your fishing gear if you need big guy-sized waders. Here’s why:
Firstly, it has customizable suspenders. The low-profile buckles and D-rings on these suspenders allow for easy adjustment to your size, ensuring a snug fit.
One of my favorite things about this wader is the see-through pocket on the inside. This zippered flip-out pocket is a gem when you need to locate your gear quickly.
The waders are made with a 4-ply polyester upper. This means it’s built to last while still keeping you comfortable. And for your shells, there’s a zippered pocket at the front that comes with a 10-count shell holder. With this wader, accessibility is never a problem.
For those colder fishing days, the wader also includes a new, internal hand warmer pocket lined with cozy fleece. Your hands will thank you for this feature! And let’s not forget the adjustable wading belt with a locking buckle – it ensures a perfect fit, every time.
But this wader isn’t just about convenience; it’s also about comfort. It includes a 120-gram quilted insulated liner. You can zip it in or out as needed, giving you control over your warmth levels.
As someone who’s always in and out of the water, I appreciate how the wader is reinforced with heavy-duty nylon in the shin, knee, and seat areas. It’s definitely built to withstand a bit of rough and tumble.
Finally, let’s talk about the boots – they’re amazing. The new 5mm, 1,200-gram Thinsulate Ridgebuster boots are designed to keep your feet warm and dry, no matter how cold or wet the fishing spot is.
Note: Sizes and Prices are subject to change, so you must check the dealer or manufacturer’s website for exact sizing before purchasing.
Other Waders Recommended On Other Websites
To save you time, I went to all the other websites to see what they recommend as the best waders for fat guys or tall guys, and listed them below. However, as I’ve mentioned before, I can not guarantee they are making good recommendations or that these waders still exist, so venture at your own risk.
- Orvis waders – All come in 2XL for up to 52″ max girth
- Simms Freestone Waders come in 2XL for a max girth of 52 inches.
- Caddis Men’s 2-Tone Tauped Deluxe Stocking Foot Wader
- Cabela’s Big Man SuperMag Chest Waders for Men
- Simms Tributary Stockingfoot Waterproof Chest Fishing Waders
- Frogg Toggs Men’s Amphib 3.5mm Neoprene Fishing Waders
- Frogg Toggs Canyon II
- 8 Fans Men’s Chest Fishing Waders
- Piscifun Breathable Chest Waders
- Hodgman H3 Stocking Foot Chest Waders
- KOMEX Chest Waders
- Compass 360 Fly Fishing Deadfall Stockingfoot Waders
- Frogg Toggs Men’s Grand Refuge 2.0
Make Your Waders Better
Wearing the proper clothing under your waders can make a huge difference. I’ve heard guys say they think their waders are leaking because their socks or pants are damp. This is either sweat or condensation, or both, which can be limited with good water-wicking socks and pants.
Condensation is worse in Neoprene waders or PVC-type materials.
In the winter, layering is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable, and I reveal my guide secrets for how to do this on my page, Fishing In the Winter.
Best Waders For Big Guys Q&A
If you guys have questions or recommendations on the best waders for big guys or tall guys, please help your fellow big guys and let us know in the comments section below.
Tight Lines
Graham
do you have any waders in a size 15.5?
I only know the waders listed. You would need to check with each wader listed to see which has a 15.5.. Good luck.
Graham.
You say waders for fat and tall guys, but admit it, this is really an article for fat guys…
At 6’4”, 350 lbs with a size 14 foot I find this article woefully inadequate. Helpful, but inadequate. It appears that you basically summarized a couple mainline brands that offer xxl and stout sizes. It does not appear that you did any real research into what may be out there for those of us that are truly bigger and taller. Thank you for the effort, it at least give some of us a place to start.
Hey Steve,
I did plenty of research, the problem was that not many companies make oversize waders since there’s such a small market and it’s probably not worth it for them to make them. If and when you find any please respond back and let us know.
Good Luck