Leaky waders

I got some waders from Cabelas (Premium Dry-Plus® Breathable Wader) this last June and on Saturday they started leaking. I'd taken good care of them so no cuts or scrapes and used them on the yak exclusively. I'm kinda bummed since I watched out for them. I filled them w/ air and put them in the tub and found the leaks to be along the seams in the seat. The question I was wondering was does anyone think this damage is pre-mature? Or is 30-40 times use about right for this to start to happen?

Z

The number of times of use should have no bearing on the durability or planned obsolescence. I would go after Cabelas to replace them, as per their warranty. My waders are neoprene, and I did tear a hold in the leg...from scrambling through the brush to get away from a bear.

Howard

I've had the same waders as you for well over two years now, and I couldn't even guess how many times I have used them, although it has been more than 30-40 times. I've been crawling through gravel to get that perfect cast, walked though acacia bushes, and sat on numerous rough granite rocks and I have no leaks what-so-ever. I'd contact Cabelas and let them know about your problem.

I work with a crew of 4 people doing work on creeks.  Unfortunately we didn't have the same experience as FJ with those waders.  After a few months of use they all leaked in the seams as you described.  The good side was that Cabelas took them all back.  I'd ask for a return.  June to November is not a reasonable life span.

We now use waders made by OS Systems. They're really tough and easy to fix (duct tape), but they're not breathable.

Ask them if you can upgrade to the guide model. I think kayaking is a little tougher on the seams than wading.

Ask them if you can upgrade to the guide model. I think kayaking is a little tougher on the seams than wading.

Exactly what I'm doing.

Z