Advice on waders

[nytactic]

The first time I ever went smelting was last season.  At the time, I borrowed a buddy's pair of waders to see if I would enjoy smelting before buying a pair of my own.  Not surprisingly, I had a really fun time and this year I plan to buy my own pair.  I was hoping some of you helpful veterans could make some suggestions.

I've done a lot of research but most of the information I found primarily discusses the pros and cons when used for fishing.  

While smelting with seines, we were moving a lot with each pull and we were fighting waves and walking on sandy beaches.  I remember getting tired and at one point, getting cold and wet.  Given the physical activity involved with smelting, and the taking into consideration comfort, warmth, safety, and durability, what suggestions can you guys make for someone buying their first pair of waders?  Boot foot or stocking foot?  What material and thickness?  Any brands you like?

I'm only looking to spend up to $150.  Thanks in advance.

[dominodaves]

I'm a fan of the kind with boots. That way you don't have to find big boots or shoes to go with them. But I will say this, neoprene is a must. Now a guy could go with non insulated but the reason you buy waders is to stay dry and warm! Neoprene does the best job. Gander or Cabellas seem to have plenty in your price range or less. I don't think you need anything too fancy for smelting.

[yooperkid]

I HAVE HODGMAN CASTER NEOPREME FELT BOOTFOOT AND LOVE THEM,EASY TO MOVE IN SEMI SNUGG FIT AROUND YOUR CHEST AND EASY MOBILITY.

P/S;in your price range also,around a buck twenty {$120.00} that is lol

[nytactic]

Yooper, for the Hodgman waders, did you buy your exact boot size for the fit you're describing? Or, did you buy a size up from your normal show size? I was looking at those and I like them too. I'm just concerned that the inseam will be too long if I order a size up from my shoe size. Also, does the chest fitting come all the way up to your armpits or does it sit significantly lower?

[yooperkid]

Nystatin,I went a inch bigger than my shoe size,I were my when I duck hunt and it gets pretty cold I the fall so I can put on a couple layers of wool socks,same goes when smelting,rather be warm than freezing toes and I've,e been there.sory for my spelling I hate these I pads Lol

Good boots and speaking of which I haven,t used mine in some time and have to break them out.up I the rafters and I hope the mice didn't,t get at them.all in all a great pair of waiters and for your qt,s ,they go right about nipple high and you don,t have to worry about water getting in and are fairly tight unless you go over and to deep.great waders imo