Finding the right pair of waders is a must for any waterfowl hunter. Dialing in the fit will make a huge impact on your comfort and mobility during your hunt. When you’re spending hours in the marsh, the last thing you need is gear that holds you back.

Ill-fitting waders can lead to a host of frustrating issues during a hunt. that are too tight can bind at the knees and thighs, restricting movement when you need to crouch or take aim. If they are too large, the excess material can bunch up, causing chafing and premature wear. An incorrect boot fit is a primary cause of cold feet, and a poor overall fit can strain seams, leading to leaks that will inevitably cut a hunt short. Answering the question, "What size waders do I need?" is the first step toward better hunts.

SITKA Wader Size Chart

The most accurate way to find your fit is to take your measurements and compare them to our official chart. Every hunter’s build is unique, and our system is designed to provide a near-custom fit for optimal performance.

Use your measurements to match up with SITKA’s recommended sizing below.

Step 1 – Know Your Key Body Measurements

Before you can even look at a size chart, you need to know your numbers. Relying on your casual pants or shirt size is a common mistake that often leads to a poor fit. Grab a soft measuring tape for the best results. 

Chest and Waist

Take two key upper-body measurements. First, measure the circumference around the fullest part of your chest, typically just under your armpits. Second, measure your waist at the navel. These numbers will determine the fit of the wader's upper body, ensuring you have enough room to layer without being constricted.

Inseam

Next is your inseam measurement, an essential measurement for mobility. Measure the distance from your uppermost thigh down to the floor on your inner leg. Getting the correct inseam length prevents the wader from pulling tightly when you squat or high-step over obstacles. This ensures freedom of movement and helps avoid unnecessary stress on the seams.

Step 2 – Determine Your Foot Size

Your feet are your foundation in the field, and wader footwear is an essential component of warmth and comfort. Getting the right fit for your feet will depend on whether you choose bootfoot or stockingfoot waders.

Bootfoot vs. Stockingfoot Waders

• Bootfoot Waders: These come with insulated boots permanently attached. The primary advantage is convenience and warmth, since there are no separate to worry about. The fit should match your regular shoe size, but how to choose that size depends on your layering system (socks, etc.).

• Stockingfoot Waders: These feature neoprene booties and require you to wear a separate pair of wading boots. The stockingfoot itself provides insulation, while the separate wading boot provides traction and ankle support.

Size Up When in Doubt

When you're trying to figure out what size waders to buy, a good rule of thumb is to size up if you are between sizes. This is especially true for bootfoot waders. Choosing a boot that is one size larger than your regular shoe provides crucial extra space for thick wool or thermal socks. This air gap is also handy for insulation, as a tight boot will compress the sock material and restrict blood flow, leading to cold feet.

Step 3 – Consider Fit Type and Activity Level

Loose vs. Form-Fitting

The ideal fit often comes down to personal preference and your specific hunting style. A looser fit provides maximum room for layering heavy insulation underneath, ideal for frigid, late-season hunts where you might be sitting for long periods. A more streamlined, form-fitting wader reduces bulk and improves mobility for hunters who are constantly on the move, walking long distances or navigating thick brush.

Step 4 – Always Check the Sizing Chart

This is the most important step in the process. Never assume that your size in one brand will translate directly to another. Sizing is not universal, and overlooking the brand-specific chart is a recipe for a frustrating shopping experience.

Every Brand Fits Differently

Each company uses its own unique patterns and models to build its waders. Taking a few minutes to double-check your measurements against the size chart will save you significant time and hassle.

Sizing May Vary by Product Line

It’s also important to understand that sizing can even vary between different product lines from the same brand. A Large-9 in our Delta PRO Zip GTX Wader might have slightly different torso dimensions than a size 9 in another model designed for a different purpose. Always check the specific chart for the exact wader you intend to buy to be certain you're selecting the right one.

Final Fit Tips Before You Buy

Once you’ve determined which size waders you need and have options in hand (or in cart), there are a few final checks to ensure a perfect fit.

Test Fit When Possible

The ultimate goal is to try them on before you buy. When you do, make sure to wear the exact socks and base layers you plan on using in the field. Perform a few simple movements: do a deep knee bend, sit down, and raise your knees high. You should not feel any significant pulling or binding in the thighs, hips, or knees.

Consider Your Conditions

Think about the primary conditions you'll be hunting in. If you typically hunt in the cold and need to pile on thick layers of , you need to ensure your waders have enough room to accommodate that. For warmer, early-season hunts, a closer fit might be more comfortable and less cumbersome. Check out our collection of for more.

Why Choose SITKA Waders?

At SITKA, we engineer our gear with a system-based approach to solve the real-world challenges hunters face. Our are built with a durable, breathable GORE-TEX laminate and a streamlined fit that eliminates bulk without sacrificing mobility. By offering a comprehensive sizing system with multiple fit options, we provide a nearly-custom solution that keeps you comfortable, completely dry, and focused on the hunt.

Our commitment extends beyond just waders. All of our , from jackets to baselayers, is designed to work together. This ensures that when you integrate our waders with our other , you get a complete system that enhances concealment, comfort, and performance in any condition.