Simms G3 wader has more mobility, durability, breathability, and costs higher than Simms Freestone wader. On the other hand, the G3 wader has a 3-layer waterproof upper shell and a 4-layer lower shell, whereas the Freestone wader has a 4-layer waterproof upper and lower shell.
Simms is a well-known fishing accessories and gear manufacturer and supplier among anglers. And the star of their product line is innovatively designed waders made from cutting-edge materials.
In this article, I’ll talk about two of their waders and show you which one will be best for you.
A Quick Comparison Table Between Waders
| Specifications | G3 Wader | Freestone Wader |
| Special Feature | Microban Antimicrobial Protection | Interchangeable Flip-Out Pocket |
| Material Used | Gore-Tex & Gore-Tex Pro | Toray QuadraLam |
| Available Sizes | 21 Stock & 6 Custom Size | 16 Stock Sizes |
| Color Option | Gunmetal | Dark Gunmetal |
| Warranty | 2 Months Replacement & 1 Year Free Repairs | 2 Months Replacement & 1 Year Free Repairs |
| Price | $599.95 | $299.95 |
Key Differences Between Simms G3 And Freestone Wader
- Different Features
Simms G3 wader has an adjustable spacer air-mesh suspender system and a fabric suspender divider.
You can easily carry a net because of the integrated webbing attach point in the wader.
Besides, a removable tippet-tender pocket and a zipper stretch-woven interior flank pocket will help you carry your stuff more organized.
It is a patented design with abrasion-resistant and built-in Gravel Guards, a 2-inches stretch nylon belt, and many more.
Most importantly, it comes with Microban Antimicrobial protection that does not allow bacteria, mold, and mildew to grow.
On the other hand, Simms Freestone wader has a built-in gravel guard with an elastic bottom hem. Because of the top access zippered pocket and reach through micro-fleece lined hand-warming pockets, you can keep your hand and stuffs protected simultaneously.
You will have interchangeable flip-out pocket options with attachment zippers available separately. Besides, the wader has neoprene stocking feet with an anti-microbial finish.
Also Read: Differences Between Orvis And Simms Waders.
- Material Used
The G3 wader has a 3-layer waterproof upper shell made from Gore-Tex and a 4-layer waterproof lower shell made of Gore-Tex Pro fabrics. Gore-Tex and Gore-Tex Pro fabrics provide optimal breathability, rugged durability, and waterproof & windproof protection.
On the contrary, the Freestone wader is made of 4 layers of the upper and lower waterproof shell using Toray QuadraLam fabric technology. The fabric itself is more lightweight than Gore-Tex.
It also has a micro-porous waterproof coating, a membrane layer, and a tricot backer for added durability.
- Available Sizes
More available size is pretty crucial, and you know why. Simms G3 has both stock sizes and customized size options available. However, the stock sizes are available in S, S King, M, M King, L, L King, L 12-12, XL, XL King, and XXL.
In contrast, you will get Freestone waders in 16 available stock sizes in S, M, M King, L, L King, L 12-13, XL, and XXL. Besides, both waders have Regular, Short, and Long inseams.
- Color Option
Simms G3 wader is available in Gunmetal color, and the Freestone wader is in Dark Gunmetal color.
While color may not be that much important for some people, what’s important is their unisex design. Both these waders are made for both male and female anglers.
- Warranty
Since G3 and Freestone Waders are designed and manufactured by the same company, it’s obvious they will come with a similar warranty.
Your Simms wader will be protected by a 30-day no-question ask replacement and 365 days free repair warranty.
After 1 year, you’ll have to spend a flat $60 if you have to repair your wader.
It will cover both way shipping, evaluating, repairing, and testing.
- Price
You’ll find a big difference between the waders in price. The $599.95 price tag shows that it is a superior product to Freestone.
On the other hand, Freestone comes with a $299.95 price tag, which is pretty lower than its competitor. The reason for this difference is performance and durability.
Which Wader Will Be Best For You?
Because both G3 and Freestone waders belong to the same company, they have many things in common. Nonetheless, the choice between them is obvious. Simms G3 is the best product here.
So, if you have no issue with the price, go for Simms G3 wader. It has anti-microbial protection, better breathability because of the fabric, and more mobility.
Also Read: XtraTuf Or Huk Fishing Boots?
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
G3 waders are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last. According to customer reviews, this wader lasts 1 to 3 years without any issue. However, Simms provides excellent warranty coverage. You can repair your G3 wader for free of cost up to 1 year from the original purchase date.
Orvis’s Men ultralight convertible wader is a bit lighter than Simms, and you easily carry it with you. However, Simms waders have excellent thermal insulation with 4 layers of waterproof shells and handwarmer pockets. So, Simms will be a better option if you plan on fishing in cold temperatures.
Simms G3 waders are designed for fishing in freezing temperatures. Most importantly, they are designed for both males and females. Simms waders are completely American-made products. The G3 warder is made in Bozeman, Montana, USA. However, Simms owns a 65,000 sq. ft. new facility west of Bozeman since 2011.
Simms waders are worth every penny you spend on them. They are made using cutting-edge technology and superior materials. They are excellent for fishing in cold weather. Because of the multiple waterproof layers and lightweight design, they are very reliable. Plus, they come with handwarmer pockets.
Final Thoughts
You might be unable to differentiate between Simms G3 and Freestone waders with a glance. But when you look closer, you’ll find that G3 has more than to offer compared to Freestone wader.
Some of the anglers have been using it for 6 seasons straight without any issue. That’s something you will miss out on Freestone. So, make G3 wader your companion next time you go fishing, and you won’t regret it.
