Trophy Fishing TN Forum - Caney Fork Trout Fly Fishing - Caney Fork Trout Guide
Cold Water Fishing Reports => Fly Fishing General Discussion => Topic started by: wil2hike on March 08, 2010, 02:43:58 PM
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OK, thought that would get you attention. Would someone please explain the logic to me that felt soles with studs (cleats) give you more traction on big, slick, rocks then simply felt soles? Seems to me your standing on tiny little metal cleats on big slick rocks you're sure to go down. And yeah, let's please not get into the new rubber sole technology discussion. I'm getting to old to keep getting back up after I take "the plunge" to try new, still unsuccessful technology...I'll just put copper sulfate on my felt and freeze them..thanks
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Thought you were talking about me. ;D
Here is some info from Simms site: http://www.simmsfishing.com/site/hard_bite_boot_studs_vibram.html#
(click on the features tab)
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The big problem with studs is that you can't ever get in anyones boat while wearing them.
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I've had studs on a couple brands of boots over the years, I don't own either anymore, to me was the most dangerous experience I've ever had, was trying to use them in the Smokies for the most part, give me felt on the free-stoner's, I'm using Patagonia Riverwalkers or what ever they are called with the "sticky" sole, so far are great.
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OK, you get my point exactly - Mike, I totally understand the boat issue and David -your experience is EXACTLY what I'm trying to avoid. Oh, and Steve - sorry to get your hopes up... ;D
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I've used both straight felt and the studded felt soles. For the most part, on the waters I wade-fish (Watauga, Soho, bluelines) the studs definitely give better traction. Especially in the didymo-covered Soho. Now on some oversized smooth boulders or big shelves, it can be tricky. But even then I still have some felt making surface contact & manage fine as long as I take my time...that doesn't mean I don't fall from time to time!! I do know for a fact that there are stretches of the Watauga where there are smooth rocks (softball to basketball sized) that the studs definitely helped my traction. If I was wading where it was primarily oversized smooth boulders or shelves, I might have a different preference.