Is neoprene waterproof?
We get this question a lot—and Yes, neoprene products can be waterproof depending on the type of neoprene used to manufacture them. There are many different types of neoprene, from laptop sleeves and car seat covers to paddling socks and Mukluks. The type of neoprene that we use in our Mukluks, “Hippies”, Stocking Foot Waders and Caney Fork Socks is “Closed Cell” neoprene and it is totally waterproof.
How should I repair my waders?
Over time and with hard use, waders can develop leaks or holes from the occasional hook encounter. We recommend the McNett wader repair kit for repairing waders. The kit comes with a tube of Aquaseal, a couple of patches, and some instructions on how to make a repair.
Which cleats should I use in my wading boots?
You can use any of our cleats in any of our wading boots that feature built in cleat bases. The CL675 case hardened steel cleats work well and are less expensive than our carbide cleats. The carbide cleats are more expensive but they last a lot longer than the steel cleats as carbide is a tougher material. Both styles proved superior traction when wading.
How should I care for my felt sole boots?
Wading boots pick up organisms in the water and can carry these organisms from one body of water to another, especially wading boots with felt soles. We suggest that you start by thoroughly rinsing your boots off and give the soles a going over with a stiff bristled brush. Then fill a bucket or tub with 2 gallons of warm water and add 8 oz of bleach. Soak the boots in the bleach solution for two minutes and then remove the boots and let stand for two minutes. Once the boots have stood for two minutes rinse the boots with warm water and let dry. Another way to kill any aquatic hitchhikers is by simply letting your wading boots dry out for three or more days. Remember that All Gear can pick up aquatic hitchhikers!
How should I care for my neoprene Chota products?
Face it! Neoprene is basically a big sponge that loves to soak up odors. While our neoprene boots are waterproof, they are not odor proof. We suggest rinsing your Mukluks and Neo Socks thoroughly after use and storing them in a dry place out of direct sunlight. Once in a while, you will want to wash your neoprene products. McNett Co. makes a great neoprene shampoo that will clean as well as eliminate odors in your neoprene products.
How should I care for my waders?
We suggest rinsing your waders off after use and then hanging them up to dry. Periodically, you should wash your waders inside and out to help keep them looking, and more importantly, smelling fresh. McNett Co. makes a great deodorizer for waders called MyraZime that is easy to use.
How should I care for my boots?
We suggest hosing off your booties, mukluks, or wading boots (inside and out) after use and then storing them in a dry environment out of direct sunlight. All of our leather boots are treated with waterproofing when they are made. However, after a couple of years of hard use, you may want to re-treat your boots with a product such as SnoSeal or NikWax leather treatments.
What about women’s sizing?
While our boots are made in Men’s sizes, for the most part, we have found that women will get the best fit in our boots and Mukluks by going down one size.
*As far as sizing goes, the above suggestions work for most of our customers. However, there is always the exception or two. Ultimately, you will need to try the boots on and decide what works best for you.
How does Chota’s boot sizing work?
Our upper end boots (STL, STL Plus, Caney Fork, and Lost Creek) are made larger in the uppers to accommodate the use of stocking foot waders. So, if you wear a size 10 in a street shoe, you should fit a size 10 in one of these wading boots. The rest of our wading boots (Abrams Creek, Citico Creek, and Rocky River) fit more like regular boots so, you will need to go up one size to get the best fit when wearing them with waders.
*As far as sizing goes, the above suggestions work for most of our customers. However, there is always the exception or two. Ultimately, you will need to try the boots on and decide what works best for you.