Most waders are designed to keep water out. Skwala waders are designed to keep anglers fishing. That distinction drives every decision in the RS and Carbon wader designs, from the buckle-less shoulder harness that eliminates pressure points during long days, to the fourchette leg seams that allow full mobility when you need to climb, kneel, or wade hard current.
Both waders in the Skwala lineup are built for anglers who hike long distances to access water, fish in demanding current, and spend more time in their waders than out of them. They are among the most technically advanced waders available at any price.
Both the RS and Carbon waders use a 4-layer waterproof and breathable laminate construction. Four-layer is more durable than 3-layer and significantly tougher than 2.5-layer waders, with an additional bonded layer that shields the breathable membrane from abrasion and contamination. This is the same construction standard used in top-tier alpine outerwear.
Traditional wader suspenders use plastic buckles that create pressure points across the shoulders over long days. Skwala replaces the buckle system with a concealed G-hook design set into a heat-formed, anatomically patterned shoulder yoke. The yoke distributes weight evenly across the upper body, and the absence of hardware eliminates the pressure points that cause shoulder fatigue on full days on the water.
Fourchette seams run down the inside of the leg and allow the fabric to open up when you step forward, lift your knee over a boulder, or drop into a kneel. This seam construction was borrowed from high-performance mountaineering pants. For anglers who regularly scramble over canyon walls or navigate technical wading, the difference is immediately obvious.
Both waders feature fully glued and taped 4mm neoprene booties with Spandura-reinforced sole panels and antimicrobial linings. The anatomical patterning means the bootie follows the natural shape of your foot rather than forcing your foot into a flat, symmetric shape, reducing hot spots on long hikes to the water.
Built for anglers who fish hard through every season. The RS is the most fully featured wader in the Skwala lineup, with the zip-front entry, integrated lumbar support, and warm fleece-lined pockets that make a real difference on cold mornings and long days.
The wader for anglers who fish backcountry water and travel to destination fisheries. At 40.9 oz, it packs in a duffel without adding weight, and the magnetic drop-top system gives you ventilation options the RS does not.
The RS is the more fully equipped wader, with the zip-front entry, fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, and integrated lumbar support that make cold-weather and high-mileage fishing more comfortable. It is heavier, but the added features earn their weight for anglers who spend most of their time in demanding conditions.
The Carbon saves roughly 15 oz compared to the RS, which matters when you are packing for a fly-in fishing trip or hiking several miles to access water. The magnetic drop-top system is a genuine advantage on warm-weather trips, letting you cool down quickly without a full gear change.
The RS Zip Front Wader ($899) is built for maximum durability and feature richness with a zip-front entry, fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, integrated lumbar support, and an ultra-dense polyester microfiber face. The Carbon Wader ($569) is built for lightweight performance and travel, weighing 40.9 oz versus 55.6 oz for the RS, with a magnetic drop-top conversion system and a high-density nylon face textile.
Skwala waders come in three inseam lengths: Short (28 to 31 inches), Regular (31 to 33 inches), and Tall (34 to 36 inches). Chest sizing runs from Medium (37 to 40 inch chest) through XXL (49 to 52 inch chest). Measure accurately and contact The Fly Fishers staff if you need a recommendation.
Both waders use 4-layer laminate construction, which is more resistant to abrasion, punctures, and membrane contamination than 3-layer or 2.5-layer alternatives. The ultra-dense polyester face on the RS and high-density nylon on the Carbon provide excellent resistance to rockwork, streamside brush, and rough terrain.
Yes. Breathable waders are commonly used for saltwater flats fishing, and both Skwala waders function well in saltwater environments. Rinse them thoroughly with fresh water after saltwater use. The anti-microbial interior treatment helps prevent odor and mildew from developing over time.
Skwala makes purpose-built wading boots designed to integrate with their wader system. The RS Wading Boots ($349) and Carbon Wading Boots ($299) are both available at The Fly Fishers. Contact us if you need help choosing the right boot for your fishing environment and preferred sole type.
The Fly Fishers carries both Skwala waders in a full range of sizes. Our staff has fitted anglers for waders for years and is happy to help you find the right size, the right model, and the right boot to go with them. Free shipping on orders over $75.
Waders