Simms G4 Pro Boot Review

A Completely New G4 Boot

The New Simms G4 Pro boot is the wading boot upgrade we've been waiting for. This award winning boot (Best New Boot at IFTD 2019) is a long overdue update to the old G4 Boa boots we've seen in the past. They scrapped the Boa tightening system and opted for a quick lace design, added a new grippy outsole, and refreshed the look overall with high tech fabrics and materials. We're excited for these and the direction that Simms is heading this coming year.

New Sole w/ Receptacles for Cleats

The main feature of the boot that we're immediately drawn to is is the all-new, made-for-wading Vibram Idrogrip sole. Feels super grippy and durable enough to not wear down after a year of hard wading. On each sole are 10 stainless steel non-corrosion receptacles that let you add cleats for additional traction and remove them when needed. These only fit the special G4 Pro Hardbite and Alumibite cleats.

This allows us to take them out when we're planning on fishing from a boat, and swap over to cleats when headed out wading. We won't be putting on and taking off the cleats daily, but it's a unique feature to have and will definitely get some use.

Upper and Interior

Moving from the sole to the upper portion of the boot, we have a textile-mesh upper that reminds us of the Simms Flyweight boots. It feels quite a bit stronger and more durable than the Flyweight material and is supported by strong rubber that should take the brunt of the scrapes you'll get while wading. Added toe and heel support round out the exterior for a strong fit to make those long wading days possible.

Inside the boot it's neoprene lined with molded foam. Less water absorption and a lighter boot in the water and walking from hole to hole. 

How They Fit

The neoprene foam interior locks you in and provides comfortable support inside. Paired with a thick midsole, these feel super comfortable and discomfort is not something that'll be nagging you while on hour 5 of a killer hopper hatch. Wearing these with a pair of gravel guards or almost any wader stockingfoot is going to feel great.

These come in full sizes like most wading boots out there. They also fit true to size; if you're a half size we recommend that you go up that one size to get a good fit.

Also in Felt

The new Simms G4 boots also come in a felt model. These now have rubber cleat anchors to secure studs, as opposed to screwing directly into the felt. 

A Step Up From the Flyweights

If you're looking to upgrade to your boot from the Flyweights or get a boot that rivals all the top boots out there while staying in a reasonable price range, the G4 boot is the way to go. We like the creative yet sturdy of nature of it and applaud Simms for rebuilding from the ground up on their new G4 boots. Only time will tell, but the lifespan of this boot should keep you wading for years.