Frogg Toggs Hellbender Wader Review
In terms of gear, waders are just about as sexy to me as socks. I’d much rather fawn over new rods, nets, or a really nice wooden fly box. But, waders are a necessary fishing tool. Many years ago, I became a breathable wader convert but I had one complaint–a lack of durability. Even after trying several different brands and models, I came to the conclusion that breathable waders were pretty much “disposable” even when babied. That plus the fact that many decent waders run $300 – $400 is not a good combination. Sure, there were cheaper ones but they were pretty spartan in the features area. So imagine my elation when I found a durable, feature-packed breathable wader for $150 in the Frogg Togg Hellbender!
Breathability & Durability
The Frogg Toggs Hellbenders are stocking foot breathable waders with more features than you’d expect to find in a sub $200 package. After having worn them for about 6 months now in various conditions, I can tell you that not only are they durable, but they actually breathe! One time, I hiked a physically demanding three mile section of the S. Platte. It was quite a workout because you have to do a lot of climbing up and down a very steep bank to get from spot to spot. At the end of the full day of fishing, no condensation. The rocks and gravel of this river are also very abrasive the the Hellbenders shrugged them off (not to mention the miles of bushwhacking I’d already put on them). One feature that definitely contributes to the durability is the reinforced knee and shin area where waders typically get the most abuse. Overall, I am more than impressed with the durability and breathability of these waders.
Reinforced Knee and Shin
Fit & Comfort
To me, the overall fit of these waders strikes a good balance–baggy enough to allow freedom of movement but tight enough to not make you feel like you’re wearing a sloppy garbage bag. I’m 5′ 10″ and weigh 140 pounds and a size Medium fits me perfectly. A nice touch is the elastic suspender system which is comfortable to wear all day without chaffing or restricting movement. I hate it when you bend down and your suspenders constrict you like a locked seatbelt. That doesn’t happen with these suspenders.
Stretchy Suspender System
Storage & Organization
One of the features that I like best on these warders is the very versatile and well thought out front pocket. In fact, there’s so much storage, a tenkara angler with minimal gear could easily forgo the vesy or chest pack and just carry everything they need in the Hellbender’s pockets (in fact, I actually have on more than one occasion). Here is a basic layout of the pockets:
Hellbender Pockets
1. Main front pocket. This has a velcro flap closure and will easily accomodate fly boxes a camera, and other larger gear.
2. Front zip pocket. Perfect for smaller gear like lines or tippet spools.
3. Hand warmer pockets. These are fleece lined and a godsend on cold mornings or when winter fishing. You can also store quick access gear here.
4. Inside security pocket. You can’t see it in the photo because it’s inside the wader but there’s also an inside mesh security pocket that’s good for things like keys, a phone, etc.
Other Nice Touches
The waders come with integrated gravel guards which I like because it eliminates one more piece of gear I have to put on before hitting the stream (i.e. gaiters).
Integrated Gravel Guards
I also really like the belt loops that keep your wading belt forever attached to your waders so you won’t lose it.
Wading Belt Loops
The waders are very compact and stow in my wading box easily leaving plenty of room for my wading boots and other gear.
Compact Storage
Conclusion
Overall, I couldn’t be happier with these waders. They shatter the myth that a decent pair of breathable waders with lots of convenience features has to cost $400 +. I could literally buy three pairs of Hellbenders for the cost of my old Orvis Pro Guides. Assuming that all breathable waders are in some sense “disposable”, it will certainly be less painful to eventually replace these than an overpriced pair. In fact, I’m thinking about buying a second pair for when the inevitable happens because you know Murphy’s Law: If it’s good, they’ll discontinue it!
What are your favorite waders?
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About Me
Jason Klass is a former fly fishing guide who now exclusively fishes Tenkara for trout in the streams and lakes of Colorado...Read More
They look like pretty good waders. Another pair of waders that I have heard are really durable and relatively inexpensive are the cabelas guide tech waders. Also if you are tall and skinny they have a size for you where they won’t be baggy.
I agree with you on these waders. I have a pair and I got em for $100 and I could not be happier with them. You’re exactly right about the pockets, more than enough room for fly box and line and tools. Plus a nice hand warmer pouch. Can’t go wrong for the price
My favorite waders? I have never had a favorite pair of waders due to the design of them. I am definately considering giving the Hellbenders a try since I am in the market for a new pair.
I’m just pleased to see something named after the largest salamander in the world! Fish in the Smokies enough, and you just might see one of these guys.
Jason, do you know what membrane/laminate/DWR these waters use?
It’s interesting, but according to studies funded by DAN and conducted at Duke, Gore and similar laminates fail suprisingly fast under low water pressure – one of the reasons for 3-5 layer laminates in waders.
Hi Robert, it looks like it’s a 4-layer laminate (5 layers over the knees). They call it Dri Pore Technology. I’m not a fabric techie–all I can really testify to is empirical experience and it works for me (so far).
P.S. Not sure I want to see a real hellbender. Those things look scary!
Jason:
Thanks for the article on the waders. It is always good to see what is developing, as things to always seem to be changing in that field.
I might suggest your readers also consider LL Bean wading products, as (1) mine have worked without fail for 7 years, and (2) their warranty is unbeatable – unconditionally guaranteed, period. No time limit.
Keep up the interesting articles and videos.
Jim
Hi JIm,
Thanks. I haven’t tried L.L. Bean waders but I’ve heard good things about them.
Jason,
ive been wearing those waders for two years now. Great waders ill almost deffinately buy another pair if i ever wear these ones out.
Lance
Jason
Do you know how much these weight ? Am looking for waders to take backpacking.
Thanks,
Darcy
Hi Jason,
Does this waders has articulated foot? Thanks.
Not sure what that means. It is shaped to fit your foot if that helps.
Thanks, that’s what i meant.
Thanks for the info Jason. Do you know what the warranty is with the Hellbenders?
Hi George. Not sure about the warranty. It’s probably on their website. Luckily haven’t had to use it yet.
Owned the first generation, brown color, of these waders over four years at 60 fishing days per year on the Kern River. They got hammered climbing over boulders and beating through brush. Great waders!
Hi Jason, they are the worst waders that i have bought in my forty years of fishing, they replaced three pairs of waders for me and it took well over a year to get one pair exchanged and they all leaked in the knee seams and the neoprene bootie area. Frogg Togg wouldn’t answer my emails and then they replaced my pilot waders with a cheaper wader and jacket otherwise i would have had to wait another six months and then those waders leaked on the first day and to be honest at that stage i had enough and couldn’t even be bothered emailing again. I can show pictures of perfectly clean new waders leaking. Bad batch of waders maybe ?.
Hi Paul,
Sorry to hear that. You might have hit a bad batch. I’m still using mine since I posted about them with no leaks or any other problems. Looks like Frogg Toggs should have give you better customer service.