Patagonia Forra Wading Boots
In Stock • Bozeman, MT
- Ultra light weight
- Optimum balance between Traction and Durability
- Large contact area for grip on rock
- Vibram Hexabase lug for traction
- Toe bumper for foot protection and grip
Description
Engineered for trail and river. The Forra Wading Boots are lightweight without sacrificing performance. Built in collaboration with our partners at Fitwell® using traditional craftmanship and meticulous attention to quality and fishing functionality. Featuring Vibram® Mars sole technology and XS Trek for traction, flexibility, and grip. These boots provide high ankle stability, reinforced toe caps and an adjustable, noncorrosive lacing system for all day support and durability.
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Features
• Vibram Mars Sole with XS Trek Compound — Large contact area and HexaBase lugs for grip and stability on wet rock and dry trail.
• High Collar Design with Stiffer Upper — Ankle protection and stability on uneven, technical terrain.
• Reinforced Toe Caps — Built to hold up to scrambling over rock.
• Adjustable Webbing Lacing System — In-stream security with noncorrosive, abrasion-resistant hardware.
• Engineered for Fast Drainage and Quick Drying — Upper free of unnecessary foams and backers.
• Abrasion-Resistant Nylon Mesh Upper — Quick-drying, durable, and lightweight.
• Compatible with the Grip Studs Traction Kit — Optional, separately sold add-on for extra bite.
Care
| After Use | What to Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Every Session | Rinse thoroughly with fresh water, including around the laces and sole lugs. | Clears grit from the HexaBase lugs and keeps the lacing hardware working smoothly. |
| Switching Rivers or Watersheds | Rinse and fully air-dry before use in a different body of water. | Helps prevent the spread of invasive species and pathogens between waterways. |
| Between Trips | Air-dry fully out of direct sun before storing. | The upper is built for fast drying, but trapped moisture in the midsole can still lead to odor and premature wear. |
Size Guide
The River Salt Wading Boots II size differently depending on what's worn underneath -- a stockingfoot wader's neoprene bootie takes up room a thin sock doesn't.
1. Wearing waders with a neoprene bootie? Size up from your street shoe size using the chart below.
2. Wearing Yulex Wading Socks or the Swiftcurrent Ultralight Wader instead? Select your boot size to match your street shoe size directly.
3. Wet-wading barefoot or with a thin sock for saltwater? Use the true-to-size chart as well.
4. If you're between sizes, size up rather than down.
| Wading Boot Size | Neoprene Wader Booties | Wading Socks | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men's Street Size | Women's Street Size | Men's Street Size | Women's Street Size | |
| 5 | — | 6 | 5 | 7 |
| 6 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 8 |
| 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 9 |
| 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 10 |
| 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 11 |
| 10 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 12 |
| 11 | 10 | 12 | 11 | — |
| 12 | 11 | — | 12 | — |
| 13 | 12 | — | 13 | — |
| 14 | 13 | — | 14 | — |
FAQ
Who are these boots for?
The Patagonia Forra Wading Boots are built for anglers who cover significant ground both on the trail and in the river. Their relatively lightweight construction makes them a strong choice for hike-in fishing, long days on foot, and anglers who want more mobility than a heavier traditional wading boot without giving up support.
A high, stiff collar provides ankle support and stability on uneven river bottoms, while the reinforced toe cap adds protection when wading around rocks. Underfoot, the Vibram Mars outsole with HexaBase lugs provides a broad contact area for traction on both wet and dry terrain and can be fitted with Patagonia Grip Studs when additional grip is needed. Quick-draining Cordura mesh also helps keep weight down once the boots are wet.
These are particularly well suited for anglers fishing freestone rivers, backcountry water, and destinations that involve substantial hiking between fishing locations. For someone prioritizing maximum stiffness and protection above everything else, a heavier boot may make more sense; the Forra's strength is its balance of support, traction, and lower weight.
What is Vibram Mars sole technology with XS Trek compound?
Vibram Mars is a sole built for a large ground-contact area, paired with HexaBase lugs for traction and stability across mixed terrain. The XS Trek rubber compound is tuned for grip on both wet rock and dry trail, which matters on a boot meant to handle the hike in as much as the time spent wading.
What is the Grip Studs Traction Kit, and do I need it?
The Forra's sole is compatible with Patagonia's Grip Studs Traction Kit, sold separately, for anglers who want extra bite on slick, algae-covered rock or icy conditions. It's not required -- the Vibram Mars sole is built to grip well on its own -- but it's there as an option for the slickest wading conditions.
What is the adjustable webbing lacing system?
An adjustable webbing lacing system provides in-stream security with a secure, adjustable fit, and all hardware is noncorrosive and abrasion-resistant. The boot is also engineered to clear water quickly, with the upper free of unnecessary foams and backers for faster dry times between outings.
Testimonials
"I particularly favor Patagonia Forra wading boots due to their lightweight design, which offers exceptional comfort during long walks along while wading in remote locations. Additionally, their rugged grip provides stability on slippery rocks and uneven terrain, ensuring safety and confidence while wading. These boots are not only durable but also excel in providing traction and support, making them ideal for extended fishing trips. With their combination of lightweight construction, rugged grip, and suitability for long walks, Patagonia's Forra wading boots are a reliable choice for anglers seeking both performance and comfort in their gear." - Josh Mills, Program Director
Product Video