"The Chest Waders here on review are made from 5mm-thick Neoprene and are available in a hi-tech camouflage design from America known as Advantage Wetlands. I'm no stranger to camo designs as I use a lot of other patterns for my other passion - shooting. Anyway, most anglers will probably already be familiar with this particular camo pattern, because it's now being used by certain manufacturers aimed at the carp angler. Anyway, the camo works, and works well if that's your particular want, but the majority of pike anglers will be more concerned with the quality rather than cosmetics. As you read on you'll come to realise that they really are as good as they look.

The attached high quality PVC boots (wellies) are lined with 3mm Neoprene for extra warmth and comfort. The heavy-duty soles of the boots have chunky, thick, wide cleats. This means they give a lot of grip on rock and especially muddy or silted-up margins. I mention the cleats as this type of design affords the best compromise for grip and ease of cleaning. Now it must be said from the outset that the boots are a major reason for the waders being so comfortable to wear.

Incidentally, it's worth noting that the 3mm Neoprene lining means you'll need to get a larger wader than usual, as the boot lining really does cut down on the actual internal boot size. For instance I usually take size 9 in boots of most description, but due to the lined boots I found the waders most suitable for myself were the XXL size. Thankfully, unlike some manufacturers' waders, they don't feel in the slightest bit cumbersome, and thanks to the flexibility of the boot coupled with the 'stretch' properties of the Neoprene, these chest waders are very comfortable to move around in. Also, the extra sizing doesn't mean the chesties will be overly big at other parts of the body as they're a very comfortable and snug fit.

All 'joining' seams on the material the waders are made from are double-stitched and taped to ensure a completely waterproof join. As you move up the leg, the knees are reinforced for strength and added protection. At the front on the chest is a generously sized pocket with a Velcro closure - very handy for slipping in unhooking equipment and the like. The waders are kept in place by the usual over-shoulder 'straps' which secure down at the front onto heavy-duty, wide and lengthy Velcro fastenings. Not only do these hold the waders securely on your body, but they also allow for a great deal of adjustment.

I've used this pair of Chest Waders extensively now for the best part of six months, and not only have I worn them for virtually all of my winter angling - when for once I've always been very warm - but they were also a godsend when I was working up to and over my crown jewels while helping to clean up a local water. Even after all of that use and abuse they still have the look that suggests they'll last many, many seasons to come, and if the inevitable should happen they even come ready supplied with a simple-to-use repair kit.

Priced at £94.95 including carriage I honestly can't find fault with them and have no hesitation in recommending these Chest Waders to any pike angler, be they lure or bait fishermen.

Incidentally the company also produces Felt Sole Waders, Stocking Foot Waders and a host of jackets (including the highly acclaimed Nordstrom Jacket), trousers and insulated fleece-type garments. For further information on these and any other outdoor products in the range contact the company direct."

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