There’s nothing I enjoy more than passing on information (That’s been brought back from the field) to a manufacturer and not only have them appreciate the input, but then see them actually use it to make improvements in their product designs. That’s what Korkers has done with their new KGB wading boot this year, and they’re showing that they’re listening and value the input from their loyal supporters. The Korkers KGB Wading Boot (Korkers Guide Boot) has been completely redesigned from the bottom up, and Korkers has continued to stay true to its roots, by choosing the highest quality and most durable materials for their boots, all while maintaining a design that focuses heavily on support and superior traction for safe wading. One critical area Korkers has excelled immensely at, is manufacturing outdoor footwear that is super lightweight. Next time you’re in a retail shop, compare Korkers to other brands, and you’ll quickly notice how much lighter they are. Even with all the steroids they injected into the Korkers KGB wading boot, it still ranks as one of the lightest wading boots on the market today. Korkers took it a step further this year by partnering up with Vibram, the outdoor leader in boot soles, and worked with them to design a super aggressive and durable sole available with and without studs. Korkers has also adjusted their sizing (in the past were known for sizing to run small), and their interchangeable traction control soles work seamlessly with all of their footwear so you can be sure you’re ready to tackle a diverse range of outdoor treking.
Korkers KGB Wading Boot Product Video
Korkers Traction Control Interchangeable Soles
For more product information about the Korkers KGB Boot and the rest of their products, please visit the Korkers website.
Keep it Reel,
Kent Klewein Gink & Gasoline www.ginkandgasoline.com hookups@ginkandgasoline.com Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter!
Freakin Sweet! That boot looks sick! Glad to see that they’re listening to their consumers.I’ve always loved Korkers and like to see how they’re still able to kick it up a notch every year. Can’t wait to get my hands on the KGB and try out some new soles.
Looks oddly like the Iconic Simms Guide Boot…
John,
I’ll agree with you that at a quick glance they do look some what similar. I’m assuming you are talking specifically about the Simms Guide Boot-StreamTread (http://www.simmsfishing.com/site/guide_boot_studded_aqua.html#). But there are quite a bit of differences between the two boots when you look at them in detail. That being said, the Simms Guide Boot is a quality wading boot and I know several people personally that own them and enjoy them.
However, let’s compare and constrast the Korkers KGB and Simms Guide Boot quickly since you brought it up. I think it will be informative for anglers looking at both brands.
* Both boots come with a premium Vibram sole on the boot. However, the two have different tread designs, and the Korkers has the Interchangeable Omin-Trax sole capability and comes with a second sole with purchase. You can purchase Simms accessory StreamTread stud cleats that you screw into the bottom of the sole for extra traction (They Range from $30-$40.00).
* Simms Guide Boot Retails for $199.95 while Korkers KGB Retails for $209.99. Korkers KGB is $10 more but it does come with a second Interchangeable Omni-Trax sole, so I think you could argue that both boots are equal in price for what you get.
* Both offer solid lacing systems with heavy hardware. Korkers KGB boot does however offer a locking D-Ring feature that provides adjustable two-zone lacing that you don’t see in the Simms Guide Boot. Simms lacing components are non-corrosive brass. Not sure if Korkers is non-corrosive or not.
* Both are are reinforced heavily on the boots where they get the most wear and tear and use materials that limit water absorption. This makes them very durable boots that will last a long time and provide great value. Simms uses a combination of water repellant full-grain leather for the majority of it’s lower and a ToughTek material, while Korkers KGB boot utilizes a 2mm thick rubber lower that absorbs no water and is very light weight and durable.
* One key difference between the Simms and Korkers guide wading boots is water drain holes. As far as I know Simms does not have any drain holes/ports on the lower section of the boot, while Korkers chose to integrate drain holes into the interchangeable Omni-Trax soles at the lowest point possible in the boot. This is a nice feature because it drains the most water possible out of the boots as soon as you step out of the water, and this will cut down on fatigue and weight over the course of a day and will help the boots dry out quicker.
* Weight differences: I can’t find information that confirms the exact weight of either wading boot. However, I have held both pair of boots in my hand at the same time and the Korkers KGB is significantly a lighter boot. I assume most of the extra weight in the Simms Guide boot is the fixed and thicker Vibram sole.
As you can see there are some key differences between the boots when you look at them in detail. Again, both boots are great wading boots that utilize the highest quality materials in their designs. Fly anglers will have to make the decision for themselves on what they prefer. My advice is to try them on and walk around in them to help you make your decision.
Thanks for your comment John. We appreciate your feedback.
Kent
I watch the interchangeable sole approach with great interest. When it come to my tools, I would generally rather have three job specific utensils than a three-in-one that may be reconfigured for the task at hand. My experience is that weakness always lies at the adapting point.
Having said that, the concept of interchangeable soles has great appeal and if someone can make them rock solid, I’d certainly entertain them.
Mike,
That is a valid point. I’ve been using the interchangeable soles for years now and although I have seen some wear and tear with the feature, it hasn’t compromised the boots usability. Korkers latest interchangeable omni-trax design has taken this into account and has made further improvements to ensure they are very durable.
Everyone has to weigh out the advantages and disadvantages of having a fixed sole or an interchangeable sole. It’s not for everyone, but I do lots of hike-ins at various times of the year, over wide terrain types and conditions, and the interchangeable soles suit me best for my needs. Could I manage without the option if it wasn’t available, yes, but it is, and I choose to take advantage of it.
Kent
Ah, the hike-in. An excellent example of how the interchangeable sole would be advantageous. Thanks for that thought, Kent.
Kent:
Great videos and great design. How has the interchangeable sole held up in “sticky” situations? Is it apt to pull out on muddy terrain? Have lost many shoes wet-wading through black mud surrounding the river and it seems this same sticky mud would pull that interchangeable sole right off. Any insight on that?
WY Trout Wrangler,
That’s a good question. I haven’t found myself in much of those sticky situations. The closest was on the green river out of WY. They faired fine, but It was only for a few days.
Kent
I have the old style korkers with the studed sole. Great all round boot. The lower section of the San Juan can be very sticky enough to pull off a boot. The soles have never come loose and mine are the original old sole. Never have had a problem.
Bruce,
The original Korkers guide boots were a grand slam when they came out with them. Right now, since you can’t get those originals anymore, the KGB is my choice.
Kent
Daddy LIKE!!!
I have been very pleased with the korkers that I have owned. I really like the new Sevelt sole on my korkers, like competition in the fly fishing industry .when your ready to buy. And no boa laces.