Simms Streamtread Vibram Boot Review - The Rivers Edge

[Bluebeltonproduction]

I own a pair of Simms Rivershed Vibram boots and I have to say that they just don't perform as well as felt. Firstly, the vibram soles are extremely stiff , which means that you feel every little stone your foot walks over and your foot really has to work to bend the sole...Second, the vibram just does'nt grip on algae covered boulders/ledges. If you want to wade a river in late august or July during peak algal bloom, your commiting suicide! If your using Vibram, get it studded!

[deadrft]

I am also a guide for Simms and have also tested the Vibram soles. I love these boots! Combined w/studes these are fare more durable better on every stream bottom I used them on. I tested them in New Zealand and all over the Rocky Mountain West. If for no other reason to use them, New Zealand has banned felt. And I believe others will follow. No product is for everyone, but this one is close!

[otiswpike]

I have the 09 Vibram Simms guide boot with studs best fitting and most comfortable boot I have had. but the felt is hands down better on slick rock.......If this is as good as Vibram can do this will be my last pair

[2slyfly]

P.S. - I use the G3 boot and the simms keen river sandal. Best there is period.

[2slyfly]

Tried them out on a week long visit to the Black river here in Arizona. Hate to bust the bubble. I am not impressed with these at all. Call me old school but the felt is far superior. Its really not even close. Took them back got the felt. No offense but did you really do your home work on these? Simms has always been a very high quality product! I'd be careful about pushing these. I don't think I am the only one on this. Just my humble opinion....

[theriversedgeflyshop]

Its pretty interesting the responses that we have had to the Vibram Streamtread soles. For every 50 great comments, we hear 1 about how they did not work as well as felt. Here in Montana, the overwhelming response has been very very good this summer. I think a lot of this comes down to that in a few rivers, felt may still be better overall, but in many, the new Vibram is equally as good. I might also mention that cleating your Vibram soles is also a great option for slick rivers.

[Dryfly00]

You're right, I am a guide and felt is much better. I love Simms but I think they are taking the "green" fad a little to far. Alot of people fish either the same stream or streams that are close to each other and there is not a big threat of spreading unwanted species. Plus I have even heard Simms reps telling me that the vibram isnt as good as felt.

[daynelarsen]

Good to see you guys on youtube...... I really miss the clear water not a lot of that down here in Louisiana