Night Cat Chest Waders with Boots (Size 10): features, specs and care

These Night Cat chest waders (model US-81260-43, shown in size 10) are one-piece waterproof waders with the boots built in. They keep you dry when you stand in water or work in wet, muddy places, from fly fishing to farm fields. Here is what the features mean, and what to check before you pick a size.

Fabric and waterproofing

Night Cat says the waders are made of tough nylon coated with PVC, in a two-ply upper fabric. PVC-coated nylon is a common waders material because it is waterproof, hard-wearing and easy to clean. It is generally less breathable than the multi-layer fabrics used in higher-end waders, although the brand describes these as breathable and lightweight. In warm weather, expect waders of this kind to feel warmer than a lighter garment.

Integrated boots

On many waders, boots are stitched to the legs and the seam is a common place for leaks. Night Cat says the boots and pants are integrated instead of stitched together, so there is no seam there to leak. The boots are PVC with an anti-slip outsole for wading on different surfaces, and the brand says the material resists abrasion. Boot-foot waders like this are one piece, so the size you choose needs to suit both your feet and your body.

Fit and adjustment

Night Cat offers sizes from 6 to 14 and points buyers to its size chart. This listing is for size 10. The fit features include:

• an adjustable waist belt;
• H-back suspenders;
• quick-release buckles for putting the waders on and taking them off.

These let you adjust for different body shapes. Because the boots are attached, check the chart against your shoe size as well as your height and build. Allow room for warm socks or thermal layers underneath if you fish in cool water.

Pocket

There is a front pocket for small items like a licence, a phone or bait. Night Cat points out that the pocket is not waterproof, so anything that mustn't get wet needs its own waterproof pouch, and the pocket should not be dipped below the waterline.

Uses

Night Cat lists fly fishing, hunting yards, car washes, mining, farm fields and other watery or muddy areas. Chest waders cover the body to about chest height, so they suit deeper wading than hip waders, but be careful in deep or moving water. Follow local safety advice and consider a wading belt and a wading staff where conditions call for them.

Care

Night Cat's care advice is to flush the waders with fresh water without brushing after use, and to hang them in the shade to dry rather than leaving them in strong sunlight. Sun and heat generally age PVC and rubber faster. Keep them dry and loosely hung rather than folded tightly.

What to check before you buy

• Size: compare your shoe size, height and build with the size chart.
• Climate: PVC-coated waders can feel warm, so think about the season you will use them in.
• Insulation: boot-foot waders have no extra insulation, so plan cold-weather layers.
• Pocket: it is not waterproof.
• Repairs: find out what patching kit suits PVC if you wade through rough ground.

The short version

• One-piece chest waders in PVC-coated nylon with integrated PVC boots.
• Anti-slip outsole, adjustable belt and H-back suspenders with quick-release buckles.
• Sizes 6 to 14 are available, and this listing is size 10.
• The front pocket is not waterproof.
• Rinse with fresh water and dry in the shade.

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