On Sun, 16 Nov 2003 14:19:20 -0500, "Yuji Sakuma"
wrote:

Hi Bill,

It is fine that you are patriotic and choose to promote American products
but I am Canadian and I am looking for price/performance - country of origin
is not a criterion for me. For example, I notice that the best outdoor
gear, with a couple of exceptions, is designed by American companies, such
as Patagonia, Marmot, Mountain Hardware, etc., and fabricated offshore. My
experience with Goretex in outerwear is that it is technically good, maybe
the best, but that the difference in performance with other
waterproof-breathable membranes for most applications is marginal. I was
happy with the Orvis Clearwater waders except for the awful fit and the
ridiculous double knees (which trapped water). Just because something is
made in America does not make it the best; ask me if I would rather own a
German car or a Japanese camera. That said, I think Simms does make the
best waders.

Yuji

After comparing Canadian Wardells to Simms Freestones (same dollars),
I wouldn't touch the Simms with a barge pole (durability). However,
if you're after maximum portability the Wardells, being heavier, won't
pack down like the Freestones. I'd go back and have another look at
Clearwaters as I think Orvis has gone back to the original formula. I
put six hard seasons on my Clearwaters and their still my backups and
(Frank's G).

I've now put one and half seasons on my Wardells and I remain very
happy with them.

Peter

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