On Wed, 21 Apr 2004 10:33:47 -0400, "Jim" wrote:

Well, I've finally done it, but only about half way at this point.

I now have two pairs of Orvis stockingfoot waders (# 8-9 and #10-11
booties), and not one but three pairs of Korker Konvertible wading boots,
sizes 10, 11, and 12. I believe I have tried every combination of wader and
boot possible in an attempt to find a combination that "feels good". I wear
a #10 street shoe, and have a narrow foot. For some reason, the size 11
Korkers seem a bit tight, even when wearing a relatively thin boot sock.
Going to the 12 corrects the width problem, but now my toe is an inch from
the end of the boot, and I have a hard time believing that a boot that is
supposedly sized to allow for the stocking foot bootie would require a two
size jump to find a comfortable fit. All of this is taking place via mail
order, which is why my living room looks like a fly shop right now. Most of
the stuff is going back (per agreements with the shop) once the proper size
combination is selected. I have even called Korkers and Orvis to learn their
recommendations (not much help unfortunately). I have also tried Patagonia
Beefies, and Chota STL's.

And so, with the due diligence behind me, I ask for your collective
experience regarding how snug the wading boot should feel. Do you start out
a bit snug (limited toe wiggle) and things gradually soften up (the Korkers
are Nubuck sythetic leather, so there won't be much stretch), or should they
feel great right from the start.

Unless you do all your wading on sandy substrates, you'd best leave plenty of
room for your toes. Banging over rocky stream bottoms and hiking up and down
hill from spot to spot all day will do a number on toes if the boots are too
short...

/daytripper (made that mistake exactly once. fortunately they fit #2 son ;-)