[Jackster]

I always where something to cover my legs. Breathables with various layers underneath if the water is anywhere from cool to freezing and thin fishing pants with the zip-off legs in anything else, no matter how warm the water.
The pants help prevent bugs, leeches and other critters easy access as well as prevent sunburn. They dry so quick you hardly know they were wet a short while after leaving the water.
I tried wading sandals for a while but went back to wading boots. Not just for the stability but for fear of folding a toe nail over.