Fishpond Wading Belts

[srock]

I am thinking of upgrading my wading belt situation. I have been impressed by the Fishpond Rio Grande and or the West Bank belts. Both cost the same. The West Bank has a dedicated net holding pocket whereas the Rio Grande has several d rings on the belt to attach equipment. Both are 4 inches wide and claim to offer back support. Does anyone own or use one of these belts and is willing to comment on it. Thanks in advance. SR

 

[myt1]

I have the Fishpond Rio Grande belt.

I wear it with my Simms G3 waders.

It takes a bit of work, but I can get the belt through the belt loop in the back of the waders, just barely.

I upgraded to this belt because the belt that came with my waders would slip through the belt loops when I unsnapped the buckle. I came close to losing the Simms belt a few times.

Maybe it provides some back support, but I wouldn't count on anything major.

The Rio Grande belt is very well made and I'm glad I purchased it.

 

[osseous]

Get the Umpqua- the net holder is rigid and easier to access.

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[Ard]

I have the Fishpond Rio Grande belt.

I wear it with my Simms G3 waders.

It takes a bit of work, but I can get the belt through the belt loop in the back of the waders, just barely.

I upgraded to this belt because the belt that came with my waders would slip through the belt loops when I unsnapped the buckle. I came close to losing the Simms belt a few times.

Maybe it provides some back support, but I wouldn't count on anything major.

The Rio Grande belt is very well made and I'm glad I purchased it.

Hey Rick,

I had the same problem with the Simms belt slipping especially with my wading staff or bear spray on it, quite a hassle...…. I answered that with the Neoprene belt, it stays put.

 

[Matt4.0]

I tried the Umpqua belt, I suppose it’s a good design if you plan to use the net holder and retractors. I didn’t use either and found it provided “0” back support in my experience.

 

[osseous]

I tried the Umpqua belt, I suppose it’s a good design if you plan to use the net holder and retractors. I didn’t use either and found it provided “0” back support in my experience.

The Fishpond provides even less-

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[Matt4.0]

The Fishpond provides even less-

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I suspected as much from its looks. The only one I’ve seen that looks like it might actually provide some support is the Simms. But I figure at the end of the day if one really needs a back support belt you’re probably best off just buying a real one and wearing under your waders. (advice I haven’t tried myself yet)