Simms G4Z Stockingfoot Waders
Hand-built GORE-TEX Pro stockingfoot wader with waterproof front zipper, 4-layer lower reinforcement, and individually pressure-tested construction from Bozeman, Montana.
Editorial
The Simms G4Z is a stockingfoot chest wader built in Bozeman, Montana. Hand-assembled from 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro Shell on the upper body and 4-layer GORE-TEX Pro Shell from the hips down, every pair is individually pressure-tested before it ships.
The defining feature is the "Z" -- a waterproof YKK AQUASEAL front zipper welded into the wader body with stitchless construction. Inside, submersible TRU ZIP pockets keep phones and keys dry even during a swim. The 2mm neoprene gravel guards grip boot tops without a hook.
At USD $1,100 the G4Z sits at the top of a market where the next option down -- Simms' own G3 Guide at $750 -- is already considered professional grade. The price buys 4-layer lower reinforcement, the waterproof zipper, and a warranty that includes 60-day no-questions leak replacement and 365-day free repairs.
Why It Matters
The G4Z replaced the G4 Pro in 2024 with meaningful upgrades: 4-layer GORE-TEX Pro now extends from the hips down, the front zipper moved to stitchless welded construction, and the suspender system was redesigned with spacer mesh and cam-lock hardware. This is what guides who fish 180+ days a year choose. The dual-layer architecture puts the heaviest protection on the zones that take the most abuse while keeping the upper body in lighter 3-layer material for breathability.
Best For
- Wade fishing in cold water -- steelhead, salmon, trout in demanding conditions
- Guides who need equipment that survives professional-level punishment over 180+ days annually
- Extended days in the river where waterproof integrity is non-negotiable
- Anglers who want the best stockingfoot wader currently manufactured
Technical Snapshot
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Upper Fabric | 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro Shell |
| Lower / Seat / Front Thigh | 4-layer GORE-TEX Pro Shell |
| Front Zipper | Waterproof YKK AQUASEAL, stitchless welded |
| Interior Pockets | Submersible TRU ZIP waterproof |
| Gravel Guards | 2mm neoprene, snag-free design |
| Stockingfeet | Compression-molded neoprene, anti-microbial |
| Handwarmer Pockets | Zippered, fleece-lined |
| Suspenders | Spacer mesh, cam-lock quick-adjust |
| Weight | 50.8 oz / 1,439g (size Medium) |
| Sizes | S-2XL; Short, Regular, Long inseams |
| Colour | Slate |
| Made In | Bozeman, Montana, USA (imported materials) |
| Warranty | 60-day leak replacement, 365-day free repairs |
Collector / Field Notes
The G4Z replaced the G4 Pro in 2024. Simms introduced the original G4 platform in 2008 and it has served as the flagship wader line for nearly two decades. The Hatch Magazine review tested the G4Z across multiple weeks in Iceland and noted the 4-layer lower construction held up where other waders typically fail within a season.
Simms uses PFAS-containing GORE-TEX Pro -- current industry standard for severe wet conditions. Worth noting as DWR chemistry evolves and regulatory pressure increases. Simms' repair program (60-day leak replacement, 365-day free repairs, $60 repair fee after year one) extends functional life well beyond the initial purchase.
FAQ
What's the difference between the G4Z and the G3 Guide?
The G4Z adds 4-layer GORE-TEX Pro on the lower body and seat, a waterproof front zipper, submersible TRU ZIP interior pockets, and stitchless welded construction. The G3 Guide at USD $750 is the workhorse. The G4Z at USD $1,100 is the flagship.
Are Simms G4Z waders made in the USA?
Yes. Designed and assembled in Bozeman, Montana. Materials are imported.
Do the G4Z waders contain PFAS?
Yes. The GORE-TEX Pro membrane uses PFAS-based DWR treatment, current industry standard for high-performance waterproof breathable fabrics in severe wet conditions.
Sources
Frequently Asked
- What's the difference between the G4Z and the G3 Guide?
- The G4Z adds 4-layer GORE-TEX Pro on the lower body and seat, a waterproof front zipper, submersible TRU ZIP interior pockets, and stitchless welded construction. The G3 Guide at USD $750 is the workhorse. The G4Z at USD $1,100 is the flagship.
- Are Simms G4Z waders made in the USA?
- Yes. Designed and assembled in Bozeman, Montana. Materials are imported.
- Do the G4Z waders contain PFAS?
- Yes. The GORE-TEX Pro membrane uses PFAS-based DWR treatment, current industry standard for high-performance waterproof breathable fabrics in severe wet conditions.
