Simms G4Z waders are about as premium as it gets — high-end materials, top-tier construction, and a price tag to match. I’ve had mine for over a year now, and after putting them through just about every condition you can think of, I’ve got a good feel for what they do well… and where they fall short.

In this post, I’ll break down the specs, pros, and cons of the Simms G4Z waders to help you figure out if they’re the right call for your fishing style — or if you’re better off saving a few bucks and looking elsewhere.

Specs

The Simms G4Z waders are the top-of-the-line option in Simms’ premium wader lineup and are an upgrade from previous years’ models. Designed for anglers who fish hard and need (and want) gear that can stand up to the worst conditions, the G4Z comes packed with technical features:

Material

The Simms G4Z waders are constructed from a combination of 4-layer and 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro Shell fabric. The lower half (legs and seat) use 4-layer material for maximum durability where abrasion and wear are most likely. The upper portion transitions to a lighter 3-layer GORE-TEX that maintains breathability, making these waders more comfortable during active days or in warmer weather.

All that fancy sounding techy stuff is to say that these are high-quality materials that are built to last. The material in these waders are less waxy and stiff compared to other styles of waders. They almost feel like waterproof sweat pants.

Overall, these GORE-TEX Pro Shell materials create the most comfortable waders I’ve ever owned (more on that later).

Zipper

Booties

Gravel Guards

The built-in gravel guards are made from abrasion-resistant material and fit snugly over your boots to keep out sand and grit. Not that I’ve ever had issues with other gravel guards, but these do stick out as very easy to use while retaining their functionality. They’re designed to stay in place without riding up, which helps extend the life of both your boots and the waders.

Pockets

The Simms G4Z waders feature two medium-sized, mesh layered chest pockets positioned on either side of the front zipper, along with an internal pocket for storing items like a phone. The external pockets have zippers for secure storage and sit flat against the chest, giving the waders a more streamlined profile.

Compared to traditional waders with large kangaroo-style pouches, the G4Z offers a more minimalist approach to on-wader storage — likely a design choice to accommodate the waterproof zipper and maintain a sleek fit.

Additionally, there are two more pockets on either side of the waders (beneath the meshed pockets) that offer additional storage. So in total, the G4Z waders offer 5 pockets for storing all your necessities. 

Pros of the Simms G4Z Waders

Comfortable

Durable

Durability is where the G4Z really shines. The GORE-TEX Pro Shell fabric and reinforced lower panels on the knees and seat/butt can handle serious abuse. Probably more than an angler can give it over multiple fishing seasons. With basic care, I would expect that these waders can easily outlast cheaper alternatives by years. 

Ease of Use

The full-length waterproof zipper is a game changer. Whether you’re trying to get in and out of the waders quickly, vent some heat during a hike, or handle nature’s call without undressing in the cold, the zipper makes life a lot easier. And putting them on honestly feels like putting on a full-bodied sweat suit.

Outside of the materials, this is the standout feature with these waders. While it does impact the ability to have a larger front pocket, the accessibility the full-front zipper provides does make everything easier.

Cons of the Simms G4Z Waders

Expensive

There’s no getting around it: the Simms G4Z waders are expensive. At well over $900 retail, they’re one of the priciest options on the market. While their durability and performance help justify the cost for serious anglers, it’s still a big upfront investment. For casual or occasional anglers, the price might be hard to justify — especially with plenty of solid mid-range waders available at half the cost.

Personally, I bought the Simms G4Z for their comfort and durability, and they’ve been the best waders I’ve ever used. That said, I do still have some hesitation about the long-term value. If they last me 10+ years, I’ll absolutely feel they were worth the investment. But if they start to break down much sooner, it’ll be a disappointment given the price.

Small Pockets

While I appreciate the clean design of the G4Z, the pockets feel limiting at times. The chest pockets are fine for smaller essentials — a fly box, tippet spools, or a phone — but trying to carry multiple fly boxes or bulkier gear quickly maxes out the space.

Having fished with larger kangaroo-style pouches most of my life, I find myself missing that extra capacity and convenience. It’s a tradeoff: the front zipper is a fantastic feature, but it does come at the expense of pocket size. If you fish without a vest or hip pack, you’ll likely notice the reduced storage on these waders.

Should You Buy the Simms G4Z Waders?

That really depends on how you fish.

If you’re out on the water every weekend, travel to fish different climates, or just want something built to last through years of abuse, the Simms G4Z is hard to beat. The comfort, durability, and construction quality are top-tier – and the front zipper alone might spoil you for anything else.

But the price is steep, and the smaller pocket design may not suit everyone, especially if you’re used to carrying your whole kit in your waders. I really enjoy mine but I’m still holding out judgment on whether they’re “worth it” in the long run. If they hold up for a decade, then sure, they’ll have earned their keep. If not, I’ll be second-guessing the price tag.

For the serious angler who values comfort and durability and doesn’t mind carrying a pack or sling bag, the G4Z is a premium option that delivers. If you’re more casual or want maximum storage on your chest, you might find better value elsewhere.

Check out the G4Z Waders on Simms’ website.