$699 | skwalafishing.com
January 16, 2024
By Fly Fisherman Staff
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In their first full inaugural year, the Bozeman-based company Skwala introduced two specialty waders; the lightweight super-breathable Carbon wader ($549) , which is perfect for hot summer days or packing in airplane luggage for exotic trips; and the center-zip 4-layer RS wader ($849) that is extra durable and fully featured for fishing in every type of environment. Both are high-performance waders for specific purposes, but to cover all the seasons you likely needed to have both waders. Maybe that was the plan?
The new Skwala Backeddy Wader–available now–strikes a broader appeal, with a wader that answers the question: If you can only have one pair of waders, what would it be?
“The Backeddy Wader is the result of our team examining the features that anglers need to create a better day on the water,” Skwala’s CEO and Founder Kevin Sloan said in a press release. “While still maintaining the Skwala wader DNA, the team did a great job of developing a wader that we think will quickly become an industry standout.”
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This everyday wader has a lot to offer with zippered pass-through kangaroo-style pockets that can haul cargo or serve as handwarmers. There is also a center top-loading zippered pocket on the exterior for essentials like tippet and clamps. For extra storage, the Backeddy has tube-style stretch mesh pockets along each ribcage. I like these pockets. They have almost become a Skwala trademark as they are also in their Sol Tactical Hoody. If you’re a thirsty type, the pockets are about the right size for two cans of beer on each side, but fly boxes and water bottles fit there also.
The fully detachable shoulder straps make it easy to get in and out of the waders, and the magnetic closure snaps easily and securely into place. The G-hook size adjusters are flush inside the straps so there’s nothing to catch or rub inside your layers. The heat-set Y-shaped shoulder yoke sits right where it should, distributes the weight smoothly, and has a D-ring in the back for a net.
Around the top hem of the wader there is a quick-adjust Cohaesive tab so you can cinch up the top of the waders, and the 1-inch elastic wading belt makes it double safe. PSA: Keep your waders cinched up tightly at all times to make it easier to maneuver in the water should you fall in.
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The new Skwala Backeddy Wader is available now. The extra-long, hemmed boot cuffs have lace hooks to keep them in place and act as a shield for extra protection against shin-high thorns, wire, and sharp rocks.
The waders are made from a 4-layer waterproof breathable laminate with an ultra-dense polyester microfiber face fabric. The articulated fourchette leg pattern allows for greater mobility, and the shape and fit of these waders is much like the previous RS wader. The Backeddy is available in 10 men’s sizes from medium-small to XXL.
The Backeddy Wader is available online at skwalafishing.com and select retailers across the United States.
$699 | skwalafishing.com
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