Orvis/Michelin PRO Wading Boot
In an industry-first collaborative effort with Michelin, Orvis recently trotted out the PRO Wading Boot. Michelin agricultural tires were the point of inspiration resulting in an outsole compound specifically designed for fly fishing.
Several days of testing supports Orvis’s impressive claims that the boot is highly abrasion resistant and greatly improves wet rubber traction.
A few specs: using Michelin tire geometry, which offers a wide footprint for stability, a higher ratio of surface contact, and an innovative lug pattern that reduces and improves pressure distribution – a seemingly small detail that only becomes evident, and appreciated, as your fishing day progresses. In addition, a two-layer midsole has a co-molded plate that provides improved stud retention and torsional stability.
The inner boot features a shock absorbing Phylon midsole that improves “river feel” and compresses less than standard EVA midsoles. Beyond this, the boot is higher cut for ankle support and lined with closed-cell foam, resulting in a great balancing act that gives you needed support while allowing you to confidently tread rivers and streams. Internal support and comfort are further enhanced with Ortholite to create a 3D molded insole designed for high-impact sports, delivering maximum comfort and arch support.
Orvis took aim at durability and targeted an all-too-common culprit—seam failure—by eliminating seams via use of an industry-first cast PU upper that eliminates seams while providing a zoned cage for added stability, grip, and abrasion resistance, all without added bulk.
Other thoughtful features: an oversized heel pull for easier on-and-off, top-tier laces that won’t fray, and high end hardware yet to be seen on other wading boots. Last but far from least, these boots are ultra-light, which, again, is something that you’ll appreciate as the day progresses.
The PRO wading boot is the most industry-disrupting product I’ve tested in a long while. Having undergone so many developments and improvements, this boot will be a star product for 2019.
Highly recommended. $229
