I bought a pair of the LL Bean Kevlar/Goretex waders - swear by them. I was debating between the Sims and the LL Bean's, and ended up going with the Bean's for a number of reasons. I have a buddy who has the Sims, and he says he loves them. I researched breathable waders for a few months before making the decision - I don't take spending upwards of $375 very lightly (not to mention that I tend to over analyze everything). A few things to consider. 1) Bean's suspension system is much better, very comfortable. 2) Built in gravel guards, very nice ones at that - won't ride up at all (Sims don't have any, have to buy the add on's). 3) Both waders are made out of the same Imersion-Tech Gore-Tex - DEET resisitant (all bug repellents contain DEET and will make the Patagonia's fail). So, both are very breathable with Gore's guarentee. 4) Absolutely bomb proof in the legs. Kick any sage, brambles, barbed wire fence you come across, doesn't matter. 5) Goretex booties, great for summer fishing. You can put on a pair of neoprene stockings for winter time. Can't do that with Sims. 6)Bean's lifetime satisfaction guarentee.

If you look back at the Fly Fish America September '99 issue, they evaluated 18 different pairs of waders. Both the Bean and the Sims were rated the highest. The Sims were rated slightly higher for overall comfort, 8 vs. 10, but after trying both out, I would say that compared to any neoprene waders I've ever worn, you'll be in heaven wearing either. You'd have to really be thinking and dwelling on the comfort factor to tell the difference between the two, splitting hairs really. And given Bean's satisfaction guarentee, how can you go wrong? Both are priced at the top end, but you get what you pay for. Remember - LIFETIME SATISFACTION GUARENTEE. And....if you do a little calling around to the LL Bean factory outlet stores, you may be able to pick up a pair of their "blems" for around $275, still have the lifetime satisfaction guarentee. The only thing you'll need to think about is getting a good pair of polar fleece pants to wear during the winter, but I've never gotten cold.

Any one else try them out?