LOC Waders

Read an independent test of LOC waders

Pohjolan Perhokalastaja magazine | Jyri Yläpöntinen

 “Are those the over one and a half thousand euro waders that don't even breathe?”

My fishing buddy's sarcastic question probably encapsulates the essence of many fly fishers' prejudices against LOC waders. One joker even spoke of “upside-down pants,” referring to the lack of a membrane. With such setups, painting strong prejudices is child's play, but what is the truth behind the marketing talk and flowery phrases? Let's wade deeper with the controversial waders. ...

Starting points for the test 

LOC waders have been on the Finnish market for just over a year, since March 2022. In Finland, these waders are exclusively retailed by Ruoto, with whom the test was conducted in collaboration. However, it should be noted that Ruoto has not influenced the test results and wading experiences in any way. It wouldn't be much of a test if the words were pre-written. In this first part of the test, we wade through the winter season up to the threshold of summer. I have worn the waders about twenty times, from January's frosty weather to early May. The second part, to be published later, is intended to cover summer wading, which will also include the durability aspect. 

Then a word about the tester himself. My fly fishing career spans about 23 years at this stage. My fishing has until recent years been almost exclusively focused on stream fishing. Around Jyväskylä, we have plenty of stream spots by Finnish standards. In the best years, there have been over a hundred stream days, so some competence has been accumulated over the years regarding waders and wading. I fish streams year-round, so experiences range from winter days spent in freezing conditions by the river to summer heat. The streams of Central Finland are a really harsh and demanding place for wading gear, compared to, for example, the more relaxed salmon pools of the North. 

Waders in my use have typically lasted from one to a maximum of two years, so the wear and tear have been significant. Every time the relationship with the waders has ended in a leaking disappointment, regardless of the brand. This is probably always the case in the end, but one would simply expect more from the best models of market leaders. Over the years, I have most often worn Simms, and among other brands, Patagonia, Vision, and Guideline are worth mentioning. The most durable were the very first Vision Extremes, purchased as sample waders from Perhokolmio in the early 2000s, if I remember correctly. The durability of membrane waders has since declined like a cow's tail, so it is very interesting to know if LOC changes this game and how? 

The roots of LOC waders 

Loc waders originate from our western neighbor Sweden, but the origin story goes back over half a decade to Norway and specifically to the banks of the salmon river Orkla. The design of the waders began with experienced fly fishers' frustration with the available waders, broken promises, and wet underwear. The starting point for product development cannot be much more vital; leaking waders are the ultimate curse. 

I have also wondered how even the market leaders in wading gear cannot make their flagship models last; something is amiss. The available waders today are almost entirely membrane waders. The founders of Loc set out to design waders against the mainstream and with an “out of the box” mentality. One must have strong faith in one's skills and problem-solving ability to dare to fight windmills. 

The completion of the first prototypes from scratch required an incredible amount of research, material testing, design, and patterning. After that, rigorous testing over several years until the waders were ready for sale in a competitive market. So, where did gentlemen Andersson and Litzell end up, what are LOC waders really like? 

Non-breathable waders 

LOC: 3-D Mesh Tech™ waders indeed do not breathe, which is probably the first observation about the structure of the waders. The weakest link in breathable waders is often the membrane structure, which is under strain when wading in streams and moving through riverside thickets. The structure of non-breathable waders must be different and airy so that condensation and moisture do not condense on the outer fabric and wet the angler. Inside the waders, there is an integrated and removable 3-D mesh lining, which even has patents granted. The removable lining also affects the feeling of water pressure, which 

is quite different compared to membrane waders. More on that later, as well as the lining's effect on the weight of the waders. 

The outer fabric of the waders is Tri-laminate Butyl material. This fabric is used in dry suits designed for diving. This at least on paper gives backbone to the durability of the waders. If the fabric is used in cave and wreck diving, it should withstand rougher use in fishing situations. The fabric is described as extremely abrasion-resistant, soft, and even has some stretch. The shins and knees are reinforced with soft Kevlar reinforcements and fibers. The waders stay in place with adjustable and wide mesh suspenders. 

Loc waders, like other premium models, have a front zipper, model TIZIP. The zipper helps in donning the snug-fitting waders and is useful when the angler finally decides to empty their bladder. The upper part of the waders has sturdy pockets on both sides of the zipper. The waders come with a robust but elastic 50 mm wading belt with a quick-release buckle. 

LOC has created very detailed marketing texts, size charts, and images for their waders. A more in-depth engineering mind can rely on the marketing material available online for more details. Let's put on the waders and fill the remaining space with test experiences instead of tidbits. 

First impression and size 

When opening the sales package, dark waders with red details are revealed from the box. A red wading bird is printed on the right thigh, and a small Swedish flag is found on the corner of the chest pocket. The Swedish flag tells more about LOC's roots; the country of manufacture is found on the care label “made in China.” Let it be said immediately that quality work can indeed be found in China if one is willing to pay for it. LOC's waders are assembled in a small Chinese family business that has been working with wader materials for decades. The materials themselves are sourced from Europe and Japan. 

On first handling, the main material seems noticeably thicker than membrane waders. The material is somewhat soft, and the inner mesh lining, attached with zippers and Velcro, adds to the feeling of softness. The Kevlar reinforcements on the knees are clearly distinguishable. Under the suspender straps runs a wider mesh part, and the adjustments seem sturdy. On the back of the waders, there is a place for a net. The waders have two large chest pockets that open from the side, but the inner pouches familiar from many waders have been left out. 

Weight and size 

The thickness of the material and the mesh lining are directly reflected in the weight of the waders. The test waders in size L weighed about 2.2 kg. As a comparison, Simms G4Z waders are reported online to weigh about 50oz, which is roughly 1.4 kg. Thin membrane waders do not weigh much, even compared to thick Simms. This is something to consider if one is going for gram shaving on a wading hike. 

LOC waders are designed to be snug-fitting, and they truly are. For someone who spends time at the gym, about 177 cm tall and weighing 95 kg, size L is the most suitable, but the base layer must be minimal. Compared to my reference models, the waders are smaller, but there is no need to leave room for base layers in Locs anyway. 

Base layering and wading feel 

One of the most noticeable differences in Loc's waders is the lack of need for thick base layering. During the first test sessions in mid-winter, I stuffed two thick merino pants in between, completely unnecessarily. The airy mesh lining indeed keeps the wader warm in winter because the cold outer fabric does not press against the skin. From a winter angler's perspective, it is excellent that a single pair of 235 g/m2 merino underwear is sufficient, even when the rod guides are freezing by the river. Normally, I have stuffed everything possible and a bit impossible into membrane waders. Loc recommends merino wool as the base layer, as it is nature's own super material for any waders. 

In cold water fishing, good socks must be considered, as the sock parts of the waders are regular neoprene. They feel even slightly thinner than in many of my previous waders, but according to the manufacturer, they are very dense material. I also tested Loc's own merino wool socks, which worked very well as a thin-thick combo, honestly a positive surprise alongside the waders. In summer tests, the importance of properly sized socks will be emphasized, as the manufacturer does not recommend overly long knee socks to ensure circulation. By the way, Loc's socks are made in Sweden, which is a plus in my book. 

Standing in a winter river, Locs are exceptionally warm. The feeling of water pressure is less than in membrane waders, as the mesh lining prevents the skin from pressing against the outer fabric. The marketing texts mentioned the wading feel as “I feel embraced by them,” and I can also agree with that feeling of embrace. However, at this stage of the test, the worst rapids have not yet been waded, but the difference is already very clear compared to membrane waders. 

Winter tests 

The tests started in January, and as I write this, it is the end of April. The waders have been used for walking on the shore, wading in calm areas, and float tubing in Central Finland's winter and spring. So far, I can honestly say that the waders have provided the best wading experience in winter conditions to date. I particularly like that the waders are slightly stretchy and do not require the entire wardrobe for base layering. The chest pockets are spacious, so the couple of fly boxes and line spools needed for winter fishing fit well for quick trips. The waders did not leak, and it actually felt more carefree to wade with Locs. The lack of a membrane has not been a problem so far; the air seems to circulate well in the waders. 

So, the winter has passed, and the nature of the test changes as we move into the summer season. In the future, the waders will be tested by warming waters, heat, and sharp rapids stones. By the time the fishing ban begins, there should be more extensive experience to offer for the entire year of a stream fisher. When testing, test thoroughly. So far so good! 

Interview with Loc Waders – Christer Andersson (one of the founders) 

1. The story of Loc waders began at Orkla. Are you mainly salmon fishers, and are your waders primarily developed with salmon fishing in mind? 

“Our waders are designed for dedicated/HC fishers who value quality without compromise. For those who spend countless days on the water and really put their gear to the test year-round. The founders are mainly salmon fishers, but the waders are designed for all types of fishing in demanding environments.” 

2. Your waders are the most expensive on the market. What makes them worth it compared to other manufacturers' flagship models? 

“Our waders have a high price point because we use only the best materials and components. Our waders are also handmade by skilled professionals. Are they worth it? Well, our first prototype of Loc waders is still in continuous use. They have never 

leaked, and it is now the seventh fishing season. They barely show any wear compared to new waders, which is incredible. 

3. Your waders are thicker and feel sturdier. What can fly fishers expect in terms of durability? 

“As I mentioned, our first prototype is in its seventh year of use without any issues. According to our philosophy, the customer should own and use the waders for a long time. Our waders are also designed to be repairable when the time comes. Eventually, even our waders will need repair and maintenance. So, if something happens, send your waders to us, and we will repair them. The waders will last for many more years of use. In a perfect world, your children will inherit your waders and continue fishing with them.” 

4. You recommend using your own merino wool socks with your waders. Why would your socks be a good purchase? 

“We recommend using merino wool as much as possible. It truly is nature's own high-tech material. Merino wool is unbeatable in terms of warmth, moisture transfer, and breathability. Our socks (and merino wool base layers) are made in Sweden, just an hour's drive from where we live. It feels really good to produce quality products together with small family-owned businesses.” 

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