If you’ve been searching for footwear that keeps you comfortable, secure, and ready for action whether you’re wet wading a trout stream, stalking bonefish on the flats, or just hanging out on the boat deck, you should seriously consider the Simms Pursuit Shoe. This versatile cross-trainer delivers outstanding grip, quick drying, and all-day wearability that makes it a smart investment for any angler tired of heavy boots or flimsy alternatives.
My Experience With Simms Pursuit Shoe
I still remember the first time I laced up my pair of Simms Pursuit Shoes.
It was a hot summer day on a local river, the kind where waders feel like a sauna.
I had been relying on my old heavy wading boots for years, but they were killing my feet after just a few hours of walking and wading.
When I slipped into the Pursuits barefoot (as Simms recommends for the best fit), I immediately noticed how light they felt—like wearing high-performance sneakers instead of clunky fishing gear.
The ultra-breathable mesh upper let air flow freely, and the stretch collar hugged my ankles just enough to keep small pebbles out without feeling restrictive.
That first outing turned into a full day of moving between pools. I crossed slippery rocks, waded through knee-deep current, and even hopped onto the boat for a break.
The non-marking siped outsole gripped like glue on wet surfaces—I never once felt like I was about to slip, which gave me real confidence when casting to rising fish.
Water drained out quickly through the design, so my feet never stayed soggy. I wore them without socks at first, and they molded to my feet perfectly. Later, I tried thin liner socks for extra cushion on longer hikes, and they still fit great (though sizing true works best barefoot).
Over the next few months, I put these shoes through everything. I took them on a flats trip where I waded across sandy bottoms and rocky reefs for hours. Sand got in occasionally, but it was easy to dump out without stopping the action.
They dried super fast once I got back to the car—often within 20 minutes in the sun. I even wore them around town afterward because they look sleek enough for casual use.
The quick-lacing system is a game-changer; it adjusts in seconds and stays secure without any dangling parts to snag flies.
Comfort stayed consistent even after long days. No hot spots, no blisters, and my arches felt supported thanks to the ergonomic design.
On one particularly rocky river, I worried about toe protection, but the high-abrasion TPU overlays held up without tearing.
They handled mixed terrain—deck work, shallow wading, and short hikes—better than any dedicated wading boot I’ve owned.
The lightweight feel (around 24 oz per pair) made a huge difference when covering miles. I compared them mentally to my old boots, and there was no contest: the Pursuits let me focus on fishing instead of sore feet.
What impressed me most was the versatility. They’re not just for one type of fishing. I’ve used them in freshwater streams, saltwater flats, and even on paddleboards.
They perform well in warm water but aren’t insulated for cold conditions, so they’re ideal for summer and shoulder seasons.
After dozens of outings, they still look nearly new with minimal wear on the outsole. The micro-siping grabs wet rocks without feeling soft or wearing down quickly. If you’re like me and hate switching gear mid-trip, these shoes simplify everything.
Also read: My Thoughts on Prime Lifts Shoes
Pros Of Simms Pursuit Shoe
- Exceptional Grip On Wet Surfaces : The non-marking siped rubber outsole provides reliable traction on slippery rocks, boat decks, and flats, reducing slips and giving you confidence in tricky currents.
- Ultra-Breathable And Quick-Draining Design : The mesh upper allows excellent airflow and rapid water escape, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during long wet-wading sessions.
- Lightweight Construction For All-Day Wear : At just 24 ounces per pair, these shoes feel like regular sneakers, making them perfect for extended hikes or full days on the water without fatigue.
- Secure Quick-Lacing System : The streamlined cord lacing adjusts easily, stays snug, and minimizes snag risks from fly lines or hooks.
- Versatile For Multiple Environments : They excel in rivers, saltwater flats, boat decks, and paddleboards, offering true cross-training performance for various fishing styles.
- Durable TPU Overlays In Key Areas : High-abrasion reinforcements protect against wear from rocks and rough use, extending the shoe’s lifespan.
- Comfortable Barefoot Or With Thin Socks : The stretch collar and ergonomic fit provide a natural feel, with options for added cushion when needed.
- Easy To Clean And Fast Drying : Rinse off sand or mud quickly, and they dry in minutes, ready for the next adventure.
Cons Of Simms Pursuit Shoe
- Limited Ankle Support Compared To Boots : The low-profile design lacks the high-top stability of traditional wading boots, which might concern anglers on very uneven or deep terrain.
- Potential For Small Debris Entry : While the stretch collar helps, fine sand or gravel can occasionally get in on loose bottoms, requiring quick emptying.
- Not Ideal For Extremely Cold Water : Without insulation, they’re best suited for warmer conditions rather than winter or frigid rivers.
- Softer Outsole Trades Some Longevity : The grippy micro-siped rubber prioritizes performance over maximum durability, showing wear faster than harder soles in heavy abrasive use.
- Sizing Sensitivity For Socks : They fit true barefoot, but wearing thicker socks may require sizing up half a size for comfort.
- Higher Price Point For A Shoe : At around $140-150, they’re more expensive than basic water shoes, though the quality justifies it for serious anglers.
Maintenance Tips For Simms Pursuit Shoe
- Rinse Thoroughly After Each Use : Always rinse off sand, salt, mud, or debris with fresh water right after fishing to prevent buildup that can cause odors or premature wear.
- Air Dry Completely Away From Heat : Remove insoles if possible, stuff with newspaper or a towel, and let them dry naturally in a shaded, ventilated area—avoid direct sun or heaters to protect the materials.
- Clean With Mild Soap When Needed : For stubborn dirt, use a soft brush and mild soap solution on the mesh and TPU areas, then rinse well and dry as above.
- Inspect Laces And Overlays Regularly : Check the quick-lacing system for fraying and examine TPU overlays for cracks—replace laces early if worn to maintain secure fit.
- Store In A Cool, Dry Place : Keep them in a breathable bag or open shelf away from moisture and extreme temperatures to preserve the rubber sole and mesh integrity.
- Avoid Machine Washing Or Drying : Hand care only, as machines can damage the structure or adhesives over time.
- Apply Protective Spray For Extra Durability : Use a fabric protector on the mesh upper occasionally to repel water and stains, especially for saltwater use.
Comparison With Other Brands
Simms Pursuit Shoe Versus Simms Freestone Wading Boot
The Freestone boot offers more ankle support and rugged construction for serious wading in rough rivers, but it’s heavier and less breathable than the Pursuit Shoe. If you need maximum stability on long hikes with waders, the Freestone wins, yet the Pursuit excels in lightweight versatility for wet-wading or boat use without the bulk.
Simms Pursuit Shoe Versus Simms G3 Guide Boot
The G3 Guide provides superior durability, insulation, and high-top protection for demanding conditions like cold water or rocky terrain. However, it’s significantly heavier and warmer, making the Pursuit a better everyday choice for warm-weather fishing where comfort and quick drying matter more than heavy-duty build.
Simms Pursuit Shoe Versus Astral Or Chaco Sandals
Astral and Chaco options are open designs great for maximum ventilation and casual wet wading, but they expose toes to rocks and offer less protection. The Pursuit Shoe gives better coverage, grip on slippery surfaces, and a sneaker-like feel, making it preferable for technical wading or longer sessions.
Simms Pursuit Shoe Versus Orvis Hikers
Orvis Hikers provide solid traction and comfort similar to the Pursuit, but the Simms edges out with faster drying and a more secure lacing system. Both work well for hybrid use, yet the Pursuit feels more refined for multi-environment angling.
Read more: My Thoughts on Red Top Boots
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Simms Pursuit Shoe weighs approximately 24 ounces per pair (size 11), making it remarkably lightweight for all-day comfort.
The Simms G3 Guide Boots stand out as top choices for their durability, traction, and support, with the Freestone offering great value and the Flyweight providing lighter options.
Simms waders, especially higher-end models like G3 or G4, hold up well over multiple seasons with proper care, though some users note variability in recent quality.
Popular options include Chaco Z/2 Classics for reliable grip and versatility, KEEN Newport H2 for protection, and Teva models for lightweight performance.
Conclusion
After spending serious time with the Simms Pursuit Shoe, I can confidently say it’s worth every penny for anglers who want one versatile pair that handles wet wading, boating, and more. The combination of grip, comfort, and lightness makes it a standout. If you’re ready to upgrade your footwear game, grab a pair—you’ll wonder how you fished without them. Trust me, your feet will thank you.