Skwala RS Wader
One full season on rivers and streams — here’s what I found.
After a full season putting the Skwala RS Wader through its paces on rivers and streams, I can say with confidence this is one of the most impressive pieces of fly fishing gear I have ever owned. Skwala set out to build a flagship wader that refuses to compromise on durability, waterproofing, breathability, or comfort — and by every measure, they delivered.
What I Loved
The RS Wader is built around a proprietary 4-layer breathable laminate topped with an ultra-dense 100% polyester microfiber double-weave face textile. In practice, this means the fabric shrugs off snags on streamside brush, rocky scrambles, and submerged debris that would quickly wear through lesser waders. After a full season of hard use, I have not found a single puncture or tear — a testament to how seriously Skwala took durability when designing this wader from scratch.
I stayed completely dry across a wide range of conditions — from deep chest wading on tailwaters to extended sessions in cold, fast-moving freestone streams. The C6 DWR finish sheds water with ease, and the waterproof centre zip has proven completely leak-free. For those who spend long days in the water, the RS delivers peace of mind that you simply cannot put a price on.
This is where the RS Wader truly sets itself apart. Skwala’s use of fourchette seams — a technique borrowed from glove-making — places articulation points throughout the legs exactly where movement demands it. The result is a wader that moves with you rather than against you. The built-in integrated wading belt provides genuine lumbar support, and the buckle-less shoulder yoke with G-hooks distributes load evenly without creating pressure points. After a long day of hiking and wading, my body felt noticeably less fatigued than with previous waders.
Bombproof durability and high breathability rarely go hand in hand — but the RS manages both impressively. On warmer days and during longer hikes to the water, I stayed far more comfortable than expected for a wader of this weight class. The anti-microbial treatment on the interior scrim also helped keep things fresh throughout the season.
The RS Wader sits at the premium end of the market, but the lifetime repair/replace warranty, the quality of materials, and the thoughtfulness of the design make it a worthwhile long-term investment. When you factor in the durability and longevity compared to cheaper alternatives that need replacing every few seasons, the cost per use works out strongly in Skwala’s favour.
What Could Be Better
My one gripe with the RS Wader is sizing. The cut runs on the slimmer side, and if you plan to layer up for cold-weather fishing, you may find the torso area a little tighter than expected. I would recommend ordering based on your layering needs rather than just your base measurements, and taking advantage of Skwala’s free return shipping if you are unsure. The suspenders also have limited length adjustment — I found myself wishing for one additional extension position. It is a minor complaint given how excellent everything else is, but worth noting if you are taller or broader in the chest.
At a Glance
- Exceptional durability — resists punctures and tears
- Completely waterproof in all conditions
- Fourchette seams deliver unmatched freedom of movement
- Genuinely breathable even during long hikes
- Integrated wading belt reduces fatigue on long days
- Lifetime warranty — outstanding long-term value
- Slim cut — size up if layering heavily
- Suspender adjustment range could be wider
- Premium price may give casual anglers pause
The Best Wader I Have Ever Worn
After a full season of demanding use across rivers and streams, the Skwala RS Wader has earned its place at the top of my kit. There is nothing else on the market that combines this level of durability, waterproofing, breathability, and articulated comfort in a single garment. The sizing nuances are a minor consideration easily managed with careful ordering. If you are a serious fly angler who wants a wader that will outlast anything else in your rotation, the RS is the answer.
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