When most anglers think of Sitka, they think duck blinds and camo — not canoes or backcountry smallmouth streams. But don’t be too quick to dismiss the Sitka Delta Zip Waders as just waterfowl gear. After spending a full season in them — from icy wades digging for clams to floating backwoods creeks — they’ve earned a real spot in my fishing gear.
Let’s get this out of the way early: These waders are expensive. Like “Your buddy might ask if you got sponsored” expensive. But what you’re paying for is a fully waterproof, fully serviceable system designed for people who flat-out live in their waders — day in, day out. And with their excellent fit, comfortable boots, and go-anywhere nature, you can wear them for just about everything.
Comfort: Built to Move, Built to Fish
The first thing you notice when sliding into these is how easy it is to get in and out, thanks to the YKK waterproof front zipper. That alone is a game changer. Morning coffee and long bank sessions no longer mean wrestling wet neoprene in the woods.
Once you’re zipped up, the mobility is second to none. The 4-layer GORE-TEX Pro laminate breathes incredibly well, as well as being super lightweight. Even during warmer spring and summer outings, I didn’t feel like I was boiling in a bag. That said, they still blocked cold wind and water when I was knee-deep chasing winter smallies and digging clams.
Bonus: no big, clunky buckles. The low-profile suspension system sits flush against your chest, so your fly vest, chest pack, or backpack straps won’t shift around or hang up on anything.
Boots: Warm, Lightweight, Surprisingly Nimble
Sitka partnered with Lacrosse to build in AeroForm boots, and these things are legit. They’re fully insulated (around 10mm of neoprene), but they don’t feel like moon boots. Instead, they offer great ankle support and a snug fit, perfect for long rocky walks to a remote hole.
In practice, these provided excellent comfort in a wide range of conditions. I wore these in water that was hovering around 38°F, and my feet never froze up — without needing bulky socks. On the other side of the spectrum, I wore them in muddy bass ponds with sweat-inducing temperatures. My feet never felt like they were going to overheat. That’s a win in my book.
They also stayed put in sticky tidal mud, which is known for pulling boots off. No matter how far down my feet went, the boots remained where they should be. I would put these up against the stocking foot waders of my youth, in terms of comfort and support. You’d need a lace-up boot to find a better fit.
I just want to offer a head’s up about sizing. These seem to run a little small. I’m a 12 typically, but found these to be slightly snug. Consider a half-size up if ordering, or go to a brick and mortar store and try them on.
Durability: Tough Where It Counts
After bushwhacking through thorns, sliding down muddy banks, and kneeling on riprap, these waders show minimal signs of wear. They even survived a full season of clamming, which can be the ultimate test of wader durability. Kneeling down on broken shells can take its toll on the most durable pieces of gear, but the Sitkas made it through with nary a scratch. Even if you don’t find yourself on a mudflat, the reinforced knees and shins will be clutch for anglers who don’t baby their gear.
Another nice touch is the padded knees. They make kneeling much more comfortable. Whether your bending over to pick up a dropped lure, or taking a break, you’ll appreciate the padding.
Are they indestructible? No. But Sitka offers lifetime repairs, and that adds serious longterm value for anglers who spend 100-plus days a year in waders.
Pockets and Features: Fisherman-Friendly Enough
These waders aren’t loaded with fishing-specific features, but what’s there works:
- Fleece-lined handwarmer pockets up high? Awesome during cold dawn patrols.
- Water-resistant chest pocket with zippers? Great for a phone, license, or a small fly/lure box.
Could they use a waterproof interior pocket for electronics? Sure. But for most fishing trips, the layout is clean and functional.
Who These Waders Are For
The Sitka Delta Zip Waders are not for the weekend warrior who splashes around a few times a year. These are for hardcore anglers, guides, and anyone who:
- Hunts and fishes and wants one set of bombproof gear
- Fishes 4-plus seasons and needs true year-round protection
- Values durability, comfort, and service over low cost
If you’re fishing high-mileage waters, hiking to get away from the crowds, or need one pair of waders to do it all — these will hold up. Think of them as a “one and done” solution to all your weather needs.
Final Verdict: Premium Price, Premium Performance
At around $800, these are easily some of the most expensive waders on the market — but they perform like it. The Sitka Delta Zip Waders are breathable, burly, and built for serious wear. If you’re looking for a fishing wader that doesn’t tap out after one tough season, this is a no-brainer investment.
Pros:
- Zipper entry is a game changer
- Excellent durability and repair support
- Warm, comfortable boots
- Breathable GORE-TEX Pro fabric
- Reinforced where it matters
Cons:
- Price will scare off casual anglers
- No internal waterproof storage
- Sizing may require trying on (especially boot fit)
Bottom Line
If you’re tired of cycling through leaky waders every year, the Sitka Delta Zip Waders might be the last pair you need to buy. But hurry up, as Sitka has replaced them with the Delta Pro Zip GTX Wader.
Sitka says the new Delta Pro Zip GTX waders bring a range of thoughtful upgrades over the older model, making it an excellent option for serious all-season outdoorsmen. While both versions use the same bombproof 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro fabric for unbeatable waterproofing and breathability, the Pro Zip features a refined fit, improved boot design, and added reinforcement in high-wear areas.
