Patagonia Forra Wading Boots Gear Review
By Chris King
On a recent trip deep into Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness with Spotted Bear Ranch, I brought along a pair of Patagonia Forra Wading Boots and they more than earned their keep. The trip started with a 25-mile horsepack journey into the wilderness, followed by a three day float out on the river. With gear weight strictly limited for the pack mules, the Forras were a welcome companion: lightweight, low-profile, and reliable. The space I saved on boots? It went to extra whiskey for the campfire which is arguably just as essential after a full day of dry-fly fishing for native Westslope Cutthroat.
One day, we hoofed it 10 miles round-trip along the White River, a stunning tributary of the South Fork of the Flathead. The terrain was anything but easy side hills, loose rock, and brushy banks but the Forras held up without complaint. They offered solid ankle support, dependable grip, and surprising comfort. In fact, they’re the first wading boots I’ve worn that didn’t have me reaching to pull them off the moment I stepped out of the water. More than once, I found myself still wearing them around camp while waiting for dinner.
On the river, they shined just as bright. The grip was excellent, even on slick, algae-covered cobble that used to make “sticky rubber” feel more like playing broom hockey. As we floated downstream into warmer water, the boots remained comfortable and dependable, even during long wet-wading sessions and side hikes to those too good to pass up spots.
I had stubbed my toe just before the trip, (you can read my full trip report HERE) and these boots offered enough protection that I never gave it a second thought once we were on the trail. I wore them with both wool and neoprene socks and went with my regular street shoe size. No issues at all with fit.
If you’re looking for a lightweight, supportive, and river-savvy boot for your next backcountry mission, the Patagonia Forra Wading Boots are absolutely worth a look. They’ll save your feet, your pack weight, and maybe even make a little extra room for the good stuff.
Some of the reasons I love my new Patagonia Forra Wading Boots
Lightweight, Quick-Draining Design
Built with hydrophobic materials and large mesh panels to shed water quickly and reduce weight during use and after.
Highly Durable Construction
Reinforced synthetic uppers provide abrasion resistance while maintaining flexibility and comfort.
Welded TPU overlays in high-wear areas for added protection and longevity.
Vibram® Mars Sole
Non-marking Vibram outsole provides solid traction on wet rocks and muddy banks.
Designed to accommodate studs (sold separately) for enhanced grip on slippery riverbeds.
Low-Profile, Athletic Fit
Slim and supportive fit makes them ideal for wet wading, hiking to remote waters, or wearing with lightweight neoprene booties.
More like a trail shoe than a traditional wading boot, which appeals to anglers who prioritize mobility.
Minimal Water Retention
Lightweight foam and minimal padding absorb less water than traditional boots, keeping your feet lighter and more agile all day.
Toe and Heel Protection
Structured toe box and heel counter offer impact protection when scrambling through rough terrain or submerged hazards.