I decided to attempt to pressure test the wader’s using the same technique as I used for dry suits, and then to repair them to dive suit standards. I got a loan of all my friends waders, most of which had a leak or two and pressure tested them using compressed air. I found that they all leaked in the same places, and that the problem was always the manufacturing technique, they were simply not made to last, the seams, particularly in the crotch and feet being the common leak points. I then compared the seams of dive suits and waders and found that the taping was very poor, however this was an easy fix.

We then started repairing wader in the business, however I decided to retire from diving a couple of years ago. I still did the odd repair for friends but now am getting waders from all over the country so have decided to start doing waders again, I have set up a workshop and am getting steady business.

What I do is pressure test them using compressed air, and do a bubble check on them. We have done considerable research on the various wader fabrics used and work to a set pressure on each, so to find all the leaks without damaging the wader material. The advantage of this is that we find weak points as well as leaks, so we repair problems before they occur. Leaks are marked and then the waders are washed and dried. We used to use a thick sealant, however it was too thick, it sat on top of the weave of the material and did not soak in properly. What we now do is thin the glue right down to a consistency of water, and paint this on. We generally use about 4 coats thinly painted on to breathables, and 6+ on neoprenes, as the weave is much thicker and more absorbent. In recent times we have further developed the technique, to use our sealant heated right up, so it is thinner to spray, but leaves a much stronger repair.

 All repairs are made in the inside, so your waders look ok when being worn. This actually makes sense, as this is where the tape is. We do a much wider seam than the manufacturers and it really lasts, it is stronger than the wader material. Once dry we re-pressure test, to ensure that they are 100% air tight, and re repair as necessary. Pin holes, tears and the like are repaired in the same way, and we can even reduce the size of neoprene socks and replace them if the sock is available. Dont worry if you have made repairs yourself, inside or out we will either remove them, work over them our round them. My own waders, had a complete seam re seal at the end of their first years, once the warranty ran out. They are now in their 4rth season and have no leaks. And dont worry about the waders breathability after our process, as we only treat seams and leaks the majority of the material is left untouched an so will breath just as much as it does before treatment!

I am happy to advise on wader repairs, or will quote for any repairs required on your waders. Prices range from £10 for a pressure test and puncture repairs to £45 for a breathable wader’s complete seam re seal and test plus postage and packaging. See price page for more details. I aim for same day puncture repair and a week or two for a complete re seam/re seal. Other jobs may take slightly longer.