ADH-Test: Grundéns Wading Gear – Boundary Waders, Portal Jacket & Bankside Boots

Iceland in autumn. Rain, storms, wind from all directions. For many, a reason to stay at home on the couch - for us, the perfect opportunity to test the premium wading set from Grundéns, consisting of Boundary waders, Portal wading jacket and Bankside boot, in the harshest conditions. The timeless, harmonious design is immediately noticeable when unpacking. Everything looks high-quality, perfectly colour-coordinated and functionally well thought-out. Accompany us to Iceland in this video in the worst weather and let us convince you of the outstanding Grundéns quality and the well thought-out features of this wading equipment.

Grundéns - experience from over 100 years of professional fishing

Grundéns develops its clothing based on a clear philosophy: maximum durability and unlimited functionality, regardless of the weather. The brand has its origins in commercial fishing - developed by people who work in extreme conditions on the water every day.

Today, these many years of experience are channelled into modern series for fly fishermen. Instead of heavy oil jackets, there are lightweight Gore-Tex systems, ergonomic cuts and well thought-out pocket solutions - but with the same claim: protection, durability and reliability when the weather gets really uncomfortable. Nothing is superfluous, everything has its purpose - developed by anglers for anglers!

Boundary waders - Gore-Tex Pro at the highest level

The Boundary waders are available in two versions: with a full-length YKK Aquaseal front zip or classic without a zip. In both versions, Gore-Tex Pro is used in zones - which is still regarded as the benchmark for waterproof functional textiles. The lower section is made of robust four-layer laminate for high abrasion resistance, while the upper section is made of breathable three-layer material for greater comfort on long walks.

The support system is a particularly positive feature: It is extremely comfortable to wear, can be infinitely adjusted thanks to Velcro and is easy to use even with cold fingers. The fit is classic, with a slightly American cut and offers plenty of freedom of movement for throwing, climbing and long days on the water. If you are between two sizes, it is better to opt for the smaller one.

The features have also been carefully selected: large handwarmer pockets, vertical chest pockets for fly boxes, elasticated compartments for small items, robust neoprene socks with a titanium coating and functional gravel guards. The trousers are not overloaded, but offer exactly the features that you really need - and in outstanding quality.

Grundéns Boundary highlights at a glance:

• Zoned GORE-TEX Pro laminate: 4-layer in the lower area for abrasion resistance, 3-layer in the upper area for breathability.
• Optional waterproof YKK Aquaseal front zip (zip version).
• Neoprene booties with Titanium Alpha coating for better heat retention.
• Very comfortable, infinitely adjustable strap system with Velcro.
• Large hand warmer pockets and vertical chest pockets for fly boxes.
• Elasticated, minimalist gravel guards without hooks.
• High-quality materials, very robust workmanship.
• Well thought-out features without overloading - functional and durable.

Portal wading jacket - robust, functional, comfortable

The Portal Gore-Tex wading jacket is made from a non-slip, rough and extremely abrasion-resistant material that not only reliably keeps out the rain, but also resists punctures and friction very well. Gore-Tex ensures reliable waterproofness, while a high collar and a large, adjustable hood offer optimum protection from wind and weather.

The pocket concept is particularly clever: the full-length handwarmer pockets allow direct access to the pockets of the waders without having to open the jacket. This is a noticeable advantage in the rain. The workmanship is also impressive across the board - the zip, cuffs and seams are durable and of high quality. All in all, the jacket gives the impression that it will withstand many hard years on the water without any problems.

Grundéns Portal wading jacket - highlights at a glance:

• Robust, non-slip, highly abrasion-resistant outer material - also reliably resists punctures.
• GORE-TEX 3-layer laminate with "GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY™".
• Portal Pocket Technology: full-length handwarmer pockets with access to the wader pockets.
• Water repellent zips and fly-box compatible pockets.
• Scale-shaped neoprene cuffs ("dunkable cuffs") for tight wading.
• High, dropped collar and adjustable, large hood for maximum weather protection.
• Very high-quality workmanship on the seams, cuffs and zips.

Bankside wading boots - Stability & Vibram Grip

The Bankside wading boot combines a classic look with modern technology. The nubuck leather upper is robust and rubber reinforcements protect against sharp-edged stones and undergrowth. The high shaft offers a stable hold, the lacing is neatly organised and distributes the pressure well.

The highlight is the Vibram Idrogrip sole, which offers excellent grip even on wet and slippery stones. The shoe can be fitted with spikes for extreme conditions. An EVA midsole provides comfortable cushioning - perfect for long walks by the water or extended days on the riverbed.

Grundéns Bankside wading shoes - the most important features:

• Water-resistant nubuck leather upper with robust rubber reinforcements.
• Vibram Idrogrip outsole for excellent grip on wet and slippery surfaces.
• Compatible with HEXAGRIP / carbide spikes for extra traction.
• EVA midsole with stabilising heel counter for all-day comfort.
• Corrosion resistant hardware - ideal for fresh and salt water.
• High shaft for optimum support when wading and on difficult terrain.
• Very high quality materials and durable workmanship.

Summary from Iceland

The Premium Watset clearly showed what it is made of in tough Icelandic conditions. Despite constant rain and wind from all directions, we remained completely dry, and the breathability ensured that even longer hikes remained comfortable. The material of both the waders and the wading jacket was extremely robust without being heavy or stiff. We were particularly impressed by the non-slip, abrasion-resistant outer material of the jacket with its outstanding abrasion protection. The wading boots with their Vibram soles also offered excellent grip, even on moss-covered and slippery stones. At the same time, the entire set was visually very attractive, completely timeless and perfectly colour-coordinated. The features are deliberately minimalist, but extremely well thought out and realised in absolute premium quality. The overall impression is of an equipment system that has been designed with a great deal of expertise and in which every centimetre fulfils its function.

Conclusion

The Grundéns Boundary wading set is one of the most well thought-out and high-quality combinations we have ever used. The waders impress with Gore-Tex Pro, an excellent fit and a very comfortable support system. The Portal wading jacket offers outstanding robustness and intelligent details, while the Bankside wading boots score points with their Vibram grip and stable construction. We were particularly impressed by the timeless look, the clear design language and the focus on functional features that are really needed. The entire set looks like a tool that can withstand the toughest conditions for many years and was developed by anglers for anglers. If you are looking for durable, high-quality and reliably waterproof waders, the Grundéns Boundary / Portal set is one of the most convincing options on the market.