ADH-Test: Skwala RS Waders – Premium Waders from the USA

For years, we have been looking for waders that not only provide reliable waterproofing, but also offer us real comfort on long days on the water. With the Skwala RS waders in Charcoal, we have found a model that fulfils these requirements - and has some surprising details to boot. We put the American manufacturer's flagship model through its paces on the Salmon River: through dense terrain, on long walks along the river, over rock packs and, of course, directly in the water during hours of wading. In this video, we present all the important details of these absolute high-end waders.

Concept & material - built for tough use

The RS Wader is part of Skwala's premium series and is made for uncompromising performance. It uses a four-layer, waterproof laminate with a dense polyester outer material that provides reliable protection even in dense undergrowth or in contact with rocks. An antimicrobial lining on the inside ensures a pleasant climate and prevents odour build-up, even during long periods of use.

Design & fit - minimalist, functional, clever

Despite many features, the trousers have a deliberately simple look on the outside. The anatomically shaped shoulder area with G-hook straps ensures a high level of comfort without pressure points. The hooks cleverly disappear inside the straps so that nothing dangles or gets caught. The waterproof YKK front zip makes it easy to put on and take off, while reinforced Gravel Guards and 4 mm neoprene booties offer optimum protection and durability in the foot and ankle areas.

Thanks to the movement-optimised cut, you remain flexible even with wide lunges or climbing inserts. The RS fits close to the body without constricting - perfect for hours on the water.

Thoughtful Details – More Functionality Than You Think

What looks minimal from the outside is packed with clever solutions:

- Fleece-lined handwarmer pockets for cold days
- Stretch exterior pockets for leaders or small tools
- Integrated wading belt for extra support and safety, as well as lumbar support
- Interior pockets for valuables or accessories

The combination of low weight, durable construction, and many small helpers makes the RS a true "workhorse" wader for hardcore anglers.

All details at a glance

• Four-layer, particularly abrasion-resistant laminate for maximum robustness
• Close-fitting cut with plenty of freedom of movement when wading and climbing
• Reinforced knee and lower leg areas for additional protection
• Waterproof, central YKK front zip for easy donning and doffing
• Anatomically shaped shoulders with flat hook fasteners instead of buckles
• Fleece-lined hand warmer pockets for cold days
• Elasticated outer pockets for quick access to accessories
• Integrated wading belt for better grip and more safety
• Reinforced gravel guards against sand and sediment
• Robust neoprene booties with abrasion-resistant sole
• Antimicrobial interior to prevent odour build-up
• Excellent breathability
• Minimalist design and subtle 'Charcoal' colour
• Can be perfectly combined with other products from the Skwala RS series

Practical impression - strong in any terrain

In the test, the RS Wader proved to be extremely comfortable and durable. Even on long hikes through thickets, over rough terrain or during hours of wade fishing, they remained comfortable and provided reliable protection against moisture and abrasion. The breathing behaviour is excellent for such robust trousers - even in mild temperatures and during physical activity, there is no heat build-up.

Conclusion - premium waders for demanding anglers

The Skwala RS waders (Charcoal) are convincing across the board and show what modern waders can achieve. The outstanding wearing comfort is particularly noteworthy: even after a whole day on the water, you hardly feel the trousers, as their ergonomic fit moulds perfectly to the body and offers maximum freedom of movement. At the same time, thanks to their high-quality materials and robust workmanship, they are virtually indestructible and can easily withstand intensive use, long hikes through thickets or over rocky ground. Numerous well thought-out details such as integrated pockets, a secure-fitting wading belt and practical G-hook straps make fishing considerably easier without the trousers appearing overloaded. On the contrary: the minimalist design looks modern and functional at the same time, and the "Charcoal" colour can be perfectly combined with other Skwala products, especially from the RS series. The Skwala RS Wader is an excellent choice for anyone looking for waders that are uncompromisingly designed for comfort, durability and practicality while also being visually appealing.