When Grundéns, an icon of commercial fishing gear, set its sights on the fly-fishing market, they needed a product that could stand apart in a crowded space. Their CEO came to WERX with a clear vision: create the most advanced wader on the market by improving fit, reducing seam vulnerability, and enhancing comfort, especially for anglers who demand mobility. From that first conversation, we began reimagining what a high-performance wader could be.
The challenge was ambitious: design a wader that combined rugged durability with a level of comfort and movement never before seen in the category. It had to eliminate traditional failure points, carry weight comfortably, and give anglers the freedom to move naturally on the water, all while maintaining the bulletproof reliability Grundéns is known for.
WERX approached the project from the inside out, starting with how the wader fits, flexes, and holds up in demanding conditions. We engineered an ergonomic pattern to reduce bulk and seam strain, designed a reinforced shoulder harness for structure and long-term comfort, and integrated stretch panels with articulated shaping for unrestricted movement. Modular storage and tool access were built into the design, ensuring anglers had utility where they needed it most. Each step was validated through prototyping and testing with our factory partners, refining details until the product met both Grundéns’ high standards and the needs of serious anglers.
The final wader set a new benchmark for mobility and durability in fishing gear. Built to move with the angler, it balanced comfort, performance, and toughness. Its launch positioned Grundéns as a credible player in fly fishing, with strong feedback from guides, pros, and everyday anglers, and press praising its fit and thoughtful features.
Today, the wader anchors Grundéns’ fly-fishing lineup and marks their confident entry into technical apparel. It continues to earn recognition in the community and sets the stage for future innovation, proof of what’s possible with collaboration and a prototype-driven design process.
“Mike and the WERX team designed a wader pattern that leapfrogged the market in mobility and delivered unprecedented comfort. Mike’s passion as a fly angler shaped the design, and the team’s ‘design by prototyping’ ethos shone as we reimagined a pinnacle product in a tough category. Their approach to problem-solving gave Grundéns the edge to emerge as a new player in fly fishing, solving the angler’s need for true mobility and comfort.”
