Description
Drake Insulated Guardian Elite Vanguard Breathable Wader — Mossy Oak Bottomland
Cold-weather waterfowling without the premium price. The Insulated Guardian Elite Vanguard combines 3-layer waterproof/windproof/breathable Guardian Elite fabric with body-mapped insulation — 125g LokDown in the front and 200g LokDown in the back — plus 1,600g Thinsulate Buckshot Mudder boots for all-day warmth in frigid water. If you want insulated, breathable protection at a price that doesn't sting, this is it.
Built Tough for the Blind
Drake's tape-reinforced seams feature up to 75% needle hole reduction from previous models, eliminating leak points before they start. HD2 high-durability material covers the knees, seat, and boot areas where waders take the worst abuse. The Buckshot Mudder boot delivers warmth and traction through marsh mud, flooded timber, and frozen fields.
Features That Matter
No-buckle X-Crossing-Back Shoulder Straps keep the wader secure without hardware that catches, freezes, or breaks. A front cargo pouch holds shells, calls, or snacks. An inside zippered pouch keeps your phone or license dry. Horizontal shell loops put extra rounds within reach. Pass-through internal handwarmer pockets keep hands warm between flights.
The tear-away insulated liner lets you remove insulation without taking off the wader — transition from cold morning to warm afternoon without stopping your hunt.
Backed by Drake's 3-year "Strap to Sole" replacement warranty. Available at Carolina Sportsman Outfitters. 0% financing available — no credit needed.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 3-layer waterproof/windproof/breathable Guardian Elite with DWR |
| Insulation | Body-mapped: 125g LokDown (front), 200g LokDown (back) |
| Reinforcement | HD2 material on knees, seat, high-wear areas |
| Seams | Reinforced taped, 75% needle hole reduction |
| Boot | 1,600g Thinsulate Buckshot Mudder |
| Liner | Tear-away insulated (removable while wearing) |
| Shoulder Straps | No-buckle X-Crossing-Back |
| Pockets | Front cargo pouch, inside zippered pouch, handwarmers |
| Other Features | Horizontal shell loops, vertical shell loops |
| Camo Pattern | Mossy Oak Bottomland |
| Warranty | 3-year "Strap to Sole" replacement |
FAQ
How warm are these waders?
The body-mapped insulation puts 200g LokDown where you need it most (your back and core) and 125g in front to prevent overheating. Combined with 1,600g Thinsulate in the boots, these handle freezing-temperature hunts comfortably. For extreme cold, add a base layer underneath.
What's the difference between the Vanguard and the HND Front-Zip?
The Vanguard is a pull-over style with 3-layer Guardian Elite fabric at a lower price point. The HND Front-Zip adds a TiZIP waterproof front zipper, upgraded 4-layer upper and 5-layer lower construction, and Magnattach call pockets. If you want the easiest on/off access and maximum protection, go HND. If you want excellent Guardian Elite protection at a better value, the Vanguard delivers.
