I have been out 5 times with the Simms streamtreads and find them superlative on snow, ice, muddy banks and above surface rocks, much safer than felt or studded felt. I've taken the majority of my falls on the shore with felt or studs, very few falls have been when wading. So far I have not found a difference when wading - streamtreads provide very secure footing on most underwater stream bottoms. If you are older and a little unsteady on the best of days, I think streamtreads are the way to go.