And the shoulder straps help keep the mud from sucking that boot off.................When I first started to duck/goose hunt many years ago I, like most of my hunting mates, wore hip boots and getting a wet boot or two was just a problem we put up with. Leter we all went with chest waders and boy what an improvement that was. Be sure and buy a GOOD QUALITY brand and insulated too. Only way to go, your whole body stays warm and dry!
Got to be sure you wear the belt snug around your waist. Keeps water from pouring in if you go under.But you've got to be very careful with Chest Waders. They drowned the guy that was my wedding photographer many years ago. He went under and never came back up.
I guess if you jumped in head first, but if you're wading and fall, most of the air has already been forced out. Even if there were air trapped, it wouldn't turn you upside down, it would just keep your legs up on top where you could float on your back and stroke towards safety. The issue with them filling with water is they become so heavy you can't easily swim, walk, or even crawl.Wouldn't that have a tendency to float you upside down if you fell in? Just curious.