I've noticed no issues spooking fish with studded boots, I've fished them both with felt and rubber soles for years.
Had the G1 Simms Riversheds with Studded Aqua Stealthand they've lasted me 2 1/2 seasons. They are still very much servicable boots but the studs are moving into the sole. I can't complain, I've fished them hard and have beat the heck out of them.
On one of my last trips to the Erie Tribs, I noticed that I was skating on the shale more than I cared to. Replaced them with the Streamtred sole version of Riversheds and they are a significant improvement over aqua stealth. Add the Hardbite Star Cleats and the traction is unbelievable. They should be for the price you pay for them. Having had a knee surgery a few years ago, I'll take the best traction I can get. Rubber soles is what I prefer since I can wear them in the winter and not have the Herman Munster effect.
Seems there are some that have had problems with Simms quality or repair. I am not one of them. In fact my bud who posts here has had a couple of issues with Simms gear and they've taken care of him each time and made it right. Here's a good case to develop a good relationship with a local fly shop if you have that option. They may go to bat for you if you have issues with a manufacturer of a product purchased there.
Source: http://www.paflyfish.com/modules/newbb/viewtopic.php?topic_id=17097&forum=2
Reese Witherspoon Levi Johnston Portia De Rossi Katy Perry Jodie Fisher
