# **Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub – Fly Tying Materials – Dubbing – Dry Fly: A Cost-Effective Choice?**
For fly-tying enthusiasts, selecting the right materials is crucial for creating effective and durable flies. One product that has gained attention among anglers is the **Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub**, marketed as a dubbing material for dry flies. But how does it perform in terms of quality, usability, and most importantly, **value for money**? In this review, we’ll examine whether this synthetic substitute for natural seal fur is worth adding to your fly-tying kit.
## **What is Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub?**
Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub is a **synthetic dubbing material** designed to mimic the properties of natural seal fur, which has long been prized in fly tying for its buoyancy, texture, and ability to hold air bubbles—key features for dry flies. Unlike traditional seal fur, which can be expensive and ethically controversial due to sourcing concerns, this synthetic alternative offers a **more affordable and animal-friendly option**.
## **Performance and Usability**
### **1. Texture and Workability**
One of the biggest challenges with synthetic dubbing is replicating the fine, slightly sticky texture of natural seal fur, which helps it adhere well to the thread. The Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub does a **decent job** in this regard—it’s soft, slightly fibrous, and blends well when twisted onto the thread. While it may not be *identical* to natural seal fur, it’s close enough for most dry fly applications.
### **2. Buoyancy and Water Repellency**
A good dry fly material must repel water and stay afloat. The Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub performs **moderately well** in this aspect. When treated with a floatant, it holds air bubbles reasonably well, though some users report that natural seal fur still has a slight edge in long-term buoyancy. However, for short fishing sessions or when frequently changing flies, this difference may be negligible.
### **3. Durability**
Synthetic materials often lack the natural resilience of animal fur, but this product holds up **fairly well** under normal fishing conditions. It doesn’t mat down as quickly as some cheaper synthetics, though repeated casting and fish strikes will eventually wear it down—like most dubbing materials.
## **Cost vs. Quality: Is It Worth It?**
The biggest selling point of the Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub is its **affordability**. Compared to natural seal fur, which can be pricey and harder to source ethically, this synthetic version offers a **budget-friendly alternative** without sacrificing too much performance.
– **Pros:**
– More affordable than natural seal fur
– Animal-friendly and widely available
– Decent buoyancy and workability
– Good color selection for various fly patterns
– **Cons:**
– Not *quite* as buoyant as natural seal fur
– Slightly less durable over extended use
– May require extra floatant for optimal performance
## **Final Verdict: Good Value for Most Fly Tiers**
If you’re a **budget-conscious angler** or prefer synthetic materials for ethical reasons, the **Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub** is a solid choice. While it may not match the absolute best qualities of natural seal fur, it provides **80-90% of the performance at a fraction of the cost**. For casual fly tiers or those who frequently replace flies, this product offers excellent **cost-effectiveness**.
However, if you’re a **purist who demands the very best buoyancy and longevity**, you might still prefer natural seal fur—but be prepared to pay a premium.
### **Who Should Buy It?**
– Beginner to intermediate fly tiers
– Anglers on a budget
– Those who prefer synthetic, animal-free materials
– Fishermen who don’t mind occasional reapplication of floatant
### **Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?**
– Professional fly tiers who need maximum durability
– Anglers who fish heavily pressured waters where floatation is critical
– Those who exclusively use high-end natural materials
In conclusion, the **Kylebooker Seals Fur Sub** is a **great mid-range option** that balances cost and performance well. It won’t replace premium natural dubbing for every application, but for most fly fishers, it’s a **smart, economical choice**.
Would you give it a try? Let us know your experiences in the comments! 🎣