For surf fishing, get boot foot waders. Stocking foot waders are nearly as durable
in the foot area, but it's almost impossible to keep the sand from piling up
between the stocking foot and your wading shoe, even when you are using gravel guards.
Don't bother with felt soles; they're meant for gripping rocks in fresh water
streams. If you plan to stand on weed-slick rocks, get some cleated sandals to
put over the boots. The other plus of boot foots is that, if you plan to do
steelhead fishing in 34 degree water, it's easy to put a felt liner in them
(mandatory for extreme cold fishing such as this).
As for material, if you chill easily, neoprene is the way to go. It's also the
lightest weight option. One problem with neoprenes is that you'll bake in them
on a hot summer day, so you probably shouldn't hike long distances with them on.
Another minus is that neoprene is more susceptible to sunlight degradation
than the heavier rubber waders. Always store them indoors after use. Another
minus I've found is that it seems to be harder to find small leaks in neoprene than
in rubber. At least that's been my experience. And finally, putting on neoprenes
sometimes feels like a wrestling match with Hulk Hogan!
Another option is a nylon/rubber composite, like LaCrosse. This is
what I'm using now. It's as light as neoprene and so far seems more abrasion resistant
than the old all-rubber models I used to use. But they won't give you the warmth
of neoprene unless you wear cold-weather clothes underneath.
The best waders I ever owned were a pair of heavy-duty all latex rubber stocking
foot waders by Seal-Dri. In 15 years, I've had only two punctures, both easily
repairable. They are also the easiest waders to slip on and off. Alas, the company
is apparently no longer in business, but I still use the waders occasionally.
Hope this helps,
-bd