# **Kylebooker Red Fox Short Pile Craft Fur, Fly Tying Material: Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable materials to enhance my fly-tying arsenal. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Red Fox Short Pile Craft Fur**, a product marketed as a versatile and budget-friendly option for fly tying. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, I’ll evaluate its performance, durability, and overall value to determine whether it’s a worthwhile investment for fellow anglers.
## **Material Quality & Texture**
One of the first things I noticed about the **Kylebooker Red Fox Short Pile Craft Fur** is its soft yet dense texture. Unlike some synthetic furs that feel stiff or plasticky, this material has a natural-looking sheen and a fine, short pile that mimics real fox fur. This makes it excellent for creating lifelike nymphs, streamers, and wet flies that need subtle movement in the water.
The fibers are slightly tapered, allowing for smooth wraps and easy trimming. Whether I’m tying **Zonker strips, dubbing loops, or wing cases**, the fur holds well under thread tension without excessive shedding—a common issue with lower-quality craft fur.
## **Color & Versatility**
This product comes in a **rich red fox shade**, which is perfect for imitating natural prey like scuds, crayfish, and small baitfish. The color holds well even after repeated soaking, meaning my flies don’t fade quickly after multiple uses.
I’ve also found that blending it with other materials (such as **hare’s ear or synthetic dubbing**) enhances its versatility. It works great for:
– **Streamer wings** (adding bulk without excessive weight)
– **Nymph legs & tails** (providing a subtle pulsating effect)
– **Salmon & steelhead flies** (where natural movement is key)
## **Durability & Handling**
One concern with craft fur is how well it withstands repeated casting and fish strikes. After tying several **Woolly Buggers and Clouser Minnows** with this material, I noticed that the fibers remained intact even after aggressive retrieves. Unlike some cheaper alternatives that fray or mat down, the **Kylebooker fur maintains its structure** well.
Another advantage is its **ease of use**. The short pile makes it easier to control when tying in small sections, reducing waste. Additionally, it doesn’t require excessive trimming, saving time at the vise.
## **Price & Value**
Compared to premium natural fur or high-end synthetic options, the **Kylebooker Red Fox Short Pile Craft Fur** is **very reasonably priced**. Given its durability and realistic appearance, it offers excellent **cost-effectiveness**, especially for anglers who tie flies in bulk.
While it may not replace **top-tier materials like Arctic fox or premium synthetics**, it’s a fantastic **mid-range option** that performs well beyond its price point. For beginners or budget-conscious tyers, this is a solid choice.
## **Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?**
If you’re looking for an **affordable, durable, and realistic** fly-tying material, the **Kylebooker Red Fox Short Pile Craft Fur** is definitely worth considering. It may not be the absolute best on the market, but it delivers **great performance for the price**, making it a smart addition to any fly-tying kit.
**Rating: 4.5/5**
✅ **Pros:** Great texture, good durability, natural movement, affordable
❌ **Cons:** Slightly limited color options compared to premium brands
For fly tyers who want quality without breaking the bank, this product is a **strong buy**. Tight lines! 🎣