There’s some things in life that simply belong together – salt & pepper, bread & butter, wine & cheese, or wine & headaches…depending on how much you’ve had. So, why not waterproof socks and outdoor adventures? That’s exactly why we’ve written this article – to help you find the best waterproof socks.
Believe it or not, it’s not that difficult to find various brands of waterproof socks for swimming, hiking, kayaking, running, or whatever activity suits you, but it can be time-consuming and frustrating sifting trough the seemingly endless lists of products out there.
So, we did what we do best. Our Field Experts spent hour after hour researching and testing, and we’ve read as many reviews as you could imagine. Hopefully, this article will make your decision much easier and get you outside as soon as possible.
Our Editors’ Pick
The sock that knocked our socks off (Sorry, we just had to) is the Waterfly Ankle Length Waterproof Sock. This sock is great for hiking, climbing, travel, running, and just about any outdoor activity, you can think of.
It’s both waterproof and breathable, holds up well in creeks, rivers, and rain. These socks are great for almost any condition, whether hot and dry, or cold and wet. So, let’s take a look at these, and some others our outdoor experts picked.
The 6 Best Waterproof Socks in Review
Ah yes, our Editors’ Pick sock, the Waterfly Ankle Length. On the outside, this sock is 98% nylon and 2% rubber, with a waterproof and breathable, film middle layer.
Equally, it boasts a comfortable inner layer made of 35% merino wool and 65% nylon. Air passes freely through this 3-layer design, keeping your feet protected from moisture yet breathable. These socks can keep your feet dry in creeks, rivers, streams, rain, mud, snow, etc. but they’re also great for warm weather activities like biking, running, and even walking your dog.
It’s recommended that these socks are washed by hand (less than 40 degrees C water) and sun dried, as any heat drying can damage the waterproof layer. An all-around great sock for almost any outdoor activity. Definitely 5 stars!
RandySun Unisex
A very close runner up to the Waterfly is the RandySun Unisex waterproof hiking sock. Similarly boasting a 3-layer design, its outer layer is 74% waterproof nylon, and 26% other materials.
This sock is the perfect selection for hiking, running, cycling, fishing, and even daily wear. An ultra-light cushion sole provides comfort and great fit and is highly moisture and perspiration permeable. 100% seamless, this is a Top Choice. 4.8 stars!
Dexshell Hiking/Trekking Socks
This is a great sock ideal for hiking, running and trekking. The outer shell is constructed of 97% abrasion-resistance nylon, and 3% elastic materials, making this sock durable, waterproof and flexible.
The inner layer is made of merino wool, acrylic, and nylon, for optimum comfort, with a high performance waterproof breathable membrane interlining. This sock boasts a waterproof fit to mid-calf and is specially developed for arduous, wet conditions.
SealSkinz Mid-Length Socks
These socks are breathable, windproof, and of course waterproof. Made of merino wool, acrylic, polyester and elastic material, these are great for all types of outdoor activities. The merino wool lining provides good moisture control and offers comfort, and its elasticated ankle & insteps provide support and a comfortable fit.
We wouldn’t recommend these socks for activities, where they can be fully submerged, but they can withstand light rain and similar wet conditions.
Lifemall UMM 3mm Neoprene
Kayaking, diving, swimming, surfing, rafting, diving – the list goes on. These socks are ideal for almost any outdoor water activity, and are almost the birth child of a waterproof sock and a waterproof shoe.
Its 3mm neoprene design is guaranteed to keep your feet warm and dry, and protect against sharp objects. An anti-slip bottom and tightened velcro buckle provide impressive stability and grip.
Showers Pass Crosspoint
Triple-layer construction in this sock makes it great for outdoor activities. It has a knit exterior like a normal sock and a waterproof, breathable membrane on the inside. CoolMax fibers provide moisture-wicking and breathability. Light cushioning and compression for warmth and comfort, these make great socks for cycling and biking.
Buyers Guide – What You Should Look For
There’s some basic things to keep in mind when looking for waterproof socks. In a world with so many different varieties of products to choose from, here’s a general idea of some key things to consider that’ll save you both money, and time.
Waterproofing
Like most of the products we review, waterproofing is at the top of the list of things we look for. For obvious reasons, you don’t want to spend money on socks that’ll get wet at the slightest drizzle, and leave you and your feet cold, wet and uncomfortable. Socks with multi-layered construction, especially waterproof, nylon outer shells, are usually the ideal choice. Looking for socks that have been waterproof tested to a specific rating is also a great idea.
Comfort – Breathability, Insulation, Moisture-Wicking
A comfortable sock goes a long way. It’s tragic to have a great pair of shoes or boots, but the socks you chose turned out to be uncomfortable. Merino wool interiors prove to be great for cushioning, breathability, insulation and moisture-wicking. All of these factors contribute to the comfort of your foot. Remember, your feet feel the sock before they feel the shoe, so comfort is paramount. Looking for a sock that provides good ankle support is always a plus.
Type of Activity
The type of socks you choose should depend greatly on the type of activity you’ll be using them for. Trying to ride a bike up a summit slope is going to prove nearly impossible in a neoprene wetsuit sock like the Lifemall UMM 3mm. For hiking, cycling, backpacking, etc. it’s important to choose a sock with good breathability and moisture-wicking, good ankle and foot support, and good waterproofing for the occasional downpour you may encounter. Likewise, a neoprene sock like what we mentioned before is great for kayaking, diving, surfing, and water-sport activities where extended water exposure is inevitable.
Weight, Length & Size
Like anything else, socks come in all types of shapes, sizes, colors, etc. This is an important factor that ties back to comfort, but can be easily overlooked. Some socks cover up to the mid-calf and some cover the ankle. Some socks are not as lightweight as others. For example, the neoprene will generally feel heavier than a sock made of wool, or nylon. Some socks fit more snuggly than others, so buying a half-size/full-size up is not always a bad idea.
So, there you have it. Be kind to your feet, do them a favor and buy them some waterproof socks, and we can guarantee it will not only make your hiking and outdoor activity more safe, but more comfortable and rewarding. Also check out our selection of waterproof hiking shoes and trail running shoes.
Hopefully we could help you to find the best waterproof socks suitable for your favorite outdoor activities. Now get out there! And enjoy your dry feet.