If you are an outdoor enthusiast, having your feet warm and dry is a top priority. When you are engaging in water sports, hiking through mountainous terrain in extremely cold temperatures, or wading through a glacial river, having cold and wet feet can make for a miserable experience.
Waterproof socks can keep sweat and moisture away from your feet, and give you that extra level of comfort and support so you can enjoy your favorite outdoor adventure. They are also very versatile and can be used for a wide range of outdoor activities:
- Hiking and Mountaineering
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Hunting
- Backpacking
- Trail running
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- Snorkeling
- Everyday sporting activities
The 6 Best Waterproof Socks
- Dexshell Hytherm Pro Waterproof Socks
- RANDY SUN 100% Waterproof Socks
- SEALSKINZ 100% Waterproof Sock
- Rocky Men’s Gore-Tex Waterproof Socks (Our Top Pick)
- RTDEP UMM Neoprene Water Sock
- NeoSport Neoprene Water Socks
Our Top Pick for the Best Waterproof Socks
Our top pick for the best waterproof socks is the Rocky Men’s Gore-Tex Waterproof Socks.
These very comfortable socks are made in the good ole US, and they are designed to protect your feet in extremely cold and wet conditions.
The Gore-tex material provides a high level of insulation. So whether you are hiking in mountainous regions or sailing through icy waters, these durable socks are the perfect fit for your next outdoor adventure.
Check the price on AmazonHow to Choose the Best Waterproof Socks
The best waterproof socks can keep your feet warm and dry. However, they also need to be breathable and keep your feet free of bacteria that can produce nasty odors. They also need to fit snugly on your feet.
There are a lot of different varieties to choose from, so here are 7 things to consider when looking for your new waterproof socks that will be your perfect fit for your next outdoor adventure or sporting activity.
1. Waterproof or Water-Resistant
Although the socks may be advertised as 100% waterproof, their waterproofing ability can change from brand to brand, also it can depend on what type of material they are made out of, and what you will be using the socks for.
Some waterproof socks can handle full or partial immersion in water for a certain amount of time, or they may be specifically designed for exposure to water, for activities such as surfing, diving, or snorkeling. While other brands may only give you a low level of protection from a drizzle of rain, making them ideal for cycling or sporting activities.
Other socks may be ideal for hiking, but they may not fully protect you from water if you are wading through an icy river, but they may have other very attractive features. They may have material that is quick-drying and can give you very good insulation in snowy weather conditions.
2. Sock Construction
– Outer Layer/Outer Shell
Waterproof socks are usually made from a 3-layered construction that can provide the best level of waterproofing for your feet. The 3 layers of material make them strong and durable and allow them to withstand cold and wet conditions.
The outer layer or shell can be made from hard-wearing and tough materials such as Nylon, which is designed to be abrasion-resistant and has the ability to dry fast.
Nylon can also be combined with another synthetic material such as Lycra, which can give you a greater level of comfort and a better fit. Nylon and Lycra also help the socks to retain their shape and provide good arch support.
Overall, synthetic materials may dry faster and be more effective at expelling moisture. However, they are less comfortable in hot conditions and may not provide a good level of insulation when they are fully immersed in water.
– Inner Lining
The inner layer provides comfort, insulation, and wicks the sweat away from your feet, keeping them warm and dry.
Merino wool is a very good material for the inner lining as it is thermostatic, which means it can regulate its own temperature, allowing your feet to stay comfortable in cool and warm conditions. Wool can also absorb up to 30% of its weight in water and can expel any buildup of moisture, so it can keep your feet dry in most conditions.
The only downside of merino wool is that it dries slower than synthetic material, and it can be more expensive.
Some manufacturers also use Gore-Tex®, which is a high-quality fabric that features a revolutionary patented technology that makes the sock’s material windproof, waterproof, and breathable. They may use Gore-Tex as the primary material or they may use it for the lining.
The only downside of Gore-tex is that it is not very flexible and can make the sock very tight and hard to put on.
Gore-tex is rated as one of the best types of material for a waterproof sock, so if you are hiking in extremely cold temperatures and need to cross glacial rivers, Gore-tex can give you a very good level of thermal and water protection.
Lycra can sometimes be combined with other materials such as CoolMax®, elastane, or acrylic that makes the sock’s lining more lightweight and breathable, which is great for expelling any odors.
In particular, Lycra stretches more than other types of material, so it is ideal for preventing blisters when you are engaging in sporting activities and for when you need that extra flexibility in movement.
– Breathable Membrane
Some waterproof socks have an extra layer or breathable membrane between the outer layer and the inner layer. This inner membrane can be made from a hydrophilic or Porelle membrane that helps to repel perspiration or moisture away from your skin, while also adding an extra level of insulation, and keeping any nasty odors away.
3. Neoprene
Neoprene is a thick, synthetic polyester that is similar to rubber and is used in wetsuits. It can protect your feet from sharp rocks, and it is especially ideal for protection in very cold temperatures. Wet socks such as the RTDEP UMM Neoprene Water Sock use Neoprene, and they also feature an anti-slip sole, which is designed to give you very good traction on slippery surfaces.
4. Padding
Padding on the heel and ball of the foot provides you with extra cushioning and support. This is especially important if you are climbing over rocks or hiking over uneven terrain, or when you are cycling for long period. However, be aware that extra padding can also make your shoe or boot too tight.
5. Arch and Ankle reinforcements
Some socks offer a reinforced weave in the arch to improve support. If you are going to be doing a lot of physical activity or you have high arches, arch reinforcements such as an elasticated ankle or instep can give you that extra level of protection.
6. Over-socks
Some waterproof socks are thick enough to be worn on their own, especially if it is a wet sock, but other socks are designed to be worn over another sock, so for extra protection and support, wear a thermal or woolen sock underneath.
7. Outdoor Activities
The type of waterproof socks that you choose will depend on what type of activity you will be using them for. If you love diving, snorkeling, or water sports, then a tough NeoSport Wet Sock is a good choice.
For hiking or mountaineering in icy conditions, choose a sock that is made from Gore-tex lining or has a merino wool lining, which has good insulation properties for extremely cold temperatures. Aside from water resistant or waterproofing properties, good ankle and foot support are important when you are walking over uneven terrain or climbing.
6 Best Waterproof Socks – Reviews
1. Dexshell Hytherm Pro Waterproof Socks
Whatever type of outdoor adventure you enjoy doing, the Dexshell Hytherm Pro Waterproof Socks will give you all-day comfort as you hike or bike along the trail.
Perfect for tough wet and cold environments, these high-performance mid-calf thermal socks are tailor-made for outdoor enthusiasts. Special DexShell 4-way stretch technology makes the socks 100% waterproof, windproof, breathable, and durable. The inner lining is made from 38% merino wool, 38% anti-pilling acrylic, and 24% nylon fabric that provides exceptional insulation.
For a seamless and flexible fit, the outer lining contains 96% nylon, 3% elastane, and 1% cuff elastics. The Porelle interlining membrane creates a cushioning footbed against hard surfaces.
Easy to look after, the socks can either be hand-washed or machine washed below 104°F.
These stylish black and orange waterproof socks come in 3 sizes: medium, large tall, and x large.
Pros
- Great quality
- Excellent value for money
- Good price
- High-performance mid-calf length socks
- Special DexShell 4-way stretch technology
- 100% waterproof, windproof, breathable, and durable
- Exceptional insulation
- Seamless comfortable fit
- 96% nylon, 3% elastane, 1% cuff elastic
- 38% merino wool, 38% anti-pilling acrylic, 24% nylon inner lining
- Good thickness
- Porelle waterproof and breathable interlining membrane
- Cushioned footbed
- Very good sizing
- Can be hand washed or machine washed
- Three sizes
Cons
- Not ideal for long-term water immersion
2. RANDY SUN 100% Waterproof Socks
These brightly colored RANDY SUN 100% Waterproof Socks are very comfortable and will keep your feet warm and dry in all sorts of outdoor environments.
The secret to their success is their 3-layered construction: the outer layer is made from a combination of 74% waterproof nylon, 32% polyester, and 3% elastane, the middle layer is made from 100% polyurethane, and the lining from 64% Coolmax, 30% polyester, and 4% elastane.
Whether you are engaging in sporting activities, hiking, fishing, or skiing, these durable but lightweight socks are also designed to eliminate any moisture and perspiration and reduce any buildup of bacteria that can produce odor. They fit very well and the ultra-light padded sole will give you the support you need.
The socks are available in 4 sizes: x-small, small, medium, and large, and come in a variety of colors and designs. To keep your socks in tip-top condition, it is recommended to hand wash them in cool water. However, if you prefer to machine wash them, the water temperature should be set to below 104°F.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Very good waterproofing ability
- Breathable and moisture-wicking
- Good warmth
- Versatile: can be used for a wide range of outdoor activities
Cons
- Not ideal for extended exposure to water
- Too wide for narrow feet
3. SEALSKINZ 100% Waterproof Sock
Whether you are hiking in wet weather or canoeing down the Grand Rapids, your feet will stay snug and comfortable all day long in the SEALSKINZ 100% Waterproof Sock.
These mid-calf socks utilize innovative SEALSKINZ’s waterproof 4-way stretch technology. Ideal for humid days when you need to stay dry, the merino wool lining draws away excess heat and as it is incredibly breathable and has sweat-wicking properties, you will stay fresher for longer.
Elasticated instep and heel supply additional support and flexibility as you walk or climb over rocks. The outer nylon blend fabric is soft and durable which is important for those long hours spent in rough outdoor environments.
Lightweight and irritant-free, the hand-closed toe seams create a flat seam to prevent rubbing against your skin. As the socks are designed to be close-fitting, they run true to size.
Stylish as well as functional, the socks come in 4 great colors, and 4 sizes: small, medium, large, and x large.
Pros
- High quality
- Great value for money
- Affordable price
- Extremely comfortable
- Thick material
- Four-way stretch technology
- Waterproof
- Merino wool lining is incredibly breathable
- Elasticated instep gives additional support and flexibility
- Heel provides an anatomically correct fit
- Soft and durable nylon blend outer fabric
- Ideal for rough outdoor environments
- Lightweight and irritant-free
- Hand closed-toe prevents rubbing against your skin
- Run true to size
- Machine washable
- Four stylish colors
- Four sizes
Cons
- Can wear easily on the heel with heavy-duty use
4. Rocky Men’s Gore-Tex Waterproof Socks
If you have a passion for fishing or boating, the Rocky Men’s Gore-Tex Waterproof Socks are perfect for wet or cold outdoor environments.
Made in the US and crafted from legendary GORE-TEX® layered technology, the Rocky socks are windproof and waterproof.
These 11-inches socks are designed to be worn over your normal socks and will make sure that your feet stay comfortable and dry as you walk over all types of terrain and through mud puddles. The socks also offer good breathability for short hikes in hot weather.
If you are wilderness wandering in early winter, slip the socks over your winter socks and your feet will be snug and warm inside your hiking boots. For much-needed abrasion resistance, the outer layer ensures long-lasting durability.
Easy to wear, the socks also have an elasticized opening and stretchy material that conforms to the natural shape of your feet.
Looking after your waterproof socks is very easy as you can pop them straight into the washing machine.
The attractive black/grey waterproof socks are available in 6 sizes.
Pros
- High quality
- Great value for money
- Affordable price
- Made in the US
- Crafted from legendary layered GORE-TEX® fabric
- Excellent windproof and waterproof ability
- Good breathability in hot weather
- Can be worn with winter socks
- Outer layer provides abrasion resistance and long-lasting durability
- Comfortable to wear
- Elasticized opening
- Stretchy material
- Easy to wear
- Machine washable
- Attractive black/gray color
- Six sizes
Cons
- Sizes may be larger than a normal sock size
- Needs to be worn over regular socks
5. RTDEP UMM Neoprene Water Sock
If you love your water sports or enjoy exploring underwater worlds, the RTDEP UMM Neoprene Water Sock will give you very good protection and insulation. The high-quality 3mm thick neoprene is designed to protect your feet from sharp rocks and will insulate your feet in very cold temperatures, and the anti-slip sole gives you very good traction on slippery surfaces.
If you are diving or snorkeling, the Velcro buckle strap fits securely around the ankle to ensure that the socks will not slip off in the water.
The socks can be a little tight across the toe so it is recommended that you choose one size up, for example, choose X-large instead of large. The socks are available in blue as well as black.
Pros
- Ideal for water sports
- Good water resistance
- Strong Neoprene material
- Good warmth
- Durable
- Excellent grip on slippery surfaces
Cons
- Not practical for wearing with shoes or boots
- Tight fit
- Not fully waterproof
- Uncomfortable in warm temperatures
- Not very breathable
6. NeoSport Neoprene Water Socks
Outdoor adventures and sporting enthusiasts will love wearing the NeoSport Neoprene Water Socks.
Perfect for diving, snorkeling, wakeboarding, kayaking, canoeing, water sports, swimming in very cold water, or walking or running on hot sand and rough concrete, these waterproof socks are form-fitting to minimize water entry. Ideal for cold water and even wintry conditions, your feet will stay warm and dry.
Constructed from ultra-soft 4-way stretch neoprene, the lightweight socks are easy to put on. Amazingly comfortable to wear, the socks conform to the natural shape of your feet.
For great protection against chafing or abrasions during intensive sporting activities such as beach volleyball or tennis, the 2mm thick material cushions and protects the sole of your feet.
The durable grippy traction sole acts as a good buffer against sharp objects and helps to stop you from slipping on any surface like a boat deck, a dock, or on rocks.
Highly versatile, you can wear the socks with your wetsuit boots, hunting, or hiking boots.
The Neo-Sport water socks come in 2 styles: a hi-top sock and a low top sock.
Finding your fit is very easy too as the socks come in 13 sizes.
Pros
- High quality
- Very good value for money
- Very affordable price
- Perfect for diving, snorkeling, wakeboarding, kayaking, canoeing, water sports, swimming, or walking on hot sand and rough concrete
- Form-fitting to minimize water entry
- Keeps feet warm and dry in very cold water
- Can be worn in winter
- Ultra-soft 4-way stretch neoprene conforms to the shape of the foot
- Lightweight
- Very easy to put on
- Amazingly comfortable to wear
- 2mm thick material stops chafing and prevents abrasion during intense sporting activities
- Durable grippy traction sole protects against sharp objects and stops any slippage on any surface
- Can be worn with wetsuit boots, hunting or hiking boots
- Available in a hi-top or a low top design
- 13 sizes
Cons
- Not ideal for walking over rocky surfaces for a long time
- Holes can appear in the heel after heavy-duty use
Our Top Pick for the Best Waterproof Socks
Our top pick for the best waterproof socks is the Rocky Men’s Gore-Tex Waterproof Socks.
These very comfortable socks are made in the good ole US, and they are designed to protect your feet in extremely cold and wet conditions.
The Gore-tex material provides a high level of insulation. So whether you are hiking in mountainous regions or sailing through icy waters, these durable socks are the perfect fit for your next outdoor adventure.
Check the price on Amazon
