10 Best Waterproof Socks Reviewed and Compared
By Lauren Keating
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When packing or planning for an outdoor adventure one of the most overlooked pieces of gear is good quality socks. And when it comes to activities done in the rain, mud, and snow, having waterproof socks is simply a must-have.
That’s because these socks are designed to keep the feet nice and dry. Not only do they include waterproofing properties, but they also are breathable and comfortable. This makes the best waterproof socks practical and functional to be able to weather out all kinds of elements when outdoors.
Great for hiking, camping, on the boat or catching a wave, these socks are designed to stay on without sliding, providing that protection for the wet don’t become uncomfortably soaked so that the consumer can get down and dirty with their activity of choice without having to stop because of a little water.
- SealSkinz Knee Length
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Our rating - Secure Fit
- Price: See Here
- Dexshell Coolvent Mid-Calf
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Our rating - Comfortable & Breathable
- Price: See Here
- Hanz Waterproof Chillblocker
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Our rating - Versatile
- Price: See Here
10 Best Waterproof Socks
SealSkinz Knee Length
SealSkinz is one of the most reliable companies that delivers on their waterproof socks because of how well they perform. And these socks are no different. They are 100% waterproof and windproof, while still being breathable. The outer is made with nylon for durability, and it has a Hydrophilic membrane interlayer, and a merino wool inner layer. The merino wool regulate temperature and absorbs and releases moisture, which is perfect for sweaty feet.
The socks are equipped with the company’s Stretchy technology that allows them to be flexible with lots of mobility, while still keep wetness at bay.
Breathability
These socks have a thermal rating of 3, being the right balance of insulation and breathability for activewear. The merino wool adds in its breathability capabilities, controlling moisture from building up in the feet.
Design/Fit
These socks are mid weight and have a knee length, perfect for more water protection than other options. The entire leg and foot stays comfortably dry here, ideal for muddy obstacle races and ultra races, fishing, hunting, and hiking. It has a elasticated ankle and instep for a secure and comfortable fit. The socks have padding at the heel, toe and footbed to prevent friction, enhance comfort and ward off blisters.
- Performs well even when feet are submerged
- Full leg protection
- Stretchy, yet secure fit
- Versatile, and perfect for winter sports
- Lifetime guarantee
- Thicker than normal socks
- Pricey for a pair of socks
Dexshell Coolvent Mid-Calf
Another popular name in waterproof socks because of how well they perform, these socks are among the best of the best when it comes to dry feet. These socks are successfully waterproof and breathable, being the best combination of the two. The outer consists of durable nylon and cuff elastics for a close to the leg fit to prevent rain drop, dew, mud and debris from entering the inside of the sock. The interlining has the company’s Porellemembrane that is 100% water- and windproof. The inner section has Coolmax fibers, a specially designed polyester that is breathable and wicks away moisture. As a result, this three level defense against water does a great job without being bulky.
Breathability
Wicking away moisture and perspiration from both the outside and instead, these socks perform well when it comes it breathability. Despite there being no mesh ventilation, the feet can still breathe thanks to the fibers used and its Coolmax tech that manages moisture.
Design/Fit
The Dexhell Coolvent socks are lightweight and mid-calf, providing enough protection. It has a seamless construction to prevent blisters and irritation. It’s equipped with terry loop cushioning, and has a four way stretch with a micro dot lamination technique that provides lots of flexibility. This makes it a versatile option for all kinds of outdoor activities.
- Effective waterproof tech that keeps feet dry
- Versatile for all kinds of outdoor adventures
- Comfortable and very breathable
- Not as warm as other options when wet
- Run small
Hanz Waterproof Chillblocker
Made with synthetic material, these socks really do keep the feet comfortably dry. It has three layers of protection to keep the feet dry and warm even when submerged in water. The shell consist of a nylon and lycra blend with spandex that is flexible, yet durable and tested to make sure there is no leaks. The membrane is made of HANZ’s MVT material that is waterproof, and there is a wicking liner for optimum moisture management. It has a thermal protection level of H2, keeping the keep cozy without being too hot.
Breathability
These socks hold up pretty when when it comes it its amount of breathability. The MVT membrane provide ample ventilation, which is a pleasant surprise considering the fact that these socks are a little thicker than other options on this list. They score really well when it comes to their factor, making them a very versatile option for both winter and summer outdoor activities.
Design/Fit
The Chillblockers stretch to fit, which results in a more secure feel without any areas of sagging. It has a seamless design that aid in comfort, although slightly lacks in this department behind the top three options because the foot shape does feel a little awkward at first.
- Very breathable, yet warm
- Versatile for both winter and summer; for hiking, running, snow and water sports
- Shape of the sock isn’t the most comfortable
NRS HydroSkin
The HydroSkin socks feature neoprene fabric, which is one of the best materials to use for water sports and activity in general where rain is expected. As well as being among the best materials for waterproofing, it also provides insulation to keep out the cold. In addition, it has a TiCoat membrane that reflects and retains body heat. The fabric also dries extremely fast, and has an odor fighting and antimicrobial treatment.
Breathability
This sock has a ThermalPlus cropped-fleece lining that further adds to its warmth. This makes it ideal for cold water diving, triathlons, and water sports. It isn’t the best when it comes to breathability, better suited for cooler weather adventures.
Design/Fit
This sock has PowerSpan 4-way-stretch for a snug and secure fit. It provides plenty of mobility, yet is still durable. These are considered wetsocks, so expect them to feel tighter than typical socks. Many might want to order a size down for an even more snug fit.
- Impressive waterproofing
- Very warm with ThermalPlus insulation
- Comfortable and stretchy
- Not as breathable as other options
- Size runs a little loose
Dexshell Hytherm Pro
These socks have three layers of protection, including a nylon outer with cuff elastics that further prevents water from dripping in to the inside of the sock. It’s interlining is 100% waterproof Porelle membrane is effective at keeping the feet dry, and it has a merino wool inner that aids in moisture wicking, while providing anti-odor and anti-bacteria properties.
Not only are these socks waterproof, but they are very warm. Scoring a thermal rating of 5, they are great for cold winter sports.
Breathability
There is no doubt that these socks are warm and waterproof. But it’s important that they perform on breathability to be able to be worn for all kinds of activities and adventures without become suffocatingly sweaty and uncomfortable. The Seashell Hytherm Pro socks perform well when it comes to plenty of air flow, mostly because of its merino wool inner lining. This helps to push moisture from the skin and outwards.
Design/Fit
Despite being warm, these socks are lightweight and feel great on. They are soft and have a secure fit thanks to its cuff elastics, with a mid calf fit. It has a four way stretch that allows more flexibility, making these great active socks. They have a cushioned footbed and a seamless construction.
- Made for extreme weather conditions, especially very cold and snowy winter activities
- Extremely warm
- Very durable
- Versatile for warm and cooler weather sports
- Pricey for a pair of socks
SealSkinz MTB Mid Sock with Hydrostop
These socks are made with SealSkinz proprietary waterproof and windproof technology called Hydrostop. Hydrostop creates a seal between the cuff of the socks and the skin. This tech is incorporated in the inner layer membrane. The outer layer is made of nylon for durability and the inner of merino wool for further moisture wicking, odor fighting and anti-bacterial properties.
Breathability
The merino wool helps to release moisture in the form of sweat, while helping to regular temperature. This helps to make the sock dry and cool. The sock has a thermal rating of a 3, making it warm enough for those colder outdoor activities without promoting overheating.
Design/Fit
These socks from SealSkinz are mid weight and have a mid length, a great balance between protection, warmth and breathability. Of course comfort is key here to, and these socks prevent rubbing created at the toebox, so it has a flat seam. There is a padded heal, toe and fitted to prevent blisters, and the Hydrostop elastication makes for a secure fit that reduces the event of water seeping in.
- Impressive waterproof tech
- Breathable, yet warm
- Reliable option, worn by 4 time World Cahmpion MTB rider Katy Curd
- Not to be worn for a long period of time since these are tighter socks
- Might cause slight skin irritation when long wear when wet
RANDY SUN
These are one of the best socks that are waterproof while still having like typical sock look and feel. It has three waterproofing layers including nylon material used for its outer, a waterproof membrane interlayer, and a Coolmax inner layer that wicks away moisture and provides anti-bacterial properties.
Breathability
Consumers will be happy that their feet are nice and dry in these socks, even from sweat. The materials used absorbs perspiration, which makes these great for cycling or hiking.
Design/Fit
These socks come in three different size options, so make sure to follow the unisex sizing chart for the best fit. These socks are light cushioning the the sole and has as seamless design to enhance comfort.
- Comfortable and breathable, great for hiking and other outdoor sports
- Ideal for winter and summer
- Might run big for women because of unisex sizing
- Doesn’t protect well once full legs are fully submerged in water
Shower Pass Lightweight Crosspoint Classic
These socks provide three layers of protection from water, making them 100% waterproof with no doubts about it. The first layer is its knit exterior that is wear-resistant, followed by its Artex membrane and finally a moisture wicking and anti-bacterial Coolmax FX lining. The sock itself feels like a regular sock, yet performs as well as a rain boot.
Breathability
Despite heavy water protection, the Crosspoint Classic socks are very breathable. That’s much to do with its second Artex membrane that allows air the ventilate so sweaty feet isn’t a problem here. As a result, the feet are dry from both weather conditions and perspiration.
Design/Fit
Shower Pass made upgrades to this sock to now make it lighter while still highly performing when its comes to its other features. It also has a reinforced toe and heel for added comfort. These socks are 3 inches high, for a comfortable fit. It is also durable thanks it its long-lasting knit material.
- Three layers of waterproofing tech
- Highly breathable
- Durable and long-lasting
- Size runs small
Rocky Gore-Tex
These socks are made with GORE-TEX fabric, which consists of technologies that provide waterproof capabilities along with comfortable and breathability. It has three layers include an outer, insulation layer and inner lining that is designed to keep the water on the outside without penetrating into the inner layers. These socks also have Gore-Seam tape sealed seams that further wards off water leaks. It’s stretch cuff designs also keep water from seeping in over the top.
Breathability
Despite score high on its waterproofing capabilities, these socks are still highly breathable. This means it is an option to worn even in the hot sun while hiking, or when riding a motorcycling in the summer rains without sweat building up.
Design/Fit
At 11-inches in height with a crew cut, these socks are versatile and unisex. They can be worn for multiple sporting activities both when expected to be wet and muddy and when out in the sun. It has a stretchy upper panel that conforms to the shape of the foot. The fabric is flexible, yet has a close fit. Keep in mind that these are thin, and best worn over other socks. The soles provide traction to prevent slips. And overall these are a durable option.
- Waterproof, yet breathable
- Versatile, greater hiking in the summer when it’s wet outside
- Great fit
- Durable
- Best worn with a sock underneath for more comfort and to prevent blisters
These socks work similarly to how wetsuits work for the body. It is made with neoprene, a synthetic rubber that is flexible, and best of all, has waterproof properties. This makes it a great material for water sports, especially since it also provides insulation against the cold, so get these for deep, cold water diving.
Breathability
Do not expect these socks to be breathable. But in its defense it is not designed to be this way. This option is more about providing warmth and protection that it is for ventilation. These are still great for walking on the deck or on the rocks on shore, but not intended for obstacle races, hiking or other sweaty activities where breathability is a must.
Design/Fit
These socks are designed to go on like booties, and come in a Hi Top or Low Top style option depending on whether the consumer wants to ankle covered or exposed. It’s easy to slip them right on. The bottom provides ample traction to avoid slips when wet. They also work to keep the feet protected by abrasions, chaffing and are thin enough to be worn inside wetsuit or hiking boots.
- Like wetsuit for the feet
- Provides thermal protection to keep feet warm
- Prevents chaffing
- Ample traction to prevent slips
- Can be worn inside boots
- Not breathable
The Criteria We Used for Our Evaluation
These options go beyond having simply moisture wicking properties to slick away water. The best waterproof socks need to be able to keep the feet dry when stepping in puddles, stuck in the rain, crawling through mud or doing water sports. This is the most crucial functionality with this product, but there is a whole lot more that goes in to crowning an option the best besides doing the job it is meant to do.
In order to determine which waterproof socks are the best, we used the set criteria as detailed below.
Performance: At its core, these socks need to be to deliver on its waterproofing capabilities. Many options may claim to keep the feet dry, but do not hold up their end of the bargain. How well do these socks perform when it comes to keeping water away? Are they mere moisture wicking socks, or do they provide ample protection? Does a particular option provide three layers of waterproofing?
Breathability: There is no point of keeping water at bay on the outside if sweat can puddle up on the inside. That’s why the socks need to be breathable for many outdoor activities.
Warmth: There should also be a balance between the amount of ventilation and the amount of warmth. Insulation is key for option to be worn in cold and snowy weather.
Durability: Are these socks made to last? Will they shrink when washed? Are they designed to withstand abrasions?
Value: Is this a sock that is worth buying? And is its price tag fair based on it overall value and level of performance?
Other Important Things to Consider
When searching for the best waterproof sock, the consumer must consider their own specific needs, as well as how much they are willing to spend. There are some options that perform well and are affordable, while some options may be considered pricey for a pair of socks. This might mean that they are made with the best materials and waterproofing tech, so it might be a worthy investment depending on how often worn.
Activity
Keep in mind that some options are great when wearing in the rain or snow, but aren’t made to be super effective when completely submerged in water. Options best for hiking or running, for example, might not be the best for deep diving. This is something important to consider when reading reviews. Some might perform well enough for treading through a stream while backpacking, but don’t expect the entire leg to be free from all signs of water. Some costumers might be overly critical on performance when the socks aren’t designed to entirely seal off water when submerged for a long period of time. These are not swimming boots.
On the contrary, there are options designed as wetsuit for the feet. These socks are worth looking at for water sports as well. And when a product claims to be 100% waterproof, it needs to live up to this.
In general activities that may call for waterproof socks include: hiking, backpacking, trekking through the snow, skiing, hunting, fishing, diving and water sports.
Breathability
Keep in mind that while waterproof socks help keep moisture and water from seeping in, it often prevents moisture, more specifically sweat, from escaping. This means some waterproof socks aren’t the best when it comes to breathability, so wearing in them in the summer or in the heat isn’t the best idea. Instead, these thicker and less ventilated waterproof socks are best worn when expected to be cold and wet. There are also options that balance between being insulated and warm and breathable and not sweaty.
FAQ
Q: How do I wash waterproof socks?
A: Consult the product details or company for the proper care instructions. Many socks call for machine washing with cold water, and leaving to hang to dry.
Q: How do I wear waterproof socks?
A: Waterproof socks are made to be worn like regular socks. They can be worn with sneakers, hiking or bow boots. Some options can go over a regular sock for added comfort.
Q: Where can I buy waterproof socks?
A: All of the options on this list can be purchased through the company’s website or via Amazon. Sporting good retail stores might also carry them as well.
Q: What size should I buy?
A: Consult the company’s sizing guide to see which size is best based on shoe size. Some options are unisex, so the consumer might consider buying a size smaller for a snug fit.
Q: Do your feet get sweaty wearing waterproof socks?
A: This depends on if the sock is made to be breathable or not. Those with sweaty feet or using these for particular workouts like running should look for breathable options.
Q: Will this pair last when it comes to quality and comfort?
A: All of the socks on this list are pretty durable, and will last much more than one wear. When wearing, if the consumer is literally standing in water for a long period of time, expect discomfort and even to have wet feet depending on the option. Those looking for comfort should check for thicker options with more cushioning.
Sources
- , How to Choose Socks, Company website,
- , What is the GORE-TEX® fabric?, Company website,
- , COOLMAX Fiber, Company website,
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