Whether you are a friend or foe of the great outdoors, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that there are many elements to Mother Nature that we endure daily. Cold, wintery climates are synopsis with bulky winter coats and insulated mittens, while southerners embracing a thick, sticky humidity will opt for sunscreen and shades for protection. The most overlooked element protection that exists in either extremity? Surprisingly, our feet! While there are many options available for insulated and waterproofed footwear, an added shield to keep your toes toasty can mean all the difference between a nice day fishing and going home early because of soggy foot discomfort. Adding waterproof socks to your outdoor wardrobe can benefit just about anybody, and we will break it all down for you.
Why Waterproof Socks?
For starters, they are, well, waterproof. Ask anyone who has ever trekked in the snow or stepped in a puddle; the disgust for soggy socks and cold feet is evident on the storyteller’s face. Not only will drenched socks be uncomfortable for the person wearing them, their feet also can become the breeding ground for bacteria. Foot fungus loves to grow in damp conditions. A fantastic feature that most waterproof socks boast is the ability to keep your feet warm while wicking away water, so bacteria stands no chance! We also love that waterproof socks are often built like athletic socks, allowing for fantastic mobility, flexibility, breathability, and moisture wicking. So whether you are the runner dodging puddles on the city sidewalk, or the adventurer exploring unnerving mountain trails, you’ll want to check out the best waterproof socks below. Trust us, these are game changers – you will never think your regular socks are adequate for outdoor activity ever again.
SealSkinz Mid Knee Socks
Perhaps the “it” brand when it comes to waterproof socks, SealSkinz is the oldest name in the game. They have revolutionized this product niche by offering comfortable, breathable, waterproof, 3-layer protection. We love this product because of its mid-knee coverage, which is an attractive feature for those wading in deep water or trudging through the snow – no water will pool from moisture dripping off the legs. While most brands suggest adding a pair of cotton socks to increase comfort levels, Sealskinz advises against it as their product provides the comfort of a regular sock without compromising protection. Look at purchasing a pair of SealSkinz waterproof socks as an investment that your (dry, warm) feet will be thankful for.
- Features: Waterproof, windproof, breathable, moisture control, ankle support, comfortable fit, friction guard, anti-rubbing
- Key Materials: Nylon, Elastane, Merino Wool
- Cons: Not ideal for extreme cold terrains
NRS Hydroskin Wet Sock
A common player in the watersport family, the NRS Hydroskin wet sock claims to keep your feet warm in any weather or condition, and its antimicrobial properties kill away odor and bacteria. Hydroskin wet socks boast a four-way stretch, so they are ideal for any kind of sport that requires extensive mobility. This sock is also mid-length and simple looking, so it is a wise choice for the fashion conscious folk who need the added protection. So the next time you take off in a kayak (Hydroskin wet socks are also coined as “the kayak sock”), grabbing a pair of these will not be a regret.
- Features: Waterproof, insolated, durable, moisture-repelling, quick-drying, aids body heat retention
- Key Materials: Hydroskin outer layer, Thermalplush inner layer, DWR coating
- Cons: Lack of breathable material
DexShell Trekking Mid-Calf Sock
Ideal for hiking, biking, trekking, and any casual outdoor sport such as golfing, DexShell Trekking Mid-Calf Socks are an ideal multi-purpose option. Offering luxurious comfort and great flexibility, this sock remains lightweight without compromising water resistance and insulation. Merino wool is known for its insulating and breathable properties while offering outstanding coziness. They promise to keep your feet dry in any vigorous wet environment. As a newer brand to this product niche and at such an attractive price point, these are a snatch for both athlete and homemaker alike.
- Features: Waterproof, insulated, comfortable, moisture control, lightweight
- Key Materials: Nylon, Elastane, Porelle membrane, Merino Wool
- Cons: Not recommended for water submerging activities
Rocky Gore-Tex Waterproof Sock
For those looking to battle the coldest and wettest extremities, these Rocky Gore-Tex Waterproof socks promise to deliver breathable waterproofing while keeping your feet warm and insulated. Their patented Gore-tex technology means a breathable, windproof and water-resistant sock that has an incredible tight seam design, so no moisture can leak in and ruin your day. The level of insulation is unparalleled; you would not wear these bad boys for your average wet weather jog, as your feet may possibly overheat. If you are thinking of an ice-laden adventure where temperatures are plummeting, These Rocky Gore-tex socks will become your new best friend.
- Features: Waterproof, abrasion resistant, long lasting, breathable, insulated, windproof
- Key Materials: Patented Gore-tex technology
- Cons: Incredibly insulated, feet can overheat depending on activity
Randy Sun Unisex Waterproof Sock
Fashionable, practical and functional, Randy Sun Unisex Waterproof socks can adapt to any lifestyle. Suitable for both daily wear and for outdoor sports prone to harsh environments, these socks promise to keep your feet dry, rain or shine. These lightweight products advertise an anti-bacterial technology to keep odor astray. These socks also contain a lightweight padded sole that provides extra support, and their fun designs promise to dress up any shoe you’ll wear them in. We highly recommend these Randy Sun Unisex Waterproof socks for a casual, wet or dry weather, everyday use.
- Features: Waterproof, lightweight, breathable, moisture and perspiration absorption, anti-bacterial technology
- Key Material: Nylon, Lycra, Coolmax lining, Elastane
- Cons: Not recommended for water submerging activities
Camaro Titanium Seamless Socks
For a second-skin-like fit and complete water resistance, look no further than Camaro’s Titanium Seamless socks. These socks have an incredibly snug fit that makes them a perfect companion to your diving gear, or any aquatic activity such as rafting, kayaking or boating. Their coined phrase “shake them once and they are dry!” provides the user with enough understanding of how the water wicks off the material. A seamless bonding finish also eliminates the opportunity for water to sneak through the tiniest stitch. The company also offers a great warranty for repair service. Although we suggest adding another sock inside for cold resistance, Camaro’s Titanium technology practices what they preach by offering the best in waterproofed footgear.
- Features: Waterproof, seamless bonding, watertight, wafer-thin, odorless
- Key Material: Titanium open cell neoprene
- Cons: No room to breathe; not recommended for sweat-inducing sports
Stryde Outdoorsman Waterproof Socks
If you are looking for another knee-high sock option that promises protection over a scope of outdoor sports, these Stryde Outdoorsman Waterproof socks may fit the bill. Knee-length coverage provides a waterproof barrier for wet weather activities, such as hiking and mountain biking, where a deep puddle splash can result in soggy pants and feet. Stryde also promises a waterproof and breathable sock suited for a wide range of temperatures, so anyone from any climate can benefit from this product. If knee-length coverage is a bit of an overkill option for you, these durable socks sporting the same features also come in a mid-calf option.
- Features: Waterproof, windproof, breathable, seamless, perspiration wicking performance, abrasion resistant
- Key Materials: Nylon, Lycra, Elastane, Coolmax, Spandex
- Cons: Slight lack of mobility
Zealiyue Waterproof and Windproof Boot Socks
When the option for dropping heavy cash on a pair of weatherproof socks does not exist, reaching for a pair of Zealiyue’s Waterproof and Windproof Boot socks will give you the protection you need without breaking the bank. At a price point that can satisfy anybody and a variety of sizes for both men and women, these breathable and anti-bacterial socks promise coverage for a wide scope of activity. Their seamless design offers thermal protection for cold, wet weather activities such as trekking, wading, and hiking. If the purse strings are a little tight but you want a quality sock, reach for a pair of these guys.
- Features: Waterproof, windproof, breathable, insulated, moisture absorption, anti-bacterial function, seamless
- Key Materials: Nylon, Lycra, Coolmax, Elastane, waterproof membrane
- Cons: Not the ideal fit for water-wading activities
Lifemall Neoprene Water Sock
For divers, snorkelers, or those who frequent the beach and love to explore, these neoprene water socks are niche specific and absolutely necessary. For strangers of neoprene, it is a synthetic polyester that imitates rubber in both feel and function. Not only is it a highly insulating material that keeps water and harsh weather conditions out, but is durable enough to avoid cuts and gashes from rocks and jagged terrains. For those exploring oceans deep, Lifemall’s neoprene water socks fit comfortably in open heel fins and are strong enough for cold-water excursions. Although these are stand-alone socks (you wouldn’t be able to fit these bad boys in a pair of boots), they offer the comfort of a barefoot experience for those looking to stroll a beach without cutting their feet. And at a price to boot, this is a cash-friendly investment for both beach setters and island snorkelers alike.
- Features: Waterproof, insulated, anti-slip bottom, Velcro buckle, weatherproof, incredibly durable
- Key Materials: Neoprene
- Cons: Feet can get sweaty due to thick neoprene layer