Reviewed by our gear Geeks:
BEST WATERPROOF SOCKS in 2021
Our experts at work
We gave our Gear lovers one job:
Test 23 different Waterproof Socks and write reviews of the best.
The result is 15 of the best Waterproof Socks on the market today.
Mart-Mari Jansen van Vuren
Writer
Based out of South Africa Mart-Mari enjoys hiking, snorkeling, and surfing.
A good pair of waterproof socks can make a hiking trip great. Nothing ruins a hike or a simple day of exploring like walking through a river or getting caught in the rain. Wet clothes are one thing, but walking around with wet socks can lead to serious discomfort and pain.
While finding good waterproof socks may seem simple, getting a pair that keeps your feet dry while also being comfortable and breathable is key! Waterproof socks are usually designed with three layers. An external layer that protects the sock against rubbing against the shoe and getting damaged. The middle layer serves as a waterproof breathable membrane while the inner layer has moisture-wicking properties that keep your feet warm and comfortable. Although wool and nylon are the most commonly used material there are great options with alternative materials.
Before you make your decision and purchase a new pair of waterproof socks, check out our buying guide with tips and information on how to choose the right socks for you.
Top 10 Best Waterproof Socks In 2021
See our quick top 10, or go further down and read our in-depth reviews.
- RANDY SUN – Unisex 100% Waterproof Breathable Socks
- SuMade – 100% Waterproof Summer Socks
- SEALSKINZ – 100% Waterproof Mid Length Sock
- Layeba – 100% Waterproof Breathable Socks
- Tanzant Breathable Waterproof Socks
- MEIKAN – Unisex 100% Waterproof Socks
- SuMade – 100% Waterproof Breathable Knee High Socks
- RANDY SUN – Mid Calf Waterproof Socks
- Randy Sun SGS Certified Waterproof Breathable Socks
- RANDY SUN – Waterproof Hiking Socks
Still unsure as to what waterproof socks to choose? Check out our buying guide to know what to look for when buying a waterproof socks.
Randy Sun ensures that adventurists never have cold damp feet again. That’s why they are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and military personnel. The three-layer design keeps your feet dry and warm while still allowing them to breathe. The micropores in the socks allow moisture and sweat to escape without letting water in. The reinforced heel and toe protects you from chafing and blisters but also protects the waterproof layer of your sock. Making this sock more durable and extremely comfortable. Outdoor enthusiasts know that keeping their feet warm and dry is crucial. Without the right pair of waterproof socks, you’ll end up with blisters, frostbite, or ulcers. Made with Coolmax quick-drying material these socks are breathable and comfortable enough to wear all day long. SuMade’s waterproof socks prevent water from entering your socks while the cushioned heel provides your feet with shock absorption and protection against friction. These socks are ideal for hiking, skiing, fishing, and other activities. If you’re looking for waterproof socks during the summer, these SealSkinz socks are for you. These socks are ideal for warmer weather since it’s designed with minimal isolation. The lightweight Merino wool material regulates your body temperature and pulls sweat away from your feet. Due to the anti-bacterial properties in Merino wool, your feet will stay comfortable and fresh all day long! These breathable socks from Layeba are 100% waterproof and SGS certified. Designed with three separate layers these socks allow sweat to escape but prevent any water from coming in. This leaves your feet dry and comfortable all day long. Thanks to the anti-bacterial function these socks reduce bad odors and allow you to take off your shoes without embarrassment. It also helps prevent infections if you have open blisters or cuts on your feet. Unlike traditional waterproof socks, these Tanzant waterproof socks protect you from water, wind, rashes and blisters. Made with high-quality cotton fiber material, it gives you the mobility to do various water activities while keeping your feet dry. The deep heel wraps around the back of your foot preventing it from slipping down in your shoes while the ribbed toe design keeps the sock in place. Say goodbye to boring waterproof socks and add a pop of color to dull activewear! These unisex colorful waterproof socks are lightweight, comfortable, and will brighten up any day. Made from COOLSUN’s anti-blister and moisture-wicking fabric, these socks will ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable. SuMade’s Waterproof knee-high socks prevent water from entering your socks while still allowing your feet to breathe. While the seamless toe prevents you from getting blisters or irritated skin on your toes, the elastic cuffs keep your socks from slipping down. These knee-high socks are ideal for fishing, cycling, or skiing since the insulating material keeps you warm and dry. Randy Sun’s high-tech seamless socks are not only thermal-insulated, but they are also wind and waterproof. These lightweight socks are the perfect thickness to keep you warm during the winter and cool in summer. These socks can be used for multiple sports and activities from mountain biking to hunting or snowball fights. These waterproof socks make for the perfect gift for family and friends. These simple multifunctional waterproof socks are made keeping both men and women in mind. It’s ideal to wear for a variety of water sports like hiking, running, or daily casual wear. The heavy-duty fabric won’t rip or tear thanks to the high quality three layered material used to design these socks. These unisex socks feature a sleek style easily wearable by both men and women. Made with waterproof nylon and polyester these socks are extremely easy to take care of. Simply wash with cold water and a light detergent and hang to dry. Randy sun’s waterproof socks are designed and developed to be waterproof and windproof, making it ideal for all outdoor sports activities. Who says waterproof socks have to lead to sweaty feet? These waterproof socks are lightweight and breathable! The moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your feet while the outer layer keeps water from coming in. The high-tech material is thermal and windproof keeping you warm during the winter and cool during the summer. Designed with a reinforced heel and seamless toe you can wear these socks for years without it tearing. The DexShell waterproof socks not only care for your feet in various weather conditions but are also gentle on the environment. These DexShell socks are suitable to wear on walks, hikes, and running. Made with Nylon and a Coolermax lining you can be sure that these socks will keep you comfortable and dry. These waterproof crew socks are a must-have this fall. Whether you need daily socks or socks for your outdoor activities these socks are for you. The Coolmax material is designed with anti-bacterial properties to absorb sweat and allows your feet to breathe. Unlike traditional socks, these are seamless at the toe. This prevents irritation, pressure, and friction on your toes. Reviewers found that these socks are great during the summer rains, but noted that it may be a bit bulky due to the multiple layers. No one wants mud, rain, or snow to ruin a planned out trip. Unfortunately, regular winter socks are not enough to keep your feet protected and warm this winter. That is where Waterfly’s waterproof winter socks come in. These socks will regulate your feets’ temperature while also keeping them dry. Thanks to the high-quality material these socks are durable enough to last up to three times longer than regular socks lifespan. Reviewers found that water may seep in through the top of the sock so be sure that you order your correct size. The great thing about waterproof socks is that they give you freedom of movement without having to worry about getting your feet wet. These socks are not only waterproof but also windproof and sweat absorbent. The three-layer fabric design allows sweat to escape while preventing water from entering your socks. These socks are ideal to use during most outdoor activities including cycling, hiking, or running.
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BUYING GUIDE
Waterproof Socks Are Designed With Three Layers
Finding a material that is breathable, warm, waterproof, and has moisture-wicking properties is a hard task. That is why manufacturers designed waterproof socks with three layers, combining different materials and using their unique properties to target different areas. The mix of fabrics comes together to create the ideal waterproof sock.
The Outer Layer
The outer layer of the sock serves as the first line of defense, protecting it against the damaging effects of rubbing up against your shoe. We’ve all had hiking socks with holes in the toe and heel area where the most friction usually occurs. The outer layer prevents this friction from creating a hole in the waterproof membrane that keeps your feet dry.
The Middle Layer
Below the outer layer, there is a thin middle layer, which is the waterproof breathable membrane. These waterproof layers are also known as ePTFE membranes. This is just a fancy way of saying that they have tiny pores that prevent water drops from getting in while allowing sweat to escape. This keeps your feet dry from outside elements but also dry from the inside since it doesn’t trap sweat build up within your socks.
The Inner Layer
The inner layer of waterproof socks is usually the moisture-wicking layer. This layer is designed to pull away sweat and moisture from your skin and helps reduce chafing and discomfort.
Different Materials Serve Different Purposes
The material the socks are made of determines their waterproof performance, breathability, and comfort. A pair of waterproof socks make use of various materials to get different benefits from each. Here are some of the sock materials you can look out for when shopping for your socks.
Bamboo Fiber or Bamboo Rayon
Bamboo is soft and breathable. Its moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial properties keep your feet dry from sweat and comfortable all day long. Bamboo also provides you with thermal protection keeping your feet warm and toasty during the colder months.
Wool
Wool is a popular choice when it comes to waterproof socks. It can absorb and retain up to 30% of moisture while still feeling dry. Wool naturally resists odors eliminating that foul smell you get after a long hike. Merino wool is soft, comfortable, and has great elasticity while it’s insulating properties keep feet warm during the winter and cool during the summer.
Polyester
Polyester is quick to dry and is resistant to water, mildew, tearing, shrinking, and stretching. Polyester fabrics are soft, breathable, and possess moisture-wicking properties. Keep in mind that although polyester is great for colder weather it might get too hot in the summer.
Nylon
Nylon is most commonly used in the outer layer of waterproof socks. Its high durability keeps your socks from chafing against your shoe possibly damaging the waterproof membrane underneath.
Elastane/Spandex
Elastane is used to add some stretch to waterproof socks. This allows you to easily put on your socks and provides a snug and comfortable fit.
Neoprene
Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that is waterproof, stable, and flexible making it ideal for waterproof socks. This would be a great option for hiking in the snow but not for long hikes in the summer. It provides excellent insulation in cold conditions however it doesn’t breathe well during the summer.
Cotton
Cotton is soft and has excellent breathability. It’s comfortable against your skin while also being hypoallergenic if you have sensitive skin. Keep in mind that pure cotton socks absorb water leaving it wet and soggy. Due to this, cotton might not be the best option for waterproof socks.
Breathability Allows Sweat to Escape
There is a common misconception that waterproof socks cannot be breathable. With new technology, they can be both breathable and waterproof. Waterproof socks are made with a waterproof/breathable membrane.
These membranes have pores that allow your sweat to escape while preventing water from getting in. Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) is used to measure the breathability of waterproof socks. The higher the rate, the more breathable the socks are.
The Perfect Fit Keeps Your Feet From Blistering
The fit of your socks is critical when it comes to waterproof socks. If your socks are too big water may slip in through the sides getting your feet wet. Socks that are too small on the other hand may put pressure on your feet leaving you with blisters and discomfort.
Remember to take your shoe size and the fit of your shoes into consideration when you buy waterproof socks. As we mentioned above, waterproof socks are made with three layers of fabric. This makes them up to three times thicker than regular socks, so it’s important to leave space for the extra bulk. To ensure you get the right size for you follow the size chart provided by the manufacturers and compare them to your foot size.
Get Antibacterial Socks If You Have Open Cuts Or Blisters
When purchasing your pair of waterproof socks they should keep your feet dry, but it’s just as important for them to keep you hygienic. Before you choose a pair of socks take into consideration how long you will have to wear the socks between washes. If you’re doing a long trip, your options for washing your socks will be minimal. The antibacterial fabric helps reduce your chances of getting an infection during this period. It’s also a very important feature if you have any open cuts or blisters on your feet.
Remember To Check The Waterproof Rating
One of the most important things to look at when you’re looking for waterproof socks is the waterproof rating. This may seem like an obvious feature, but remember that some pairs are more waterproof than others.
A popular rating system for fabrics is the “static-column” test. This test measures different types of fabric and materials and rated them for the consumer’s convenience.
Here is a breakdown of what different ratings mean:
0: Not waterproof
1-1K: Water-resistant
1K-5K: Mostly waterproof, can’t withstand big storms
5L-20L: Pretty much waterproof, but a prolonged submersion could soak through
20K-40K: Waterproof and can handle shallow water
40K+: Completely waterproof
Keep Your Feet Warm With A Thick Insulator
What’s worse than wet feet you may ask? Cold and wet feet!
If you’re going hiking in cold, and snowy conditions, your socks need to keep you dry and warm.
Our hands and feet are extremely sensitive to the cold since our bodies reduce blood flow to these parts when it’s cold. Fabrics like merino wool are a great insulator and perfect to keep your feet warm. Neoprene is also a great option, but the warmth of your feet usually comes at the price of breathability.
Summary
Keep in mind what activity you need your waterproof socks for so you can choose the right one for you!
When it comes to activities like running, cycling, or golf that is usually done in warmer weather you would need a thin and ultralight sock. They should be breathable and comfortable.
For winter activities you will need a thicker sock that keeps you dry but also has an insulating layer that will keep you warm.
If you’re looking for waterproof socks for swimming, socks made of neoprene is your best option. These socks are designed to be worn with snorkeling fins or wetsuits.
If you already have a waterproof sock or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about waterproof socks
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How to wash waterproof socks?
Waterproof socks can be machine washed in cold water. Use a gentle detergent and hang inside out to dry them.
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What are the best waterproof socks?
Different types of waterproof socks work well with different types of activities. For more information read our buying guide for all the information you may need.
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Who needs water-resistant socks?
If you’re going to participate in any activity where you may come in contact with water, then you need it!
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Do your feet get sweaty when you wear water-resistant socks?
Made with the wrong material it can lead to sweaty feet. Be sure to look for a pair made with wool that possesses moisture-wicking qualities.
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What size should I buy?
Measure your feet and follow the size guide that the manufacturers provide.
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How thick are waterproof socks?
Waterproof socks consist of three layers. A good pair of insulating socks with a high waterproof rating can be up to three times as thick as regular socks.
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Can waterproof socks protect your feet when you go swimming?
Neoprene waterproof socks are designed to be worn with snorkeling fins or wetsuits. However, it won’t protect your feet against sharp rocks or corrals.
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