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Waterproof Socks

Top Picks

How we choose: The best waterproof socks highlighted here were selected based on 16 reviews of 6 products. Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers.

How we test: Trailspace is powered entirely by our community of readers. The reviews posted here reflect the real-world experiences of outdoor enthusiasts just like you.

If you've used a waterproof sock that you think should be listed here, please share your experience.

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Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Crew Socks

user rating: 5 of 5 (1 review)

What can I say about these just amazing socks that keep all the water out? I'm certain you will love them if you run, bike, or hike in wet conditions.

Reasons to Buy

  • Comfortable
  • Coolmax lining
  • Waterproof membrane
  • Ventilates somewhat
  • Tough construction
  • Crew length

Reasons to Avoid

  • A bit snug feeling
  • A challenge to get on
  • Ventilates somewhat
  • Too thick for some boots

When waterproof socks first appeared on the market I was wondering how good they could be. Well, I broke down three years ago and bought a pair from REI when they were on sale. All the hype was true. Showers Pass Waterproof Socks I've mainly reserved them for winter and wet weather cycling over the years and about six hikes. They are very size specific so I'd recommend caution in sizing the purchase. They also may not fit in all your footwear. I can wear them under my old cycling mountain bike shoes, but they will not fit in my vintage Italian cycling shoes.

Read more: Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Crew Socks review (1)

NRS HydroSkin 0.5 Wetsocks

user rating: 4 of 5 (2 reviews)

Provides good warmth in wet and cold conditions.

Reasons to Buy

  • Lightweight
  • Keep your feet warm (but not dry)

Reasons to Avoid

  • Need to insure they are sized correctly

I've packed these on my last four years of doing an event that takes you across the Bob Marshall Wilderness in May, but never felt the need to use them, so they stayed in the pack. This year we experienced a lot of cold rain (temps in the 30's and 40's), more snowshoeing than any year past, and with the normal amount (lots and lots) of fording icy creeks/streams/rivers, so I tried them. I used them in conjunction with a very thin merino sock—think dress sock thin. My biggest fear was developing hot spots as we were covering 30-ish miles/day.

Read more: NRS HydroSkin 0.5 Wetsocks reviews (2)

SealSkinz Walking Socks

user rating: 4 of 5 (2 reviews)

Waterproof socks that are excellent as camp wear, although possibly too warm as walking socks.

Reasons to Buy

  • Waterproof
  • Comfortable

Reasons to Avoid

  • Thick
  • Too warm to walk in for an extended period of time

I used to think waterproof socks were bit of a gimmick, and anyway they were for people who didn't have waterproof boots. Then one day last October this happened: I had been enjoying myself walking on a muddy trail and feeling invincible in my Gore-tex-lined boots, until I went into a muddy patch that turned out to be a lot deeper than it looked and I got my feet wet. At the end of the day's walk I changed into dry socks, but my boots had not yet dried inside by the following morning so I had no choice but to get my new socks damp too.

Read more: SealSkinz Walking Socks reviews (2)

Stohlquist 2mm Sandal Sock with Fleece Lining

user rating: 4 of 5 (1 review)
discontinued

I used the socks for stand up paddleboarding in colder weather. They felt like I was wearing socks and the traction on the board was good. They are not as warm as a water shoe but they provide a better feel for the board.

Reasons to Buy

  • Comfort
  • Good feel for the board
  • Does not hold water
  • Light

Reasons to Avoid

  • If used alone, not warm enough for really cold conditions.
  • No arch or structural support for the foot—but it's a sock—no surprise

I bought a large from REI for my size 10.5 women's feet. This is my first winter with SUP and want my feet to stay warm and add a little cushion.   The socks worked well. My feet stayed warm but it may have been an issue if it were really cold. It was about 50 degrees when I started out. It gives a much better feel for the board than Kicker Remix water shoes I tried first and does not hold water. My toes did get the numbness that they usually get when barefoot but did not get with the shoes.  I do have some arch and foot issues, so no big surprise.   I certainly will keep using them but will keep looking for something with a little support for longer paddles but not as heavy as the shoes.

Read more: Stohlquist 2mm Sandal Sock with Fleece Lining review (1)

More Reviews of Waterproof Socks

Trailspace reviewers have shared 16 reviews of 6 different waterproof socks.

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Other Types of Socks

Find more socks reviewed in these related categories:

Liner Socks

Compression Socks

Hiking/Backpacking Socks

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