Whether you are walking in the rain, camping in a wet meadow or fishing in a river – with good waterproof socks your feet will always stay dry and warm.
Avoid buying mistakes:
BeyondSurfing reviews the best models 2024 and explains which waterproof socks are suitable for which use.
Content
In a hurry? Our favorite waterproof socks:
- Breathable and thinner than many comparable models
- Effectively keep feet dry
- Suitable for warm and cold temperatures
- High-quality workmanship
Waterproof socks Checklist
- Purpose: Good waterproof socks keep your feet warm and dry at all times. Breathable socks also protect against sweaty feet.
- Area of application: Depending on their water resistance, breathability and material, waterproof socks are suitable for a wide range of activities.
- Material: Waterproof socks are usually made of different materials. The most common materials are neoprene, elastane, merino wool, polyacrylic, polyester, nylon, bamboo fiber and cotton.
Also interesting: The most popular water shoes 2024.
These are the top 7 waterproof socks 2024
1. otter waterproof socks
Advantages
- Suitable for warm and cold temperatures
- Thinner than many comparable models
- Effectively keep feet dry
- High-quality workmanship
Disadvantages
- Wearing comfort takes some getting used to
- Fit not ideal for all feet
- Takes a long time to dry after washing
Summary
The mid-length socks keep your feet pleasantly dry in all weather conditions. The special feature of the socks, thanks to 3-layer technology:
- In winter, the socks have a warming effect,
- a cooling effect in summer.
The 3-layer technology in detail:
- The hard-wearing outer layer is waterproof and quick-drying.
- The membrane in the middle prevents water droplets from penetrating from the outside, but at the same time wicks away body moisture from the inside.
- The inner layer absorbs moisture away from the body.
The tight fit also causes heat to build up inside, which encourages body moisture to escape to the outside by building up pressure.
The synthetic material does not cause skin irritation for allergy sufferers. The socks are thinner than many waterproof models and are roughly equivalent to normal sports socks.
Conclusion
The waterproof socks shine with the best price-performance ratio. Waterproof and breathable, they keep your feet dry all year round and have either a warming or cooling effect.
Product details
Outer material: 74% polyamide | membrane: 23% Lycra | inner material: 3% elastane
Customer ratings
Feet stay dry and warm even at low temperatures. You don’t get sweaty feet in the socks. No unpleasant odor develops even after several days of wear. They are comfortable to wear.
Around 4% are neutral about the product, while 11% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The socks take a long time to dry after washing. They feel a little stiff when reviewed against normal socks. Some customers had problems with the fit as the sock creased.
FAQ
2. SealSkinz MTB Mid
Advantages
- Insulating merino wool inner layer
- Silicone waistband prevents water from penetrating from above
- Skin compatibility certified according to Öko Tex
Disadvantages
- Too warm at high temperatures
- Very thick
Summary
SealSkinz socks combine thermal protection with good breathability. The merino wool inner layer has a heat-insulating effect. At the same time, it absorbs moisture away from the body.
The outer material and the membrane in the middle are waterproof and windproof. This keeps your feet warm and dry in all weather conditions.
An elastic silicone hydrostop is attached to the waistband. This ensures that the waistband of the mid-length sock firmly encloses the leg and prevents water from penetrating from above.
Elastic zones on the sock guarantee a good hold on the foot. The seams in the toe area are flat to prevent friction.
The footbed is additionally padded. The material has been tested for skin compatibility in accordance with the Ökotex standard.
Conclusion
One of the best quality waterproof socks. Particularly suitable for low temperatures. In view of the quality and features on offer, the high price is worth it.
Product details
Outer material: 100% polyester | membrane: hydrophilic membrane | inner material: 36% merino wool, 36% acrylic, 18% polyester, 5% elastane, 4% nylon, 1% TPU
Customer ratings
Feet stay warm and dry. At the same time, they are well air-conditioned thanks to the breathable materials. The socks are very comfortable. They are easy to put on and take off.
Around 0% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
The socks are too warm at high temperatures. As they are very thick, a lot of space is required in the shoe.
FAQ
3. waterfly unisex waterproof socks
Advantages
- Very warm in cold temperatures
- Antibacterial and odorless material
- Elastic waistband for easy donning
Disadvantages
- Only partially breathable
- Unusual wearing comfort
Summary
The socks have a practical 3-layer design:
- The inner layer, which is partly made of merino wool, keeps your feet pleasantly warm.
- The middle layer keeps water out from the outside.
- The robust outer layer is water-repellent, so that liquid runs off the sock instead of soaking in.
The socks are also permeable to air so that the foot can breathe in them. The material is antibacterial and odorless.
The waistband is extra elastic so that the sock is easier to put on. There are no seams on the entire stocking. This makes them more comfortable to wear. The heel is additionally reinforced for greater durability and a better fit.
Conclusion
Very good socks for cold temperatures. Ideal for hiking in winter or similar activities.
The socks are not breathable enough for intensive sports.
Product details
Outer material: 98% nylon, 2% rubber | Membrane: N/A | Inner material: 35% merino wool, 65% nylon
Customer ratings
The padding makes the sock comfortable to wear. It does not cause pressure marks or blisters. The material is waterproof, breathable and antibacterial. Feet stay warm in the socks.
Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 9% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
According to some customers, the breathability of the socks is limited. This quickly leads to sweaty feet when worn for sport. The wearing comfort is unusual.
FAQ
4. Randy Sun unisex sports socks
Advantages
- Waterproof and breathable
- Antibacterial material
- High level of comfort thanks to reinforced heels and seamless toe area
Disadvantages
- Thicker than normal socks
- Stiffer feel than normal socks
- Water can penetrate from above via the collar
Summary
The 3-layer sports socks from Randy Sun are completely waterproof. Even when standing in water, your feet stay cool and dry for a long time. At the same time, the socks are breathable and allow air to reach your feet. Sweat is absorbed by the feet and transported to the outside.
The material is antibacterial. The heel area is reinforced and there are no seams on the toes. This guarantees a high level of comfort and prevents skin irritation.
The socks are elastic and fit your foot very well. The socks are also wear-resistant and durable.
Conclusion
High-quality, durable socks that keep your feet dry and are still breathable.
Product details
Outer material: 74% nylon, 23% Lycra, 3% elastane | Membrane: N/A | Inner material: 64% Coolmax, 3% Lycra, 33% elastane
Customer ratings
The socks are completely waterproof, with very little water even penetrating through the cuff. Feet stay nice and warm in winter. Sweaty feet are prevented by the good air permeability. The socks are also comfortable.
Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The socks are very thick, so tight shoes may no longer fit over them. They are slightly stiffer than normal socks and some customers found them less comfortable to wear. Water can penetrate from above via the waistband.
FAQ
5. dexshell men’s Bamboo Ultralite socks
Advantages
- Thinner and lighter than most waterproof socks
- Inner layer made of antibacterial and sweat-absorbing bamboo fiber
- Breathable
Disadvantages
- Not thick enough for very low temperatures
- Water can run in from the top of the waistband
Summary
Despite the 3-layer construction, the socks are very thin and light:
- The robust outer layer protects against moisture and wind.
- The comfortable inner layer made of bamboo fiber is naturally antibacterial.
- The formation of bad odors is limited. It also absorbs perspiration.
Thanks to the 3-layer construction, moisture has no chance from the inside or outside. Feet stay dry in the socks for a long time.
The socks are very comfortable and flexible. The design with the block stripes is simple but appealing.
Conclusion
A very good choice for anyone looking for thin and lightweight waterproof socks.
But be careful, they are more suitable for mild to warm temperatures, less for the depths of winter.
Product details
Outer material: 96% nylon, 3% elastane, 1% cuff elastics | Membrane: Porelle | Inner material: 70% bamboo fiber, 30% nylon
Customer ratings
The socks are waterproof and do not let water in. The workmanship is very good, the look appealing. The socks feel good when worn. They are easy to care for as they can be machine washed.
Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 11% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
In winter, the socks may not be warm enough as they are thinner than most other models. Water can run into the collar from above.
FAQ
6. otter waterproof socks
Advantages
- Waterproof and windproof
- Good fit thanks to reinforced heel
- Antibacterial material counteracts odors
Disadvantages
- Water resistance decreases over time
Summary
The trekking socks are particularly suitable for warm and wet weather. The 3-layer design makes them both waterproof and breathable.
Sweat and moisture are easily absorbed and transported away from the skin to the outside. The outer layer keeps out water and wind to keep feet warm and dry.
The socks have no pinching seams and the heel area is reinforced. This makes the socks very robust and durable. Thanks to the good fit, they are very comfortable.
The antibacterial properties of the material counteract the formation of bad odors.
Conclusion
Comfortable and warm socks with a very good price-performance ratio. Customers are convinced by the product.
Product details
Outer material: 74% nylon, 23% Lycra, 3% elastane | Membrane: N/A | Inner material: 87% Coolmax, 13% elastane
Customer ratings
The socks effectively protect your feet from the cold and wet. The quality is very good, as is the fit. Overall, customers attest to the socks’ excellent price-performance ratio.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some customers were not convinced by the durability of the socks. The socks are not suitable for high temperatures.
FAQ
7. SealSkinz Men’s Socks Waterproof Mid
Advantages
- Inner lining made from thermally insulating and breathable merino wool
- Padding on toes, heel and footbed
- Elastic inserts for a tight but comfortable fit
Disadvantages
- Short shaft
- Less comfortable to wear than normal socks
- Very thick, therefore wide shoes necessary
Summary
The inner lining of the 3-layer socks is largely made of merino wool. The material is soft and very comfortable to wear.
Merino wool has heat-insulating properties and absorbs moisture. This prevents sweaty feet and regulates the temperature in the sock.
The outer layer and the membrane in the middle ensure that no water can penetrate from the outside. The socks are both windproof and breathable.
The padding on the heel, toes and footbed make the socks comfortable and prevent blisters.
Flat seams prevent chafing of the feet. Elastic inserts at the ankle and back of the foot ensure a high level of comfort despite the tight fit.
Conclusion
Another very good model from SealSkinz. The quality of their waterproof socks is impressive.
The main differences between the socks were the shorter shaft and the lack of a silicone cuff. They are therefore not suitable for deep waters.
Product details
Outer material: 90% nylon, 10% elastane | Membrane: Hydrophilic membrane | Inner material: 35% merino wool, 35% acrylic, 23% polyester, 3.5% elastane, 3.5% nylon
Customer ratings
The quality and workmanship of the socks are high. They are completely waterproof and sufficiently breathable. You don’t get sweaty feet. The socks fit well and keep you warm.
Around 4% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The skin feel of the socks is reminiscent of rubber or neoprene. Some customers find this somewhat unpleasant. The stockings are very thick and may not fit into normal sized shoes. The shaft is very short.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
Bestsellers: The most popular waterproof socks
![RANDY SUN 100% wasserdichte atmungsaktive Socken, [SGS zertifiziert] Unisex Sport Klettern...](https://www.beyondsurfing.com/wp-content/plugins/aawp/public/image.php?url=YUhSMGNITTZMeTl0TG0xbFpHbGhMV0Z0WVhwdmJpNWpiMjB2YVcxaFoyVnpMMGt2TlRGa1pHZG5URU5MTjB3dWFuQm58MTcyNjg2NTc3Mw=)
(**Last update 2024-09-18)
Buy waterproof socks:
How to make the right decision
Waterproof socks are often forgotten when it comes to putting together a good outdoor outfit. This should not happen to you.
The best is yet to come:
This buying guide will help you find the right waterproof socks for your needs.
Cold and wet feet are now a thing of the past.
What you need to consider when buying waterproof socks (incl. Checklist)
When buying waterproof socks, you should consider the following properties:
- Water resistance
- Breathability
- Heat factor
- Material
- Fit
- Price
How waterproof are the socks really?
Waterproof socks can basically be divided into 3 categories:
Waterproof socks
The socks do not let moisture through even when swimming or standing in water for long periods.
Water-resistant socks
The socks keep water out for a limited period of time and are suitable for running on wet surfaces or in the rain; however, they are not suitable for standing in water for long periods.
Water-repellent socks
Water runs off the socks instead of penetrating them; however, the socks cannot withstand heavy or persistent moisture.
How waterproof the socks need to be depends on what you want to do with them. Water-resistant socks are sufficient for most outdoor activities such as hiking.
What many people don’t know:
For water sports or fishing, especially in cold waters, it is better to choose waterproof models.
The weak point of most socks is the waistband. Water can run in from above. To prevent this from happening, many stockings have a silicone band that seals them firmly to the leg.
When fishing or walking through the water, it is also important that the socks are long enough. This also prevents water from penetrating from above.
How breathable are the waterproof socks?
Good waterproof socks not only protect against moisture from the outside, but also from the inside in the form of perspiration.
The principle of the 3-layer construction of waterproof socks
A 3-layer construction allows the waterproof socks to transport moisture from the inside to the outside, while at the same time not letting water in from the outside.
The 3 layers are:
- a water-resistant outer layer,
- a breathable membrane in the middle that transports moisture to the outside and
- a water-absorbent and breathable inner layer.
What influences breathability?
Various factors affect how breathable socks are. These include:
- Temperature: The membrane in the sock works better in cold temperatures, so three-layer socks are more suitable for winter.
- Thickness: On the other hand, thinner socks are generally more breathable and are therefore suitable for warmer temperatures.
- Water resistance: Completely waterproof socks are only breathable to a limited extent.
How warm are the socks?
As wet feet always feel colder than dry ones, waterproof socks already ensure warmer feet in this way. At low temperatures, however, even more protection is required.
Warming inner layer protects against cold feet:
The inner layer of waterproof socks is often made of warming and insulating materials such as neoprene or merino wool.
But be careful:
However, it should be noted that heat-insulating materials can heat up in summer. Neoprene socks, for example, are suitable for swimming or standing in cold water. However, they are not breathable enough for outdoor sports activities.
The best materials for waterproof socks
The 3 layers of waterproof socks are usually made of different materials. The most commonly used materials are
Nylon
Nylon is a popular outer material, but can also be used as an inner material; it is waterproof, lightweight, elastic and durable.
Spandex
Spandex can be used as an inner or outer material; is waterproof and elastic.
Merino wool
Merino wool is a very popular inner material; it is very pleasant on the skin, does not itch, warms in cold weather and cools in hot weather, is breathable, odorless, durable, elastic and water-resistant.
Polyacrylic
Polyacrylic is used as the inner material; it is soft, warm, easy to wash and UV-resistant.
Polyester
Polyester is used as the inner material, is soft, inexpensive and easy to wash.
Bamboo fiber
Bamboo fiber is used as the inner material; it is soft, breathable, water-absorbent and antibacterial.
Neoprene
Neoprene as outer or inner material; is waterproof, stable, flexible, heat-insulating; but not very breathable.
Cotton
Cotton as inner material; is breathable, pleasant on the skin and hypoallergenic, but absorbs water.
Good to know: Most manufacturers use a mix of different materials in order to combine their different advantages.
The best fit for waterproof socks
To ensure a high level of comfort, waterproof socks should always be ergonomically shaped and have a certain amount of stretch. Padding in the toe and heel area makes the socks even more comfortable.
Pay attention to the sizes!
To avoid blisters, friction or slipping, the socks should fit well. Unfortunately, manufacturers’ size specifications are not always consistent.
This means:
In some cases, a distinction is made between men’s and women’s socks. With other manufacturers, on the other hand, the socks are unisex one size fits all. There are also waterproof socks for children in different sizes.
The safest way to find the right size is to measure your feet. You can then use the manufacturer’s size chart to determine which size fits you.
How to recognize high wearing comfort
In addition to size, a few general characteristics contribute to the comfort of waterproof socks.
For the best possible wearing comfort, BeyondSurfing recommends socks with the following features:
- Reinforced heels and toes,
- Flat seams for less friction,
- ergonomic fit and
- Stretch content for a good fit.
Good to know: Thanks to the 3-layer system, waterproof socks are thicker than normal socks. So make sure that your socks still fit into your shoes.
How expensive are waterproof socks?
You can expect to pay between 20 and 40 $ for a high-quality pair of waterproof socks. This puts them roughly in the price range of good hiking socks.
Good quality costs:
High quality and durability are almost always reflected in the price of waterproof socks.
The result:
The price of branded products can quickly rise to over $ 40. In return, you get top-quality products that are robust and can be worn for a long time.
The following brands are known for their good quality**:
Sealskinz, Dexshell, Randy Sun, Waterfly, Otter
**Unfortunately, Consumer Reports or Which? have not yet carried out any tests on the quality of waterproof socks.
The right care for waterproof socks?
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended care instructions. Why? How waterproof socks are cared for depends on the materials used.
In principle, the following applies:
- Most models can be machine washed at up to 40°.
- Hand washing is generally gentler on the material.
What many people do wrong:
Do not use fabric softener as this will clog the membrane. This limits the functionality of the socks.
Never put waterproof socks and waterproof stockings in the dryer. Instead, hang the socks up to air dry.
To ensure that the socks and stockings are completely dry, turn them inside out from time to time.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers
Why do you need waterproof socks?
How do you wash waterproof socks?
How do you wear waterproof socks?
Where can I buy waterproof socks?
Do you get sweaty feet with waterproof socks?
Conclusion: The most popular waterproof socks reviewed
Whatever your outdoor activity, waterproof socks will keep your feet warm and dry.
No more bad purchases:
With the BeyondSurfing buying guide, you not only avoid buying mistakes, but are also guaranteed to find the best product for your needs.
*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.
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