Waterproof and heat-insulating neoprene socks are being used in more and more areas. Originally developed primarily for diving, they can also be used for numerous other outdoor activities and water sports.
What many people don’t know:
Whether for diving, hiking or surfing, there are 5 features by which you can recognize good neoprene socks. BeyondSurfing has analyzed and evaluated the most popular neoprene and diving socks for you.
Avoid buying mistakes and save up to 70% time when shopping:
Content
- 1 The top swimming shoes for men & women in 2024
- 2 These are the top neoprene socks for children in 2024
- 3 Buy neoprene socks: How to make the right decision
- 4 FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers
- 5 Conclusion: The most popular neoprene socks reviewed
- 6 Specialist literature, sources & further links
In a hurry? Our favorite neoprene socks:
- Pleasant wearing comfort
- Flexible and at the same time very resilient
- Sole is non-slip and protects against sharp-edged surfaces
- Suitable for all water sports and diving
Neoprene socks Checklist
- Application: Neoprene socks can be used in a variety of ways, both on land and in the water.
- Thickness: Thanks to different material thicknesses, neoprene socks can be worn in all seasons.
- Features: The most important features of neoprene socks are thermal insulation, good fit and comfort.
Also interesting: The most popular neoprene shoes 2024.
The top swimming shoes for men & women in 2024
Best comfortable neoprene socks
1st Mares Unisex Dive Boots Classic
Advantages
- Wide toe box for comfortable wear
- Profile of the sole prevents slipping on wet and slippery surfaces
- Flexible and at the same time very resilient
- Suitable for all water sports and diving
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for wearing with shoes
- Better to order 1-2 sizes smaller
Summary
The Mares diving sock impresses with its good workmanship and durability. Thanks to a thickness of 5mm, the socks can also withstand colder water. The flexible sole offers very good protection against sharp-edged surfaces and at the same time enough grip to prevent slipping.
The side zipper makes it easy to put on and take off. The only disadvantage is that the sock unfortunately has no holder or stopper for equipment fins.
Product details
Color: available in 3 colors | Material: neoprene | Thickness: 5mm
Customer ratings
The high quality, non-slip, pleasant wearing comfort and wide range of uses in water sports convince most customers. They also work well in combination with fins when snorkeling or diving.
Around 3% are neutral about the product, while only 2% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One criticism is that Mares socks are more suitable for narrow feet. They are also always 1-2 sizes too big.
FAQ
Best thin neoprene socks
2. cressi ultra stretch socks
Advantages
- Very thin
- Reinforced, non-slip sole
- Aqua-Stop seal to prevent water ingress
Disadvantages
- Socks run small
- Durability of the seams could be even better
Summary
These anatomically shaped neoprene socks fit your feet perfectly and can be put on and taken off quickly thanks to the Metalite reinforcement on the inside. The highly elastic, only 1.5 mm thin high-stretch neoprene dries quickly, but still achieves a very good warming effect and protects the feet from scratches or knocks.
The socks can easily be worn inside fins or booties to prevent blisters or chafing and provide additional insulation. They are equipped with an Aqua-Stop seal, which prevents water as well as sand or dirt from entering the opening.
Thanks to the different colors and their versatility for a wide range of water activities, these socks cater to the most diverse needs and tastes.
Product details
Material: Neoprene | Thickness: 1.5mm | Weight: 99.8g
Customer ratings
Thanks to their thin material, these very comfortable socks fit easily into flippers and protect against blisters when diving and snorkeling. Nevertheless, the neoprene still offers sufficient protection from hot sand. The non-slip sole prevents slipping even on slippery stones or wet ground. Feet also stay warm for a long time even in colder water.
A full 5% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
In terms of the durability of the socks, the seams in particular are a weak point, as many customers found that these came loose after a relatively short period of use. The nubs on the sole of the foot also wear out quickly.
FAQ
Best size-adjustable neoprene socks
3. Tilos 2.5mm Sports Skin Sock
Advantages
- Size-adjustable heel closure
- Sole can withstand extreme temperatures
- Available in different colors
Disadvantages
- Not very hard-wearing
- The fit of the sole is not optimal
- Socks run large
Summary
These socks are not made entirely from neoprene, but from an elastic stretch Lycra material. This adapts very well to the foot. The size can also be adjusted using the adjustable fastening at the heel.
The sole is made of robust and hard-wearing neoprene, which protects the feet from even extreme heat or cold, as well as from injuries or sunburn.
Available in different colors, the socks are very light and can be stowed away in the smallest of spaces in your luggage.
Product details
Upper: Lycra | Sole: Neoprene | Thickness: 2.5mm
Customer ratings
The socks are comfortable and non-slip. They effectively protect the foot from hot sand. They also sit close enough to the opening to prevent them from filling up with sand. They also work well in combination with fins when snorkeling or diving.
A full 7% are neutral about the product, while 16% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
The socks are rather large and, depending on the shape of the foot, do not always fit perfectly, especially in the sole area. The low durability is also criticized.
FAQ
Further highlights
4. cressi unisex adult diving socks
Advantages
- Good thermal insulation
- Non-slip sole thanks to additional reinforcement
- Easy to put on and take off
Disadvantages
- Sole not thick enough to protect against sharp objects
- Very elastic fabric can lead to slipping and thus to water penetration
Summary
These socks are made from a very elastic stretch neoprene that is simply lined and additionally reinforced with Metalite on the inside to make them easier to put on and take off. The sole is also reinforced to prevent slipping on wet ground.
The neoprene offers optimum thermal protection to prevent cold feet when swimming or diving. The socks also protect against scratches and abrasions.
Product details
Material: Neoprene | Thickness: 2.5mm
Customer ratings
The neoprene socks fit very well on the foot and feel like bare feet. They also keep your feet warm and are non-slip. Customers recommend the socks for long walks on the beach as well as for use in fins.
A full 8% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
If the socks are not tight enough, the elastic fabric will cause them to slip down in the water and let in water. The material on the sole is also too thin to protect against stones or other sharp objects.
FAQ
5. cressi neoprene socks
Advantages
- Seams sewn and additionally glued
- Available in various neoprene thicknesses
Disadvantages
- The socks fit very tightly
Summary
These neoprene socks are available in 3 mm, 5 mm or 7 mm thickness. This makes them suitable for use in a wide range of water temperatures.
The seams are also taped to prevent water from getting in. The neoprene protects the feet from injuries or burns.
Product details
Material: Neoprene | Thickness: 3mm, 5mm, 7mm | Weight: 45.4g
Customer ratings
The socks are very comfortable to wear and keep your feet warm in cold water. The workmanship is of high quality. The material protects against sharp objects. The great fit and ease of donning are also praised.
A full 10% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
The only criticism voiced by customers is that these socks are cut very tightly and therefore sometimes constrict when worn.
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FAQ
6. CAPAS 2mm neoprene socks
Advantages
- Almost as comfortable to wear as normal socks
- Thin, very comfortable material
- Versatile in use
Disadvantages
- Sole detaches over time
Summary
These socks made of 2 mm thick neoprene are characterized above all by their high wearing comfort. They adapt anatomically to the foot and feel like normal socks.
The neoprene keeps your feet warm in the water and, because it is so thin, can be worn under fins without any problems. For the same reason, the socks can also be worn inside shoes for various outdoor activities.
Product details
Material: Neoprene | Thickness: 2mm
Customer ratings
The neoprene socks keep your feet warm, both in the water and during other activities such as hiking, running or cycling. The socks can be worn in shoes without any problems as they are very thin and the seams are hardly noticeable thanks to the good workmanship.
A full 10% are neutral about the product, while 9% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
The durability of the socks was unsatisfactory for many customers. Water penetrates through the seams. This can also happen if the socks are not tight enough.
FAQ
7. pawhits water sports 3mm neoprene socks
Advantages
- Flat and additionally glued seams
- Non-slip sole thanks to Honeycumb screen printing
- Well suited for wearing in hiking or sports shoes
Disadvantages
- The size information for these socks is very inaccurate
Summary
The 3mm thick neoprene keeps your feet warm even at low temperatures. The soles have a honeycumb screen print that makes them particularly slip-resistant. The seams lie flat against the skin so as not to pinch and are also glued to prevent water from penetrating.
These neoprene socks are very suitable as liners in hiking or hunting boots, as they are only ankle-high. The thin neoprene is also very stretchy and hard-wearing.
Product details
Material: Neoprene | Thickness: 3mm | Weight: 120g
Customer ratings
As these socks only reach up to the ankle and are therefore less high than many other neoprene socks, they fit very well under fins. They keep your feet warm and protect the soles from hot sand, sharp stones or shells.
A full 9% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
While the good quality of the socks is rated positively by all customers, the inaccurate sizing is a major point of criticism.
FAQ
These are the top neoprene socks for children in 2024
1st Sand-Socks Vincere Sprites Kids
Advantages
- Neoprene coating on heels and toes
- Action Flex sole for extra flexibility
- Breathable and durable
- Available in 2 colors
Disadvantages
- The deep cut makes it easier to enter sand
- Durability could be even better
Summary
These socks combine very good protection with great comfort for children’s feet. The elastic upper material is breathable and allows regulated air circulation around the foot. At the same time, the robust neoprene coating on the heel and toes protects against heat or sharp objects.
The Action Flex sole was specifically developed to allow the foot sufficient freedom of movement for beach sports such as beach volleyball or beach soccer.
The sock is available in two different colors. The low cut allows the socks to be put on and taken off quickly.
Product details
Upper: Elastane | Sole: Neoprene | Sole thickness: 3mm
Customer ratings
The sock has a good fit and sits very securely on the foot. Children’s feet are protected from hot or cold sand and from injuries caused by sharp objects.
A full 10% are neutral about the product, while 12% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Due to the low cut at the foot, the socks cannot prevent sand from penetrating as well as socks with a higher cut. Some customers also criticize the durability.
FAQ
2. aqua speed NEO socks
Advantages
- Upper material very soft and elastic
- Reinforced heel area for additional protection
- Hardly lets in any sand or dirt
Disadvantages
- Seam on the back of the foot can chafe
- Not suitable for wide feet
Summary
Available in many different colors, the socks are made of lightweight, elastic material that adapts to children’s natural movements. The socks do not restrict the children and do not get in the way even if they are new to running or swimming.
The heels are additionally reinforced and the sole is non-slip. The upper closes tightly around the foot at the opening to prevent sand and dirt from penetrating.
Product details
Material: neoprene | upper material: polyamide and elastane
Customer ratings
The socks fit very well and don’t slip even when swimming. The soles are non-slip even on wet floors.
A full 12% are neutral about the product, while 19% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some of the seams come undone after a short period of wear. In addition, a seam runs right across the back of the foot and can chafe. The socks tend to run small and are usually too tight for wide feet.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
Buy neoprene socks:
How to make the right decision
The range of neoprene socks are mainly used for diving, but can also be useful for other activities. Other areas of application and uses include, among others:
Snorkeling, fishing, rafting, trekking, surfing, SUP, beach volleyball, sailing, mountain biking
Neoprene socks are characterized by the fact that they keep your feet warm in the water and dry quickly after use thanks to their water-repellent material.
Now comes the most important thing:
A good fit alone is not enough for neoprene socks! BeyondSurfing shows you what to look out for when buying neoprene socks to avoid buying mistakes.
What you need to consider when buying neoprene socks
Neoprene socks owe their increasing popularity to their versatility and functionality. They protect your feet on hot beaches and when walking over slippery stones. They also provide grip on smooth surfaces, such as surfboards or SUPs. They can be worn with flippers as well as hiking boots.
You should always consider the following factors when buying neoprene socks:
- Material and material thickness
- Quality and workmanship
- Size and fit
- Ventilation
- Stability
The most important aspects when choosing good neoprene socks are the material or material thickness, the workmanship and the fit. Neoprene socks are also differentiated according to their various purposes.
Material and material thickness of neoprene socks
Material: Diving socks are usually either made entirely or at least to a large extent of neoprene. This is characterized by excellent thermal insulation. This keeps your feet warm even in colder waters. Neoprene is also quick-drying and very light.
Material thickness: Neoprene socks are available in various thicknesses, from 1.5 mm to 7 mm thick.
Watch out! The thicker the material, the more insulating the socks are. For example, 5 mm neoprene or 7 mm neoprene is suitable for colder water, such as when swimming in mountain lakes or for use in winter. Thinner neoprene socks (1 mm), on the other hand, are better used in warm areas and in summer.
This allows you to select the right material thickness depending on the water temperature:
| Water temperature | Recommended material thickness |
|---|---|
| below 9°C | 6mm – 7mm |
| 10°C – 15°C | 3mm – 5mm |
| 13°C – 18°C | 2mm – 4mm |
| 15°C – 20°C | 1mm – 3mm |
| 17°C – 20°C | 1mm – 2mm |
| 19°C – 22°C | 1mm |
| from 22°C | – |
| Note: This is only a recommendation. The actual thickness of the material should always be selected taking into account your own sensitivity to cold. | |
Pro tip: If you want to wear the neoprene socks in shoes, the shoe size must also be taken into account when selecting the thickness. The rule is: the bigger the shoe, the thicker the sock can be.
Pay attention to good workmanship and quality
Good quality neoprene socks last longer and offer more comfort and protection for your feet. How high your quality requirements need to be depends on the intended use of the neoprene socks. If the neoprene sock is to be worn for hiking, for example, it must be able to withstand greater stress than when worn on the beach.
How do you recognize good quality?
The seams are an important factor in processing. These must not rub or pinch when wet. At best, they are positioned on the outside of the sock so that they barely touch the skin.
There are 4 different types of neoprene processing:
Neoprene socks that are glued and then blindstitched on one side or sealed on both sides meet the highest quality standards. They are almost completely water-resistant.
How do I find the right fit?
Neoprene socks should be anatomically shaped so that they sit well on the foot. Ill-fitting socks lead to pain:
- If the socks are too tight, they squeeze the blood in the calves and constrict the feet.
- If the socks are too loose, they will slobber on your feet or get lost in the water. They also offer less protection, as they absorb more water and their durability is negatively affected.
The perfect neoprene sock fits snugly on the foot without chafing or pinching. It should be easy to put on and take off and not slip down when worn.
Do water socks need good ventilation?
Good ventilation can be an important point with neoprene socks. This is especially true when used for hiking or cycling. The socks need to be breathable and dry quickly so that you don’t have to walk around with sweaty feet or feet that have gotten wet in the water.
The best ventilation is provided by a material mix of neoprene and breathable fabrics such as spandex. achieved.
How stable do water socks need to be?
The soles of neoprene socks should be stable enough to provide grip on wet floors or slippery stones, as well as to protect against injuries or burns.
In addition, many neoprene socks are equipped with nubs or additional reinforcements with non-slip soles, which is particularly useful when walking on wet ground or for use in various water sports, such as sailing or surfing.
When do I use neoprene socks versus water shoes?
There are many similarities between neoprene socks and water shoes, but both have different purposes.
The first difference between neoprene socks and water shoes and beach shoes is their thin, elastic material, which fits snugly around the foot. They do not have fixed soles and are therefore more suitable for use in places where they are less exposed to wear and tear, for example in the swimming pool or on the beach.
This means:
While water socks protect your feet from hot sand or cold, their thin soles offer less protection from sharp objects or uneven floors than water shoes.
The focus with neoprene socks is more on flexibility and lightness than on stability.
Nevertheless, they can be used in outdoor sports, either as waterproof socks in shoes or as a shoe replacement if you want a barefoot feeling.
It gets even better:
Water socks are also ideal for wearing with fins or diving shoes to prevent blisters and chafing.
Neoprene socks for children
Neoprene socks are also available for children and even babies. The same features that characterize neoprene socks for adults should be taken into account here.
Make sure that neoprene socks for children:
- waterproof,
- heat insulating
- and comfortable on the foot.
High UV protection is also important for neoprene socks for children. Children’s feet react much more sensitively to sunlight, which is particularly important by the sea.
Neoprene socks tested by Consumer Reports and Öko Test
In online comparison portals that refer to reviews of products on Amazon and other online retailers, neoprene socks from well-known brands are usually at the top of the list. These include:
Cressi, Bora Sportswear, Mares, Camaro, Seac, tec+, IST, Aqua Speed
Proper care of neoprene socks
Most neoprene socks can be machine washed at 30°. However, the spin cycle should not be used as this can damage the material!
Important: Before machine washing, always check the label or product description to see whether the neoprene socks can withstand the machine wash cycle.
If the neoprene sock is not machine washable or you prefer to clean it by hand, this is also completely uncomplicated.
Simply rinse the socks with plenty of water. After washing, the socks should always be dried thoroughly.
So that you can enjoy your neoprene socks for a long time, it is important to pay attention to these things when drying them:
- Direct sunlight should be avoided as it damages the material and makes the neoprene brittle.
- Do not hang up neoprene socks with clothespins, as these can leave pressure marks.
- It is best to hang the socks over the washing line or a chair.
Turn the socks occasionally so that both sides dry. - As drying can take up to several days, use a hairdryer if necessary.
If the socks are not sufficiently dried and put away damp, this leads to unpleasant odors. However, this can be remedied with a deeper cleaning.
Wash the socks in mild soapy water but only with a suitable neoprene shampoo. Adding vinegar also helps to quickly eliminate unpleasant odors.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers
What are neoprene socks?
What do you need neoprene socks for?
Do neoprene socks help against cold feet?
Which neoprene socks are the best?
What do neoprene socks cost?
Are neoprene socks waterproof?
Where can you buy neoprene socks?
Conclusion: The most popular neoprene socks reviewed
Whether diving, hiking or beach volleyball on the beach: neoprene socks are the ideal companion for all occasions where you might get your feet wet.
Specialist literature, sources & further links
You can find more information on this topic here:
- Globosurfer: https://www.globosurfer.com/best-water-socks/
Note: BeyondSurfing is not responsible and is not liable for the content of external websites.
*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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