Waterproof Hiking Socks: Who Makes The Best?

Waterproof socks are a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts who want to keep their feet dry and comfortable during their adventures. When it comes to the best waterproof socks for hiking, several brands stand out for their exceptional performance, durability, and comfort. Here's a list of the top contenders:

- Showers Pass Crosspoint Ultralight Waterproof Socks: These socks offer a fully waterproof experience and are perfect for hiking, hunting, and other outdoor activities. They provide both warmth and comfort while remaining breathable.

- SEALSKINZ Waterproof Trekking Thick Mid Sock: These socks excel in keeping your feet warm and dry, even in wet and cold conditions. They are designed to mould to your feet, providing a snug and cozy fit.

- RANDY SUN Waterproof Socks: These socks are versatile and can be used for various outdoor activities. They feature excellent waterproof and breathable performance, a comfortable fit, and non-slip features.

- Darn Tough Hiker Full Cushion: This sock is thick and cushiony, providing excellent protection for your feet on the trail. It is incredibly durable and comes with a lifetime warranty. However, it may not be ideal for hot weather due to its thickness.

- Smartwool Classic Mountaineer Maximum Cushion: This sock is designed for freezing temperatures and will keep your feet warm and dry. It has one of the highest wool contents among the options tested and provides ample cushioning.

- Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew: This lightweight sock is perfect for warmer months and offers superior breathability and wicking power. It dries quickly and provides enough warmth for active days in cold weather.

- Danish Endurance Unisex Merino 3-Pack: This value pack offers three pairs of socks at a reasonable price. They are comfortable, perform well, and are compatible with boots or shoes. They feature a unique venting stitch design that enhances breathability.

- Darn Tough Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew: For those who prefer synthetic fibres, this sock is a great choice. It provides impressive wicking power and quick-drying capabilities. It is comfortable and form-fitting, but may be a bit snug on wider feet.

- Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight Crew: This sock offers superior comfort and protection for your feet. It has excellent wicking and breathability, and its thinner construction makes it well-suited for warmer weather and low-impact activities.

Materials and Construction

Waterproof socks are constructed with three layers: an outer knit layer, a hydrophilic middle membrane, and a soft inner layer. The outer layer is typically made from a blend of synthetic materials, such as nylon, elastane, and polyester, which provides durability and water resistance. This layer is often treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish, allowing water to bead and roll off its surface.

The middle hydrophilic membrane is the key to the sock's waterproof capabilities. It acts as a barrier, preventing water from seeping in while allowing sweat to escape, thus maintaining breathability. This layer is crucial for keeping your feet dry and comfortable during outdoor activities.

The inner layer, often made from natural fibres like merino wool or synthetic materials, provides softness and additional moisture-wicking properties. Merino wool is a popular choice due to its natural ability to regulate body temperature, wick moisture, and resist odours. It offers a comfortable and warm option for the inner layer. Alternatively, synthetic materials like Coolmax or bamboo-based fabrics are also used, providing similar moisture-wicking capabilities and a soft feel.

When choosing waterproof socks, it's important to consider the blend of materials used in each layer, as this affects the sock's performance, durability, fit, and comfort. While natural fibres like merino wool offer softness and warmth, synthetic materials like nylon and elastane provide stretch and durability. Finding the right balance between these materials ensures your socks are comfortable, breathable, and effective at keeping your feet dry.

Some socks also incorporate compression technology, providing additional support and a snug fit. This is achieved through the use of elastic materials like Lycra or Spandex, which are integrated into the sock's construction. This feature is especially beneficial for long-distance hikes or runs, as it helps improve blood flow and reduce fatigue.

In terms of care, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Hand washing or using a gentle machine cycle with cold water is generally recommended to maintain the sock's performance and longevity. Avoiding fabric softeners and bleach is also crucial, as they can affect the sock's performance. Drying the socks properly is essential, and air drying or tumble drying on a low heat setting are usually the best options.

Fit and Comfort

When it comes to waterproof hiking socks, fit and comfort are paramount. You want to ensure your socks fit snugly but not too tightly, with no slipping or bunching. A good hiking sock should have a seamless toe box and snug yet comfortable arch support. Additionally, the sock's height should correspond to the height of your hiking footwear to prevent blisters and other irritations.

Hiking socks are typically made from merino wool, synthetic materials, or a blend of the two. Merino wool is an excellent choice for its softness, moisture-wicking properties, and odour resistance. Synthetic materials like nylon, elastane, and polyester offer superior durability and drying capabilities. Some socks even feature compression panelling for added support and to keep the sock in place during your hike.

When selecting a hiking sock, consider the thickness or weight. Lightweight socks are ideal for breathability, while midweight and heavyweight socks provide more cushioning and warmth. If you're hiking in warm weather, opt for a lightweight sock to keep your feet cool and comfortable. However, for cold weather conditions, a midweight or heavyweight sock will be a better choice to keep your feet warm.

It's also important to choose the right size. Select a sock size that corresponds to your shoe size, and if you're between sizes, consider the knit of the sock—go for a smaller size if it's loosely knit and a larger size if it's more tightly knit.

Lastly, consider the brand. Darn Tough, Smartwool, and Eddie Bauer are popular choices among hikers for their durability, comfort, and performance. Darn Tough, in particular, is known for its lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured that your investment will be protected.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

Materials and Construction:

• Waterproof socks typically feature a three-layer construction, including a sturdy outer layer, a waterproof membrane, and a soft inner layer.
• The outer layer is usually made of nylon, providing durability and protection from the elements.
• The middle layer is the waterproof membrane, which prevents water from penetrating the sock.
• The inner layer is often made of merino wool, which offers softness, warmth, and moisture-wicking properties. Alternatively, some socks use synthetic materials like Coolmax or bamboo-blend fabric for the inner layer, providing breathability and moisture management.

Breathability Features:

• While waterproof socks prioritize keeping water out, breathability ensures that sweat and moisture can escape, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
• Look for socks with breathable fabrics and designs that facilitate air circulation. For example, some socks have ventilation patterns or panels on the instep or upper foot areas to enhance breathability.
• Merino wool, as an inner layer, also contributes to breathability while regulating temperature and managing odour.
• In warmer conditions, consider socks with lighter weight and thinner construction, as they tend to be more breathable than heavier options.

Temperature Regulation:

• Waterproof socks are particularly beneficial in cold and wet environments, providing insulation and warmth while keeping your feet dry.
• Merino wool is an excellent choice for temperature regulation, as it helps maintain warmth while managing moisture.
• In extremely cold conditions, consider socks with higher wool content or thicker construction. However, keep in mind that thicker socks may require a larger shoe size for a comfortable fit.
• For warmer weather, opt for lightweight or midweight socks with breathable fabrics to ensure your feet stay cool and comfortable.

Durability and Maintenance

• Material Composition: Waterproof socks typically consist of three layers: an outer layer made of durable materials like nylon, a middle waterproof membrane, and a soft inner layer often made of merino wool or synthetic fibres. The outer layer is crucial for durability, so look for materials like nylon, elastane, and polyester.
• Washing and Drying: Proper care is essential to maintain the functionality and longevity of your waterproof socks. While some manufacturers recommend hand washing, others allow for machine washing on a gentle cycle with cold water. Always follow the care instructions provided by the brand. When drying, air drying is preferred, but you can also tumble dry on low heat for a short duration.
• Longevity and Warranty: Waterproof socks are an investment, so look for brands that offer warranties to replace worn-out or defective socks. Darn Tough, for example, is known for its unconditional lifetime warranty.
• Breathability: While waterproof socks are designed to keep water out, they should also allow moisture vapour and sweat to escape. Look for socks with breathable fabrics and designs that enhance ventilation, especially if you plan to hike in warmer climates.
• Fit and Comfort: A good fit is crucial for comfort and performance. Choose socks that feel snug but not too tight, with no slipping or bulkiness. Some brands, like Darn Tough and Smartwool, offer specific fits for men and women, while others provide unisex options.
• Usage and Conditions: Consider the type of hiking and weather conditions you'll encounter. For warm and humid climates, opt for lightweight and breathable socks. For cold temperatures, choose thicker socks with better insulation, such as those made with higher percentages of merino wool.

Value for Money

When it comes to value for money, there are a few factors to consider when it comes to waterproof hiking socks. Firstly, durability is key. You don't want to spend money on a pair of socks that will only last a few hikes. Look for socks made with durable materials such as nylon, elastane, and polyester. Some socks, such as those from the brand Darn Tough, also come with a lifetime warranty, which can be a great investment.

Another factor to consider is the price. Waterproof hiking socks can range in price, with some options being more affordable than others. For example, the Danish Endurance Unisex Merino 3-Pack offers a great value, as you get three pairs of socks for a reasonable price. On the other hand, some socks, such as those from Darn Tough, may have a higher upfront cost but can last for years, making them a worthwhile investment.

It's also important to consider the conditions in which you'll be hiking. If you're hiking in cold and wet weather, you'll need a thicker, more insulated sock to keep your feet warm and dry. In this case, the Smartwool Classic Mountaineer Maximum Cushion is a great option and offers superior warmth. However, if you're hiking in warmer weather, you'll want a thinner, more breathable sock. The Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew is a great choice for warm-weather hikes as it offers superior breathability and quick-drying capabilities.

Additionally, it's worth considering the level of cushioning you need. If you're carrying a heavy pack or hiking on technical trails, you'll want a sock with more cushioning, such as the Darn Tough Hiker Full Cushion. On the other hand, if you're hiking in lightweight shoes or running on trails, you might prefer a sock with less cushioning, like the Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew.

Finally, it's important to try the socks on and ensure they fit snugly. A good-fitting sock should be snug but not too tight, and it should have no slipping or bunching. Ill-fitting socks can lead to blisters and discomfort. Some brands, such as Darn Tough and Smartwool, offer a range of sizes to ensure a perfect fit.

Frequently asked questions