Whether you’re an avid hiker, a soldier on a prolonged exercise, a trail runner, or are on your feet for long periods of time at work, the concept of waterproof socks might have piqued your interest. The possibility of keeping your feet dry and comfortable no matter what you’re stepping through is not something to be sniffed at, particularly as winter fast approaches and takes a turn for the worse, but understandably you might be sceptical and wondering if waterproof socks are actually worth the investment. Our guide to waterproof socks will answer all.
How Do Waterproof Socks Work?
Different activities will require different equipment and technology and understanding how waterproof socks work is key to determining whether they are right for you.
Essentially, waterproof socks keep your feet dry in wet conditions by preventing water from seeping through the fabric. They achieve this by utilising a waterproof and breathable membrane as one of the layers of the socks. The two elements of this membrane work together to keep the feet dry, with the waterproofing keeping water out and the breathable properties ensuring that the moisture created as you sweat is allowed to escape out of the sock. This does not mean that the outer layer of the socks will repel water or be dry to the touch, but you should expect that your feet stay warm and dry underneath the sock.
Do bear in mind that waterproof socks should not be used as a substitute for high-quality and weatherproof footwear. You’ll get the most value out of your socks if your boots are also fending off the elements with their own waterproofing properties like a pair of LOWA boots with a durable, GORE-TEX membrane.
What Are The Benefits Of Wearing Waterproof Socks?
Quite literally, the surface-level benefit of wearing waterproof socks is that your feet will stay dry, but why does this really matter? It shouldn’t cause you too much harm if your feet get wet from time to time, but keeping them dry with waterproof socks will open up the following benefits which improve your overall comfort and performance when you’re on your feet.
Practicality
The main advantage of wearing waterproof socks is their practicality. Waterproof socks don’t feel hugely different on foot in comparison to normal socks, but by wearing them you are making a practical decision to remain comfortable and prepared no matter what challenge the conditions may throw at you. This instils a sense of confidence that is critical for outdoor enthusiasts or military personnel who need to be certain that their equipment can handle various conditions without sacrificing comfort. We don’t recommend tabbing or yomping for an extended period of time in waterproof socks,take them off as soon as is practical and certainly utilise them in your wet.dry routine.
Injury Prevention
Beyond the immediate comfort and practicality of your feet staying dry, waterproof socks contribute significantly to injury prevention. Wet feet, especially in colder temperatures, can lead to discomfort, blisters, trenchfoot and even more severe conditions such as frostbite. By maintaining a dry and warm environment, a pair of waterproof socks reduces the risk of these kinds of issues or injuries and allows you to continue to perform at your very best.
Versatility
Waterproof socks are also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of both personal and professional outdoor activities. Whether you’re out for a weekend hike in the rain, breaking a sweat on a long run, or navigating through bogs on a military exercise, the waterproof membrane of this type of sock provides a consistent and reliable layer of protection. Such adaptability is hugely beneficial for anybody who lives a busy or varied life, as it means that you can tackle all kinds of terrains and pursuits without the need for multiple types of specialist footwear.
Our Recommended Waterproof Socks
With such clear benefits to both comfort and performance, we’d certainly argue that waterproof socks are worth it. If you’re keen to try them out or upgrade a much-loved pair, we stock a great selection of high-quality waterproof socks online. Sealskinz or Bridgedale socks are the best place to start.
Sealskinz Socks
Particularly popular with hikers, Sealskinz is one of the leading waterproof sock brands. The Sealskinz Hiking Mid Waterproof Socks are a great example of the quality you can rely on from this brand. Balancing warmth and breathability with Sealskinz’s special ‘Stretchdry’ waterproofing, these socks keep the feet completely dry when worn inside boots or trainers and create a firm barrier against pressure and friction that may cause injury or discomfort.
Bridgedale Socks
Bridgedale also offers a complete range of waterproof socks, many of which you can purchase online here. Bridgedale socks are great for military use as well as recreational use, and our favourites are the Midweight Waterproof Stormsocks. This pair performs on all fronts, utilising a PU Hydrotech membrane that keeps water out alongside an inner layer of Merino Wool which exhibits anti-bacterial and anti-odour properties.
