The 5 Best Waterproof Socks for 2021

Any walker, hiker or biker knows there’s nothing worse than braving the elements with cold, rain-sodden feet. When you’ve stepped in an unavoidable puddle and know it’s only a matter of time before numb toes take over. Or worse, when you actually have to wring your socks out.

So for all-weather protection and happier adventures, it’s worth investing in a quality pair of waterproof socks that’ll come up trumps, even in the most challenging conditions. Socks that are warm, breathable and keep 100% of rain and water out, so you can stay outside for longer.

To help you find your perfect pair, we’ve done the hard work for you. We break down the 5 best waterproof socks that’ll keep you pretty much bone-dry this winter.

BEST ALL-ROUNDER

DexShell Thermlite Waterproof Ankle Length Socks - £30.00

Buy now from Aquaproofs (£30.00)



Pros:

• Slim enough that they’ll slip into most shoes comfortably
• Great odour control - even on multi-day treks
• Long-lasting warmth and breathability

Cons:

• The merino wool isn’t the fastest wicking, leaving them slightly damp for longer

Buy if: you want a warmer waterproof sock that won't break the bank

DexShell’s Thermlite Waterproof Socks take the crown for the best all-rounder. Living up to their claims of being waterproof, windproof, breathable and warm with almost no downsides, they’re our go-to ankle sock.

With the thickness of a winter sock, they’ll comfortably slip into most shoes thanks to their 4-way stretch technology, making them ideal for a wide range of outdoor pursuits like walking, hiking, cycling, gardening and golf. And while the merino wool doesn’t wick sweat away as fast as other socks (leaving you feeling a little damp if you’re on a particularly strenuous hike), they do keep you warm throughout.

BEST FOR MULTI-DAY WEAR

Sealskinz Unisex Waterproof Cold Weather Mid Length Socks - £40.00

Buy now from Sealskinz (£40.00)

Pros:

• They keep you dry even in snow and ice
• Mid-length for extra protection
• Flat seams along the toes to prevent friction and blisters

Cons:

• Might need sock liners to keep your feet warm

Buy if: you want more coverage than an ankle sock for wetter, rougher conditions

For those who really like to rough it in the outdoors - we’re talking 100 mile bike rides, trekking in the peaks and hiking in the snow - Sealskinz’s Waterproof Cold Weather Mid Length Socks will give you the very best waterproof protection. Their mid-length design provides more coverage for wetter, muddier adventures, while the flat seams along the toes will keep away blisters and friction when you’re out all day.

Admittedly they’re not the warmest or most breathable, so you might want to pair them with some sock liners. But their 100% waterproof barrier comes up trumps, pulling moisture away from your skin on a molecular level and keeping your feet dry and comfortable.

BEST FOR WALKING IN WATER

Bridgedale Waterproof StormSocks (Mid-Weight Knee Length) - £42.99

Buy now from Bridgedale (£42.99)

Pros:

• Great for wading in rivers or streams
• Resilient terry pad footbed, heel and ankle for warmth and cushioning
• Flat toe seam and elastic arch support to prevent movement and blisters

Cons:

• Bulkier and stiffer than other mid-weight socks
• Pricier than other waterproof socks

Buy if: you want a hardy, high leg sock that’ll get you through winter after winter

Bridgedale really thought of everything when they made their waterproof StormSocks. Providing maximum coverage thanks to their knee-length design, you can wade in rivers and streams in confidence while staying completely dry and leak-free. With a merino wool inner, they keep bacteria and bad smells at bay. Plus the footbed ensures your feet are supported where they need it most, meaning they’re less likely to wear down on pressure points like your heels and toes. Too hot for mid-summer walks, we’d say they’re best worn in the colder months so they live up to their sweat-wicking claims.

BEST FOR WARMTH

DexShell Hytherm PRO Socks - £40.00

Buy now from DexShell (£40.00)

Pros:

• Unbeatable warmth and thermal protection
• Mid-calf length for greater coverage
• Super comfortable and great for multi-day trekking

Cons:

• A little pricey
• Take a while to dry

Buy if: you want an exceptionally warm sock and you’ve got money to splash

The Hytherm Pro are DexShell’s warmest waterproof socks, making them a winter staple. These mid-calf length socks feature a merino wool terry loop liner covering the full inside of the sock, giving you unbeatable thermal protection and a comfortable fit all day long. But they’re definitely one of the more expensive socks on the market. And they can leave your feet feeling a little damp in extremely humid conditions, so their waterproofness isn’t as great as others. But they make up for it in warmth and softness and almost guarantee no more numb toes.

BEST VALUE

Otter Waterproof Mid-Ankle Socks - £24.99

Buy now from Amazon (£24.99)

Pros:

• Excellent breathability, so no sweaty feet
• A great year-round waterproof sock
• More budget-friendly

Cons:

• A little too thick for some shoes

Buy if: you want an affordable, everyday waterproof sock

Perfect for walking, running, biking, golf and other outdoor activities, Otter Waterproof Mid-Ankle Socks are just that: waterproof. Expertly crafted with a membrane that allows sweat to escape but stops water from coming in, your feet are protected in all weathers. Providing maximum breathability thanks to their Coolmax Core technology, they really show off their performance with their temperature regulating abilities, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in winter. Teamed with a more budget-friendly price tag than some of the other socks featured, they’re a great year-round accessory.