One of the most important features in the arsenal of a hiker is a sock. Not just any sock, a waterproof sock. It’s a must-have for every hiker especially when water is involved. Hiking without the best hiking gear can often leave a hiker confused and less satisfied with the outcome of any hike. Interestingly, choosing the best waterproof socks for hiking can be a daunting task.
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Aside from skills, the quality of the hiking gear is important to keep the body warm, blister-free, and dry. Such a function is what the hiking sock serves. When water enters into the boot of a hiker, the feet get cold, damp, and developing blisters becomes inevitable.
To prevent such ugly situation, it is, therefore, important for a hiker to have the best waterproof socks for hiking. Waterproof socks are built in such a way that keeps out water and ensures that moistures find a way out of the sock.
The market today offers a lot of choice for hikers looking for waterproof socks. However, to play it safe, there are few factors to consider before choosing a waterproof sock for hiking.
Contents
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Waterproof Sock
Material
This is the first quality to consider before choosing a sock for hiking. Waterproof socks are usually thicker and stronger than the normal socks. They are usually knitted inside and outside and filled with a waterproof membrane to prevent water from getting to the feet. Some of the socks material to look out for include:
Synthetics
Waterproof socks made of synthetic materials are durable, cushions the feet, and dries faster. Although they are less comfortable in hot areas, synthetic materials are made with Lycra and Nylon to add style to the feet, provide support arch, and comfort for the feet.
Wool
Waterproof socks made out of wool have better temperature regulating abilities compared to the synthetic socks. This is the major advantage it has over the synthetic built socks. They are more comfortable in warm or cool conditions, absorbs moistures, and cushions the feet.
Silk
Silk based socks offer better comfort for the feet, absorbs moistures, and are lightweight. On the downside, they are less durable, however, they are the most recommended waterproof socks type for fast hikers.
Padding
Socks padding is one of the major determinants for cushioning. The padding should be adequate enough, and at the same time, should not leave the shoe tight.
Arch support
The kind of waterproof socks recommended for a hiker is such that provide enough reinforcement for the arch against pain.
Breathability
Sometimes, waterproof socks with low breathability feature can cause the feet to overheat during a hike. Hikers should, therefore, choose socks that are high in breathability.
Fit
Make sure to choose socks that is not too tight, and not too long for better result.
Warranty
While some products come with a warranty, others do not. In the same way, some warranty period extends over a longer period of time compared to others. It is important to choose waterproof socks that has a higher chance of return when something goes wrong.
Weight
The weight could either be light or heavy. Whatever choice you want, make sure to get the one that suits you.
Below Are Some of the Best Waterproof Socks for Hiking
Randy Sun
The randy sun breathable and waterproof socks can be used by men and women of any age for hiking and trekking. The sock is made up of 32% polyester content, 61% waterproof nylon, and 7% elastane on the outside. The inside, on the other hand, is made up of 30% polyester, 4% elastane, and 66% cool max. This material buildup of the sock ensures maximum breathability, lightweight, and lightweight performance. The sock is available in various sizes, style, and color to suit the taste of men and women all over the world. As a plus, the sock which is has a three-layer construction can be used for any occasion, and offers enough performance on the mountain, on the road, or in the mud. Simply wash under normal temperature and reuse.
Pros
- Three-layer construction.
- Suitable for any occasion.
- Wash with hand or machine.
Cons
- Takes about 24 hours to dry.
Innotree
Available in different colors, the Innotree waterproof sock is only recommended for men that look to have a nice hike even during winter. The sock is thick and well-cushioned along the arch to provide delicate support to the arch, heel, and ankle. The sock is made up of 45% nylon, 50% cotton, and 5% Lycra. The blend of these three material increases the resistance to blisters, promote ventilation, and get rid of odors faster and better. The sock comes with a fine gauge knitting for comfortable and easy wearing. Whether for hiking, or mountaineering, the Innotree socks is a go-to anytime.
Pros
- 100% money-back guarantee.
- Durable.
- Comfortable to wear.
Cons
- Shrinks after wash.
Mirmaru
Another hiking socks recommended for just men is the Mirmaru hiking socks. The socks can be used for a wide range of outdoor activities that range from hiking, trekking, backpacking, mountain biking, and so much more. The sock is made up of 55% cotton material, 2% spandex, and 40 % Polyester. These blends ensure enough warmth during cold and long hiking, and enough durability and strength to endure any hike. The padding and cushioning of the sock is such that promotes comfort wearing and prevents blisters and its med-compressed and elastic to support gentle arch treatment and heel protection.
Pros
- Strong and durable.
- Med-compressed and elastic.
- 100% money-back guarantee.
WetSox
With just $16.99-$22, you can get yourself a waterproof and extremely breathable Wetsox sock for any hike. The inside of the sock is fitted with merino wool for 100% windproof, and waterproof performance. The sock blocks the entry of moisture, and allow the internal sweat evaporate like nothing was ever there. The Wetsox merino based sock is designed in a way that resembles the everyday normal socks, except that it can be used in the rain, the garden, on the mountain, on the water. The sock is made up of 45% merino wool, 10% spandex, and 45% nylon.
Pros
- Unconditional warranty of 60 days.
- Premium material content.
- Versatile.
Tomahawque
Sometimes, rugged designed with 100% functionality is an indication that style is not the main feature to look out for in a sock for a hike and he Tomahawque waterproof sock is designed with three-layer construction for warmth, and comfort. The socks optimize the much-needed ventilation for the feet and offers hypoallergenic and anti-bacteria support for cleaner feet. The socks can be washed with the machine, however, it is recommended you wash it with hands for lasting performance. The exterior is rich in nylon with about 98% of it being nylon while only 2% is spandex. The interior, on the other hand, combines a blend of nylon, and bamboo rayon.
Pros
- Rugged design for better performance.
- Bamboo sustainable feature.
- Three-layer construction and fiber blend.
Cons
- Machine wash shortens the life span.
Yuedge
The Yuedge breathable and waterproof socks is a classy and stylish hiking socks designed solely for women that desire better hiking experience. To cater to its audience, the socks is made up of 79.7% cotton for softness, 2.5% spandex, and 17.8% polyamide fiber for comfort. The moisture management design of the socks coupled with its elastic rubber band keeps the shape and fit of the socks, and manages internal and external moistures. The socks come with a ribbed arch for added foot comfort and reinforced cushion for the feet anywhere.
Pros
- Style and aesthetic design.
- Breathable fabric.
- Elasticity and dual performance.
Cons
- Tight elastic band.
Meikan
The Meikan Unisex socks offer 100% waterproof advantage for hikers. The sock is made of lightweight membranes that ensure that water content stays outside the socks, it’s also designed with a porelle membrane that eliminates away from the surface of the skin and eliminates odor. The design of the socks is done with smooth toe seam that eliminates abrasions, and other related experiences. The heel style provides a full wrap around the feet and keeps it in place. The digital printing of the socks and its fashionable design makes it an excellent choice for any indoor and outdoor activity.
Pros
- Waterproof and breathable.
- Stylish technology design.
- Comfort material for lasting performance.
Cons
- Doesn’t fit size.
SuMade
The SuMade socks is a waterproof hiking socks that is designed to serve multiple function and different occasions. The socks offer sensational warmth through its windproof design, seamless and waterproof design, high ventilation, and fine feet fit features. What’s more, the socks can be used for everyday life aside its outdoor use. The sock comes with a Y-heel design and a padded heel to absorb sock, manage frictions, and minimize pressure to the feet. The nylon-based hiking socks dispels water from the socks, prevents water from entering, and dries off quickly.
Pros
- High performance.
- Comfortable fit.
- Breathable for various occasions.
Cons
- Heavy and thick.
HighCamp
The Highcamp waterproof socks is a high-value socks for male and female hikers. The 100% breathable sock is not as thick as cushioned as the wool sock, however, it offers enough functionality just like any waterproof sock would. The socks have abrasion-resistant nylon that measures up to 76%, and it is 24% elastic. The elastane quality of the socks promotes stretchy performance over mountain tops, fish hunting range, and through river and creeks. For better temperature control, the Highcamp socks combines a perfect blend between yarn and copper fiber for controlling temperatures and managing odor.
Pros
- 100% money-back guarantee.
- 100% seamless lining.
- Reinforced heel.
Cons
- Pricey.
Tanzant
Another excellent choice for men that enjoy hiking come what may, is the Tanzant waterproof socks. The breathable feature of the manages moisture, and reduce odor. The Tanzant socks are designed with a waterproof membrane, a knitted interior, and a knitted interior. The waterproof status, however, is limited from the toe to the upper cuff part of the socks. The design of the socks is made in three layers, and as a result, may rest heavily on the legs. To manage this thickness, it’s recommended that hikers use the Tanzant socks with shoes that fit loosely around the legs. The socks can be hand washed but should not be washed with the machine at any temperature higher than 30.
Pros
- High air permeability.
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Durable.
Cons
- Functionality reduces with the degree of use.
Layeba
The Layeba hiking socks was designed to manage the conflicting view between breathability, and waterproof function. The socks combine both functions with its three-layer construction, an outer layer that is high in nylon, lycra, elastane, and an internal layer that is high in Coolmax, elastane, and lining. The socks are moderately built with antibacterial yarn for better thermal comfort, and soft cushioning for better comfort.
Pros
- Soft cushioning.
- Three-layer construction.
- Water isolating molecules.
Cons
- Takes too long to dry.
Waterfly Hiking Soft
Although this is not always the case, however, this premise applies to the Waterfly hiking sock. The sock is designed with 98% nylon content, and 2 % rubber content and the inner layer, on the other hand, is made up of 65% nylon, and 35% merino wool. All these features ensure a unique performance and better durability. The layer of the sock is such that guides the feet through muds, rivers, streams, rainstorms, and creeks without making the feet wet. The sock is available in various sizes, and elastic.
Pros
- Breathable nylon.
- High-quality material.
- Lightweight and elastic.
Cons
- Not easy to wash and dry.
Conclusion
Surely picking the best waterproof socks for hiking can be a cumbersome exercise. However, take your cue from the points listed above and the products reviewed to have an excellent hiking experience you so desired.