As a runner, foot care is crucial because this body part takes a beating. Many bloggers and fellow runners will discuss the importance of finding the right running shoes for you, and running socks are often overlooked. Yet, like shoes, the wrong pair of running socks can cause many problems. This guide will present my picks of the best available waterproof running socks.
Table of Contents: Waterproof Socks Guide
Best Waterproof Socks For Runners
SealSkinz Waterproof Cold Weather Socks
SealSkinz is a leading brand in waterproof socks for outdoor lovers – their speciality is waterproofing. Don’t worry; despite the name, no seals are harmed in making these socks. Sealskinz were the first waterproof running socks I ever tried.
Despite being a little sceptical, I got them as a Christmas present in 2019 and was blown away by how good they are. I don’t use them all the time – for shorter wet runs. I’ve purchased several more pairs since; my most recent pair was in Jan 2023. I don’t mind my feet getting wet. However, they work a treat for longer runs through muddy fields and deep puddles. They are available in various lengths and levels of warmth – so you can find the right pair of socks for summer or winter. Like many waterproof socks, they have two layers of soft baric on either side of a waterproof layer. SealSkinz is high quality, durable and highly comfortable to wear.
Compare All SealSkinz Waterproof Socks
SealSkinz offer a range of socks that are great for both warm and cold weather outdoor fun. Take a loom below to compare their full range.
OTTER 100% Waterproof Socks With COOLMAX CORE
ArcticDry Xtreme 100% Waterproof Socks
Do Waterproof Socks Really Work?
Yes, waterproof socks for running do work. Yet, waterproof socks are one item you don’t understand just how good they are until you have tried a pair. I was sceptical until I tried a pair of SealzSkin I got as a Christmas present. They are no gimmick and are much better at keeping your feet dry than Gore-Tex running shoes – where rain will still get in through the ankle area.
Waterproof socks keep your feet nice and dry and don’t feel too dissimilar to running socks – maybe a little heavier and bulky. Investing in waterproof socks is undoubtedly worth it if you are a runner who gets out come rain or shine.
Waterproof socks will work for a certain amount of time. However, the membrane will break down after prolonged use and washing, and water can penetrate the feet. On average, with a good quality pair, expect them to last 9-12 months.
Why Use Waterproof Socks For Running?
As you know, it can get very wet in the UK. If running in wet conditions, the first part of your body that will feel the effects of getting wet will be your feet.
Your feet can get pretty wet even when running on the track, and the feeling can be uncomfortable. Discomfort can multiply if you’re running in diverse trail terrain in a mountainous area with streams, muddy bogs and regions. Water is one thing, but dirty water can be harder to drain from your shoe, and even if they start to dry, you can feel the grit and dirt between your toes and around your feet.
Over the winter months, we can get freezing temperatures. If you’re running with wet feet in cold weather conditions, your feet can become frozen quickly. Even when the weather is not too cold, running in soaking wet socks can cause the skin to crease and get wrinkly – especially on longer runs. With waterproof running socks, you can limit the number of times this happens. They’ll especially useful for ultra running events
Are Waterproof Socks Expensive?
It depends on what you call expensive, but the short answer is yes – they are relatively expensive. Good quality waterproof socks are more expensive than good quality regular running socks. I believe the cost is justified, though, and you do get what you pay for with them. Waterproof socks will have more layers that prevent water from getting inside and keeps our feet dry for the duration of your runs.
Thanks, guys, for taking the time to read our guide. You might also want to peek at the running socks for plantar fasciitis and running socks to protect toes guides, which we have put together.
Disclaimer: This guide contains affiliate links, and I earn a small commission from any sale that occurs via my links. This, however, does not change my opinion; I always do my best to provide the facts and suggest products that will benefit my users. You pay no more and no less for using these links. It does, however, help to sustain my blog.
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