Of all the discomforts you can face as a runner, soggy feet may just be the worst!
Whether you’re training for a marathon or getting started with the Couch to 5K, there will be occasions when you get caught in a downpour – and if you’re a trail runner, wet and muddy terrain pretty much comes with the territory!
Waterproof shoes can help, but if they’re low around the ankle then you’ll often find that water simply splashes in.
The answer is to invest in a good pair of waterproof socks, which extend higher up the leg and help keep you dry in even the wettest conditions.
Our Best Waterproof Socks For Runners
- Best Lightweight Waterproof Socks: DRYMILE Slim Waterproof Socks
↓ jump to review - Best Breathable Waterproof Socks – RANDY SUN
↓ jump to review - Best for Runs in Extreme Cold – DexShell Waterproof Socks
↓ jump to review - Best Waterproof Socks for Durability – Bridgedale StormSock
↓ jump to review - Best Value for Money – OTTERSHELL Waterproof Socks
↓ jump to review - Most Comfortable – SuMade Waterproof Socks
↓ jump to review - Best Overall – SEALSKINZ Unisex Waterproof Socks
↓ jump to review
How Do Waterproof Socks Work?
The first thing you’ll notice when looking for waterproof running socks is that they’re quite a bit more expensive than regular socks.
But that’s because their design is more sophisticated, and most are composed of three layers.
The outer layer is usually made from a durable fabric – often polyamide – and the inner lining tends to be made from a soft material like Merino wool, that feels snug and cozy against your skin.
Sandwiched between them is a waterproof membrane made from a substance like Porelle.
Not only does this block water from coming in, but it allows your feet to breathe, which is crucial for preventing overheating.
Nevertheless, waterproof socks always feel a bit warmer than regular socks and are a little more bulky, too, so that’s something to consider before buying them.
Caring for Waterproof Socks
Waterproof socks need to be washed carefully or the waterproof membrane won’t last very long, which – considering their price – can be pretty disappointing.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never exceed the recommended maximum washing temperature. In most cases, you should also avoid tumble drying them.
This is because excess heat can cause the waterproof membrane to detach from the other layers, reducing their effectiveness and meaning the socks will need replacing more quickly.
The 7 Best Waterproof Running Socks
#1. Best Lightweight Waterproof Socks – DRYMILE Slim Waterproof Socks
Material: Outer: 97% Nylon / 3% Spandex; Inner: Rayon Charcoal / Polyester / Spandex, Sizes: Small to X-Large, Care: Machine Wash
| Pros | Cons |
| Waterproof/windproof 3-layer construction | Waterproof membrane is slightly noisy |
| Soft, moisture control lining | |
| Seamless design to prevent blisters |
If you tend to find waterproof running socks bulky, I recommend giving these a try – they’re some of the thinnest crew-length waterproof socks on the market.
Ultra-soft and comfortable, they are lined with a moisture-wicking charcoal yarn that’s thin, breathable, and even helps control odor.
There’s also a handy Dry Guard Strip at the opening to help stop water from running into the socks, and a 3D anti-drop feature to prevent them from slipping down as you run.
#2. Best Breathable Waterproof Socks – RANDY SUN
Material: Outer: 61% Nylon, 32% Polyester, 7% Elastane; Inner: 66% Coolmax, 30% Polyester, 4% Elastane, Sizes: X-Small to Large, Care: Hand Wash or Machine Wash Below 40℃, Drip Dry
| Pros | Cons |
| Very effective PU waterproof membrane | Sock cuffs are not waterproof |
| Smooth toe seam to prevent chafing | Could be warmer |
| Good choice of cool colors | Somewhat bulky |
Made with a 100% waterproof lightweight membrane that blocks external water molecules from entering, RANDY SUN socks are great for keeping your feet feeling fresh for longer.
That’s because they are designed with COOLMAX fabric, a moisture-wicking polyester that allows excess heat to escape.
Windproof and breathable, they also feature a tough outer layer that’s resistant to wear, a snug inner lining that feels soft against your skin, and a nicely cushioned sole for a little extra comfort.
#3. Best for Runs in Extreme Cold – DexShell Waterproof Socks
Material: Outer: 97% Nylon, 3% Elastane; Inner: 38% Merino Wool, 38% Acrylic, 24% Nylon, Sizes: Small to X-Large, Care: Hand Wash Only
| Pros | Cons |
| The warmest socks in the DexShell range | Relaxed fit won’t suit everyone |
| Made with lamination technology for complete freedom of movement | Pricey |
| Cuff seal construction to stop water getting in the opening |
DexShell is a leading brand in protective gear and these socks are some of the best you can get for tackling challenging conditions, effectively keeping out water and insulating you against frigid temperatures.
They are made with a Porelle membrane which is 100% waterproof and 75% breathable, and feature a merino wool terry looped inner, which is just what you need to keep your feet toasty, even on snowy days.
Merino wool has other benefits, too – it quickly wicks sweat away from your skin and also helps control odors, so you stay comfortable from start to finish.
#4. Best Waterproof Socks for Durability – Bridgedale StormSock
Material: Outer: 95% Nylon, 5% Elastane; Inner: 54% Merino Wool, 36% Polyester, 7.5% Nylon, 2.5% Elastane, Sizes: Small to X-Large, Care: Hand Wash Only
| Pros | Cons |
| Made with anti-bacterial, anti-odor Merino wool | Somewhat stiff and bulky |
| Bonded layers for built-in stretch | Pricey |
| Performance fit |
Bridgedale’s Storm Socks are designed in the UK, where they know a thing or two about running in wet conditions!
They are 100% waterproof and strike just the right balance between warmth and breathability, with an uncushioned lining that moves moisture away from your skin and a tough nylon outer layer that protects the Hydrotech membrane from abrasion as you run.
The fit is perfect for running, with a contoured knit that ensures the cuff fits closely and stays in place, plus flat toe seams to ensure you’re not bothered by chafing and blisters.
#5. Best Value for Money – OTTERSHELL Waterproof Socks
Material: Outer: 74% Polyamide, 23% Lycra, 3% Elastane, Inner: 80% Coolmax, 20% Lycra, Sizes: Small to X-Large, Care: Hand Wash or Machine Wash Below 40°C
| Pros | Cons |
| Warm and breathable | Feel a little bulky |
| Quick-drying and durable outer layer | |
| Flat-seam construction to prevent blisters |
With a comfortable fit that makes them ideal for running, these reasonably priced water proof socks are constructed with 3-layer technology.
This includes a hard-wearing outer and a laminating layer of PTFE (Teflon) that will stop water entering but still wick sweat away to keep you comfortable.
Like most waterproof running socks, they are on the thick side, but they’re stretchy enough to provide the freedom of motion you need.
#6. Most Comfortable – SuMade Waterproof Socks
Material: 61% Waterproof Nylon, 32% Polyester, 7% Elastane, Sizes: X-Small to Large, Care: Hand Wash or Machine Wash Below 40°C, Tumble Dry Low
| Pros | Cons |
| Fully waterproof but highly breathable | Cuff isn’t waterproof |
| Loads of colors and designs to choose from | Run large |
| Very durable |
If you’re looking for a little extra comfort for longer runs, check out these socks from SuMade which come with additional padding on the heel, toe, and footbed.
The Y-shaped heel fits securely and the seamless toe prevents chafing to keep you blister-free, while the cuff offers enough compression to stop the sock from sliding down but doesn’t dig in.
It features the typical 3-layer construction, with a hard-wearing outer layer to protect the waterproof membrane from abrasion, plus a Coolmax lining to rapidly wick away moisture to keep you warm and dry.
#7. Best Overall – SEALSKINZ Unisex Waterproof Socks
Material: Outer: 90% Nylon/10% Elastane; Inner: 38% Merino Wool/38% Acrylic/22% Polyester/2% Elastane, Sizes: Small to X-Large, Care: Wash at 40ºC/105ºF, Low Tumble Dry
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent wind and water protection | Expensive |
| Elasticated support zones | |
| Comfortable lining |
As its name might suggest, the Sealskinz brand is an industry leader in producing waterproof accessories and these knee-length socks offer the ultimate protection on those wet and windy days.
The fabric stretches 4 ways for a comfortable, flexible fit while the Merino wool lining and plush terry loop stitching give them a welcoming and cozy feel.
The extra length of these is just what you need when the temperatures plunge, while the three-layer construction includes a hydrophilic waterproof membrane that does a great job of resisting moisture so you can focus on your run.
You’ll appreciate the flat-toe seams recessed within the yarn loops, too, as these help minimize friction and prevent blisters.
