The 8 Best Waterproof Socks for Runners

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It's easy to overlook your socks when getting dressed for a run, but choosing the right pair can make the difference between a delightful and disastrous workout. Waterproof socks are specifically designed to keep your feet dry, warm, and, blister-free.

Like the best waterproof pants and rain jackets, Waterproof socks feature a membrane embedded between layers of knit fabric, providing protection from rain, sleet, and snow. They have their protective limits–if you stand in a puddle, you will get wet–but they will keep water out even when it permeates your running shoes.

They come in a wide array of materials, thicknesses, fits, and patterns, so you can find a pair that fits right, performs well, and looks good. Whether you're hitting a wet trail, heading out on a rainy or snowy day, or even planning for stream crossings, the best waterproof socks will be ready for your workout routine, regardless of the forecast.

The Best Waterproof Socks for Running

• Best Overall: Showers Pass Waterproof Crosspoint Bike Socks

• Best Value: Layeba Waterproof Socks

• A Time-Tested Favorite: Sealskinz Waterproof Warm-Weather Mid-Length Socks

• Ready for Stream Crossings: Randy Sun Waterproof Socks

• Best Choice of Patterns: SuMade Waterproof Socks

• Best for Cold Days: ArcticDry Waterproof Socks

• Best for Trails: Leakdry Waterproof Socks

• Ultralight: Drymile Active Waterproof Socks

Stay Dry and Keep Running: Best Running Hats • Waterproof Shoes • Waterproof Fitness Trackers

What to Consider in a Waterproof Sock

Material

The best waterproof socks feature a three-layer waterproof construction that includes a sturdy outer layer, generally made of nylon, over a waterproof membrane with a softer, knitted fabric closer to the foot. Some brands use merino wool for that inner layer, which tends to be warmer and softer than synthetic materials or cotton. It also doesn’t retain odors or moisture to the same extent. Another coveted choice, Bamboo fiber fabric is a highly breathable material that wicks moisture and minimizes odor.

The waterproof membranes at the core of the sock vary in their level of breathability—some are better at releasing sweat than others, like the proprietary Artex and Porelle, while others are more likely to turn into a sauna once your feet get too warm. Many of the socks have a tight nylon cuff at the top to prevent moisture from getting in.

Note that not all the socks list their full fabric composition—some just list the composition of the outer or inner layer.

Fit

Waterproof socks are a bit harder to wriggle on than standard socks—they tend to have more of a wetsuit-like fit that sits closer to the foot and clings at the cuff so rain can’t get in. The triple-layer fabric also means that waterproof socks are thicker than regular socks and can often be a bit bulky.

Be prepared for the sock to occupy more space inside your shoe, and pair them with a wider toe-boxed shoe if you have multiple options to choose from. Most waterproof socks also run a bit bigger than regular socks, so if your foot is on the cusp between two sizes, consider sizing down.

Washability

The biggest downside of waterproof socks is that many are hand wash-only, which makes them more high-maintenance than standard socks. To wash most of them, just turn them inside out and soak them in warm water with soap, then rinse. Leave them out that way to dry. If you really want to use a machine, machine-wash on a gentle cycle using cold water, and then turn them inside out and leave them out to dry. If you use a standard wash or dry cycle, you risk ruining the effectiveness or longevity of the socks’ waterproof membrane.

How We Selected The Best Waterproof Socks

We picked the best waterproof socks based on our own testing experience, running and working out while wearing them in all kinds of weather. In addition to putting them through their paces, we researched the market and online reviews to understand the materials and design that make the most popular socks beloved by their customers.

We selected socks first based on their performance in wet conditions, closely followed by whether they felt comfortable on a run. We also prioritized socks made from breathable fabrics, and those that fit easily into running shoes. In the end, our picks offer a mix of breathability, functionality, and comfort that will help you stay dry and warm on your rainy day workouts.

Over the course of our testing, we tried a few pairs of waterproof socks that we liked, but didn't quite make the final list. Bottlestalk Waterproof Socks, for example, kept our feet dry in bad weather, but we found them to be too thick and heavy for a hard workout. We also tried a pair of Fullshield Waterproof Socks, which nearly made the list, but ultimately didn't offer as much durability and water resistance as the other socks we tried.

Crosspoint Waterproof Socks

I’ve worn these socks during everything from drizzly trail races to long, miserable bike rides through driving rain. I’ve even stood in ankle-deep bathwater in them, just to see how long the waterproof membrane would hold up.

Throughout all these test conditions, the Showers Pass Crosspoint socks have kept my feet dry and cozy where traditional socks would have let them turn into a pruned, soggy mess. They feature a three-layer design with a knit exterior, a waterproof breathable Artex membrane, and a merino wool antibacterial lining.

They’re thick, with a snug fit, so you’ll want to save them for colder outings. (And for shoes that have a little wiggle room in the toe box.) But when you’re determined to run in chilly, muddy, waterlogged conditions, they’ll keep you cozy and happy from the toes up.

Waterproof Socks

Layeba Waterproof Socks will keep you protected from anything from stepping in a puddle to heavy rain. They feature the hallmark three-layer construction of a high-performance waterproof sock, with a nylon blend exterior, Coolmax inner lining, and a waterproof membrane in between.

A mostly seamless design–there’s one at the top of the elastic cuff–these wear comfortably. While they’re thick and a bit hard to get on, the Layebas balance warmth and dryness with breathability for a few bucks less than many of our other picks.

Waterproof Warm-Weather Socks

Much like the Showers Pass Crosspoints, Sealskinz’ waterproof socks have a three-layer construction—a nylon outer, a hydrophilic membrane, and a wool-blend interior that’s designed to hold out water while still feeling more like regular socks on the inside.

If you haven’t tried Sealskinz in a decade or so, I recommend you give them a second chance—the brand’s socks have long since lost their rubbery feel and gotten considerably more breathable, comfortable, and effective. However, they still trap some sweat on fast efforts and warmer days, so they’re best reserved for long, easy runs in the cold rain.

We generally recommend mid-calf or “crew”-length waterproof socks, which provide optimal protection, but it’s worth noting that Sealskinz also makes a shorter ankle-length style.

Waterproof Socks

If you run a trail that goes through a stream, these socks from Randy Sun will keep you dry even as you splash through it. They feature a three-layer design, with a breathable Coolmax fabric lining that wicks sweat away to keep your feet cool and dry.

Functional and soft, their seamless construction helps prevent blisters, making them great for running, as well as hiking and mountain biking.

Our recommendation comes with a small caveat: It’s worth noting that the cuffs at the top of the sock aren’t waterproof, so you should avoid deep water to keep the socks from getting fully submerged. That said, they offer more than enough waterproofing to get you through a run in dire weather conditions, regardless of how many puddles you splash through.

In addition to crew socks, Randy Sun also makes waterproof knee-high and ankle-length styles.

Waterproof Socks

Available in 14 distinctive patterns, SuMade’s waterproof socks are durable and sturdy, with incredible design details to make for the most comfortable workouts. Made with a nylon blend outer layer and a breathable Coolmax lining to wick moisture, they’re soft and breathable, with extra cushioning in the heel and at the toes to offer a little extra shock absorption.

The seamless construction also minimizes blistering. Plus, they’re machine-washable and dryer-safe, so they’re easy to clean.

SuMade also makes waterproof knee-high and ankle-length socks.

Waterproof Socks

ArcticDry socks are made for extreme temperatures and conditions to keep you warm on the coldest, wettest days. That's because ArcticDry Waterproof Socks are both insulated and thermal, keeping warmth in while wicking moisture and allowing water vapor–like your sweat–to escape.

Best of all, the nylon/Merino wool blend manages to achieve incredible warmth, breathability, and waterproofing without adding much bulk. The Merino wool also imparts anti-odor benefits, which is always great for exercise apparel.

Breathable Waterproof Socks

From running through puddles to enduring a steady downpour, these waterproof socks from Leakdry will keep your feet secluded from the elements. They also feature a three-layer design, and the Leakdry’s bamboo-blend inner lining makes them soft and comfortable.

That said, we recommend reserving these for runs where you know you will get cold and/or wet, as they aren’t quite as breathable as our other picks. We also found that the elastic cuffs were a bit tight: Runners with large calves or ankles should consider sizing up.

Active Waterproof Socks

I love that Drymile’s waterproof socks feel just like my favorite pair of running socks. The seamless three-layer ankle sock features a breathable bamboo inner lining and is comfortable.

They are great at wicking sweat and moisture away while also preventing foot odor. As an added benefit, these socks have extra cushioning at the toes and heels, which is great protection as you rack up the miles.

Wear, comfort, and protection: Q+A With Running Gear Expert Marissa Lemar

How do you wear waterproof socks—with a liner sock or directly against your skin?

You shouldn’t wear a liner sock. Waterproof socks feature a three-layer design, which includes a soft inner layer that should feel comfortable against your skin. What’s more, they generally feature a tight fit, so wearing them on top of another sock would make them even tighter and less comfortable.

Are waterproof socks as comfortable as regular socks?

Waterproof socks fit tight around your leg, more like a compression sock than your average pair of athletic or running socks—it's a different feel, but not necessarily better or worse. The right pair should still feel comfortable, more like a swaddle than a squeeze.

That said, the feeling may not be everyone: We recommend trying on a pair and running in them a few times to see how they feel.

If a sock is waterproof, does that mean it’s windproof, too?

Yes, the same construction that makes these socks waterproof will also protect you from cold, cutting wind. The three-layer construction and elastic cuff prevent the breeze from permeating the fabric of the socks, which often makes them excellent for cold weather, in addition to rain.

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