When you are venturing outside for an activity or exercise, a great pair of shoes is nothing without a good selection of waterproof socks to go with them. When it rains or snows, water ingress can cause your feet to become wet, numb, blistered and at worst frostbitten.
So, protect your feet from squelching all the way home when heading outdoors in tricky weather conditions. Whether it is waterproof swim socks, waterproof socks for running, or waterproof boots, you want to know that your feet are coming back in good order.
A quality pair of waterproof socks will not just keep your feet dry and protected, but they will also be breathable, supportive, cushioned and durable. Such features will create noticeably greater comfort throughout their use and so will allow you to enjoy your outdoors, sports and water activities that much more.
10 Recommended Waterproof Socks to Buy in Canada
- 1. Sealskinz Cold Weather Mid Length Sock
- 2. Sealskinz Cold Weather Knee Length Sock
- 3. Capas 2mm Neoprene Waterproof Socks
- 4. Sealskinz All Weather Ankle Socks (with Hydrostop)
- 5. Randy Sun Waterproof Ankle Socks
- 6. Randy Sun Waterproof Knee Socks
- 7. Leakdry Waterproof Ankle Socks
- 8. Randy Sun Digital Printing Outdoor Sports Crew Socks
- 9. Tanzant Waterproof Unisex Novelty Sports Socks
- 10. HyperShellz Waterproof Unisex Ankle Socks
What are the Best Waterproof Socks in Canada?
Different sock suppliers will offer different features, but many of the higher-end products will include a waterproofing lifetime guarantee for added reassurance. Generally speaking, engineered fabrics, merino wool, a close fit and flat toe seams are also all features of a higher quality item. However, some features will lend themselves better to certain times of the year as well as certain sports and outdoor activities more than others. You may prefer an ankle-length sock over a knee-length sock for warmer months or everyday outdoor activities, for example.
Sealskinz is considered to be the most well-regarded brand of sock available, as their products are generally seen to be the most technically advanced. We would therefore recommend looking at Sealskinz Cold Weather Mid Length Sock for the best all-round waterproof sock use. For full water submersion, however, it is difficult to beat the Capas 2mm Neoprene Waterproof Socks. Read on for more detailed information about these brands and the practicalities of the various design features available to you in our product reviews below.
How To Choose A Pair Of Waterproof Socks?
Length: Ankle-length is as low as these products go ensure waterproofing effectiveness. So, for buyers who are looking for socks that offer great everyday and sports activity usage an ankle sock will be more than sufficient. However, for those who are looking to take part in winter sports activities such as skiing, a knee-length sock provides added warmth and protection against the elements.
Materials: If you are intending on submerging yourself completely in water, a neoprene-based sock is the most sensible choice. For those who are looking at hiking, playing football or playing winter sports, then a sock with a strong outer and waterproof membrane will be more than sufficient. Products with Lycra can also provide added arch support where needed.
A variety of Merino Wool socks are available on the current market in Canada, especially the waterproof sock category
Cushioning: Merino wool has long been the material of choice for added warmth and cushioning for outdoors types. However, those who would prefer to avoid using animal products entirely will want to opt for the bamboo alternatives that are now also available.
Reviews – Best Waterproof Socks in Canada
1. Sealskinz Cold Weather Mid Length Sock
Best for: The highest sustained waterproof durability available for your socks.
The premium Sealskinz waterproof ankle socks are made in the UK using ethically sourced materials and come with a Sealskinz Lifetime Waterproof Promise. They are engineered using three-layered fabrics with a four-way stretch and flat seams for a close fit with added comfort. The durable outer layer is a blend of polypropylene, nylon and elastane. This is then combined with a unique hydrophilic waterproof membrane and an inner layer of primarily merino wool combined with polyester. The result is a sock that is waterproof and breathable, making it ideal for use in all-weather outdoor activities.
Features:
- Merino wool lining
- Hydrophilic waterproof membrane
- Flat toe seams
- Close fit
2. Sealskinz Cold Weather Knee Length Sock
Best for: Knee to toe protection from the elements.
Rather than finish at the ankle, these knee-length socks offer added protection up to the point of your knee. This prevents further water ingress while adding an extra layer of warmth when braving the cold. Therefore, a knee-length waterproof sock tends to be the preferred option for rugby, football and hiking in very cold and wet conditions. Each of these socks combines Sealskinz’ 25 years of waterproofing experience and as such are individually hand-tested for their waterproof ability. Naturally, they are therefore an enduringly popular choice for professional athletes and military personnel.
Features:
- Seven different colour choices
- Waterproof and windproof
- Engineered for cold weather wear
- A popular choice among pro athletes and the military
3. Capas 2mm Neoprene Waterproof Socks
Best for: Waterproof swim socks
These sporty black socks from Capas are made from 100% 2mm drysuit high elastic neoprene for fully submerging your feet. This gives the socks a solid layer of waterproofing that will reliably keep out the cold as well as the sand. It makes them a flexible but durable longer-term choice for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and boarding. They also feature an SUV tire pattern silicone traction grip on the bottom outer layer for added grip when returning to dry land. The overall appearance is very simple with all-black fabric and a CAPAS logo stamped on the side with seams running on all four sides to ensure a close fit.
Features:
- 100% neoprene
- Waterproof and sand proof
- Silicone grip on the bottom
- Flexible but durable
4. Sealskinz All Weather Ankle Socks (with Hydrostop)
Best for: Combining with waterproof trousers for use in heavy downpours.
These All-Weather Ankle Socks are the original waterproof sock from Sealskinz and uniquely feature an additional engineered waterproofing fabric lower calf taping known as Hydrostop. This creates an extra waterproof barrier to prevent water ingress from your leg area. This can be particularly helpful for activities during a heavy downpour that requires wearing waterproof trousers, as it can prevent water run-off down your trousers and towards your feet. This is combined with the aforementioned Sealskinz hydrophilic waterproof membrane alongside your standard product features including a cosy merino wool lining, zonal elastication and flat toe seams.
Features:
- Hydrostop calf taping
- Waterproof membrane
- Merino wool lining
- Zonal elastication
5. Randy Sun Waterproof Ankle Socks
Best for: Hiking in the snow
Randy Sun manufactures a cheerful mid-range selection of thick, 100% waterproof socks that offer a fairly similar set of features to the Sealskinz selection, albeit not quite as advanced. Their socks also have a three-layer construction but this incorporates an entirely different set of engineered fabrics. There is a waterproof nylon outer layer, followed by a breathable waterproof membrane and their own Coolmax lining. For these socks in particular, choosing a loose fit shoe is recommended as the toes and soles have extra cushioning for added comfort. Due to the nature of the fabrics used, this item is not suitable for washing over 40 degrees centigrade or tumble drying.
Features:
- Mid-range pricing
- Extra cushioning
- Use with a loose fit shoe
- Not suitable for tumble drying
6. Randy Sun Waterproof Knee Socks
Best for: Snowsports and water activities.
The Randy Sun knee-length waterproof socks offer a further layer of calf protection and added warmth when compared with the ankle socks. This makes them a more popular choice for snow sports such as skiing and boarding, as well as water-based sports including wading, kayaking and fishing. Again we see three layers of carefully selected high-tech fabrics, a comfortable fit and seamless toe and ankle. This affordable but technical sock is also available in eight different colour choices and a range of sizes for both men and women. These socks are designed to last and should see you through low temperatures, rain and snow.
Features:
- Knee to toe protection
- Three layers of engineered fabric
- Comfortable fit
- Durable
7. Leakdry Waterproof Ankle Socks
Best for: Animal product-free socks that replace wool with bamboo.
These quick-drying Leakdry waterproof socks are available in a range of sizes and colours, while uniquely also offering a bamboo fibre inner. This is a great wool-free alternative to the standard merino wool middle seen in the majority of other waterproof socks. The bamboo inner is combined with a waterproof breathable membrane middle alongside a nylon outer for added protection against the elements. So, you won’t feel like you are compromising on waterproofing, comfort or durability while using this more animal-friendly alternative. This makes them an enduringly popular choice for vegans or those who are opposed to using animal-based products entirely.
Features:
- Bamboo inner
- Quick-drying
- Available in 10 different colours
- Mid-range pricing
8. Randy Sun Digital Printing Outdoor Sports Crew Socks
Best for: Affordable yet colourful waterproof socks.
Ideal for those who are looking to add a bit of colour to their wardrobes are the Randy Sun Digital Printing Ankle Socks. They are available in a unisex range of bright, colourful patterns including a rainbow tie-dye and a yellow fire painting. While suitable for everyday use, their 100% waterproof but breathable design will also permit use for snow sports and all-weather outdoor activities. The flexible design features a polyester outer, a waterproof membrane and a Coolmax lining. So, while not the most technically advanced product on our list, they do also include a money-back guarantee for peace of mind.
Features:
- Fun, colourful design
- Money-back guarantee
- Affordable
- Polyester outer
9. Tanzant Waterproof Unisex Novelty Sports Socks
Best for: Trail running and hiking.
These affordable and machine-washable ankle length waterproof socks are mainly designed with trail running and hiking in mind but are also suitable for everyday use. The product itself is engineered for abrasion resistance and breathability specifically for these purposes. The three-layer cotton fibre construction helps to prevent blistering with a close fit, while also providing a seamless and 100% waterproof finish. The feel of the sock itself is flexible but retains a good thickness for warmth when worn. But the waterproofing function in these socks does not extend past the non-slip ribbed top. So, if you submerge your feet past your ankles, then you are likely to experience water ingress.
Features:
- Affordable and colourful design
- Ankle length waterproofing
- Cotton fibre construction
- Abrasion-resistant
10. HyperShellz Waterproof Unisex Ankle Socks
Best for: Arch support
The affordable unisex HyperShellz waterproof ankle socks have a 100% waterproof and seamless ergonomic design, making them a versatile choice for outdoor activities and sports. These socks unusually use Lycra for added arch support and improved durability, in addition to a standard waterproof membrane for added protection from wind and water. They also feature a ribbed cuff top, a 3D shaped Y-heel cup and an almost invisible toe seam. Users will also enjoy the standard merino wool for added cushioning and choice of either grey or green flashing that is available in a range of sizing.
Features:
- Affordable but effective
- Added arch support
- Merino wool middle
- Ribbed cuff top
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you wash a pair of waterproof socks? While each manufacturer will offer its own guidance on washing, in general, a 30 – 40 degree Celsius machine wash is recommended. Alternatively, you may prefer to hand wash more expensive items. So, unfortunately, if you want to retain the effectiveness of your product’s waterproofing then tumble drying will also be out of the question. You may therefore want to stock up on a few pairs in one go for weekends away and regular use.
What are waterproof socks made from? The most popular choices of materials are merino wool, Lycra, elastane, polyester, nylon and acrylic. However, eco-friendly bamboo alternatives to merino wool are now also becoming more widely available as are specially engineered fabrics.
Do waterproof socks really work? All of the products that we have featured on this list are advertised as 100% waterproof. These days, a high volume of manufacturers will also offer a money-back guarantee or equivalent, alongside initial rigorous product testing. However, if you do not follow the washing instructions there is a good chance that the waterproof membrane will no longer be as effective.
