SealSkinz H2O Waterblocker Socks

[Christopher May]

Would like to get some input from anyone with experience with SealSkinz H2O Waterblocker Socks.
I’ve seen them recommended for use with trail runners for stream crossing
(Looks to me like the “Waterblocker Sock” is the same as the Sealskinz “Waterproof MVT Sock” but with the in-cuff seal added around the calve to prevent water from getting into the sock even when going through deep water).
I’m wondering
1. Even though they are supposed to be breathable, do they make your feet sweat?
2. Does the seal around the calve gets annoying?
Thanks,
Chris

[Doug Johnson]

Hi Christopher-

I’ve used these mountain biking for years but never hiking. Like Gore-Tex running shoes, they do breath somewhat but you will get more moisture than with normal socks. They are a bit like vapor barrier socks, really, keeping moisture out and most of the moisture of your sweat in. The result is a sock that is much warmer which is great for snow hikes, long water crossings in cold weather, etc. But if you’re dealing with cold crossings on a warm day, you might find the extra warmth and moisture to be uncomfortable.

That said, I’ve been using a pair of RBH designs Vapor Barrier socks with a pair of Gore Tex runners for winter snowshoeing and even overnights during our mellow Washington winter temps and have found the combination excellent- both warm and very lightweight. But my feet are definitely moist which could be a problem with longer mileages (although not for me so far). The sealskinz will breath better than these but shouldn’t be quite as warm.

For summer hiking with water crossings, I choose a lightweight runner with good drainage and a pair of light wool socks. I’ve found this is my winning combination in the warmer months.

Best of luck- the Sealskinz socks are good, durable products.

Doug

[Christopher May]

Thanks Doug. From your input I think I’ll try using my smartwool light hikers for warmer weather and the vapor barrier sox I already have for colder weather and not spend the money on SealSkinz. I’ll save buying a pair of those for if I go on a cold weather hike with big stream crossings in the future.

[Andy Ledbetter]

I have used SealSkinz for last 3 years. They work well for me.
To answer your points…..
1. Not a problem for me but YMMV
2. The seal is not anoying.

AndyL
DunRockin

[Alex Orgren]

I’ll weigh in on a little more toward the other side. I like SealSkinz for icy stream crossings, and have worn them in camp, too. I wear them for extended periods on paddling trips, but would NOT wear them for long durations on the trail. My socks must provide excellent wicking to keep from destroying my feet. Very few socks do this well enough, and SealSkinz are not among them.

[Daniel Schmidt]

I have used them for biking and walking around Portland,OR(temps in the 40’s & 50’s in the winter and my feet get clammy but not nearly as wet or cold as without. I think they would be great early in the morning or evening when the temps drop and your shoes are cold from the previous day’s crossings. But once temps get past 60 you’ll sweat like a pig (do pigs really sweat?)

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