A Guide to Waterproof Socks for Fossil Hunting (UPDATED)

Waterproof Socks for Fossil Hunting – A Guide

Fossil hunting is a captivating pastime enjoyed by individuals of all ages and different levels of experience throughout the year.

It offers you the thrill of venturing into uncharted territory and discovering evidence of prehistoric life and its environment.

However, finding fossils can take you through a range of treacherous terrains.

From isolated beaches and lakes to frozen rivers and underneath rocks, all these areas are characterised by dampness that can turn your once exciting adventure into a nightmare.

It is important that you have the right type of clothing gear before going fossil hunting and one of the most practical clothing accessories you can wear is a pair of waterproof hiking socks.

In this guide, you will discover all there is to know about waterproof socks for fossil hunting and how they can be your ideal partner the next time you decide to go on a fossil collecting expedition.

What are Waterproof Socks?

Waterproof hiking socks are like any other ordinary socks but have been specially designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable even when the water is warm. They are constructed using a unique fabric that keeps out any moisture when hiking through wet grass or in the snow and mud.

The great thing about them is that they provide greater protection than waterproof boots, which can get hot and sweaty in warm weather.

They are also particularly more practical when crossing puddles and streams and ensure you’re protected from the cold water and wind.

Typically, waterproof socks like the ones we produce here at ArcticDry feature a 3-layer construction that comprises a knit exterior, breathable and waterproof membrane, as well as a moisture-wicking and antibacterial interior. In most cases, the exterior is made of a blend of materials, with the popular ones being nylon, acrylic, polyester, spandex, viscose, and TPU/PU materials.

Here for example at ArcticDry, our inner layer is made of COOLMAX- a modified polyester with moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties that help to keep your feet fresh and clean. Synthetics such as nylon, polyester, spandex, bamboo, and merino wool are alternative options that are preferred for their antimicrobial and moisture-wicking qualities.

Some of the most sought-after features that make waterproof socks the ideal clothing accessory for fossil hunting include:

1. The ability to maintain shape even after continuous and repeated use
2. A close-fitting profile that keeps your feet warm and comfortable but not too tight to hinder blood circulation
3. Seamless construction that reduces friction, helping to avoid the main causes of common skin problems like chafing.
4. Cushioning pads that protect sensitive areas like the heel, ankle, toes, and instep from pressure as you walk
5. Antibacterial linings

Advantages of Waterproof Socks for Fossil Hunting:

Because of their immense practicality, the application of waterproof socks has greatly increased, especially among people who are constantly involved in outdoor activities such as Fossil Hunting.
Below are some of the advantages of waterproof socks and information to support why you should grab a pair (ahem….from us here at ArcticDry!). They may end up being the best / most useful addition to your Fossil Hunting Kit yet!

Duh, they’re Waterproof

Waterproof Socks feature three layers that include a wear-resistant knit exterior and moisture-wicking interior sandwiching a waterproof membrane.

As a result, you can expect them to be thicker than your average pair of socks.

Most people don’t realise this but the fact that socks have been advertised as “waterproof” does not necessarily mean that they are 100% waterproof.

Besides, you also need to remember that the socks are waterproof from the toes to just under the top cuff.

The waterproofness of a pair of socks you buy is determined by the hydrostatic head rate. Here at ArcticDry ours have quite a high hydrostatic head rate: In Layman’s terms – They’re pretty dam waterproof!

Breathability

Many people assume that waterproof socks are suffocating, especially when you consider all the fabric layers in their construction. The truth is that they are very breathable; an important feature that you should look for when going for a fossil hunting adventure.

Most pairs of waterproof socks come with ultra-thin PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or PU waterproof breathable membranes,

which are often porous enough to allow water vapour to escape, but not enough to allow water in. This is due to the stretchable molecular structure of the membrane that offers your feet breathable waterproof protection.

Snug Fit

Nothing can be as uncomfortable as wearing ill-fitting socks when you are out hiking. It is, therefore, crucial that you should pay attention to the right fit when buying a product like waterproof socks. For a good fit, look for a seamless pair with a wide toe box and padded heels.

This should also mean that you find waterproof socks with dimensions that match your feet.

Make sure to refer to the ArcticDry Size Guide if you want to achieve the best, most snug fit possible.

Weight and Thickness

Waterproof socks, such as the ones we produce here at ArcticDry are the perfect weight and thickness for many different types of sports and activities.

For example, if you want to go on a long hike, they aren’t so thick as to restrict your feet or circulation, and equally they aren’t heavy unlike some normal hiking socks and other types of sports socks.

This makes them the perfect companion for your sport of choice!

Care and Maintenance

Waterproof Sock are relatively low maintenance. If you’re reading this feeling a bit confused, please read our guide here: How do you wash waterproof socks?.

They are a lot simpler to take care of compared to other products as all you need to do is turn them inside out and wash them with lukewarm water and a simple soap.

As opposed to other waterproof clothing that demands much more rigorous cleaning techniques.

Antibacterial Properties

This is another important feature that your waterproof socks should have.

Going for fossil hunting expeditions exposes your feet to bacteria and other microbes that may find their way to your system through the feet.

This is especially true if you’ll be wading through ankle-high waters.

Contaminated water such as floodwater can be very unhygienic and is usually a leading cause of different communicable diseases like cholera and typhoid fever. Waterproof socks with antibacterial linings will protect you from possible infections.

Good Grip

If you happen to step into a deep puddle and the water gets inside your shoes, it can get annoyingly slippery and spoil the rest of the adventure. Waterproof socks such as the ones we create here at ArcticDry offer fantastic grip due to the materials used in production.

Comfort

Comfort is always a crucial feature when you are spending the whole day hiking in the outdoors. For an activity as demanding as fossil hunting, you want to dispel any possibilities of developing blisters on your feet and other discomforts. You can do this by choosing socks with plenty of cushioning and padding to ease the pressure when walking on hard surfaces. At ArcticDry our socks are made up of 3 distinct layers, meaning they are super comfy!

Durability

Your socks need to be able to withstand the punishment that comes with hiking tough trails, which is synonymous with fossil collecting.

All this friction and eventual wear and tear can render them useless in a matter of a few weeks if not months. If you want to extend the shelf life of your waterproof socks, go for a nylon fabric that has been mixed with elastane such as the ones here at ArcticDry.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the right pair of waterproof socks for fossil hunting can significantly enhance your whole experience. You won’t have to worry about getting your feet wet and cold when walking through puddles or when there is an unexpected downpour.

Your feet remain dry and warm, ensuring that you are comfortable and enjoying your adventure the whole time.

So, the next time you are planning to go on a fossil hunting mission with your curious buddies, be sure to use this guide to find a pair of waterproof socks that best suits you.
Happy trails!

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterproofing