A good pair of neoprene socks can make a big difference when you’re snorkeling or diving.
Also known as fin socks, or water socks, they offer a surprising amount of extra warmth and comfort when you’re in the water. What’s more, they’re cheap to buy! So it’s a no-brainer.
But not all neoprene socks are created equal.
Unfortunately, there are plenty of low-quality options that won’t keep your feet warm, tear easily, or simply fall off as soon as you’re in the water.
Table of Contents
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Our Top Choice
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Luxury Option
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Great Alternative
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Best Fitting
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$19.95
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$24.59
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$16.95
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$19.99
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At OtterAquatics, our ultimate goal is to help give you the best scuba diving experience possible.
We’ve assembled a team of PADI, SSI, and Molchanovs instructors to get their hands wet and test our recommendations firsthand.
How We Pick
In order to create our best lists, the OtterAquatics team starts off by researching the product landscape for a particular category, listing out all of the highest-rated choices.
We then get our hands on all the products by either purchasing them, getting them sent to us by the manufacturer, or coming in contact with it on one of the various diving boats we work on.
Next, we identify 3-5 products per category that are distinct best choices for different scenarios. For example, on a list, we may suggest budget, luxury, and expert-level products.
How We Review
The OtterAquatics team reviews the products on our lists by taking them out on dives and seeing how they perform in different environments. We place the products in the hands of students and instructors in order to gather feedback. We collect all of this experience and share it with you.
Our Team of Writers
Want to learn more about who our writers are? Head over to the OtterAquatics About Page.
At OtterAquatics, our ultimate goal is to help give you the best scuba diving experience possible.
We’ve assembled a team of PADI, SSI, and Molchanovs instructors to get their hands wet and test our recommendations firsthand.
How We Pick
In order to create our best lists, the OtterAquatics team starts off by researching the product landscape for a particular category, listing out all of the highest-rated choices.
We then get our hands on all the products by either purchasing them, getting them sent to us by the manufacturer, or coming in contact with it on one of the various diving boats we work on.
Next, we identify 3-5 products per category that are distinct best choices for different scenarios. For example, on a list, we may suggest budget, luxury, and expert-level products.
How We Review
The OtterAquatics team reviews the products on our lists by taking them out on dives and seeing how they perform in different environments. We place the products in the hands of students and instructors in order to gather feedback. We collect all of this experience and share it with you.
Our Team of Writers
Want to learn more about who our writers are? Head over to the OtterAquatics About Page.
Best Neoprene Socks
NeoSport Premium
- Good thermal protection
- Available in high & low top
- 12-month warranty
- Snug, yet comfortable fit that doesn’t fall off
- Durable and well constructed
- Super stretchy & flexible
- Great value
- Versatile
- Traction sole wears off quite easily
- Sizes come up a little big
- Not thick enough for cold water or rocky terrain
If you’re looking to prevent your fins from rubbing or add a little extra warmth, these are a great choice. Constructed from ultra-soft 4-way stretch 2mm neoprene, these water socks offer unrivaled comfort and flexibility. They fit perfectly without constricting your feet or easily falling off.
The smooth interior and super stretchy material make these socks super easy to take on and off and effectively protects your skin from abrasions. They also have a durable traction sole that grips well on both wet and dry surfaces when walking.
They’re also thin enough to be worn inside wetsuit boots for a little extra warmth. Or they can even be used as a replacement for wool socks in the winter. We also love the option to choose between a high or low top design.
They tend to be a little big so it’s worth ordering a size down with this pair of neoprene socks.
Product Specs:
- Thickness: 2mm
- Materials: Neoprene
- Bottom Grip: Durable Traction Sole
- Seams: Stitched
- Top cuff: N/A
- Size: 4-15
BPS Storm Sock
- Adjustable elastic straps keep sand & excess water out
- Great fit for everyone
- Reinforced seams for durability & longevity
- Streamlined & flexible
- Variety of sizes & colors available
- Soles lose grip with frequent use
- Inside seams may rub a little
This is a premium pair of wet socks without the premium price tag.
Everything about this pair of neoprene socks is well-made. From the high-quality 3mm neoprene to the blind stitched and glued seams and reinforced soles, you can tell that they’re built to last.
An adjustable elastic strap ensures that these socks never slip off, whilst still being easy to take on and off. This smart design ensures the perfect fit for all whilst preventing any sand or grit from getting inside the sock. Plus it stops water from pooling inside the socks, keeping them streamlined and offering optimal warmth.
The sturdy soles are reinforced to ensure you can walk around comfortably on the sand or rocks. Yet the design is so light and flexible that you’ll forget you’re even wearing them.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and reliable water sock that’ll also keep you warm on colder days, then the BPS Storm Smart Socks are a perfect choice.
What’s more, they’re available in a ton of different colors and fun designs so you can choose the exact pair to match your style.
Product Specs:
- Thickness: 2mm
- Materials: Neoprene
- Bottom Grip: Soft sole/rubberized grip
- Seams: Stitched
- Top cuff: Velcro
- Size: XS-3XL
Seavenger Zephyr 3mm
- Superb fit
- Super stretchy & comfortable
- Easy to put on & take off
- Excellent traction
- Good thermal insulation
- Variety of colors available
- Only low top design available
- Not as long-lasting as more premium pairs
Whatever your chosen water sport, the Seavenger Zephyr 3mm neoprene socks will keep your feet warm and protected.
The 4-way stretch neoprene contours perfectly to the shape of your feet creating a superb fit. So you can move your feet and ankles easily without feeling at all constricted.
A honeycomb non-slip sole helps keep your fins in place and offer excellent traction when walking on slippery surfaces.
If you’re looking for a versatile low-top water sock that won’t break the bank, these are a great choice.
Product Specs:
- Thickness: 3mm
- Materials: 90% Neoprene, 10% Nylon Jersey
- Bottom Grip: Soft sole-Dotted silkscreen sole
- Seams: Stitched
- Top cuff: N/A
- Size: XXS-3XL
Cressi Anti-Slip Socks 3mm
- Comes in 4 different styles including camo
- Ergonomic foot shape for comfort
- Durable
- Made of high stretch neoprene
- Great non slip soles
- Can be used with closed heel fins or inside a neoprene dive boot for added protection
- Easy to put on and take off
- Lightweight & packable
- Very good thermal insulation
- Pricey
Cressi is one of the top providers of aquatic equipment in the world and here we have a great addition to their range. These neoprene sock are comfortable and durable.
They come in 4 different styles. 3 camo versions for the more adventurous buyer. Great for spearfishers and others who want to blend seamlessly in to the underwater environment. Then there is the standard black for the everyday user.
These single lined dive socks are easy to don, as the interior is coated with a Metallite finish. The soles are non-slip lining, helping to keep your foot from slipping out of a fin foot pocket.
These socks are a little more expensive than the others mentioned above but when it comes to buying equipment you know the quality you are getting when you go with Cressi.
Product Specs:
- Thickness: 3mm
- Materials: High stretch neoprene
- Bottom Grip: Soft Sole-Anti-Slip Neoprene
- Seams: Stitched & glued
- Top cuff: N/A
- Size: S-XL
Neoprene Socks Buying Guide
All of our top choices are relatively lightweight and low cost. This makes them all great options if you’re on a tight budget or travel often. But each pair has a few qualities where they stand out.
Most Versatile: BPS Storm Smart Sock
With high-quality construction and premium materials, the BPS Storm Smart Socks are built to last.
These are the socks to go for if you are looking for a multi-purpose wet sock. They’re extremely comfortable, durable, and can be used for pretty much any water activity.
Best Budget Option: Seavenger Zephyr 3mm Neoprene Socks
For those on a tight budget, we recommend this low-cost neoprene sock from Seavenger.
Offering a snug and flexible fit, these will keep your feet warm and protected for a very cheap price.
Most Durable: Slinx Neoprene Water Fin Sock
When it comes to protecting your feet, these socks offer the highest coverage. They’re taller, thicker, and more puncture resistant than any of our other recommendations. They’re also comfortable, anti-slip, and highly versatile.
Most Breathable: Simari Quick-Dry Aqua Socks
While neoprene is great for keeping you warm, it can also be uncomfortably sweaty. So if breathability is a key factor for you then these are your best choice. Made from quick-dry mesh, instead of neoprene, these water socks are ideal for tropical climates.
What To Look For When Choosing Neoprene Socks
Still struggling to decide?
Here are the key factors you should consider when choosing the best neoprene socks for diving or snorkeling:
What Conditions Will You Use Your Neoprene Socks In?
This is the first thing you need to decide. Because the best neoprene socks for you will very much depend on the activities and environment you’ll be using them in.
For example. if you plan on wearing them in cold water then you need to look for a thick neoprene that’ll provide you with enough thermal protection. Alternatively, if you’re planning on only using them in warm waters and tropical climates, then you’ll want a more lightweight and breathable water sock.
Similarly, if you only plan on using your neoprene socks in the water then flexibility and comfort will be key. But if you plan on using these socks for walking over rough terrain or playing beach sports, make sure they have a sturdy, reinforced sole.
For diving and snorkeling, you want to choose a neoprene sock with more stretch and a good sole grip that’ll sit comfortably underneath your fins.
If they’re too thick or too bulky, it’ll be uncomfortable. If possible, go for those that feel like they are your feet, meaning they should fit like a glove.
Are They Durable Enough?
You want your neoprene socks to last you a long time. So check the seam construction, it should be both stitched and then glued for added durability. Also, check the soles and make sure they’re thick and sturdy enough.
What Coverage Do You Want?
You’ll have noticed that neoprene socks come in either a low or high cut. Which cut is best for you is mostly down to personal preference and the level of coverage you’re looking for.
A high top neoprene sock offers additional protection from the cold and abrasions but can be a little trickier to put on and take off. Plus you can end up with some funky tan lines!
On the other hand, low cut neoprene socks are much easier to slip on and off, but they offer less protection and are easier to accidentally knock off.
Are They The Right Size?
Neoprene socks should be tight but not restrictive. If they’re too loose they won’t provide much stability or warmth, and they’ll probably slip off. On the other hand, if they’re super tight they won’t be comfortable and can restrict blood flow. The perfect neoprene sock will feel like a second skin, almost as if you’re not wearing anything at all.
If they only come in two or three sizes, you’ll probably have a hard time finding a good fit. Make sure you take a proper look at the size chart provided by the manufacturer, as well as any recommendations from reviewers on sizing. It’s not uncommon to need to go a size up or down when choosing neoprene socks.
What's Your Budget
And lastly, decide how much you want to spend. While it’s worth spending a little extra for a higher quality product, there are many excellent options that are still very budget-friendly.
