DexShell Waterproof Running Socks Review

DexShell Waterproof Trail Running Socks Review

The UK is renowned for its wet weather at the best of times but when you transition into running winter trails, it’s a different beast entirely. There's nothing worse than being on a long-distance winter run and having wet feet. For a couple of hours it’s manageable, but anything longer than that and your feet start to turn into numb blocks of ice.

With that in mind, DexShell sent me a couple of pairs of their waterproof running socks to see if they can stand up to the grim British winter.

The Tech Specs

Before we get into the muddy details, let’s look at what these socks are actually made of. DexShell socks feature a clever 3-layer bonded construction. You’ve got a durable, drip-dry outer layer and a soft, comfortable inner layer. Sandwiched right in the middle is the magic component: a Porelle® waterproof membrane.

This membrane is what stops the water getting in while still allowing some breathability. Another massive bonus worth noting is that they come with a Limited Lifetime Guarantee which protects against manufacturer defects. This gives you extra peace of mind given they are an investment compared to a standard pair of running socks.

DexShell Socks Fit

I’ll admit, I was surprised at how well they fit. Waterproof socks have a reputation for being stiff or baggy, but these feel remarkably close to a standard sock. They are noticeably thicker than typical running socks, which I was expecting, but not overly thick. To be honest, in the winter months that extra bit of cushioning and warmth may not be a bad thing at all.

For reference, I’m usually a UK size 9.5-10 in running shoes, and I wear a size Large in the DexShell socks. They fit really well, no bunching at the heel or toes, which is important when you’re covering ultra distances.

Putting Them To The Test: Puddle Hunting

I’ve been putting them to the test on some wet and wintery long runs, and they have been great.

On the very first run I tested them, I found myself actively hunting down puddles to run through, just like a little kid. I wanted to see if they would fail but they didn't.

Initially, it is a strange feeling. Your shoes get completely soaked, and your brain tells you your feet should be wet. You feel the cold sensation of the water, and you feel the weight of the wet trainer, but your skin remains dry. It’s a bit of a mind-bender, but you soon get used to it.

DexShell Waterproof Socks Performance

I’m very impressed with the quality of the socks and how they perform. To be honest, they do exactly what they say on the tin. They kept my feet warm and dry even when my shoes were completely soaked through.

One major concern I did have was overheating. I was worried my feet would sweat profusely and I’d end up with wet feet from the inside out. But to be fair, that wasn’t any more of an issue than with normal running socks. They are somewhat breathable, and while they are definitely warmer than a standard running sock, I didn’t experience that "boil-in-the-bag" sensation I feared.

For me, I think the DexShell running socks are a great way to help fend off trench foot, which is always a risk on exceptionally long winter runs.

The Verdict: Are DexShell Waterproof Running Socks Worth It?

When it comes to running, and in particular trail and ultra running, shoes and socks are a very personal thing. What works for one runner might not work for another.

That being said, I'll definitely be incorporating the DexShell waterproof running socks into my winter running kit, and I’d absolutely recommend giving them a try! This is especially true if you’ve got some gnarly winter ultras coming up, like the Arc of Attrition or the Winter Spine. Keeping your feet warm and dry is one less thing to worry about when you're 70 miles into a 100 miler, death-marching along a wintry Cornish coast. These waterproof socks could be the difference between finishing strong or DNFing.

Price

If you fancy giving them a go, you can pick up a pair for around £26.99 using the link below, which to me is absolutely worth it.

Socks often get a bad rap as the boring gift but if you gave these to a trail runner or ultra runner for their birthday or Christmas, I’m certain they’d absolutely love them! It’s a practical bit of kit that genuinely improves the running experience during winter.

DexShell Waterproof Running Socks

DexShell Running Lite 2.0 - £26.99

A final word of advice: Just remember to try them out and thoroughly test them on some long training runs first. You want to make sure they work for you instead of running into issues on race day.