DexShell Waterproof Socks, Gloves and Hats

Yes. DexShell uses a Porelle waterproof breathable membrane layered between the outer and inner fabrics, which blocks liquid water from passing through while allowing moisture vapour to escape. In normal use, including stream crossings, heavy rain, and wet grass, the sock keeps your foot dry. The membrane is delicate and can be compromised if punctured by sharp debris, so treating the socks with care and inspecting them periodically is worthwhile. DexShell's warranty covers manufacturing defects rather than damage from wear, which is standard across this product category.

Both are waterproof and use multi-layer membrane technology, but they sit differently. DexShell uses four-way stretch construction which gives a closer, more natural fit inside a shoe or boot, feeling more like a conventional sock in use. Sealskinz traditionally uses two-way stretch which gives a slightly stiffer, more structured feel that some users find less comfortable inside footwear. Sealskinz offers a lifetime waterproof guarantee and their Hydrostop cuff technology prevents water running down the leg into the sock, which is a genuine advantage in very wet conditions. DexShell is generally more affordable and the fit suits those who find Sealskinz too rigid. If fit and price are the priority, DexShell is the stronger choice. If the lifetime guarantee and Hydrostop cuff matter to you, Sealskinz justifies the premium.

In our experience, no. When running in rain, water runs down your leg and into the shoe regardless of whether the upper is waterproof, which means the shoe's waterproofing stops being effective in sustained wet conditions anyway. Non-waterproof trail running shoes are typically lighter and dry out significantly faster after getting wet, so you end up running in a lighter, quicker-drying shoe once the water has found its way in. Pairing a DexShell waterproof sock with a non-waterproof trail shoe gives you a drier foot more reliably than a waterproof shoe without a waterproof sock, and a better experience overall on wet Welsh trails.

For trail running the Running Lite or Running Lite 2.0 are the right choice: low profile, lightweight, and cut to fit inside a running shoe without adding bulk or creating pressure points. For hiking and walking the Terrain Walking 2.0 provides more cushioning throughout the foot and a construction designed for boot wear across a long day. The Thermlite adds insulation for cold and wet winter hiking. If you need knee-high coverage, the Longlite 2.0 covers the full lower leg and is available in a compression version. For anyone unsure, come in to our stores in Llanberis or Beddgelert and we will talk you through the right option for your footwear and planned activity.

Machine wash inside out on a gentle cycle at 30 degrees with a mild technical wash. Avoid standard detergents, fabric softeners, bleach, and tumble drying as these degrade the Porelle membrane and reduce the sock's waterproof integrity over time. Air dry flat or hanging. Treating the socks with care significantly extends their useful life and maintains the membrane's performance. Inspect regularly for small punctures or abrasion damage, particularly in the sole area, which is where membrane integrity is most likely to be compromised first.

Yes. We stock DexShell waterproof socks, gloves, and hats across our stores in Llanberis and Beddgelert, with same-day click and collect available from both locations. For socks in particular it is worth trying the fit in store if possible, as the four-way stretch construction fits differently to a standard hiking sock and the right size inside your specific footwear is worth confirming before buying.