After rigorous testing, Gemma Palmer awards the Highlander Aqua-tac 100% waterproof socks her Best in Test. Find out why.
These Highlander Aqua-tac 100% waterproof socks gave me the confidence to take on the wettest routes.
Gemma Palmer’s Best in Test
Overall, these socks are ready to tackle wet conditions. I recommend them for their performance and value in providing foot protection against wet conditions and cold temperatures without experiencing- temperature regulation
- excellent waterproofing
- breathability
- proper care essential to maintain the waterproof membrane
| Quick specs |
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| Price: $53 / £39.99 Weight: 168g (size M) Materials: Outer Sock: 91% Nylon, 9% Elastane; Membrane: Waterproof, Breathable Hydrophilic Inner Sock: 41% Merino Wool, 44% Acrylic, 14% Nylon, 1% Elastane Sizes: UK 5 – 13 Men’s version: Unisex highlander-outdoor.com |
These socks gave me the confidence to take on the wettest routes. The fit is snug with a stretchy cuff that holds securely and comfortably without restricting circulation. The merino wool inner layer is soft against the skin, providing excellent warmth and keeping feet warm even when walking through wet blades of long grass and flooded fields.
You’re not restricted to wearing gaiters to protect from water. I could feel the water against the outer layer and my feet remained dry inside thanks to the waterproof and breathable membrane construction within this mid-length sock.
Understandably, this thick knitted sock’s outer layer remains damp. Initial droplets and splashes of water roll away, but muddy water and heavy mud cling to the sock. This is easily removed by wiping away or brushing off once dry.
Importantly, feet remain comfortable and do not overheat despite the added warmth of the merino wool. These socks kept feet dry from the ankle down during lashing rain.
For lightly soiled socks, handwashing inside out and removing excess water with a towel the night before is effective. For a deeper clean, such as removing the lingering smell of silt, a machine wash on the wool cycle worked well.
I plan to wear these socks in summer to navigate streams and boggy ground. The only downside is the limited colour choice of functional black.
Overall, these socks are ready to tackle wet conditions. I recommend them for their performance and value in providing foot protection against wet conditions and cold temperatures without experiencing wet feet or clamminess.
Testing conditions
Gemma, who is 5’10” tall and wears a UK size 8.5 shoe, experiences cold toes during winter hikes. She has a wide forefoot, high arch, and narrow heel. Gemma wore the socks paired with leggings when hiking across the diverse terrains of East Anglia, including coastal trails, nature reserves, heathlands, and riverbanks.
This review was first published in the May 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors.
