Boots

Why Choose Wetsuit Socks?

Many spearfishermen want to ensure they have the greatest freedom of movement underwater. This means they opt for wetsuit socks over boots even in cooler conditions. 

This gives you a much greater range of movement for your feet and is ideal if you need to move quickly through difficult terrains such as reefs and wrecks. 

-Wetsuit socks will provide some thermal insulation.  However if you do feel the cold or are diving in cool water conditions then you should consider wetsuit boots as these can provide additional thermal insulation.

-You do need to protect your feet when you are in the water.  The longer you are in the water the softer the skin on your feet will become. This means that they will be much more vulnerable to cuts and abrasions than normal.  Also the longer you are in the water the colder your feet will get. This is because your body conserve heat by drawing it up into your main torso.  This can leave your feet feeling numb and very uncomfortable so it is a good idea to opt for additional thermal protection from socks or boots.

-There are also a number of hazards underwater such as stinging jellyfish.  When you are diving in high risk areas you need to wear a protective wetsuit or stinger suit and don’t forget to make sure your feet and hands are covered as well with gloves and socks.

Materials

Wetsuit socks can be made from a range of materials including neoprene, Lycra and Nylon.  The neoprene versions will tend to be thicker and provide slightly more thermal protection.  The Lycra and Nylon versions are effective at protecting your feet from sharp and abrasive surfaces and can provide good grip.  These are lightweight and comfortable to wear and are designed so that they do not absorb water and lose their shape.  They will also provide protection against UV light for when you are diving in sunny conditions.

Further Considerations

Many people are actually slightly allergic to some of the ingredients in neoprene. Vulnerable areas for allergic reactions including the neck, wrists and ankles.  If you do get a red rash or other reaction when wearing neoprene you can get Lycra or Nylon wetsuit socks.  These can be worn under neoprene socks or boots to help prevent reactions.

Wetsuits socks are available in a number of different sizes.  Most of these are stretchy so you do not have to be exact in sizing. Make sure they are not too loose though as they could pull free when you are in the water.  If they are too tight they could make your feet numb and very uncomfortable.