Although much more pliable than the first generation, waterproof don’t stretch as much as conventional socks and can vary considerably between brands. Waterproof socks will take twice as long to dry as ordinary socks; you will need multiple pairs for multi-day trips.

The Dexshell and EDZ I'm looking at aren't cheap but are merino lined which will help with wicking but only so far of course because the sweat can't exit the socks - just the merino layer. I had to wear goretex boots back in my USFWS days - they're the worst thing for blisters as they hold sweat/water in, imo. The general rule for Yellowstone is that you should pack for all four seasons, and while it's unlikely there will be significant snow on the ground when we're there, it's not impossible.My idea is to try to find a way of keeping my lower legs dry and never have to bother with gaiters again. I then threw them in the washing machine and dryer before having the thought that maybe the membrane wasn't really meant for regular laundry. Often apparel designed to work in one sporting activity very nicely crosses over to other similar activities.

But they are the only sock I've had that are comfortable when wet, and the synthetic material dries much faster than wool. Backpacking Light helps hikers and other backcountry enthusiasts overcome their barriers to living a life outside in Wild Places. Just be aware that they are a little thicker than normal socks so you my have to size up your shoes I was lucky and had room to spare !I put on some waterproof Keen shoes to shovel the walk, but other than those those few trips outside I just stayed inside where my feet were well and truly dry. My take on it is that none of them are waterproof in the long term (or even medium term) and that my feet will still get wet in winter, but they will be a fair bit warmer than if I was using normal socks. Absent a true medical need, boots are, in general, overkill - and more problem-prone - for 3-season hiking and backpacking. After walking through brush and around abandoned irrigation canals for two hours, I was just about to get back on the main trail when I came up to the edge of a beaver pond.