Dive Socks

[Dave in PA]

Hey all, In looking forward to some chilly spring diving in a couple of weeks I ordered (from my LDS) a pair of neoprene socks to wear under my boots. My thought is that the only part of me that gets a cold water shock is where the water comes through the zipper on the boots. I normally dive wet in a 2 pc 7 mm, 5 mm gloves, 7/5 mil hood. This set up keeps me comfy down to the mid fortys so far.

Short of going dry, what have others used to stay warm?

 

[Rick Inman]

Hey all, In looking forward to some chilly spring diving in a couple of weeks I ordered (from my LDS) a pair of neoprene socks to wear under my boots. My thought is that the only part of me that gets a cold water shock is where the water comes through the zipper on the boots. I normally dive wet in a 2 pc 7 mm, 5 mm gloves, 7/5 mil hood. This set up keeps me comfy down to the mid fortys so far.

Short of going dry, what have others used to stay warm?

The neoprene socks should help, as long as the added thickness between your feet and the boots don't impair circulation.
When I dived wet, I would bring along a Thermos of hot water and pour it into my boots after the dive.

 

[Ber Rabbit]

Rick is right about the circulation issue, make sure your boots are big enough for the added layer. I wear polarfleece socks under mine. If you don't mind looking like a complete dork you can always run a strip of duct tape over the boot zipper while your suit is still dry but you have to leave your boots on until you're done diving. When I first started diving I used to tape all of my seals (boot zippers, and wrist/glove, boot/ankle meeting points) but then again I'm a complete dork
Ber

 

[Wristshot]

I have seen some people that put warm water into their wetsuits (not boots specifically) before they get into the water. Then as long as there is not a water exchange, it will be a while before you have cold water in your boots. YMMV


W

PS: I wear socks to make it easier to put the wetsuit on, not for warmth.

 

[Dave in PA]

Thanks guys, I have never needed to use the warm water down the suit technique, even on New Years Eve at Dutch Springs up here in PA. The water was a nippy 41* F. The only unpleasant part was were the water came through the zippers on the boots. I've lost a little weight over the winter (THAT'S a first!) so I shouldn't have to wrestle my wet suit as much this year. I figured I may need a new wet suit if I start to get a water transfer due to my weight loss....It'll be worth it, though!