When Dave set out on his seven-day trek through the stunning but brutal terrain of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, he knew he’d be facing icy winds, freezing creek crossings, and temperatures as low as -9°C. Staying warm was important — but keeping his feet dry was critical.

Among all the gear in his pack, one small but mighty item stood out as a game-changer: the Bridgedale StormSock Midweight Waterproof Socks.

Watch the video- Dave's gamechanger for cold weather hiking: Bridgedale Storm Socks

The Southern Alps are known for their jaw-dropping beauty — and their brutal conditions. Over the five days, Dave traversed steep snowy ridgelines, sloshed through glacial melt streams, and camped in snow-dusted valleys. Even with waterproof boots, the constant river crossings (sometimes 20 a day) ensured those boots stayed wet. But thanks to his Bridgedale StormSocks, Dave’s feet stayed warm, dry, and blister-free the entire time.

What Makes Bridgedale StormSocks So Effective?

Unlike ordinary socks, the Bridgedale StormSock Midweight Boot length socks are specifically designed to provide 100% waterproof protection while still allowing your feet to breathe.

Here’s what sets them apart:

• Three-Layer Construction:

  • Inner layer: Merino wool for warmth, softness, and moisture-wicking.

  • Middle layer: A Hydrotech waterproof, breathable membrane.

  • Outer layer: A durable nylon blend for abrasion resistance.

• Midweight Cushioning: Ideal for cold-weather trekking, offering both insulation and comfort during long days on your feet.

• Boot-Length Fit: Covers above the ankle for protection in deeper snow or water without bulk.

  
  Hint: Dave's river crossings are no joke

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Dave’s Top Tips for Using Storm Socks in the Wild

• Pair with Solid Footwear
  While the socks are fully waterproof, Dave recommends wearing them with a solid, lined boot.

• Take Spares
  Dave carried multiple pairs of Wilderness Wear merino socks and used them as appropriate - if you are crossing rivers, don't wear the Storm Socks, wear your wet Merino socks. Choose dry socks at night. And choose the Storm Sock when putting on wet or frozen boots in the morning.

• Work though your layers
  Wearing a merino sock underneath the StormSock can make your feet warmer when sitting around in sub-zero temperatures all day and give your boots time to dry out.

• Dry Inside-Out
  After each day, he turned them inside out to dry more effectively in the tent or throughout the day in any available sunlight or breeze preserving the waterproof membrane’s performance.

Final Thoughts

When you’re hiking in alpine conditions, cold and wet feet can ruin your trip — or worse, lead to serious injury. For Dave, Bridgedale’s StormSock Midweight Socks weren’t just a luxury; they were essential survival gear. Whether you're a beginner or expert, these socks are a game-changer1

They allowed him to confidently tackle freezing river crossings, icy trails, and long hikes without worrying about blisters, cold feet, or trench foot. For anyone heading into wet or snowy terrain, these socks are a must-pack item.

Available now at PAST Outdoors, the Bridgedale StormSock Midweight Boot Socks are a small investment that can make a huge difference on your next cold-weather adventure.

At PAST Outdoors, we're passionate hiking, camping, and travel experts dedicated to helping you gear up for unforgettable adventures. As a proudly Australian-owned business, we offer carefully selected, high-performance outdoor gear backed by honest advice and personalised service. Whether you're a weekend hiker or an alpine trekker, we're here to support your journey with trusted products and real-world expertise.