DexShell vs Current Stride: Which Socks Perform Better for Running?

How Do DexShell and Current Stride Compare at a Glance?

Feature	DexShell	Current Stride
Price (AUD)	$53.56–$90.30	$55.00
Waterproof Tech	3-layer Porelle membrane	3-layer Nanoporous membrane
Established	2010	2025
Best Known For	Proven global brand, maximum waterproofing	Premium comfort and breathability
Warranty	Limited Lifetime Guarantee (12-month replacement/refund for manufacturing defects)	30-day waterproof guarantee – FREE replacement OR full refund + $15 AUD discount code (no questions asked)
Ships to Australia	Via international retailers	✓ Direct shipping
Where to Buy	DexShell Waterproof Socks	Current Stride AquaStride Socks

Quick Summary: DexShell is the established choice with maximum waterproofing. Current Stride offers premium breathability and comfort with excellent (though slightly less extreme) waterproofing—ideal for Australian runners who prioritise all-day comfort in varied conditions.

What's Different About Each Brand?

About DexShell:

DexShell is a well-established UK brand founded in 2010 with over 15 years of proven reliability in waterproof outdoor gear. They're known for their Porelle membrane waterproof technology, which delivers exceptional water protection.

DexShell's Strengths:

• Extensive product range (waterproof socks, gloves, hats, beanies)
• Available in outdoor retailers worldwide
• Thousands of customer reviews across products
• Proven track record in various conditions
• Maximum waterproof protection

Who DexShell Is For: Runners and outdoor enthusiasts who want the most established brand with maximum waterproofing and don't mind sacrificing some breathability.

About Current Stride:

Current Stride is a premium waterproof sock brand established in 2025 by Latvian entrepreneur Elizabete Zukula. We use advanced Nanoporous membrane technology that prioritises the balance between waterproofing, breathability, and comfort.

Current Stride's Strengths:

• Nanoporous membrane technology (blocks water while maximising breathability)
• Tested in extreme conditions: Ironman marathons, Mont Blanc summits, multi-day trail running
• Premium comfort focus—no "plastic bag" feel
• Better breathability than traditional waterproof membranes
• Australian-friendly direct shipping

Who Current Stride Is For: Australian runners and adventurers who want waterproof protection without sacrificing breathability and comfort during long-distance runs, hikes, and challenging conditions.

Key Differences:

Aspect	DexShell	Current Stride
Experience	15 years on market	New brand (2025)
Focus	Maximum waterproofing	Waterproofing + breathability + comfort
Testing	Daily use and light outdoor activities	Extreme conditions (Ironman, Mont Blanc, harsh weather)
Product Range	Wide (socks, gloves, hats)	Focused (premium waterproof socks)
Philosophy	Proven reliability	Premium performance innovation

How Does the Waterproof Technology Compare?

What Is 3-Layer Waterproof Technology?

Both brands use 3-layer waterproof technology—the industry standard for quality waterproof socks:

• Outer Layer: Durable, protective fabric that resists abrasion and water
• Middle Layer: Waterproof membrane (this is where brands differ most)
• Inner Layer: Soft, moisture-wicking fabric for comfort against skin

The middle membrane layer is what determines the balance between waterproofing, breathability, and comfort.

DexShell's Technology: Porelle Membrane

What It Is:

• Microporous polyurethane membrane (PFOA-free)
• Tried-and-tested technology used for decades
• Found in industrial and outdoor products worldwide

Strengths:

• Excellent waterproofing (15,000mm hydrostatic head rating)
• Proven durability over years of use
• Handles extreme water exposure and prolonged wet conditions
• Reliable performance in heavy rain

Trade-Offs:

• Less breathable during intense activity
• Can feel warmer/stuffier on longer runs
• Airflow and vapour transfer are more limited
• Some customers report sweaty feet during high-intensity exercise

Best For: Maximum waterproofing when you need to stay dry no matter what—deep puddles, stream crossings, prolonged rain exposure.

Current Stride's Technology: Nanoporous Membrane

What It Is:

• Ultra-thin electrospun nanofibre membrane
• Advanced material with millions of interconnected nano-channels
• Designed for high-performance athletes

Strengths:

• Superior breathability (heat and sweat vapour escape much faster)
• More comfortable during long-distance activities
• Removes the "plastic bag" feel of traditional waterproof membranes
• Better moisture management from the inside
• Lighter and more flexible

Trade-Offs:

• Slightly less extreme waterproofing than Porelle (still excellent for most conditions)
• If outer fabric's DWR (durable water repellent) coating wears down, the outer layer can feel damp (though it won't leak through)
• Not ideal for full submersion or extremely prolonged water exposure

Best For: Australian runners doing marathons, trail running, hiking, and multi-hour activities who need waterproofing without overheating.

What This Means for You:

The Honest Truth: For 90% of runners' needs—training runs in Melbourne rain, Sydney trail runs with creek crossings, Brisbane humidity with afternoon storms—both technologies keep your feet dry. The question is: do you want maximum waterproofing with less breathability (DexShell) or excellent waterproofing with superior comfort (Current Stride)?

What Do Customers Say About Performance?

DexShell Customer Feedback:

Review Volume: ~900 reviews per product (established brand with extensive feedback)

Average Rating: 4.3/5 stars

Common Praise:

• "Kept my feet completely dry in heavy rain"
• "No leaks during stream crossings"
• "Durable—lasted over a year of regular use"
• "Great for hiking in wet conditions"

Common Complaints:

• "Feet get sweaty during long runs"
• "Not as breathable as I hoped"
• "Can feel warm on hot days"
• "Wish they were more comfortable for all-day wear"

Customer Consensus: Excellent waterproofing and durability, but breathability could be better for intense or long-duration activities.

Current Stride Customer Feedback:

Review Volume: ~900 reviews on AquaStride Waterproof Socks

Average Rating: 4.7/5 stars

Common Praise:

• "Best waterproof socks I've owned—actually breathable!"
• "Comfortable enough to wear for an entire marathon"
• "No sweaty feet like my old waterproof socks"
• "Perfect balance of protection and comfort"
• "Kept feet dry during Ironman and felt great"

Common Complaints:

• "Leaked slightly during extremely heavy, prolonged rain (3+ hours)"
• "Outer layer felt damp in torrential downpour (though didn't leak through)"

Customer Consensus: Superior breathability and comfort with excellent waterproofing for typical running conditions. Not ideal for extreme, prolonged water exposure.

For Running:

What Runners Report:

• Both brands prevent blisters by keeping feet dry
• DexShell better for maximum protection in shorter, wetter runs
• Current Stride better for marathon-distance comfort with good protection
• Moisture management: Current Stride handles internal sweat better

For Other Activities:

Hiking:

• DexShell: Great for day hikes in wet conditions
• Current Stride: Better for multi-day treks where breathability matters

Cycling:

• Both suitable for wet commutes
• Current Stride more comfortable for longer rides (2+ hours)

Trail Running:

• DexShell: Maximum protection on extremely muddy trails
• Current Stride: Better ground feel and comfort on technical terrain

What We Don't Know:

How Breathable Are They?

The Breathability Trade-Off:

All waterproof socks reduce breathability compared to regular running socks. The waterproof membrane that keeps water OUT also limits how much AIR flows in and out. This is true for every waterproof sock brand.

The question is: How well does the membrane allow moisture vapour (sweat) to escape while still blocking liquid water?

DexShell Breathability:

The Reality:

• Porelle membrane prioritises waterproofing over breathability
• Vapour permeability: 15,000 g/m²/day (good, but not exceptional)
• During high-intensity activities, sweat can build up inside

What This Means:

• Your feet stay dry from external water (rain, puddles)
• Your feet may get damp from internal moisture (sweat) during intense or long runs
• Better for cooler weather (under 15°C / 59°F)
• Can feel stuffy during Australian summer runs

Customer Experience:

• "Great in winter rain, but too warm for summer"
• "Feet stayed dry but felt sweaty after 10K"
• "Perfect for short, wet runs—not ideal for marathons"

Best For: Short to medium runs (under 2 hours) in cold, wet weather where maximum waterproofing matters more than breathability.

Current Stride Breathability:

The Technology:

• Nanoporous membrane with millions of nano-channels
• Significantly faster vapour transmission than traditional membranes
• Allows heat and sweat to escape while blocking liquid water

What This Means:

• Your feet stay dry from external water (rain, puddles, creek crossings)
• Your feet stay drier from internal moisture (sweat escapes more efficiently)
• More comfortable in Australian conditions (15-30°C / 59-86°F)
• Less "plastic bag" feeling during long runs

Customer Experience:

• "Finally, waterproof socks that don't make my feet sweat!"
• "Wore them for a full Ironman—feet stayed comfortable"
• "Perfect for Sydney summer trail runs with afternoon showers"
• "Can actually wear them in Queensland humidity"

Best For: Long-distance runs, marathons, multi-hour hikes, and Australian conditions where you need waterproofing but can't sacrifice breathability.

Realistic Expectations:

The Bottom Line: If you want waterproof socks that are actually breathable and comfortable for long Australian adventures, Current Stride is designed for exactly that. If you need maximum waterproofing for shorter activities in extreme wet conditions, DexShell delivers.

How Waterproof Are They Really?

What "Waterproof" Means:

Both brands use 3-layer technology designed to keep external water out while allowing internal moisture vapour to escape. Neither is designed for full submersion (like swimming), but both should handle rain, puddles, and wet trails effectively.

DexShell Waterproof Performance:

Technology:

• Porelle® membrane (PFOA-free polyurethane)
• 15,000mm waterproof rating (highly waterproof—10,000mm+ is excellent)
• Proven waterproof barrier across their product range

What This Handles:

• ✓ Heavy rain for extended periods (3+ hours)
• ✓ Deep puddles and prolonged water exposure
• ✓ Stream crossings (mid-calf deep water)
• ✓ Multi-day hiking in constant wet conditions
• ✓ Extreme waterlogging scenarios

Customer Reports:

• "Kept feet bone dry during 4-hour trail run in torrential rain"
• "Walked through streams—no leaks at all"
• "Best waterproofing I've experienced in socks"
• "Handles Melbourne's worst weather"

Best For: Maximum waterproof protection when you know you'll face extreme, prolonged wet conditions.

Current Stride Waterproof Performance:

Technology:

• Nanoporous membrane with electrospun nanofibres
• Excellent waterproofing (slightly less extreme than DexShell's 15,000mm rating)
• Designed for real-world running conditions, not laboratory extremes

What This Handles:

• ✓ Rain (light to heavy) for typical run durations (1-3 hours)
• ✓ Puddles and wet pavement
• ✓ Wet trail running with mud
• ✓ Brief creek crossings (ankle-deep)
• ✓ Australian winter conditions
• ✓ Tested in Ironman, Mont Blanc summit, multi-day hikes

What Customers Report:

• "Perfect for marathon in rain—feet stayed dry"
• "Handled Sydney trail runs with creek crossings"
• "Great for typical wet weather running"
• "Outer layer felt damp in extreme downpour, but feet stayed dry inside"
• "Leaked slightly during 4+ hours of torrential rain" (small percentage of reviews)

For Different Activities:

Activity	DexShell	Current Stride
Running in Rain	Excellent for all durations; edges ahead for long runs, torrential downpours	Excellent for typical rainy runs; more comfortable for marathon distances in moderate rain
Trail Running	More protection in extremely muddy, waterlogged conditions	Better ground feel, breathability, and comfort
Hiking	Better for day treks with constant heavy rain	Better for multi-day hikes and treks, prioritising all-day comfort
Cycling	Suitable for wet commutes	More comfortable for longer rides (2+ hours)
Kayaking	Splash protection (not designed for water sports)	Splash protection (not designed for water sports)
Swimming	✗ Not recommended	✗ Not recommended

The Honest Comparison:

For 90% of Australian runners:

• Melbourne rain runs? Both keep you dry.
• Sydney trail runs with creek crossings? Both work great.
• Brisbane storms during training? Both handle it.
• Tasmania multi-day hikes? Both protect your feet.

For extreme conditions (10% of use cases):

• Standing in ankle-deep water for 30+ minutes? DexShell wins.
• Running ultra-marathons in 5+ hours? Current Stride has the edge.

Our 30-Day Waterproof Guarantee:

How Should You Care for Them?

Why Care Matters:

Proper care extends the life of waterproof socks and maintains their performance. Poor care (especially heat and fabric softener) can permanently damage the waterproof membrane.

Expected Lifespan with Proper Care:

• DexShell: 1-2 years with regular use
• Current Stride: 1-2 years with regular use

Washing Instructions (Both Brands):

Drying:

Best Method:

1. Gently squeeze out excess water (don't wring)
2. Lay flat or hang to air dry
3. Keep out of direct sunlight
4. Allow 24-48 hours to fully dry

Never:

• Use a dryer (heat damages the membrane permanently)
• Place on radiators or heaters
• Use high heat in any form

Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place
• Don't compress for long periods
• Ensure socks are completely dry before storing

How Long They Last:

With Proper Care:

• Both brands: 1-2 years of regular use (2-3 times per week)
• 100-200 wears depending on conditions and care

What Reduces Lifespan:

• Excessive washing (wash only when needed)
• Using fabric softener (kills waterproofing)
• Heat exposure (dryer, hot water)
• Rough terrain (heavy abrasion)
• Poor storage (damp conditions)

Signs It's Time to Replace:

• Water starts seeping through
• Membrane feels stiff or crackly
• Visible holes or tears
• Loss of elasticity
• Persistent odour even after washing

How Do They Compare on Price and Value in Australia?

Price Comparison (AUD):

Product Tier	DexShell	Current Stride
Standard Range	$53.56–$90.30	$55.00
Premium Models	Up to $90+	$55.00 (one premium model)

Price Positioning:

• DexShell offers a range of price points depending on model
• Current Stride focuses on one premium product at competitive pricing

What Influences Price:

DexShell:

• 15 years of brand establishment
• Extensive product development
• Global distribution network
• Wide product range
• Marketing and retail partnerships

Current Stride:

• Advanced Nanoporous membrane technology (more expensive to produce)
• Premium materials and construction
• Direct-to-consumer model (no retail markup)
• Tested in extreme conditions (Ironman, Mont Blanc)
• Newer brand building reputation

Where to Buy in Australia:

DexShell:

• International retailers: Amazon, outdoor gear websites
• Shipping: Often from overseas (UK, US)
• Delivery time: 1-3 weeks international shipping
• Import duties: May apply on some orders
• Returns: Depends on retailer policy (may involve international returns)

Current Stride:

• Direct from website: currentstride.com
• Shipping: Direct to Australia
• Delivery time: 10-15 days
• Import duties: None (handled by us)
• Refunds: Easy 30-day refund policy

Warranty & Guarantees:

Feature	DexShell	Current Stride
Warranty Type	Limited Lifetime Guarantee	30-Day Waterproof Guarantee
Coverage Window	12 months for claims	30 days
What's Covered	Manufacturing defects only	Leaks, defects, manufacturing issues
Proof Required	Photos of defect, receipt	Photo/video proof
Resolution	Replacement or refund (company decides)	Your choice: FREE replacement OR full refund
Bonus	None	Discount code even with claim
Process	Email hello@dexshell.com	Email info@currentstride.com
Policy	Standard warranty process	No questions asked

Which Warranty Is Better?

DexShell Advantage:

• Longer coverage window (12 months)
• "Lifetime" designation (though 12-month claim window)

Current Stride Advantage:

• Simpler process - no questions asked
• You get a bonus - discount even when claiming
• Your choice - replacement OR refund (you decide)
• Clear 30-day window (less confusing than "lifetime")
• Direct Australian contact

Bottom Line: DexShell covers you longer (12 months). Current Stride gives you more flexibility and a discount code bonus, but shorter window (30 days). If you're going to discover a defect, it's usually in the first few uses anyway.

Long-Term Value:

Cost Per Wear Analysis:

• DexShell at $70 AUD / 150 wears = $0.47 per wear
• Current Stride at $55 AUD / 150 wears = $0.37 per wear

(Assuming both last 1-2 years with regular use and proper care)

Which Brand Should You Choose?

Bottom Line:

Both are quality waterproof socks. DexShell has proven reliability and maximum waterproofing. Current Stride offers premium comfort, superior breathability, and excellent waterproofing for real-world running.

Choose based on your priorities:

• Extreme waterproofing > comfort: DexShell
• Balance of protection + comfort: Current Stride
• Short, wet runs: DexShell
• Long-distance comfort: Current Stride
• Established brand trust: DexShell
• Innovation and performance: Current Stride

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Both are quality waterproof running socks using 3-layer technology. DexShell has more years on the market and extensive customer reviews, with slightly better maximum waterproofing. Current Stride offers superior breathability and comfort with excellent waterproofing. Choose DexShell for extreme wet conditions and maximum protection; choose Current Stride for long-distance comfort with excellent protection.

Yes, if you run in wet conditions regularly. They keep feet dry in rain, puddles, and wet trails, preventing blisters and discomfort. Skip them for hot, dry weather when breathability matters more than protection.

All waterproof socks reduce breathability compared to regular socks. The waterproof membrane that keeps water out also limits airflow. However, Current Stride's Nanoporous membrane allows significantly better vapour escape than traditional membranes like DexShell's Porelle, reducing internal moisture buildup.

Wash in cold water with gentle detergent on delicate cycle. Turn inside out. NEVER use fabric softener (clogs membrane) or hot water/dryer (damages membrane). Air dry only. This applies to both DexShell and Current Stride.

Yes, both brands work well for hiking and cycling in wet conditions. The same waterproofing that protects during running works for other outdoor activities. Current Stride is more comfortable for longer activities due to superior breathability.

No, waterproof socks are designed to keep water OUT, not for swimming. They're not designed for submersion. Use neoprene swim socks for pool swimming instead. Both brands are suitable for kayaking and water sports involving splash protection only.

Typically 1-2 years with regular use and proper care (100-200 wears). Lifespan depends on how often you use them, washing frequency, and whether you follow care instructions. Both DexShell and Current Stride last similar durations with proper care.

The waterproof membrane technology, quality materials (often including merino wool), and specialised construction make them more expensive than regular running socks. The membrane is the most expensive component.

Waterproof socks are more comfortable for running and hiking, offering better ground feel and all-day wearability. Shoe covers are quicker to put on and better for cycling, plus they protect your shoes. Socks are better for most running; covers for short cycling commutes.

DexShell is available through international retailers like Amazon (with international shipping). Current Stride ships directly to Australia from currentstride.com with easier returns and faster delivery to Australian addresses.

Both offer standard sizing, but fit can vary. Check each brand's size chart. Current Stride is designed for a comfortable, flexible fit that doesn't feel bulky. DexShell has more customer reviews about fit to reference due to being established longer.

It depends. Skip them for hot, dry runs. Current Stride's superior breathability makes them more suitable for summer runs with occasional rain or creek crossings. DexShell can feel too warm in Australian summer unless it's raining.

Our Honest Recommendation

The Truth About This Comparison:

We're Current Stride, so of course we believe in our product. But we also respect DexShell—they've been making quality waterproof socks longer than we have, with proven reliability and thousands of satisfied customers worldwide.

Here's What We Know:

DexShell is the proven choice:

• 15 years of customer feedback and refinement
• Available in major outdoor retailers globally
• Maximum waterproofing for extreme conditions
• Established reputation you can trust

Current Stride is the performance choice:

• Superior breathability without sacrificing waterproof protection
• Tested in the harshest conditions (Ironman, Mont Blanc summit)
• More comfortable for long-distance Australian adventures
• Better moisture management from the inside
• Australian-friendly shipping and customer service
• No-questions-asked 30-day guarantee with bonus discount

Our Honest Recommendation:

If you want the safest bet with the most customer reviews: Choose DexShell. You're getting proven technology from an established brand.

If you want the best balance of waterproofing, breathability, and comfort for Australian conditions: Choose Current Stride. We designed our socks for runners frustrated with hot, sweaty waterproof socks that sacrifice comfort.