Educate me on Sealskinz socks

[Theringworm]

Just got a pair of Sealskinz Raynham Waterproof All Weather Mid Length Socks. How is one supposed to wear these? I'll tell you what I am thinking is the correct method, but I need someone to validate it or tell me I am completely wrong in my approach. It makes sense to me that the Sealskinz would be the outer most layer to keep your normal socks underneath always dry. With that approacht, this is how I would think you should layer your socks:

Foot > Thin liner sock > wool sock (I wear the Darn Tough mid-weight or heavy weight) > then the SealSkinz over both of those > boot

This method, though it may be correct, ends up using a lot of volume in my boot. I typically size up a 1/2 size anyway, but this could push me to go a full size up from normal, depending on the boot. I am currently testing a pair of Hoffman's, Kenetrek and Schnee's. With this sock setup, I would say my feet are tighter than I would like in my boots. I hate to go up an entire full size just for this intended sock setup. I have a brown bear hunt coming up in the next couple of years, and crossing over the calf streams will be a reality. Outfitter strongly recommends the SealSkinz. Should I get the Cold Weather version of the Seal Skinz and ditch the mid-layer wool sock to lessen the bulk? Very hesitant to do so. Really not sure what the right setup is here.

What say you all? Is my layering method flawed?

 

[Andouille]

I wear thick wool-faced sealskinz over thin smartwool liner socks and goretex gaiters for hiking in wet and cold Alaska areas. I see no reason to use an intermediate sock between the two, as my two sock combo is very comfortable and I've not had any blister issues. Picking the correct thickness Sealskinz sock is key for fit in your existing boots.

Goretex boots and a tight fitting gaiter over rain pants with a tight Voilé strap around the ankle to prevent upward water ingress will allow you to quickly cross streams below top of gaiter depth with minimal water ingress.

For backcountry hunting I'll bring two pairs of both Sealskinz and two liner socks so that I can rotate in dry socks each day. Sealskinz do breath, but not as well as standard wool blend socks.