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Keep your toes toasty with these cozy picks. Tie Dye Socks
When you’re packing for a winter vacation, it’s easy to overlook the importance of warm socks in the rush to grab your coziest sweaters and jackets. But, as someone who has traveled to some of the chilliest places on Earth including Russia, Alaska, and the Norwegian Arctic, I can vouch for the fact that warm feet are critical for cold-weather comfort.
Perhaps you’re in the market for high-tech hiking or snowboarding socks made from premium merino wool for maximum breathability and temperature regulation. Or maybe you’re looking for the softest, most decadent pair of fuzzy fleece socks imaginable for aprés ski lounging by the fire. Whatever your requirements, here are the best warm socks for every budget, taste, and type of adventure.
These indulgently soft socks pair well with most outfits and have grippers so you can wear them safely around the house.
They’re not breathable enough for high-impact activities.
If coziness is your top priority, you can’t go wrong with the Slouchy Marshmallow Socks from Softies. Made from a durable, easy-to-care-for blend of polyester and nylon, they’re impossibly soft and exceptionally versatile. Wear them with boots for an afternoon spent browsing the Christmas markets. Slip them on over stockings or under jeans, or use them as a space-saving alternative to slippers when lounging around your ski chalet. Non-slip grippers on the bottom of the soles prevent any accidents on slick hardwood or marble floors.
The slouchy fit is perfect for channeling cozy, winter chic vibes. It also means that one size really does fit most, since those with wider calves can simply push them down to a comfortable height. The fabric is breathable enough to prevent overheating in regular day-to-day scenarios, although I wouldn’t recommend them for more strenuous activities like hiking or skiing. If they do get sweaty, refreshing them is easy thanks to travel-friendly care guidelines that permit using a washing machine and dryer.
The socks come in a choice of heathered pastel shades ranging from blush pink to dusty green. Can’t choose? They’re among the most affordable socks on this list, making it easy to justify purchasing multiple pairs.
The Details: One size | 51 percent polyester, 49 percent nylon
These socks use a blend of merino wool and recycled nylon to offer impressive temperature-regulating durability.
If you forget to wash them inside out, some pilling can occur.
Whether I’m climbing mountains at home in Scotland or packing for a hiking vacation in northern Canada, the Smartwool Women’s Hike Classic Edition Crew Socks are my go-to choice for winter trekking. They’re made from a technical blend of three materials: merino wool for thermoregulating breathability, quick-drying moisture resistance, and odor control; recycled nylon for extra durability; and elastane for secure-fitting stretch.
They keep me warm when standing still and prevent me from overheating while I’m pushing for a summit or exerting myself on a tricky scrambling section. The socks are medium weight with full cushioning for excellent shock absorption, impact protection, warmth, and durability. If you’re prone to blisters, the flat-knit toe seam is a lifesaver; while the elasticized arch brace prevents the socks from slipping or bunching up inside your hiking boot.
The Details: Women’s S to L | 56 percent merino wool, 31 percent recycled nylon, 11 percent nylon, 2 percent elastane
Specialist cushioning on the shin and mesh panels for extra flexibility make these socks a hit on the slopes.
They’re on the pricier end of the spectrum.
These midweight, knee-high socks from Darn Tough were designed especially for winter sports enthusiasts in collaboration with snowboarder Jake Blauvelt. Measuring 17 inches from heel to cuff and with a cushioned pad integrated into the shin, they provide protection against unforgiving ski and snowboard boots. They also keep your feet warm and comfortable with terry loops along the sole and around the Achilles, and lightweight, synthetic Thermolite insulation.
Multi-zone mesh panels reduce bulk over your pressure points for a more comfortable fit while also increasing slalom-ready flexibility. A small percentage of spandex keeps the socks securely in place so that you don’t waste precious slope time stopping to pull them up. Best of all, these machine washable, dryer safe socks are known for their durability and are backed by the brand’s Unconditional Guarantee for Life.
The Details: Men’s M to XL | 60 percent polyester, 38 percent nylon, 2 percent spandex
These socks use Coolmax technology to keep your feet warm in winter and cool in summer.
The micro crew height may be a little short for some hiking boots.
Whether you’re planning a shoulder season trip with fluctuating weather conditions or just want a pair of socks that you can wear all year round, Darn Tough’s Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew socks offer the temperature-regulating answer you’ve been looking for. These midweight socks use vegan-friendly Coolmax polyester to wick sweat and channel heat away from the body in warm weather, and retain body heat in winter.
Warmth aside, they’re built for comfort with a non-rubbing, blister-resistant seamless toe and a performance fit that prevents slipping and bunching. Reinforced cushioning along the footbed and around the Achilles provides noticeable impact absorption while also increasing the socks’ durability. Like all Darn Tough products, they’re Unconditionally Guaranteed for Life. Choose yours in gray/black or olive and benefit from machine washable convenience.
The Details: Men’s M to XL | 37 percent nylon, 34 percent Coolmax polyester, 26 percent acrylic, 2 percent spandex, 1 percent other
The ability to control the settings manually or via an app adds to the versatility of these heated socks.
The heating elements are focused on the toes and feet only, rather than extending up through the calves.
After experiencing my fair share of frozen toe days, I can vouch for the fact that there’s nothing quite like the all-encompassing comfort of a heated sock. The Bluetooth Enabled Mobile Warming Heated Socks from Day Wolf offer cozy, over-the-calf height and carbon fiber, far-infrared heating elements focused around the toes, instep, and forefoot. Choose between three heat settings with up to 8 hours of run time on the lowest one.
The socks are powered by a battery that is conveniently stored in a pouch sewn into the outer edge of each cuff. You can control the heat manually via a button on the socks, or via a bluetooth-enabled app that lets you adjust the settings on each one individually or in tandem. LED lights indicate the remaining battery life. Available in black or gray, the socks also feature reinforced toes and thick cushioning for added durability and warmth.
The Details: Unisex S to XL | 80 percent cotton, 12 percent polyester, 8 percent elastane
These socks use a special membrane to let sweat out while preventing water from getting in.
When they say these are intended for extreme cold, they mean it – these aren’t everyday socks for around the house.
Intrepid adventurers who need next-level warmth for anything from ice fishing expeditions to subzero city trips should check out the Stanfield Waterproof Extreme Cold Weather socks from Sealskinz. While most socks are only warm for as long as you can keep them dry, these British-made, mid-length socks offer military-approved waterproof protection. The secret? An Aquasealz membrane that keeps water out while still allowing sweat to be wicked away.
The membrane is sandwiched between an outer layer of durable nylon blended with elastane for form-fitting, four-way stretch; and an inner layer of soft, temperature-regulating merino wool and acrylic. The latter does a great job of keeping feet at a consistent temperature outdoors, but you’ll probably still sweat if you’re wearing the socks indoors for any length of time. Other features include terry loop cushioning for added comfort and an elastic, anti-slip ankle support.
The Details: Unisex S to XL | 90 percent nylon, 10 percent elastane (outer), Aquasealz membrane (mid layer), 41 percent merino wool, 41 percent acrylic, 14 percent polyester, 2 percent nylon, 2 percent elastane (inner)
Extra soft and deliciously thick, these socks are made for cozy days on the couch.
They’re not intended for high-impact activities.
The CozyChic Heathered Socks from Barefoot Dreams may lack the specialist breathability, temperature regulation, and cushioned durability of some of the other socks on this list. However, if you’re more interested in lounging fireside at your vacation rental than tackling winter hiking trails or hitting the slopes, these socks offer all the soft, indulgent thickness you need to do so in comfort.
They’re made from a cozy polyester fleece with enough spandex woven in to keep them in place without slipping or bunching. And although they’re primarily meant for wearing around the house, they also pair well with your favorite boots for a winter coffee run or wandering around town. Two sizes suit a range of women’s shoe sizes from 5 to 12, while heathered color choices range from slate blue/white to dusty rose/white.
The Details: Women’s S/M to L/XL | 97 percent polyester, 3 percent spandex
These super chunky, chenille knit socks look great and feel even better.
They’re relatively expensive for socks with limited versatility.
Another one for the comfort queens: UGG’s Cozy Chenille Socks, knitted from multicolored chenille yarn in a range of colorways from navy to seashell pink. These socks epitomize fuzzy coziness. They’re warm, thick, and super soft, with a small percentage of elastane blended in for form-fitting stretch and shape retention. Wear them with shoes or without, and they’ll stay in place while keeping your toes and ankles toasty warm.
Branded twill tape on the top cuff keeps the socks’ UGG logo visible even when worn with boots. They also score points for ethical sustainability, being made from recycled polyester in a factory that supports women through a project designed to promote empowerment and gender equality for low-income workers. The socks are one-size-fits-most and should work for anyone wearing women’s 5 to 10 shoes.
The Details: One size | 99 percent polyester, 1 percent elastane
These socks offer all the warmth and softness of cashmere for a fraction of the expected price.
Cashmere isn’t as durable as regular wool or synthetic alternatives.
When it comes to warmth, cashmere is king. It insulates more effectively than regular wool and is also by far the softest and most luxurious option. Because of this, cashmere tends to be expensive. Somehow, Quince’s Mongolian Cashmere Slouch Socks (available in ivory, heather gray, or black) are amazingly affordable despite being made from grade-A Mongolian cashmere.
They’re not pure cashmere, but that’s a good thing. By adding small percentages of nylon, polyester, and spandex, the socks are made much more durable than they would otherwise be while also being stretchy enough to stay in place. The slouchy fit and ribbed cuff add a touch of laid-back cool to your winter outfits, while the fact that the fabric is thinner on the foot makes it easy to fit the socks into boots, shoes, and slippers.
The Details: Women’s XS/S to M/L | 71 percent cashmere, 16 percent nylon, 12 percent polyester, 1 percent spandex
The thick, faux-shearling lining looks cute while keeping feet cozy and warm.
The socks are too thick to be worn comfortably with most shoes.
If, like me, you’ve left your hard-soled slippers at home to save space when packing and then regretted it upon reaching your destination, you’ll love the Tough Land Slipper Socks. They take up less space and weight allowance than traditional slippers, but keep your feet equally warm when you’re spending time in your hotel room. Anti-slip grippers on the soles make them a safer option than regular thick socks for this purpose.
They look good, too, with a wool knit outer layer in a stylish pattern reminiscent of an Irish fisherman’s sweater and a thick, faux-shearling fleece lining. Keep them fully extended for maximum coverage and warmth, or roll the cuff over to reveal an inch or two of contrasting fleece for extra style points. Choose from a range of solid colors (think pink, cream, or gray marl), plaids, and Christmas patterns.
The Details: Unisex S to L | Wool, faux shearling, silicone
A medium level of support makes these socks ideal for maintaining blood flow on a long flight.
Different levels of compression may be recommended for people with specific medical conditions.
The Women’s Merino Wool Blend Everyday Compression Socks from Bombas are the ideal choice for those looking to relieve aching muscles and maintain blood flow on their next long-haul flight. The socks offer 15-20mmHg of compression — a moderate, comfortable amount of support for most people. If you’re looking for compression socks for another purpose (workout recovery, post-surgery, or pregnancy), ask a doctor which level is best for you.
The socks are made from soft, temperature-regulating merino wool with a blend of synthetics added in to increase durability and gravity-defying stretch. They’re wonderfully comfortable thanks to a non-rubbing seamless toe and reinforced arch support, while strategic cushioning zones help to absorb the impact of every step. Multi-tonal colorways range from blue to purple, while the ability to machine wash and dry the socks makes them convenient for travel.
The Details: Women’s S to L | 48 percent merino wool, 22 percent nylon, 19 percent polyester, 11 percent elastane
By eliminating contact between each toe, these socks are more effective at preventing blisters and keep feet drier than traditional socks.
The feel of toe socks can take some getting used to.
I have to admit that for me, toe socks are an acquired taste. However, there’s no doubt that they allow for a more natural alignment and better weight distribution than regular socks — and that their anatomical fit helps to stop blisters forming. The fact that each toe is wrapped in moisture-wicking material also improves the overall dryness of your feet on a high-exertion run or hike. These knee-high socks from Injinji are specifically designed for winter warmth.
As well as providing maximum coverage, they’re made with Thermolite EcoMade fabric. This unique synthetic generates heat using the body’s infrared energy, then traps it in its hollow fibers to create a layer of insulating warmth between the sock and skin. Other features include a supportive, elasticized band under each arch and targeted cushioning along the sole and beneath the toes for reduced impact on every adventure.
The Details: Unisex S to XL | 63 percent nylon, 34 percent Thermolite EcoMade, 3 percent Lycra
As well as being environmentally-friendly, hemp is both extra durable and naturally odor resistant.
They tend to run a little large.
If you want warm socks that benefit the planet as well as your feet, you can’t go wrong with the Hemp Crew Socks from Patagonia. Hemp cultivation requires minimal water usage and is therefore a more sustainable option than many of the other natural fabrics used to make socks. And while it only accounts for around a quarter of the blend used for these socks, more than half of the remaining fibers (polyester and nylon) are recycled.
Hemp is also exceptionally durable, making it the ideal choice for heavy-wearing daily use. And, because it’s naturally odor resistant, it can make all the difference to your comfort and sense of cleanliness on those long travel days or unexpected overnight layovers. Available in natural, khaki, or blue colors, the socks are part of Patagonia’s 1 Percent for the Planet initiative which uses proceeds from each sale to benefit grassroots environmental organizations.
The Details: Unisex S to XL | 27 percent recycled cotton, 27 percent recycled polyester, 23 percent hemp, 22 percent nylon, 1 percent spandex
When it comes to warmth, the materials a sock is made of matters — which is why I always check the label (or the online product description) carefully. My top choice is almost always a blend containing at least 50 percent merino wool. While all wool is naturally thermoregulating, breathable, and odor resistant, merino is made from a special kind of fleece that makes it softer and more durable than regular wool. That means it can be woven thinner while still offering the same warmth — making it the perfect lightweight choice for winter sports.
The best merino socks are blended with nylon and spandex to increase their durability and form-fitting, gravity-defying stretch. The latter is important to prevent socks from falling down or bunching up uncomfortably as you move.
When I’m choosing socks for lounging rather than for active pursuits, I’m less concerned with the warmth to weight ratio. Socks can also afford to be less durable if you’re wearing them on the couch rather than for hours and hours on the slopes, in which case other materials take precedence. Cashmere is the top luxury choice, offering incredible softness and more warmth than regular wool; while faux shearling fleece and cozy chenille are worthy alternatives for those on a budget.
As stated above, it’s important to buy the right socks for your intended use. Socks for active wear (running, hiking, skiing) need to be breathable. They should wick sweat effectively and protect your feet from friction blisters and repeated impact. Look for durable, merino wool blends with strategic cushioning, ventilation panels, and seamless toe construction. Casual, cozy socks for wearing around your vacation rental should prioritize comfort. I’m talking thick, soft fabrics (cashmere, chenille, polyester fleece) and perhaps even anti-slip grips if they’re meant to double as slipper socks.
Whatever their intended use, socks need to fit comfortably. They should be snug enough to stay up and securely in place around your foot without slipping or bunching; but not so tight that they affect circulation. Height is important, too. Over-the-calf socks provide maximum protection against the cold and act as a barrier between your skin and unyielding ski and snowboard boots. Crew socks are the most practical option for hiking and wearing with chelsea-style boots, providing sufficient coverage without causing your lower legs to overheat. Three-quarter or ankle socks may be sufficient for wearing with regular shoes or in milder climates.
Jessica Macdonald is a warm-sock aficionado, both for cold-weather travels to destinations such as Russia, Alaska, and Norway, and for outdoor adventures at home in Scotland. Her go-to brands include Smartwool and Darn Tough. This article features some of her personal favorites as well as carefully researched products chosen for their superior features and reviews.
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