What Is the Warmest Wool Sock for Outdoor Winter Weather

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When the winter snow and bitter winds rage around our home, we instinctively reach for our woolen scarves, mittens, and hats, our favorite jumper, a fleece-lined waterproof coat, warm socks, and a sturdy pair of shoes or hiking boots.

However, even with all these layers that cover almost every part of our body, our feet may still feel cold. So what is wrong? Why are we not getting the protection that we so desperately need? If this is you, and Jack Frost is playing havoc with your feet, it is time to get some new winter socks.

The 7 Best Winter Socks

1. J.B. Field's -30 Below OTC Thermal Winter Socks
2. Carhartt Men's Arctic Wool Heavyweight Boot Socks
3. Wigwam Merino Comfort Hiker Socks
4. Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Socks
5. People Socks Merino Wool Socks
6. DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Hiking Socks (Our Top Pick)
7. OutdoorMaster Kids Ski Socks

Our Top Pick for the Best Winter Socks

Our top pick for the best winter socks is the DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Hiking Socks.

Featuring a cozy Merino wool blend, a mix of high-quality flexible synthetic materials, and an innovative knitted design, the super stylish DANISH ENDURANCE Hiking Socks will keep your family's feet snug, warm, and dry all winter long.

Check the price on Amazon

How to Choose the Best Pair of Winter Socks

The best winter socks are those that are made from high-quality, thick material that has thermal properties and can also conform to the shape of your foot. A good winter sock can also regulate your body temperature, to be warm in winter, as well as cool in the warmer seasons, and keep moisture away from your skin, which can minimize any painful blisters or nasty odors.

Whether you use the socks while you are walking the dog, catching the subway to work on a cold morning, or hiking up a snow-capped mountain in the Colorado wilderness, high-quality winter socks can offer you the comfort you need to get through the winter season.

There is a multitude of winter socks available and they come in different lengths: ankle, calf-length, and up to the knee. Ankle and calf-length socks are ideal for shoes and knee-length socks are ideal for wearing boots.

They can be made from a mix of different materials, synthetic and natural fibers. They can offer different levels of support, depending on whether they are designed for everyday use or engineered for a particular outdoor activity such as snowboarding or hiking.

Some are affordable, while others may stretch your budget. However, whether they cost less or more, not all socks are created equal, and sorting through them can be time-consuming.

However, you have come to the right place and all the hard work has been done for you.

4 Tips to Choose the Best Winter Socks

1. Material

The first thing to consider when you are looking for the perfect pair of winter socks is the material that they are made out of. Winter socks can be made out of a mix of synthetic materials such as nylon and elastane, or a blend of natural fibers such as merino wool and nylon.

– Synthetic materials

Synthetic materials such as nylon can be combined with lycra or elastane in certain areas of the sock, like around the calf area, which is designed to give you better support and cushioning.

In particular, lycra or elastane stretches to conform to the shape of your foot. Other fibers such as CoolMax®, polyester, and acrylic are also used to wick away moisture quickly to keep your feet dry and to prevent blisters from around your heel or toes.

The downside of using synthetic fibers is that this kind of material may feel less comfortable in hot conditions and provide less insulation when it gets wet, it does not breathe very well and can get very smelly.

– Cotton

Avoid cotton at all costs when you are looking for winter socks. Socks that are made out of 100% cotton are not recommended for activities that require a lot of exertion such as winter sports or hiking. Cotton socks absorb sweat or moisture quickly and dry slowly, which can cause blisters.

– Wool/Merino Wool

Wool, and in particular, merino wool, is one of the best materials for keeping your feet warm and dry. The higher percentage of wool that is contained in the sock means a higher level of thermal protection. However, as the wool fiber is not strong enough to withstand the constant abrasion against the inside of your shoes or boots, the manufacturer will mix the wool with nylon or some other synthetic fabric.

Merino wool is known for its superior breathability and moisture-wicking performance as it is both hydrophobic and hygroscopic, which means that the wool both repels and absorbs water at the same time, up to 30% of its weight is water.

The wool fiber is also thermostatic, which means it can regulate its own temperature, so your feet will stay warm in winter and cool in summer. The other attractive feature of merino wool is that it does not itch such as Ragg wool. Ragg wool is sometimes used in inferior and cheaply made woolen socks.

The downside of using merino wool is that it dries slower than synthetic material. However, to get the best protection and comfort, wool is the best fiber for a winter sock.

2. Cushioning and Arch Support

There are a lot of winter socks that have extra cushioning on the heel and ball, which makes the sock extra comfortable. Extra padding or cushioning is created either by increasing the density of the weave in the heel or ball of the sock or by weaving in other materials such as acrylic into these areas.

This extra cushioning can be very useful when you are wearing hiking boots and walking over rough terrain or engaging in sporting activities.

Some winter socks offer a tight, reinforced weave in the arch to improve support. This is especially helpful if you have high arches. The cushioning or reinforced weave gives you the proper support you need for strenuous activity so that you do not run the risk of developing plantar fasciitis, which can cause severe pain in your heels.

Cushioning can also make a regular shoe feel tight, especially if the sock is made out of thick wool. So if you are not going to be standing for long periods or engaging in a lot of physical activity, choose a sock that does not have extra cushioning or a brand that is made from a lower percentage of wool fiber.

3. Fit

Sock sizes can differ from person to person and not all feet conform to standard sizing. To find your perfect fit have a look at the size chart that is provided by the manufacturer. The size chart will include standard shoe sizes and the corresponding sock size.

4. Height

The height of the sock is also important. If a sock is too long, it will bunch up over your toes and if the sock is too short it will slide down your calf into your shoe or boot.

Additional Tips To Keep Your Feet Super Warm

1. Sock Liners

Although most people find that winter socks provide them with very good warmth and comfort during the harsh winter, some people are more sensitive to cold temperatures and find that wool socks are just not enough on their own. A sock liner can give you the extra warmth you need.

The sock liner is also a great choice if you are going to be engaging in strenuous activities during the winter months such as cycling, hiking, or skiing.

Sock liners are usually made out of synthetic material such as CoolMax® polyester, and they are worn under your winter socks. They provide an extra layer of support when you are wearing boots. However, they can make your regular shoes too tight, so if this happens you may have to opt for a thicker wool sock on its own.

If you are going to be hiking in Arctic temperatures, then a sock liner is a handy item to add to your camping gear. As well as adding an extra layer of insulation to keep your feet warm, sock liners have 2 other benefits.

• They can pull moisture away from the feet to the outer sock where it can evaporate so that your feet stay perfectly dry
• They are a great choice for hikers who are in the middle of the wilderness as they can be washed and dried more quickly than regular socks

As well as sock liners, winter footbeds can also give you extra cushioning and keep the cold from seeping through the soles of your shoes.

Toe Socks

Toe socks have a 2-fold purpose: they fit under your regular wool socks to give you some extra warmth. They can also help to prevent between-the-toe blisters, which can be the result of wearing shoes that are too tight. Toe socks are usually made from synthetic material and are ideal for active users, for running, hiking, or winter sports.

If you are going to be hiking in very wet conditions, wear waterproof socks over the top of your wool socks for extra protection.

As well as the material that the sock is made from and the level of warmth and support it can provide, the care of your winter socks is also important. Here are 4 tips on how to look after your winter socks.

4 Top Tips for Looking After Your Winter Socks

1. Before you wash the socks, turn them inside out.
2. Machine-wash the socks on a gentle cycle in warm or cool water
3. To keep your socks super soft, use a detergent that is specifically designed for washing woolen items.
4. To maintain the sock's shape, let the socks dry naturally.

7 Best Winter Socks – Reviews

1. J.B. Field's -30 Below OTC Thermal Winter Socks

The J.B. Field's -30 Below OTC Thermal Winter Socks are one of the popular brands on the market. The brand's popularity is due to the high percentage of top-grade 70% super soft merino wool, which regulates itself according to your body temperature and eliminates any sock odor, and the 30% nylon material maintains the sock's shape to give you a nice, snug fit.

These winter socks are designed to keep your feet warm and dry in the most extreme weather conditions up to -30°, so they are ideal for skiing or snowboarding.

As they come up to just below the knee, the socks may not be ideal for shoes as the material can slip down. However, they are the perfect choice for boots, as the non-binding top cuff has stretchy elastic which helps to keep the socks in place. The socks are easy to put on, and the X-HI full terry cushion support gives you extra comfort and protection.

The socks are available for both men and women and come in a 2-pack and you can choose from a range of attractive colors.

Pros

• High quality
• Unisex
• Durable
• Very warm and comfortable
• Snug fit
• Ideal for boots
• Available in a 2-pack

Cons

• Not ideal for regular shoes

Check the price on Amazon

2. Carhartt Men's Arctic Wool Heavyweight Boot Socks

The Carhartt Men's Arctic Wool Heavyweight Boot Socks offer you a very good level of thermal protection. They are made from 86% wool mix, 6% nylon, 1% Lycra, and 7% other fabrics to keep your feet warm and dry when you are working or playing in the great outdoors.

The high wool content combined with Carhartt's FastDry Technology means the material can regulate itself according to your body temperature, while also cushioning your feet and helping to eliminate any nasty odors.

As the socks are designed to be worn with boots, the stretchy material, and the non-terry vent reduces any bulk to give the socks a very good fit, and the reinforced heel and toe can resist any abrasion inside your footwear, after long periods of activity.

The socks are available in a range of sizes, the smaller size will fit most women, and there are 3 colors to choose from Heather Grey, Brown, and Moss. Be careful when ordering two pairs, as the colors may be different than what you actually order.

Pros

• Very good value for money
• Provides very good warmth
• Thick wool
• Very soft and comfortable
• Good fit inside boots

Cons

• Can get too hot in warmer temperatures
• May need sock liners for very cold temperatures
• Can be tight around the calf

Check the price on Amazon

3. Wigwam Merino Comfort Hiker Socks

If you are looking for super soft and very comfortable socks that can be used all year round, then the Wigwam Merino Comfort Hiker Socks are the ideal choice for both men and women.

These high-quality socks are made from top-grade merino wool, a natural fiber that is famous for its excellent insulation properties and its ability to keep away any moisture, which will provide you with all-day freshness. The stretch nylon keeps the sock firmly in place, and the seamless toe closure and elasticized arch give you extra support.

Whether you wear the socks for everyday use or for hiking in the mountains, the medium thickness of the sock's material will keep your feet warm and dry in the winter months, while the breathable merino wool fiber will keep your feet cool in summer.

The socks come in a range of sizes to fit both men and women and in a variety of colors. The socks can be purchased as a 3-pack, but be aware that if you want to purchase a 3-pack, the socks may only be available in certain colors and sizes.

Pros

• Warm in winter and cool in the warmer seasons
• Unisex
• High-quality merino wool
• Very soft and comfortable
• Very snug fit
• Durable
• Good cushioning
• Keeps feet warm and dry

Cons

• Can be tight around the calf
• Colors may be limited for some sizes

Check the price on Amazon

4. Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Socks

Just like the name, the Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Socks are a great choice for those outdoor enthusiasts who want a sock that can give them the support, warmth, and comfort for harsh winter conditions.

Whether you are shoveling snow away from your driveway in the early hours of the morning or hiking along the Appalachian trail, these high-quality winter socks will keep your feet super warm.

The socks are made from a high-quality merino blend with nylon and spandex that helps the sock to stretch to fit the shape of your foot, and the extra thick wool weave, ribbing, and invisible seam construction give full cushioning support around your foot, while also preventing any bunching around the toes.

Aside from its high durability and warmth, the merino wool fiber has very good moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties, so it can fight any perspiration or bacteria to keep your feet fresh and dry.

The socks are available in small, medium, large, and x-large, and 7 colors: black, olive, oatmeal, chocolate, onyx, denim, and charcoal.

Pros

• Very good value for money
• Very comfortable
• Snug fit
• Very warm
• Very good moisture-wicking properties

Cons

• Not ideal for people who sweat a lot
• Sizes may feel smaller than advertised

Check the price on Amazon

5. People Socks Merino Wool Socks

If you are looking for winter socks that can fit your budget but also give you the warmth, comfort, and support that you need, then the 4-pack bundle People Socks Merino Wool Socks is a perfect choice.

The socks are made from 71% premium Australian merino wool, which will keep your feet snug even in the heart of winter and cool and dry in warmer weather. The nylon, polyester, and spandex blend prevent the material from becoming itchy or retaining any nasty odors, and the reinforced stitching around the heel and toe and the medium level cushioning throughout the sock gives you an overall comfortable fit.

Although these socks are very thick and fluffy, which makes them ideal for when you are wearing boots, they may feel tight in regular shoes.

People Socks design its socks to fit both men and women, and they are available in 3 sizes: small, medium, and large, and 4 colors: navy, charcoal, green, brown. If you get a hole in your sock, People Socks are more than happy to replace the socks.

Pros

• Very good value for money
• Premium Australian merino wool
• Unisex
• Available as a 4-pack
• Can be worn all year round
• Good level of warmth
• Thick and fluffy
• Very comfortable

Cons

• Can feel tight in regular shoes

Check the price on Amazon

6. DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Hiking Socks

The DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Hiking Socks are the perfect solution for you and your family as you hike, trek, backpack, or travel the world.

Designed in Denmark, produced in Europe, and recommended by a Danish mountaineer, Rasmus Kragh, these socks will keep your feet warm, dry, and incredibly comfortable. The thermal socks are crafted from 33% merino wool and a high-quality synthetic blend of 33% acrylic, 33% polyamide, and 1% elastane.

Crafted with a high-density 120 needle count knit, the socks provide good durability, a snug fit with plenty of flex, and minimizes any bulking inside your hiking boots or shoes.

Fully temperature controlled, the targeted ventilation mesh lanes and zones optimize the airflow and wick away sweat so you will stay fresh and cool in summer and warm in winter.

You will experience exceptional comfort with the unique knitted design. Flat seamless Lin Toe seams reduce any rubbing against your shoe as you walk on hard surfaces. Mid to high-level cushioning in the heel and toe areas provide a warm and ultra-comfortable feeling in most weather conditions.

The ribbed support in the leg of the sock and the smooth elastic ribbing around the top ensure a better anatomical fit with no slippage, no bunching up inside your shoes, and no painful blisters.

To keep your beautiful winter socks looking and feeling great, they need to be machine washed at 105°F or 40°C on a wool cycle. Do not tumble dry.

The socks are available in sizes for men, women, and kids. Please refer to the sizing chart before ordering your size.

There are plenty of attractive colors to suit your family and the socks come in a 1-pack or a 3-pack.

Pros

• Affordable price
• Can be used in all seasons
• Designed in Denmark
• 33% merino wool blend, 33% acrylic, 33% polyamide, 1% elastane
• Thick socks have a high-density 120 needle count knit
• Good durability
• Exceptional comfort
• Snug fit with plenty of flex
• Minimizes any bulking inside hiking boots or shoes
• Targeted ventilation mesh lanes and zones optimize airflow and wicks away sweat
• Unique flat seamless Lin Toe seams reduce any rubbing
• Mid to high-level cushioning in the heel and toe areas
• Elastic ribbed support ensures a better anatomical fit with no slippage, no bunching, and no painful blisters
• Can be machine washed
• Sizes available for men, women, and kids
• Range of attractive colors
• Comes in a 1-pack or 3-pack

Cons

• May need to be worn with other socks for very cold winter conditions
• Wool can fray easily after long-term cleaning in a washing machine
• Should not be tumble dried

Check the price on Amazon

7. OutdoorMaster Kids Ski Socks

Your kids will love wearing these OutdoorMaster Kids Ski Socks. The winter socks are made of a 30% merino wool blend and a synthetic mix of 25% acrylic, 20% nylon, 6% polyester, 6% elastane, and 3% rubber, which ensures long-term durability, great performance, maximum warmth, and a snug flexible fit.

Ideal for active kids, the merino wool has natural moisture-wicking properties and allows the socks to breathe so that your kid's feet will stay fresh and dry. Lightweight and soft, the fabric will not irritate and make the skin itchy.

Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports, the high calf design and elasticity provides the ultimate fit. Equipped with a non-slip cuff, the socks stay in place and will not slip down inside ski boots.

Easy to care for, the winter socks are machine washable on a gentle wool cycle, but it is best to handwash them to keep their shape.

The socks come in 6 fun colorful designs: blue mountains, carrot orange, Christmas, dust gray with blue and orange, mt view, and woodland green. You can also choose from a 1-pack or 2-pack, and 3 sizes: x-small, small, and medium.

OutdoorMaster offers a lifetime warranty on the winter socks.

Pros

• High quality
• Excellent value for money
• Great choice for active kids
• Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports
• Long-term durability
• Great performance
• Maximum warmth
• Snug flexible fit
• Fabric is breathable and keeps feet dry and fresh
• Soft and lightweight merino wool is non-irritating
• Machine washable
• Six brightly colored designs
• One or 2-pack
• Three sizes

Cons

• Can stretch out of shape if the socks are cleaned in a washing machine
• Not ideal for tumble drying

Check the price on Amazon

Our Top Pick for the Best Winter Socks

Our top pick for the best winter socks is the DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Hiking Socks.

Featuring a cozy Merino wool blend, a mix of high-quality flexible synthetic materials, and an innovative knitted design, the super stylish DANISH ENDURANCE Hiking Socks will keep your family's feet snug, warm, and dry all winter long.

Check the price on Amazon

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What Is the Warmest Wool Sock for Outdoor Winter Weather

Source: https://morningchores.com/best-winter-socks/

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