The Best Wool Socks for Any Activity
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When thinking about wool, the first image that may come to your mind is that of a stuffy, itchy sweater. Sure, that’s still true in some cases, but that’s certainly not accurate with merino wool socks.
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Largely popular in the outdoor space, merino wool socks are now commonplace in various activities, as they offer way more practical benefits than cotton socks. When interacting with moisture, cotton soaks it up like a sponge and can lead to blisters. Wool, with its natural fiber construction, avoids that and helps to wick moisture away. The ensuing result means your feet stay cool when it’s warm and warm when it’s cool. And you won’t have blisters or smelly feet. Plus, they’re comfortable and cozy—the exact opposite of that scratchy wool sweater. If you haven’t tried a pair, here are ten to consider with expert feedback on what makes them so special.
What the Experts Say
“I run in our merino socks year-round,” says Matt Taylor, Tracksmith Founder, and CEO. “They regulate temperature and moisture, which is key, but they also resist odor and are anti-microbial, so you can wear the same pair more than just once. I choose a thicker tube sock in the colder months and our thinner no-show when spring arrives.”
Once upon a time, yours truly worked for an independent outdoor store in Greenville, SC. So I spoke with my old bosses—Jonathan Welsh and Diana Ward of Appalachian Outfitters—about why they love wool socks so much. “Wool socks have more resilient cushioning, are comfortable in a broader range of temperatures, move moisture away from the skin and dry quickly, providing superior comfort for extended wear,” they said. “The natural properties of wool limit the growth of bacteria for better odor control.”
BEST OVERALL
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew
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Without question, Vermont’s Darn Tough hiking socks are the Merino wool socks I reach for time and time again when I need something that won’t let me down. I’ve had a pair for almost a decade now, and they’re still just as sturdy and cozy as the first day I got them. Should they ever fall apart, however, the brand offers a lifetime guarantee against holes from wear (holes from your dog might be a different story). Admittedly, it’s a rare feat nowadays to see a brand live up to its namesake, but Darn Tough does it in spades.
RUNNER UP
Smartwool Everyday Solid Rib Crew Socks
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Smartwool makes a handful of technical, activity-based socks, but we love their Everyday Sock for, well, everyday use. With plenty of work (and not work) friendly colorways, these are the socks you’ll want to wear for when you’re walking around town and want something to regulate your feet or when you want some extra cushion breaking in a new set of loafers.
BEST FOR EXERCISE
Tracksmith Merino Tube Sock
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When it comes to exercising, Tracksmith’s merino wool tube sock not only manages to channel some retro vibes but is fantastic regarding performance too. The calf-length adds a bit of character, accented by the racing stripes, and can still provide that technical benefit you’d get from traditional merino wool socks. Hell, you might like these so much that you’ll wear them on non-workout days too.
BEST VALUE
People Socks Ankle Merino Wool Socks
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When it comes to exercising, Tracksmith’s merino wool tube sock not only manages to channel some retro vibes but is fantastic regarding performance too. The calf-length adds a bit of character, accented by the racing stripes, and can still provide that technical benefit you’d get from traditional merino wool socks. Hell, you might like these so much that you’ll wear them on non-workout days too.
BEST CUSHIONED
Wigwarm Merino Comfort Hiker Sock
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Part of the appeal of a merino wool sock is its superior cushion, and yet Wigwam’s merino comfort hiker sock manages to make something that’s one step above that baseline of support. The midweight sock is a bit sturdier than other socks, but that’s a worthy tradeoff for something as comfortable as this and makes them well-suited for long walks.
BEST FOR WINTER
Carhartt Arctic Wool
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Sometimes winter’s worst needs a better defense than just a standard merino wool sock, which is where Carhartt’s Arctic wool sock comes into play. Cut nice and long to support those wearing higher boots, which means they’ll work well for any winter activity, including skiing or shoveling snow.
BEST HIGH-END
American Trench Supermerino Socks
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American Trench might not be a brand you’re familiar with, but in fashion circles, they’re garnering quite a reputation for offering the elite of the elite. That’s evidenced in their Supermerino socks, which are spun from a super fine merino fiber. The result is something that feels lightweight, soft, and very warm.
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT
Icebreaker Merino Lifestyle Light Crew Socks
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As evidenced by its namesake, Icebreaker’s lightweight crew socks are great for those who think of wool socks as thick, scratchy, and uncomfortable. Instead, these are thinner than normal while still providing all of the benefits of a wool sock. Plus, they come in fun colors, including electric blue and yellow.
BEST LOOKING
Glenmearl Wool Hiking Socks
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The vintage stylings of these wool hikers from Glenmearl evoke camp-style socks that you may have worn during summer camp (they’re far fancier than the ones I wore during Boy Scout summer camp, for sure). Notably, the brand also reinforced the heels and toes to prevent blowouts better, so feel free to wear these over and over again without worry.
BEST CAUSE
Bombas Colorblock Merino Wool Socks
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Bombas is known for its mission-based approach to selling socks wherein every pair purchased sees the company donate a pair. That’s likely reason enough to support the brand, but it helps that they make really damn good socks. These colorblocked versions are an excellent way to give your office socks a bit more jazz or to layer with sneakers for a weekend walk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wool Socks
Will wool socks be too warm?
Wool socks still have a lot of breathability to them, and while they’ll be warmer than the thin ones you get on planes, they won’t saturate with sweat and water as easily and keep you moving.
Will wool socks clash with wardrobes?
Just because they’re wool doesn’t mean they’re so thick. Thing of all the wool suits you’ve worn in the summer!
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