Best Products Style 10 Pairs of Wool Socks That Will Keep Your Feet Warm All Season Long We recommend wool socks from the sustainable footwear brand Darn Tough. By Rebecca Carhart Rebecca Carhart Instagram Website Rebecca Carhart is a senior e-commerce writer and strategist on Dotdash Meredith’s news and deals travel team. Her reviews of products across the fashion, beauty, home, and travel spaces have appeared on TravelandLeisure.com, InStyle.com, People.com, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on October 27, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews Tips for Buying Wool Socks Why Trust T+L In This Article We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Smartwool / Amazon While a sturdy pair of snow boots is essential to get through winter, if you find your feet are still getting cold, it might be time to invest in some thick wool socks. The fabric's built-in insulation keeps your feet much warmer than their cotton, polyester, or bamboo counterparts, making them the perfect complement to your winter footwear whether you're skiing or shoveling snow. We love the Darn Tough Micro Crew Midweight Wool Sock for women because it's designed to balance coziness with temperature-regulation. For men, we recommend the Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushioned Sock thanks to its nonslip fit and antimicrobial properties. These are the 10 best pairs of wool socks that shoppers say will keep your feet warm all winter long. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Value: Alvada 80% Merino Wool Hiking Thermal Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Cushioned: Meriwool Hiking Cushioned Merino Wool Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Most Breathable: Ugg Classic Boot Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall: Darn Tough Crew Socks with Cushion at Amazon Jump to Review Best Cushioned: Wigwam Merino Comfort Hiker Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Hiking: Smartwool Men's Classic Hike Full Cushion Crew at Amazon Jump to Review Most Durable: People Socks Merino Wool Quarter Socks with Arch Support at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Snow Sports: Smartwool PhD Ski Ultra Light Sock at Amazon Jump to Review Most Breathable: Carhartt Arctic Wool Boot Merino Heavyweight Socks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Women's Wool Socks Best Overall Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Cushion Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On REI Why We Love It: Darn Tough uses ethically sourced and manufactured wool certified by the Responsible Wool Standard. What to Consider: You'll want to machine-wash the socks on cold to prevent shrinkage. Darn Tough produces high-quality wool socks that are made of 100 percent Responsible Wool Standard-certified merino wool, meaning that the brand sources wool from farmers that meet the animal welfare and production expectations set by the RWS. In addition to being temperature-regulating, this popular pair from the brand also features mid-level cushioning and a performance fit for added support. Even better, the brand offers a lifetime guarantee on its socks, so if your socks tear or develop holes, it will send you a replacement pair, no questions asked. Price at time of publish: $24 Sizes: S-L Best Value Alvada 80% Merino Wool Hiking Thermal Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Why We Love It: The socks come in a pack of three. What to Consider: They are made of 80 percent merino wool and 20 percent polyester/spandex blend. Alvada's merino wool thermal socks are a winter favorite. Along with ample cushioning in the footbed, these socks boast a no-slip cuff so they won't slide down your calves as you walk around. Their soft fuzzy interior makes them extra cozy, while their mesh ventilation channels provide airflow to your feet. Price at time of publish: $15 Sizes: S/M and M/L Best Cushioned Meriwool Hiking Cushioned Merino Wool Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Why We Love It: The socks have thick cushioning in the arch, toe, and heel. What to Consider: They could be too thick for some boots if you don't size up. While many wool socks on the market are more expensive than your average cotton pair, not all of them will cost you a fortune. The ultra-comfy Meriwool socks come in a pack of three and they're made with a merino wool blend that provides ample cushioning in the heel, toe, and arch for extra support whether you're hiking or skiing. The socks are odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, and machine-washable. Plus, there are 10 different colors to choose from, so it will be easy to find a pair that suits your style. Price at time of publish: $25 Sizes: S-XL The Best Hiking Socks for Every Type of Adventure Most Breathable Ugg Classic Boot Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Saks Fifth Avenue Why We Love It: The knit wool blend provides ventilation to prevent sweaty or clammy feet. What to Consider: These socks might not be the warmest for outdoor activities in frigid temperatures. These knit wool socks by Ugg can be paired with winter boots, and they're cozy enough to just wear around the house. Made with wool, nylon, and polyester, you won't have to worry about your feet overheating thanks to the breathable materials that offer the perfect balance of ventilation and insulation. While there is only one size available, the expandable sock fits a 5-10 foot size with a 9.5-inch shaft height. And, there are three colors to choose from: black, gray, and cream. Price at time of publish: $24 Sizes: One size The Best Compression Socks for Long Travel Days Best Men's Wool Socks Best Overall Darn Tough Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks with Cushion Darn Tough View On Amazon View On REI View On Darntough.com Why We Love It: Darn Tough sources and produces wool socks from sustainable and ethical farmers. What to Consider: Wool can shrink if it's washed with hot water. We love that Darn Tough uses sustainably sourced and manufactured wool to make its sturdy and cozy socks for men and women. Along with a nonslip performance fit, the socks feature mid-level cushioning in the footbed and antimicrobial properties that help remove bacteria and odor. Sizes range from small to XXL, and there are eight different colors to choose from. Price at time of publish: $23 Sizes: S-XXL Best Cushioned Wigwam Merino Comfort Hiker Midweight Crew Length Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart Why We Love It: The wool is thick without looking bulky or excessive. What to Consider: Crew socks might not be tall enough for some boots. These Wigwam socks are handcrafted in Wisconsin using a super soft Merino wool blend material. In addition to being specially designed to not shrink or itch, the socks also come with a lifetime guarantee. While these socks are thick and warm, they aren't too bulky, so you can comfortably wear them with boots for a range of winter activities. Although the brand says the sock is designed with nonshrinking materials, wool can often shrink in hot water, so that is something to keep in mind when you're washing the socks. Price at time of publish: $17 Sizes: S-XL The 9 Warmest Winter Socks You Can Buy Best for Hiking Smartwool Men's Classic Hike Full Cushion Crew Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos Why We Love It: The socks are made with wool and recycled nylon. What to Consider: Some users say the material is thinner than they thought it would be. These hiking socks by Smartwool will help you avoid frozen toes and painful blisters thanks to their thick, cushioned design. The socks are made with imported merino wool, nylon, and elastane yarns to provide ample warmth, comfort, and stretch. There is a built-in elasticized arch brace for extra support and a flat-knit toe seam for added comfort in your hiking boots. Price at time of publish: $22 Sizes: M-XL Most Durable People Socks Merino Wool Quarter Socks with Arch Support Amazon View On Amazon Why We Love It: The wool and nylon fabrics are warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What to Consider: The height of the socks is shorter than a standard crew fit. Not only do these socks from People Socks have a soft toe bed and elasticized arch, but they also boast a reinforced heel and toe for maximum durability. Each pair is made in the USA using Australian merino wool. These are the perfect everyday socks for a variety of activities in the winter or summer thanks to the stretchy but warm nylon and wool blend. Price at time of publish: $30 Sizes: S/M-L Best for Snow Sports Smartwool PhD Ski Ultra Light Sock Amazon View On Amazon View On REI Why We Love It: The tall shaft is high enough to prevent bunching when wearing ski or snowboard boots. What to Consider: They are made of 55 percent wool and 45 percent nylon and elastane. Planning a ski trip this winter? Be sure to pack a pair of wool ski socks like this pair from Smartwool. The thin socks fit comfortably inside tight ski boots and will keep your feet nice and toasty during a long day on the slopes. Made of a breathable but warm wool and nylon blend, these socks are lightweight and stretchy enough that they won't compress around the calf uncomfortably. What's more, the socks are 14 inches high, so they'll keep your legs warm too. Price at time of publish: $25 Sizes: M-XL Most Breathable Carhartt Arctic Wool Boot Merino Heavyweight Socks Amazon View On Amazon View On Home Depot View On Tractorsupply.com Why We Love It: The socks have arch support and extra cushioning in the toe, heel, arch, and instep for added comfort. What to Consider: They are made of half wool and half synthetic fabrics. Looking for a pair of wool socks that are both super warm and breathable? These Carhartt socks boast the brand's patented FastDry technology that wicks away moisture and prevents odor from occurring. In addition to a nonbinding welt top that keeps the socks from slipping without digging into your skin, the socks also feature performance mesh panels that keep your feet from overheating. Price at time of publish: $27 Sizes: L-XL Tips for Buying Wool Socks Consider the materials If you're afraid wool socks will be rough and scratchy on your feet, don't be. Most companies use merino wool in their designs. Merino is not only softer than regular wool but it's also known for its moisture-absorbing capabilities and odor-resistant properties — so it will keep your feet dry and smell-free even as you work up a sweat. Plus, merino wool is often mixed with other materials like nylon and elastane to give the socks extra stretch and comfort. Think about the intended use All wool socks will keep your feet nice and toasty, but some are designed with special features that make them perfect for outdoor activities. If you're looking for a pair to wear while skiing, you should opt for a thinner, seamless option, so your heavy ski boots won't cut off your circulation. Meanwhile, hikers might want to opt for a pair that features mesh vents for added breathability. And if you're just looking to keep your feet warm in cold climates while commuting or sightseeing, consider an extra-thick option that has built-in cushioning. Why Trust Travel+Leisure Rebecca Carhart has been writing for T+L since 2019 and is currently a senior e-commerce writer and strategist on the news and deals travel team. Using her 10 years of product expertise in beauty, home, and travel categories, Rebecca thoroughly researched and vetted brands that have the best wool socks for any winter activity. The 12 Best Women's Boots for Fall Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit