How wool socks keep your feet warm without making them sweat

Buying socks is an inevitable part of life and in my experience, wool socks are a necessity. Their moisture-wicking properties come in handy for skiing and other outdoor sports, and when you’re indoors, wool is the coziest fabric you can wear to keep your toes toasty warm during the wintertime.

Before buying a pair of your own, read on for expert shopping advice from Ben Clower, an outdoor enthusiast and marketing coordinator at JAX Outdoor Gear in Colorado, Ken Bernard, an outdoor enthusiast and owner of Outlandish, an outdoor gear and apparel store in Brooklyn, NY, and Ashleigh McClary, a hiking enthusiast and Backcountry expert Gearhead. I also gathered a list of options to shop informed by their guidance and our testing experience.

Selected.Our top picks

• Best overallDarn Tough Morgan Crew Lightweight Sock$undefined$24.00Sun & Ski SportsLearn more
• Best cozy socksSmartwool Mountaineer Classic Crew Socks$undefined$27.00AmazonLearn more
• Best hiking socksDarn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Light Cushion Sock$undefined$25.00darn toughLearn more
• Best ankle socksBombas Merino Wool Blend Ankle Socks$undefined$21.00BombasLearn more

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Tested and approved: The best wool socks

This roundup includes top-rated options, expert recommendations, and products tested (and loved) by NBC Selected staff.

Best overall

Darn Tough Morgan Crew Lightweight Sock

$24.00Sun & Ski SportsMaterial:63% Merino wool, 34% nylon, 3% lycra | Sizes:S, M, LWhat we like

• Lightweight feel
• Stretchy
• Cushioned bottom

Something to note

• Not as warm as heavier socks

These socks come recommended by Clower — their material is Merino wool blended with nylon and lycra, giving them a stretchy, flexible feel, according to the brand. These socks are thin and lightweight, making them great for everyday wear without overheating your feet, and have a slight cushion on the bottom for added comfort.

Best ankle socks

Bombas Merino Wool Blend Ankle Socks

$21.00BombasMaterial:83% Merino wool, 15% polyester, 2% elastane | Sizes:S, M, L, XLWhat we like

• Large size range
• Blister protection
• Good for year-round

Something to note

• Nothing to note at this time.

Bombas is an NBC Selected favorite and Wellness Award winner — this option is Merino wool blended with polyester and elastane for a flexible yet firm fit, according to the brand. The socks have a cushioned footbed and a seamless toe for added comfort, along with an elasticized, honeycomb-design support around the arch. The socks also have a blister tab at the back of the opening to prevent ankle chafing while you walk. They’re available in men and women’s sizes.

Best workout socks

Smartwool Run Mid Crew Socks

$22.50Amazon$15.40$22.00SmartwoolNow 30% offMaterial:51% Merino wool, 45% nylon, 4% elastane | Sizes:M, L, XLWhat we like

• Mesh areas
• Lightweight design
• Friction-resistant

Something to note

• No cushioning

These socks are lightweight with minimal cushioning, making them ideal for running and high-intensity workouts. They have mesh air zones for extra breathability, which prevents your feet from overheating, along with reinforced toes for added comfort, according to the brand. The Merino wool fabric also helps to regulate the temperature and odor of your feet, while the fit is snug to help prevent friction and blisters.

Best hiking socks

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Light Cushion Sock

$25.00darn tough$25.00REIMaterial:56% nylon, 40% Merino wool, 4% lycra | Sizes:M, L, XLWhat we like

• Light cushion
• Friction prevention
• Odor-resistant

Something to note

• Available in larger sizes

McClary, a huge fan of Darn Tough socks, says this all-weather pair is one of her absolute favorites because, in over 15 years of wearing them, she’s never gotten a blister. The light cushion and wool-blend material are designed to wick sweat and prevent odor, according to the brand. Their height is just above that of a standard hiking boot for added protection against chafing. Bernard says they’re very durable and “excellent” for a wide range of activities. They also have a seamless toe design to minimize friction and blistering, and come in a version with medium cushioning, too (which McClary also loves).

Best everyday socks for women

Darn Tough Women’s Blossom Crew Lightweight Sock

$24.00darn toughMaterial:57% Merino wool, 39% nylon, 4% lycra | Sizes:S, M, LWhat we like

• Performance fit
• Lightweight
• Quick-dry material

Something to note

• No cushioned bottom

Another recommendation from Clower, these socks from Darn Tough are designed for casual wear and light activity, according to the brand. They’re made from a lightweight Merino wool blend that allows them to dry quickly, stretch well, and survive the strain of everyday wear. They have no cushion, which the brand says helps them to fit well in any shoe, and a performance fit, meaning they closely hug your feet like a second skin to prevent bunching or slippage while you walk.

Best ski sock

Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion OTC Sock

$30.00Amazon$30.00SmartwoolMaterial:55% Merino wool, 41% nylon, 4% elastane | Sizes:M, L, XLWhat we like

• Great for skiing
• Over-the-calf design
• Lightweight feel

Something to note

• No cushion

These are McClary’s favorite ski socks — you may think you need a thicker sock when it comes to skiing, but she says lightweight socks “will fit significantly better in a performance ski boot.” These socks are made from a Merino wool, nylon and elastane blend that helps to control the temperature of your feet and absorb sweat, according to the brand. It has no cushioning for best fit with performance ski boots, and also reaches over the calf to provide additional cold-weather coverage.

Best socks for rough terrain

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full Cushion Sock

$30.00darn tough$30.00REIMaterial:69% Merino wool, 27% nylon, 4% spandex | Sizes:S, M, LWhat we like

• Performance fit
• Lightweight
• Quick-dry material

Something to note

• No cushioned bottom

When it comes to heavy-duty or rocky terrain, McClary grabs these wool socks. They have a lightweight material, but a heavy cushion that protects feet from blisters. They’re bunch-free, quick-drying and have anti-odor properties, according to the brand.

Best everyday socks for men

Fox River Matterhorn Lightweight Crew Sock

$23.99The Outdoor GeeksMaterial:31% Merino wool, 31% acrylic, 29% nylon, 7% polyester, 2% spandex | Sizes:M, L, XLWhat we like

• Mesh panels
• Durable design
• Extra cushion

Something to note

• No smaller sizes

Clowers also recommends these lightweight Merino wool blend socks from Fox River. They have a medium cushion for extra footbase padding and a flat, knit toe seam for added comfort at the front of your shoes. To help your feet stay cool, the socks have mesh venting panels on the sides, along with reinforced material along the heel and toe line for extra durability, according to the brand.

Best for warm climates

Icebreaker Merino Hike+ Light Crew

$24.00IcebreakerMaterial:61% Merino wool, 37% nylon, 2% lycra | Sizes:S, M, L, XLWhat we like

• Breathable zone
• Ankle support
• Good for warm weather

Something to note

• Too light for extreme cold

Bernard recommends these socks from Icebreaker, an ideal choice for warmer climates because of their lightweight texture. They have light cushioning and ankle and instep support for added stability while walking, according to the brand. The brand says they’re designed for day hiking and warmer conditions, and that the socks have improved ventilation around the middle of the foot for increased breathability.

Best cozy socks

Smartwool Mountaineer Classic Crew Socks

$27.00Amazon$27.00BackcountryMaterial:74% Merino wool, 17% recycled nylon, 8% nylon, 1% elastane | Sizes:S, M, L, XL, XXLWhat we like

• Very warm
• Thicker material
• Large size range

Something to note

• Too hot for everyday wear

These socks from Smartwool are great for long, cold periods of outdoor activity. They’re made from a thick Merino wool blend for maximum warmth, and have a plush bottom cushioning for comfort while out in the cold, according to the brand. NBC Selected senior editor Nikki Brown says that these socks are her “most cherished gift” from a bridesmaid goodie bag she received years ago. “The wedding was in the Midwest and it was cold, so these came in handy and I still use them today,” she says. The socks also have an elasticized arch brace for added support and to ensure a secure fit, according to the brand.

Best knee-length socks

Hylaea Merino Wool Ski Socks

$23.99AmazonMaterial:36% acrylic, 31% Merino wool, 18% nylon, 14% polyester, 1% spandex | Sizes:M, L, XLWhat we like

• Arch support
• Shock absorption
• Knee-high length

Something to note

• Nothing to note at this time

These knee high socks are made from a thick Merino wool blend that makes them great for winter and ice sports, according to the brand. They’re designed with terry loops in the forefoot, heel and toe to minimize friction and help absorb shock as you walk, along with padded areas on the front shin where skiers may need more cushion, according to Hylaea. The socks also have an elastic band around the foot for compressive arch support.

Best sock multipack

Fitrell 4-Pack Women’s Merino Wool Hiking Socks

$18.99AmazonMaterial:39.8% Merino wool, 21.9% polyester, 17.5% cotton | Sizes:S, MWhat we like

• Multipack
• Padded bottoms
• Arch support

Something to note

• Small size range

These socks from Fitrell are made of a Merino wool and cotton blend to reduce itchiness. They have a reinforced heel and toe area to increase durability and prevent holes, along with a cushioned footbed for added comfort while walking, according to the brand. They also have a smooth toe seam and an arch compression area to help stop the formation of blisters.

How I picked the best wool socks

To choose the best wool socks, I kept in mind the following factors, per our experts:

• Material: Wool socks are typically 100% wool or blended with other fabrics like nylon, lycra and elastane to increase durability and overall comfort. Wool socks are “exceptional for outdoor activities” due to their insulation, moisture-wicking and odor resistance, according to Bernard. “Wool fibers are naturally crimped, creating pockets that trap heat, which keeps feet warm in winter while staying cool in summer,” he says. This list includes socks made of 100% Merino wool and wool-nylon blends.
• Features: The elements of a good wool sock, according to McClary, include proper cushioning and thickness along with seaming that keeps it from shifting around the foot. If you have flat feet, you may need extra arch reinforcement, or if your feet get sore easily, you may want a sock with a heavily padded bottom. Our list includes socks with a range of features, including longer height, reinforced arch support, extra padding and more.

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How to shop for wool socks

When shopping for wool socks, these factors should guide your decision-making:

• Style: Clower says your comfort level will depend on choosing the right kind of sock for your needs. For example, a wool sock with bottom grips is best for indoor activities like yoga or pilates, while longer socks with more thickness and cushioning are best for outdoor activities like hiking or skiing. For everyday socks, look for options with light cushioning and thickness, which makes them easier to wear with various types of shoes. “Socks should fit snugly without slipping, bunching or squeezing,” says Bernard.

• Thickness: McClary says that one of the most important factors to consider when buying wool socks is the sock’s thickness in relation to the activity you’re doing and the shoe you’re wearing. “If your socks are too thick or too thin, your footwear will not be comfortable and you may even have to end your activity earlier than expected,” she says. “Just because it says Merino in the title, doesn’t mean it’s the right sock for the activity you’re doing.”
• Price: Though they may range slightly in price from brand to brand, it’s important to keep in mind that wool socks are generally more expensive than cotton or synthetic socks. Many options retail for over $20 per pair, which can seem a bit pricey for a pair of socks. However, Clower insists they’re worth the splurge; “in the long run, your feet will thank you for the upgrade,” he says.

Frequently asked questions

Merino wool is a wool fiber grown year-round in Australia by Merino sheep. It has a softer, finer texture than normal wool, which is what allows it to be so smooth and lightweight. Clower says that, compared to regular wool, Merino wool also has more naturally odor-repelling properties. It’s also better at regulating temperature, as well as absorbing and wicking away moisture from your feet.

“Wool socks are ideal for sweaty feet,” says Bernard. “Wool fibers wick moisture away from the skin by absorbing it into the core of each fiber and releasing it gradually,” he says. “This keeps feet dry, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort.” Wool also has natural anti-bacterial and odor-resistant properties.

McClary says the main downsides to wool socks is that they can feel itchy to some people. She also says that if you don’t pick the correct thickness for your activity, you may be too hot or too cold. Bernard also says that wool socks, especially ones made from Merino wool, can be pricey, and may take longer to dry than synthetic materials.

Clower says you can either hand wash or machine wash them. To hand wash, he suggests using a mild detergent with cold water, as warm or hot water can result in fabric shrinkage. For a machine wash, put your socks on a gentle or wool cycle and adjust the temperature settings for cold water.

Yes, you can. Since wool is naturally sweat-wicking, it makes for a great workout sock material, especially if it’s Merino wool. The natural odor-repelling and temperature-regulating properties are ideal for keeping your feet dry, cool and as fresh as possible during your workout.

Meet our outdoor experts

At NBC Selected, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Ben Clower is the marketing coordinator for Jax Outdoor Gear in Colorado, specializing in outdoor gear/product knowledge.
• Ashleigh McClary is an avid hiking enthusiast and Backcountry expert Gearhead.
• Ken Bernard is an outdoor enthusiast and expert, and owner of Outlandish, an outdoor gear and apparel store in Brooklyn, NY.

Why trust NBC Selected?

I’m an associate SEO reporter for NBC Selected, covering skin care, wellness, lifestyle and more, including stories on the best exercise bikes under $500 and the best travel mugs. For this article, I spoke to outdoor gear experts about the best wool socks for everyday and outdoor wear, including their recommendations and guidance on how to shop for a pair of your own.

Catch up on NBC Selected’s in-depth coverage of tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok to stay up to date.

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