We’ve been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process

Winter sneaks up on you... until you walk outside and can’t feel your toes. That's why warm socks are key – not the scratchy ones filled with holes from last year.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab regularly tests the best winter footwear and cold weather gear including winter coats, fleece-lined leggings and more. Our pros researched tons of sock styles and brands to find the best warm socks to keep your toes toasty, whether you’re hiking, skiing or building a snowman. Here are some tips to find the type of socks that will keep your feet the warmest:

These socks are from brands we love and have lots of amazing reviews from real testers:

This style from Darn Tough uses mostly Merino wool for soft insulation, keeping your feet warm while hiking, shoveling snow, or just walking to work. Reviewers rave about their snug fit and the brand’s “lifetime guarantee,” meaning the company will send you a new pair if you are able to wear them out. However, no reviewers have had to use the warranty with many saying these socks are well worth the price.

• Material: 67% Merino wool, 29% Nylon, 4% Lycra Spandex • Price per pair: $24.00

These extra plush socks come at a great price of about $6.33 a pair! These socks are designed to be a heavier weight, perfect for colder weather to keep your toes all cozied up. Reviewers love the super fluffy wool-lined inside and the snug elastic band at the top that keeps them in place.

• Material: 45% Polyester, 30% Wool, 15% Spandex, 10% Cotton • Price per pair: $6.33 

These thick and cozy knit socks have over 9,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.6 star rating. Available in a range of patterns and colors, this 5-pair set are not only cute and comfy but will keep your toes nice and toasty. What makes them even better is that each pair will only cost about $2.39 each! 

• Material: 35% Wool, 29% Cotton, 36% Polyester • Price per pair: $2.39

Fuzzy socks are perfect for cozying up by the fireplace and taking a nap on a snowy day. Made from polyester, these socks are super soft and are designed to keep your toes warm when indoors. Because it’s a looser knit fabric, these socks are not designed to insulate heat when outdoors, so we recommend wearing them to bed!

• Material: 100% Polyester • Price per pair: $4.66

When skiing or snowboarding, you need a pair of socks that not only will keep you warm all day on the slopes, but also provide cushioning on the shin, ankle and footbed to prevent discomfort in boots. These wool socks by Pure Athlete are up to the challenge, with knitting designed to support your whole foot.

• Material:  54% Nylon, 25% Merino Wool, 16% Polypropylene, 5% Spandex • Price per pair: $21 

These socks feature rechargeable lithium batteries that can heat your feet for 3-6 hours when fully charged. The heating is isolated to your toes, where you typically get cold first. There is additional reinforced padding on the heel for extra comfort when on your feet. Make sure to remove the battery pack before washing.

• Material:  80% Cotton, 12% Polyester, 8% Elastane • Price per pair: $80 

When heading outside with your little one, make sure their toes are properly bundled up. These wool socks by Eocom are available insizes for kids ages 0-5 years old and come in a pack of 6, so if a sock goes missing, you have a back-up. As wool is naturally moisture wicking and breathable, these socks are great for all year use too.

• Material: 48% Wool, 37% Polyester, 15% Spandex • Price per pair: $2.35

If you get blisters from your toes rubbing together, try toe socks to help prevent blisters from forming. These toe socks are made from wool, which naturally wicks away moisture while providing insulation. This pick is perfect to keep you cozy when hiking or camping in cooler weather, as they’ll keep your feet warm and dry.

• Material:  64% NuWool, 33% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex • Price per pair: $21.00