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Say goodbye to wet and soggy toes this winter.
Keeping your feet warm and dry should be a top priority for any outdoor activity you have planned this winter. Wet and soggy feet can lead to blisters and other foot problems that are sure to ruin your favorite hike or day on the slopes. Unlike cotton and other similar fabric, sheep-grown wool is naturally water-repellent, due to the organic hydrophobic coating of its fibers. That makes it a great material for socks—especially as winter is starting to roll around.
Today’s wool socks have come a long way from their itchy, scratchy and uncomfortable ancestors. Known as a thinner and softer alternative to traditional wool, Merino wool is quickly becoming one of the most popular materials for socks geared towards outdoor activities. Nearly all of the best merino wool socks also contain a blend of nylon or other stretchy material, helping to provide a breathable and flexible fit, while sacrificing none of the water resistance wool is known for.
Whether you’re looking for a durable hiking sock or a thin Smartwool option to wear on the subway during your morning commute, there is a wool sock out there for you. You’ll find that nearly all sock types have a wool equivalent, making them a good choice if you find yourself participating in multiple types of outdoor activities. We highlight the most popular brands and styles on the market, to help you purchase your next pair of socks.
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These Filson Heavyweight Traditional Crew Socks are composed of a natural merino wool combined with a mixture of nylon and spandex for longevity and flexibility. You'll see wool's natural resistance to water in work, as these socks wick away sweat and other excess moisture.
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Bombas has put its socks through years of R&D to ensure that they're bringing you top-quality in each product. Their Merino Wool Calf Socks are designed with chilly winter days in mind, so you can be sure your feet will be warm and dry until spring comes back around.
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Bringing you three pairs of socks for only $20, this deal is hard to pass up. These Alvada socks are highly-rated on Amazon and offer superior warmth and comfort. They also feature enhanced cushioning in their footbed to ensure a more comfortable next hike.
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Made with a blend of naturally odor-resistant and breathable RWS-certified merino wool, these are L.L. Bean's premium hiking sock. Plan on hiking a lot this winter? No worries, the Crestas feature fabric reinforcement at the heels and toes for enhanced durability.
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This particular make of REI Co-op socks are a great lightweight option if you can't stand heavy socks. While they're officially part of the summer collection, they're still great options to wear around the house or to the gym.
Planning on hitting the road for some running this winter? Boulder has your back. Complete with full-density cushioning, these socks feature shock-absorption in vital areas like the heel, toe, and sole.
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Created with nearly 2 recycled PET plastic bottles, these ECO socks live up to their name. However, you can still except top of the line comfort with features like WRIGHTSOCK'S Stabilizer Zone™ that holds socks in place and close to the feet to prevent rubbing.
Carhartt's reputation as a leader in cold weather gear is renowned, and these socks only continue its legacy. Their thick wool construction make them a perfect choice for a cold snow day trip to the office.
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You'll find Under Armour's unique Charged Wool blend in these boot socks. The formula consists of a mixture of wool, polyester, nylon and elastane to provide you a robust quick-drying experience.
The ideal option if you plan on spending miles on the trail this winter–these performance socks from Smartwool are packed full of cushion and breathability to keep your feet fresh all winter long.
Inclement weather can pop-up unexpectedly in winter, and there's no other socks you'd rather get caught in a blizzard with than these Stormsock's from Bridgedale. Their Hydrotech membrane adds an additional layer of protection–on top of wool's natural water-resistant abilities.
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Darn Tough's Mountaineering socks come with an over-the-calf design to keep more of your leg protected from the elements. Users can also expect a "put it on, forget it's on" feel, due to their fine-gauge knitting.
When Smartwool says everyday, they mean everyday. Whether you're going in the office, or a hike with friends, these highly-rated socks will keep your feet warm, dry and comfortable.
Receiving a nearly perfect 5-star rating from Amazon, owners of these socks cannot say enough great things. "These amazing socks are comfortable all day," said one Amazon Review. "(They) breathe well and can be washed easily."
If you only foresee a handful of hikes in your future this winter, these are a sound option. Solidly landing in Bridgedale's midweight category, they offer the appropriate cushion and support for the weekend hiking warrior.
Socks are one of the most important elements in your ski outfit. Ill fitting socks can rub your feet and cause blisters; however, that's not the case with Smartwool's ski products. You can expect legendary mountain performance from one of the highest rated socks in its class.
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