A nyone with a strong sock game knows merino wool socks are the best.
But if you’re still wearing just any ol’ cheap socks, then it’s time to make the switch.
Sourced from a seemingly magical breed of sheep, merino wool is lightweight and super soft, so it won’t cause itching or irritation like other types of wool materials tend to do.
[image: Carolyn Ryan/Shutterstock]
And unlike some synthetic fibers, it’s naturally moisture wicking and antimicrobial, making it a great material for exercising and outdoor activities, even in warm weather.
But one of the best benefits of merino wool fabric is its temperature regulation properties, which keeps you warm in cold climates and cool on hot days.
Bottom line: Merino wool makes for some of the best wool socks money can buy.
And just so you don’t have to do the leg work of hunting down the right socks for you, we’ve put together a list of the best merino wool socks on the market — because let’s face it, you’ll need more than one pair.
Whether you’re going for a hike, dressing up for a wedding, or just trying to stay warm on a frigid day, we’ll help you find the perfect pair of socks for every occasion.
(Just as long as you don’t wear them during sex; that’s where we draw the line.)
The (Absolute) Best Merino Wool Socks
Rounding Up the Best Socks Made From Merino Wool on the Market
Overall Best Merino Wool Socks ↓
Smartwool Everyday Rollinsville Light Cushion Crew
Rating:
- 4.5 Stars
- 51 Reviews
Advantages:
Smartwool takes the overall top spot on our list for a couple of reasons:
One, they’re highly regarded for their USA-made merino wool products, particularly their wide range of performance and lifestyle socks.
And two, they use sustainably sourced natural fibers in all of their products and incorporate recycled materials wherever possible, so you know they care about the planet.
All Smartwool socks are durable and breathable.
But the Everyday Rollinsville Light Cushion Crew is our top pick for daily wear thanks to the secure fit (meaning they won’t bunch or slide down) and light cushioning for all day comfort.
They’re perfect for everything from longer hikes to long-haul flights, and pretty much anything in between.
Promising Review:
Wasn’t sure if I would like wool socks. I tried them and was sold. These socks are well padded, keep my feet fresh, and are super soft.
I wear them daily and even after working on my feet for 9 hours my feet still feel amazing in these socks. I love them so much I buy a new pair each time I get paid.
– Andrew
(Rather Close) Runner-Up ↓
Woolx Everyday Crew Sock Medium Cushion
Rating:
- 5 Stars
- 189 Reviews
Advantages:
Another great sock for everyday wear, these medium-weight socks from Woolx are a close second for overall best pair of merino wool socks.
Complete with ultra-smooth seamless toe design and built-in arch support, they provide long-lasting comfort for any activity.
Plus, they come with a lifetime warranty, so you have nothing to lose.
Promising Review:
These socks are the best!! My favorite. Will buy again and recommend them
– Joseph
Best Merino Wool Socks for Winter ↓
Darn Tough Vermont Tactical Boot Socks
Rating:
- 4.9 Stars
- 775 Reviews
Advantages:
Darn Tough has a reputation for making some of the best pairs of wool socks in the game.
If you need thicker socks for cold weather, their midweight Tactical Boot socks are a great choice:
The full cushioning surrounds the leg and foot for warmth and protection, while the performance fit keeps them from bunching or slipping.
But you don’t have to take our word for it: All Darn Tough socks are backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Promising Review:
Are they expensive as eff? Yes. Are they amazing? Yes. Will I buy any other sock ever again? No. Buy once cry once.
– Laci H.
Best for Winter Runner-Up ↓
Alvada Thermal Winter Boot Socks
Rating:
- 4.6 Stars
- 19, 176 Reviews
Advantages:
These thermal socks have more than 15, 000 five-star ratings, and with good reason.
Made with 80% merino wool, they have moisture control, mesh ventilation, reinforced heels and toes, and arch compression for extra support.
And with a price tag of $20 for three pairs, they’re a good value too.
Promising Review:
These are absolutely fantastic socks. I live in Colorado where it gets COLD in the winter, and these socks have been an absolute savior on chilly mornings & nights, especially paired with my snow boots.
They are comfortable, fit well, keep my feet WARM (so, so warm) and dry, and have held up really well in the washer/dryer.
– bex_7
Best Merino Wool Socks for Summer ↓
Ibex USA-Made Low Lite Wool Crew
Rating:
- 5 Stars
- 33 Reviews
Advantages:
Specializing in apparel made from a high-performance merino wool blend, Ibex is another great brand to turn to for socks.
We chose the Low Lite Wool Crew as the best sock for hot weather because of the low cut design, strong odor control, and ultra lightweight fabric (but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any socks from Ibex).
They also have impact absorption and slight compression, so they’re good socks for sports, too.
Promising Review:
Everything! Fit, fabric, color—all fabulous. Thank you! Glad I bought two pair.
– Stefan G.
Best for Summer Runner-Up ↓
Icebreaker Lifestyle Ultralight Crew Socks
Rating:
- 4.6 Stars
- 66 Reviews
Advantages:
If low-cut socks aren’t your thing, the Lifestyle Ultralight Crew is another great choice for summer.
Lightweight and stretchy, they fit like a second skin, yet the reinforced heel and toe means they’re still strong and durable.
The cute camping pattern is just the cherry on top.
Promising Review:
I will never ever wear anything other than Icebreaker merino for everyday. Best fit comfort breathable wicking.
– MerinoLifer
Best Merino Wool Socks for Hiking ↓
Darn Tough Micro Hiker Crew
Rating:
- 4.9 Stars
- 2,025 Reviews
Advantages:
Another great pair of warm socks from Darn Tough, these are the overall best hiking socks on the market, and a particular favorite among long-distance hikers, since they naturally thermoregulate and wick moisture away from your skin.
With a mid-tier fabric weight they’re ideal for all seasons, unlike thick cotton socks, which are too hot for spring and summer (when you definitely don’t want to be trekking around in super warm socks).
And with a reinforced footbed and micro crew cushion, they may just be the most comfortable socks you’ll ever own.
(Plus, their product page helpfully specifies which numeric shoe size corresponds to each of their different sizes, which makes it easy to find the right fit.)
Promising Review:
So I almost lost my collective stuff when I found out a pair cost $25, I’m cheap, what can I say. The moment I put these on I was HOOKED! I purchased four more pair the next day. Amazing product!
– Kim F.
Best Merino Wool Socks for Hunting ↓
Smartwool Hunt Classic Edition
Rating:
- 4.8 Stars
- 50 Reviews
Advantages:
Another standout sock from Smartwool, these maximum-cushion merino wool socks are your best option for hunting.
Designed with extra height to accommodate your favorite hunting boots, the snug fit and ankle support keep them from sliding down, so you can worry about your aim and not your gear.
Promising Review:
These are awesome! Super comfy and extra thickness everywhere (great for any activity that requires long term boot wearing). Great for cold weather!
– Mark
Best Merino Wool Dress Socks ↓
Boardroom Socks Patterned Dress Socks
Rating:
- 4.9 Stars
- 137 Reviews
Advantages:
Every guy needs a good pair of dress socks, and you can’t go wrong with a stylish pair from Boardroom Socks.
The secret to their signature over-the-calf dress sock?
The super soft blend of merino wool also includes nylon for extra stretch and a small amount of spandex to help hold them in place without feeling too tight.
But if over-the-calf isn’t for you (sock length is truly a matter of personal preference) they offer mid-calf and no show socks as well.
Promising Review:
I love the way these socks look. They stay up well and didn’t fall down even after a long day on my feet.
– James C
Time May Tell Hiking Socks
Rating:
- 4.6 Stars
- 10,123 Reviews
Advantages:
Bargain hunters will love these sets of merino wool hiking socks from Time May Tell.
Made from 80% merino wool, they have all the qualities of more expensive brands (moisture-wicking, thermoregulation, etc) but at a lower price point:
You can get two pairs of socks for $13 or four for $23.
Promising Review:
These sock are incredibly comfortable. Feel extra soft on my feet and keep my feet warm in cold weather. They are perfect with all my hiking boots.
I ordered 4 different brands of so called Merino wool socks and these Time May Tell Merino Wool Hiking Cushion Socks were the ones I fell in love with.
– Larry Clark
Danish Endurance Hiking Socks
Rating:
- 4.5 Stars
- 26,772 Reviews
Advantages:
Another great option for affordable merino socks, Danish Endurance Hiking Socks are great for all kinds of outdoor adventures.
Their breathable merino wool blend and heel-to-toe cushioning make them perfect for long hikes, backpacking, and camping, or even just working long days on your feet.
Promising Review:
I’ve been using these socks for a little over 2 years now and haven’t worn a single hole in them. I’ve not ever had any other socks last this long without having holes appear after a few months.
For reference I use them while working outside doing yardwork, splitting firewood, going for walks. Very comfortable and breathable.
I would highly recommend.
– Ben Smith
Bombas Calf Socks
Rating:
- 4.7 Stars
- 9830 Reviews
Advantages:
Bombas blends their merino wool socks with a small amount of polyester and spandex to ensure a bit of tension and stretch in all the right places.
Compared to socks made entirely from synthetic materials, they’re more odor and moisture resistant, and just plain softer.
More importantly, for every item sold, Bombas donates an item of clothing to a homeless shelter, so a purchase from here is for a good cause.
Promising Review:
My Bombas are so soft and comfy. They wash well. Not too tight, but perfectly snug. They keep my feet happy all day.
– Nancy P.
Point6 Coolrado Sport Ultra Light Crew
Rating:
- 5 Stars
- 4 Reviews
Advantages:
Trail runners, hikers, and adventurers will love these ultra lightweight merino wool socks.
Made specifically for sports, they have ventilations panels for breathability, a smooth toe box to prevent friction, and just the right amount of compression.
Plus, they’re sustainably produced in the US and guaranteed for life.
Promising Review:
Great sock with decent compression but not too much. Perfect summertime sock for all day epics, offering great moisture management and cooling only wool can afford. Ditch the slimy plastic socks and get back to natural fibers.
– Rob Griz
American Trench Merino Activity Socks
Rating:
- NA
Advantages:
This brand doesn’t offer reviews on their website, but we like them because their wool socks are manufactured in North Carolina, using American-sourced merino wool (bonus points for the reduced carbon footprint).
Plus, these are just great socks for everyday use:
A rugged boot sock on the outside but with a soft terry-knit inner layer for padded comfort.
Farm to Feet Cokeville Midweight
Rating:
- 4.3 Stars
- 25 Reviews
Advantages:
Named after the brand’s hometown of Cokeville, Wyoming, this boot-friendly all-weather sock from Farm to Feet was made with outdoorsy folks in mind.
From the high-density cushion for extra comfort to the wilderness-inspired tree design, they’re perfect for outdoor use or just cozying up on the couch.
Promising Review:
Wore these all day, right out of the package. Very comfortable, soft, no itch. They are a bit thicker than I expected but not so thick that made my boots feel tight.
I lean toward the boot cushion socks, but on a colder day, or if you prefer full cushion, these socks are very nice. I will likely get a couple more pair.
– Greg Smith
Merino.Tech Hiking Crew
Rating:
- 4.5 Stars
- 515 Reviews
Advantages:
Canadian brand Merino.Tech’s hiking socks contain 85% merino wool and zero polyester, so you know they’re going to be soft and warm.
(If anyone knows about staying warm, it’s the Canadians.)
These thick wool socks are moisture wicking, breathable, and ideal for a casual winter stroll or those all day hikes.
Promising Review:
I have hunted and hiked the Rocky Mountains for over 50 years. Socks are important to such endeavors and I have always known wool was the best for my socks in this climate.
Have tried several types and brands looking for a better pair of wool socks. The search is over, The Merino. Tech socks are the winners. They are warm, soft, and wick moisture away better than any other I have tried.
– Steve
The Best of the Rest ↓
From hiking and outdoor sports to the boardroom or just everyday life, the above list has covered pretty much every type of merino wool sock there is — or so you’d think.
The truth is, there are more brands of quality socks worth mentioning here, which is why we’ve included these bonus options below.
Swiftwick Pursuit Zero
Rating:
- 4.1 Stars
- 59 Reviews
Promising Review:
I really liked these, thin but not too thin with mild compression.
– MDM
Falke Airport Socks
Rating:
- 4.5 Stars
- 5 Reviews
Promising Review:
Exceptional quality full length over calf socks. They look and feel great. I hope to find them to be durable too. Buy a pair with confidence.
– Theath
Pembrook Wool Trail Socks
Rating:
- 4.4 Stars
- 1,181 Reviews
Promising Review:
My husband works outdoors and is on his feet all day long. He wears these 4 seasons long. We’ve tried many top brand socks but these wear well, wash well and are well made. Unless he is wearing a suit these are his socks. Very happy.
– daysgobydsr
Myles Apparel Crew
Rating:
- 4.7 Stars
- 107 Reviews
Promising Review:
These socks are freaking awesome! They are snug and airy like a dress sock, but a little more substantial so I know they will hold up and work for all occasions.
– Andy M
People Socks Below Zero Crew
Rating:
- 4.6 Stars
- 553 Reviews
Promising Review:
I got my first People Socks 8-10 years ago, and they are the only socks I wear. Illinois Winter in sub-zero cold, and Summer heat to 95 degrees with 95% humidity, I’m wearing these socks…
They stay in place, keep my feet warm and dry in the winter, and comfortable in the summer.
– Adam R. Jaquet
Pantherella Laburnum Over-the-Calf Dress Socks
Rating:
- 4.1 Stars
- 21 Reviews
Promising Review:
This product exceeds my expectations. Fits comfortably, and long enough that it does not fall down. The only issue I have is that the product is expensive for socks, but nonetheless an exceptional purchase.
– Steve
Darn Tough Steely Midweight Boot sock
Rating:
- 4.9 Stars
- 559 Reviews
Promising Review:
This has become one of my favorite work socks. It is super comfortable in both work boots and casual boots and shoes. This is also an all year sock. It will keep your feet warm but not cause your feet to overheat. I will be adding more of these to my sock drawer.
– Jim D.
Injinji Trail Midweight Crew Toesocks
Rating:
- 4.8 Stars
- 138 Reviews
Promising Review:
Hiked up a 14’er in these, not a single hot spot or red mark, kept my feet dry, warm, and just the right amount of cushioning
– Kent
Cloudline UL Graduated Compression Socks
Rating:
- 4.3 Stars
- 74 Reviews
Promising Review:
Was looking for a great compression socks that is of Wool material and I can probably say there is not a better wool compression sock out there. Highly recommend in terms of comfort and quality.
– Isaac P.
GRIP6 Wool Ankle Socks
Rating:
- 4.6 Stars
- 209 Reviews
Promising Review:
I had a notion that wool would be super hot and warm. After workouts, or wearing boots at work, my shoes and socks are drier than expected
– Bill
Fun Toes Merino Wool Crew
Rating:
- 4.6 Stars
- 2, 781 Reviews
Promising Review:
They have lasted many washes (wool cycle, cold water, air dry). They haven’t become thin and stretched out like some other brands I’ve tried. Very happy with them will buy again.
– Dave
Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight ¼ Crew
Rating:
- 4.6 Stars
- 183 Reviews
Promising Review:
These are great socks! Comfortable, tight enough so that you don’t get hot spots but don’t feel like my feet are being squeezed. Also, I’ve worn them wet for nearly 5 days and they still were great and didn’t stink. This is my second pair and I know it won’t be my last!
– Andrew O.
Meriwool Cold Weather Crew
Rating:
- 4.7 Stars
- 5,345 Reviews
Promising Review:
Used during a snowshoeing and winter camping trip… found them very comfortable.
– Shrikant
The Recap ↓
Summary
The Smartwool Everyday Rollinsville Light Cushion Crew is our top pick for daily wear thanks to the secure fit (meaning they won’t bunch or slide down) and light cushioning for all day comfort.Â
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Kirstyn Brown
Kirstyn describes herself as a “coffee lover and cat lady,” but don’t let her humility fool you:
As the co-creator and former Editor-in-Chief of Strong Fitness Magazine, she’s a highly respected writer and editor with more than a decade of experience, whose work has appeared in top publications like Strong, Oxygen, Clean Eating, Girls Gone Strong and more.
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