Buying guide for best ski socks
Socks are an oft-overlooked piece of clothing for many activities. But spending the day on the ski slopes can quickly become uncomfortable if you have the wrong kind of socks on. Cold toes are just no fun, and blisters are downright uncomfortable.
The BestReviews team wants to make sure you enjoy your next ski trip by providing the information you need to keep your feet comfortable and blister-free. We looked at a variety of sport-specific ski socks made with different materials and different thicknesses. All products that we test are purchased by us, so you can expect honest feedback on the items we cover. Our guide below explains the most important things to consider when selecting socks for a snow-filled ski weekend.
Have a look through our recommendations below, then head back up to the top of this page to see our top five ski sock picks.
What to consider when shopping for ski socks
The weather channel might give you a rough idea of how cold it is outside, but only you know how particular temperatures and conditions affect you. If you tend to get hot quickly when you’re active, the thickness of your socks may be a secondary concern to the wicking ability of your socks. But If you're someone who's always cold, picking a sock based on thickness makes more sense.
Regardless of your individual circumstances, keep these considerations in mind when selecting a pair of socks for skiing.
Breathability
Generally, the thicker the sock, the warmer it is. But a chunkier material might be less breathable. If you get hot easily and sweat a lot, consider a sock with a little less bulk. If you want a snuggly sock, just make sure it's not so thick that your ski boots no longer fit.
Sock thickness
Ski socks usually fall into one of three thickness categories: lightweight, medium weight, and heavyweight. Lightweight socks are best for warmer conditions, while heavyweight socks are appropriate for the coldest days.
Comfort
What makes a sock comfortable? It must be the right size, and it shouldn't bunch up or restrict blood flow. The material should also be non-irritating, so we urge you to avoid fabrics that might cause an allergic reaction. For example, some people are irritated by wool.
"Many ski socks are composed of a blend of fabrics to provide optimal warmth, fit, and moisture-wicking properties."
STAFF
BestReviews
Durability
Socks for any activity, including skiing, should last you at least one season. Proper care can extend the lifespan of a pair of ski socks, as can better construction quality. Look for socks with reinforced seams, and stay away from socks with loose threads that could snag on equipment or footwear.
Material
It's tough to stay warm if you're stuck in sopping wet socks. For the best sweat-wicking performance, opt for socks made of synthetic materials or Merino wool. Synthetic fabrics are best for keeping your feet dry and free from blisters. Nylon, wool, and acrylic material are all commonly used materials in ski socks.
Size and fit
A ski sock should fit snugly. It shouldn't bunch up at the heel or in the toe area. It should also stay up on your ankle, because when you’re busy honing technical skills on the slopes, you don’t want to have to pause to pull your socks back up. After all, it's a lot harder to adjust your socks in a pair of ski boots than it is while wearing sneakers.
Your budget
Last, but certainly not least, you should keep your budget in mind when shopping for ski socks. That said, you can expect to pay a little more for ski socks than you would for everyday socks. The reason? Sport-specific socks are made with high-tech fibers and are built to withstand rigorous use.
Expert Tip
Fit is important. Your ski socks should feel snug but shouldn't pinch your toes. Any uncomfortable sensation you feel at the start of your day will increase exponentially as time goes on.
STAFF
BestReviews
Two great ski sock features
If you want the best ski socks possible, look for socks that also include the following great features.
Cushioning
Ski socks feature various levels of padding. The more padding your ski socks have, the warmer and more cushioned your feet will be.
Arch support
Some ski socks have a band of material around the arch that's made of stretchier, more compressive fabric. If you deal with arch pain or have fallen arches, choose a sock with this feature to provide your foot with extra support.
FAQ
Q. If I want to stay warm while I ski, can't I just double up my regular socks?
A. In theory, this might sound like a grand plan. Unfortunately, doubling up your everyday socks will likely cause them to shift out of place easily. You, therefore, increase your chances of developing blisters.
Q. Does it really matter what I wear on my feet to ski?
A. Yes. Technical ski socks don't just protect your feet from the cold – they keep your feet dry, too. If you just decide to wear a pair of old cotton socks, you'll find yourself with teeth chattering at the end of your day outdoors.
Q. What sock height should I go with for skiing?
A. For added protection, choose a ski sock that hits above your ski boot. A taller sock will also provide more warmth. Taller ski socks often have padding along the shin area to keep your legs protected from the hard shell of ski boots.
