These Are the Best Wool Socks for Every Destination (2024)

Our Top Picks

Born in the USA, one of Farm to Feet’s most popular wool sock models is a travel must-have for the always on-the-go adventure seeker. They’re lightweight, yet supportive with full-density padding on the dorsum to guarantee blister-free treks through the mountains (or the Appalachian Trail town they’re named after).

But perhaps best of all, the company stands by a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. If you’re disappointed with your purchase for whatever reason, they’ll happily ship a replacement pair or refund your order (with proof of purchase from an authorized retailer). Nowadays, you can’t put a price on exceptional customer service, and Farm to Feet is the embodiment of good ol’ fashioned American ingenuity and small business values.

The Details: S, M, L, XL | 51 percent merino wool, 46 percent nylon, 3 percent Lycra

These mid-calf gems are some of the most versatile on this list. They’re cozy enough to lounge in, but sturdy enough to slide into a hiking boot and provide the necessary cushioning and support for long walks or more strenuous slogs through the wilderness. Best of all, they’re priced affordably so that you can buy multiple pairs (in multiple colors) without breaking the bank.

The addition of spandex and rubber also makes them less rigid with tons of breathing room and the ability to conform to any foot shape. Needless to say, they’ll soon become a frequent buy on your Amazon Prime account, along with other travel essentials like lip balm, portable chargers, and water bottles.

The Details: 6 to 12, 10 to 13 | 65 percent polyester, 20 percent acrylic, 9 percent wool, 4 percent other fibers, 1 percent spandex, 1 percent rubber

Don’t forget that merino wool can also lend itself to a luxurious business sock, especially when woven with fabrics like cashmere or silk. Though Falke’s No. 6 socks are quite a splurge at $70 a pair, they’ll soon become a wardrobe staple and the perfect accessory for a suit or dressy trouser.

Thanks to a fine-stitch pattern, these also come with a subtle sheen to elevate the look from basic to elegant. And because they’re made predominantly with temperature-regulating merino wool, you can save precious space in your suitcase by packing only a single pair for an entire long weekend.

The Details: 6.5 to 7.5, 8 to 9, 9.5 to 10.5, 11 to 12 | 60 percent merino wool, 25 percent silk, 15 percent polyamide

Should you require a compression sock to apply pressure and maintain blood flow, SockWell’s got you covered, quite literally, with this over-the-calf option that’s available in seven neutral earth tones. Exceptional for international flights, car rides, or any activity where your body will remain stationary for extended periods of time, these super comfy yet firm knits are made with spandex and stretch nylon so there’s just the right amount of give to be comfortable (despite a medical-grade compression level of 20-30mmHg).

The compression is also gradual from ankle to calf so you won’t feel like you’re sporting wooden pirate legs during frequent trips to the bathroom.

The Details: M/L, L/XL, XXL | 31 percent merino wool, 31 percent bamboo rayon, 30 percent stretch nylon, 8 percent spandex

Stinky feet, begone. For those who are prone to sweaty feet but are on the hunt for a sock that will keep them warm, L.L. Bean has introduced a lightweight hiking sock designed specifically to wick away moisture and resist the growth of odor-causing bacteria. This is thanks to a high-quality, responsibly sourced merino wool that does a particularly good job of warding off smells and keeping skin dry.

Aside from being a laundry machine’s arch-nemesis (you won’t need to wash them too often, however), the toe area is seamlessly constructed to avoid chafing and there is extra fabric reinforcement in the heels for added durability and comfort.

The Details: S, M, L, XL | 77 percent merino wool, 21 percent nylon, 2 percent Lycra

If you’re an avid runner and are concerned about a low-cut sock being gobbled up by your sneaker, look no further than Fits’ ultra-lightweight model that features a patented Full Contact Fit® that hugs the contours of your feet and keeps the fabric in place.

Utility aside, these complete any stylish athletic look with a narrow welt that sits just above the shoe. That means you can stop to take Instagram-worthy photos during any run knowing you’ll stay looking stylish and put-together. Consider them for a full day of walking and museum tours, as well — they’ll provide all the support you need to prevent achy and sore joints.

The Details: S, M, L, XL, XXL | 73 percent merino wool, 21 percent nylon, 4 percent polyester, 2 percent Lycra

These may look straight out of an episode of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, but Pure Athlete high performance wool ski socks serve a purpose beyond their cool, colorful design. Featuring an innovative blend of merino wool and polypropylene, there is no ski or snowboard boot they won’t complement and even enhance.

Features like targeted cushion areas, elastic arch support, and a gripped top guarantee a day of adventure without having to worry about whether or not they’ll stay in place. Plus, they can also be purchased in three or six packs to save a few bucks and share with those joining you on a winter vacation.

The Details: S, M, L | 54 percent nylon, 25 percent merino wool, 16 percent polypropylene, 5 percent spandex

Rugged terrain doesn’t stand a chance with these heavyweight hiking socks that live up to the company name: Darn Tough. And with over 550 five-star reviews, you’ll soon see why. A whopping 73 percent merino wool content will keep toes warm, dry, and ultra-snug as you take on cliffs, caverns, and unpredictable elements of nature.

Despite a 17-inch length from heel to cuff, you’ll also never experience bunching or slipping, so your legs will be protected as you wade through plants and rocks that are prone to scratching or scraping. Darn Tough also stands behind an impressive “Unconditionally Guaranteed for Life” warranty: if they aren’t the “longest-lasting” socks you’ve ever owned, you can return them for another pair.

The Details: S, M, L, XL, XXL | 73 percent merino wool, 25 percent nylon, 2 percent Lycra

Bombas is already an iconic brand in the sock space, but these no-shows are a real game changer. Three silicone grips inside the heel ensure they stay in place, while a seamless toe stitch eliminates the pesky bump that peeks through (and annoyingly rubs against) shoes with thinner fabrics.

Wear these on an evening stroll through a European city with any stylish footwear for that trendy exposed ankle look, all while benefiting from the warmth, softness, and breathability of 82 percent merino wool. For every pair purchased, Bombas also donates a pair to homeless shelters across the country, so it’s a mini splurge you can feel even better about.

The Details: M, L, XL | 82 percent merino wool, 16 percent polyester, 2 percent elastane

Patagonia has gone above and beyond to ensure their wool sources are certified to meet the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). These rules and regulations protect merino sheep, as well as the land on which they graze and are raised on. All support fibers are also solution dyed, which reduces the need for water during the manufacturing process.

But beyond the company’s environmental mindfulness, these are just darn good crew socks with a mesh arch brace and a terry-looped footbed that keeps the foot snug and cushioned for days of seemingly endless sightseeing. They’re also available as an anklet if you want to change up the style a bit for different outfits.

The Details: S, M, L, XL | 56 percent merino wool, 41 percent nylon, 3 percent spandex

Aside from an eye-catching color block design, SmartWool delivers with a durable and versatile sock that can lend itself to practically any daily activity. A “stay-put” fit and Virtually Seamless™ toe for enhanced comfort keep these tight and secure as you embark on a morning jog, hop from shop to shop, or kick up your legs after a long day of exploring a new town or city.

SmartWool has also pledged to incorporate recycled nylon into its extensive line of products, with a goal of 100 percent recycled nylon use in the very near future. Should you find yourself with a bag of unwanted socks (including singles!), the company will gladly accept donations as part of its Second Cut Project.

The Details: S, M, L, XL | 53 percent merino wool, 29 percent recycled nylon, 14 percent nylon, 4 percent elastane

Frequently Asked Questions

• What percentage of wool is best for socks?

  This varies based on personal needs and preferences. Socks made from 100 percent wool are practically impossible to find — they’re stiff, scratchy, and generally uncomfortable (unless they come from an alpaca or are made with an ultrafine merino, of course). A blended sock, typically woven with polyester, nylon, and/or elastane, will be more soft and form-fitting, yet flexible enough so that you can hike, ski, bike, or run with ease.

• How often should I wash wool socks?

  While wool socks are known for boasting odor-absorbing and moisture-wicking properties, they do require an occasional wash. A general rule of thumb is to wash them every two to three days after full days of wear. This will obviously vary based on how long you wear them, the activities performed, and how much they’ve been stretched out. Just remember to never toss your wool socks in a dryer — they’ll shrink. Hand wash them in cold or lukewarm water with a mild detergent, squeeze (don’t ring) out excess water, and either lay them out or hang them to dry.

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