If there is one thing that drives me insane when skiing, it is the discomfort of having chilly feet. Regular socks or even tucking their trousers into their boots are common solutions, although they are not always effective. In order to see what the socks have to offer, we are going to take a look at some of the finest ski socks currently available on the market.

Despite the fact that there are many different kinds of ski socks available, they are usually divided into three categories; thin, medium thickness, and thick (or heavy). It will be dependent on how much insulation you need as well as your own taste when it comes to the degree of comfort you want underfoot while wearing bulky socks.

Socks are essential for keeping feet warm and comfy throughout the winter. No matter whether you're skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, or sledding with the kids, your socks are essential for being warm and comfortable in the winter. No need to worry about your feet since we have you covered.

Breathability, comfort, stretch, and durability were all important factors in our search for the best socks available. Then, using internet evaluations from a variety of sources, we evaluated the overall performance of each brand's socks. In order to choose the best of the best, we rated each sock based on the quantity and quality of positive reviews and comments received from customers.

Editors' Picks: Top Ski Socks 2023

Keep in mind that socks may be difficult to find. One sock will not fit and meet the requirements of every individual, but the socks on our list are by far the most popular and most trustworthy. You may either scroll through our selections of the finest winter socks for 2020-2023, or go to a specific category below.

Top 4 Best Ski Socks

Smartwool Men's PhD Ski Light - Link

Skiers seeking for precise fit and performance in their ski socks will find it in the Smartwool PhD Pro Freeski, which is available in both men's and women's sizes. This lightweight slimmer sock is constructed of 57 percent Merino wool and the rest of the materials are nylon and elastane. It is intended to provide you with the greatest fit possible in your ski boot while avoiding any extraneous details.

The fact that they are the lightest and thinnest socks in our study doesn't mean that they are without padding where it counts the most: in the shins to assist avoid shin bang, and some in the ankles to provide additional comfort. The PhD Pro Freeski is designed without any padding in the toe and heel in order to provide a tighter and minimal fit in the ski boot liner.

This tiny sock does not provide nearly the warmth of other socks we tested, especially merino wool socks such as the PhD Ski Medium or thicker sock such as the Darn Tough Thermolite. However, for such a small sock, they do provide a surprisingly high level of insulation. Their tight fit makes you feel as though you're not wearing socks at all-and we mean that in a nice way. This lightweight sock retains its warmth even when wet, owing to the Merino wool used in the construction of it.

PhD Pro Freeski socks are designed to be worn up to the top of the calf, rather than over the knee, for maximum comfort. However, like with the other Smartwool socks in our study, they are not recommended for those who have broad calves due to their compression fit in the calf.

Our self-proclaimed large-calved testers were pleased with the performance of the men's version. Our testers discovered that the women's model did not fit individuals with big calves as well as the men's model. We suggest that individuals with bigger calves use the men's version of this socks.

Product description

The Pro Freeski features a tight and strong weave, which increases the endurance of the thin sock design while maintaining its thinness. Because they are on the lighter side of the spectrum, they are more prone to wearing out more quickly than Medium weight socks. However, for a lightweight sock, we believe they are very sturdy, and believe they will survive at least a few excellent ski seasons.

Features

• 14" height
• Mesh ventilation zones
• Virtually seamless toe

Wigwam Mens Snow Sirocco - Link

If the thought of paying $20 or more for a pair of ski socks makes you uncomfortable, the good news actually is that there are some great bargains to be found. While the Wigwam Sirocco is a little more expensive than the Darn Tough and the Smartwool choices above, it provides just as much comfort and warmth for a normal day on the slopes as either of the two premium options. Bear in mind also that this Sirocco is prone to lose its form over a period of time, but the combination of wool and nylon is warm and soft, and the moderate padding may help fill up a pair of weak rental boots.

It's essential to note that this Wigwam Sirocco is not recommended for professional skiers due to the fact that the sock is a bit thick and therefore does not fit your foot just as the more expensive versions mentioned before. On the positive side, it provides comparable levels of warm feeling (and they have lately increased the amount of wool used in manufacturing), and we've seen it for as little as $10, and in the midst of the winter shopping season. That's an unbeatable deal for weekenders looking for a dependable pair of ski socks on a tight financial budget.

Product description

Due to its mid-weight design and wool fabric, this knee-high sock is a natural choice for your favorite winter sock since it offers you with the perfect amount of covering while being comfortable. With a little TLC, your Wigwam socks will continue to function admirably for years to come.

Features

• Machine wash
• Perfect for snow boots
• Care instructions

Darn Tough Ski/Ride Function socks - Link

These unisex socks stand out from the rest as a synthetic sock that is exceptionally long-lasting. A medium thickness, comparable to the Smartwool, makes these socks an excellent choice as a versatile sock for mountain resort skiing.

Its plenty of cushioning under the feet and the ankle allows these Thermolite socks to be particularly comfortable. However, these may not be the most comfortable socks in our analysis because there is a decent chunk of articulation in the feet to help reduce bulk and bunching inside the ski boots.

So just as long as these ski socks do not get too soaked, the synthetic Thermolite fabric performs an excellent job of wicking moisture away from the feet. Even when wet, wool retains a significant amount of its warmth, whereas synthetic materials dry more quickly, Nonetheless, since they are made entirely of synthetic materials, these ski socks are somewhat more durable than the merino wool.

Your feet will remain toasty and dry through many ski days on the mountain, which ranged from bright and sunny 30°c days to extreme cold days in the single. These socks perform well in all conditions. Additionally, they have received positive consumer feedback and positive media coverage. The Outdoor Gear Lab gives them excellent ratings. There have been numerous positive comments from REI and Darn Tough customers who have used it on a regular basis. Most importantly, and this is worth mentioning, every Darn Tough Sock is backed by a lifetime guarantee, which is widely regarded as one of the finest in the business.

Product description

The name pretty well sums it up. The highest point at which to keep the outer world at bay. their length reaches over the calf. Merino wool is used in the production, with Nylon and Lycra Spandex making up the rest of the composition. Because of the rapid action wicking, there will be no sweatier, smelly socks after wearing it. Its soft, airy merino wool provides quick drying and all-weather quality performance, allowing you to stay cool and comfortable in the summer and toasty warm during winter.

If these socks get worn, torn, or develop perforations, Darn Tough will replace them at no additional cost.

Features

• Machine wash
• Over the calf height
• Made in the US

Pure Athlete Copper Compression Ski Socks - Link

PureAthlete's socks aren't quite the finest in the world, but they're nonetheless extremely popular among athletes. The soft material of the socks, as well as the left- and right-specific sock fits, were praised by the majority of consumers. In general, it's a decent and straightforward winter sock choice. Please keep in mind that these socks are on the thinner side. If you like a more compression-style fit, these may be the ones for you.

Composed of polypropylene, merino wool and nylon, these calf length ski socks ensure the feet are warm in even the coldest of circumstances while providing a stylish look. This pair of socks is made with sophisticated fibre engineering that offers thermal regulating characteristics that maintains feet's heat without overheating. However, it is the thin material on the top, the decreased shin bang, with the seamless toe that distinguish this pair of socks from the others. They also include padding in the ankle, shin, and foot regions to further enhance comfort levels, allowing you to attain maximum comfort regardless what the weather conditions are like.

For mountain skiers, comfort is a critical component of their equipment. These compressive socks are made of ultra-soft material to guarantee that you do not feel any discomfort when skiing. Even though these ski stockings for men are designed to be near to the body and provide calf protection, they also feature a small top thin cuff that prevents the sock from sliding or slipping into other socks. Additionally, they are equipped with Hydrophobic technology, which actively prevents moisture and maintains the dryness of the feet and absence perspiration, while also providing moisture-wicking and anti-odor qualities to keep you from smelling like a fish.

According to the majority of internet evaluations, the socks provide an excellent mix of compression and lightness while being comfortable. Several buyers have stated that the socks have a decent degree of elasticity. In the vast majority of negative reviews, people complained that the socks were too thin and that they weren't very durable after being washed.

Product description

These ski socks are the first of their kind since the wool has been infected with copper, which helps in the stimulation of blood flow while also reducing tiredness.

Due to the fact that copper is woven into the wool, it will not wash away like other kinds of wool, unlike other sorts of treatments. You may wash it with your regular laundry detergent without having to worry about it being damaged or losing its effectiveness.

Features

• Merino wool
• Advanced compression
• Second skin fit

Buying guide

For purchasing your new pair of ski socks, there are a few things you may need to consider and they are as follows:

Durability

Select ski socks that are mostly composed of merino wool or any other fibers that allow them to have a little amount of flexibility to fit comfortably. This aids in the preservation of the form of your socks as well as the better fitting of your feet. Furthermore, they do not bunch up within your boots, nor do they lose the elasticity and wind up dropping to your ankles like they do with other brands.

The finest ski socks retain their form even after being washed many times. They must also be durable enough to last many ski seasons.

Weight

Ski socks are divided into three distinct types. Each one has its unique set of characteristics and applications.

Ultralight

These socks are designed especially for mountain skiing. The fact that they're so thin allows your skin to breathe. Despite this, they offer tight compression which helps to balance your ankles and give support for your shins, as well. They offer a precise anatomical fit in order to provide you with the most comfort and support possible. However, their cost may be too expensive.

Lightweight

Complementing the compression provided by these ski socks is their excellent wicking capabilities. But they vary from lightweight socks in that they are not as anatomically engineered for a perfect fit as ultralight socks. They're also a little thicker, which means they're not quite as costly, but they're still just as efficient.

Midweight

In comparison to the previous two kinds of ski socks, mid-weight socks provide greater cushioning. They're also the heaviest of the three options available. Their thickness, on the other hand, is a benefit since it offers you with the greatest amount of protection for your most susceptible regions, such as your shins, heels, and ankles, while you are running.

Convenience

When it comes to how comfortable a set of ski socks may be, there are a number of variables to consider. The real substance has a significant impact. They are in charge of the thickness, degree of softness, and amount of support provided by your socks. Certain textiles, including merino wool, are excellent for those who have sensitive skin since they are not as abrasive on the skin.

Padding is also another excellent comfort element. To support your ankles, shins, and heels, the padding is carefully distributed throughout the sock body. When you've had a long day, padding may assist to alleviate pain and muscular exhaustion.

Warmth

In the case of chilly toes, this indicates that they are not adequately protected from the elements. Wearing many layers of socks will also not be of assistance. Choose socks that are permeable while yet retaining the ability to keep heat in. This will help you avoid that awful sensation.

Wicking

The capacity of a cloth to respond to the moisture produced by your body is referred to as wicking. Even though the temperature is chilly, our feet produce perspiration. The toes will get chilly if the moisture on your body does not evaporate. It is possible that numbness may develop as a result. As a result, it is critical that you select ski socks composed of materials that are capable of wicking moisture away from the skin surface.

Merino wool is one of the greatest kinds of textiles for wicking since it has the highest degree of wicking ability. It dries fast and is very long-lasting. Likewise, there are a variety of synthetic materials to choose from like nylon, acrylic, and polyester, that are excellent at wicking away moisture while keeping you warm and comfortable.

Thickness of the material

It's easy to forget about the importance of matching the right ski socks to the right boot size while skiing. Wearing thick socks may cause your boots to feel claustrophobic and constrictive. You may choose for thin socks and end up with too much space within your boots while walking. Both situations will leave you with an uneasy sensation in your stomach.

Shin Padding

Most of the time, we suggest selecting a ski sock with some degree of cushioning around the shin for all-day comfort and to reduce the pain of shin-bangs (or when landing a jump). Whether skiing in the resort or backcountry, it is something that is appreciated by both casual and performance skiers. It is particularly useful while skiing on hardpack, when your stance should be more forward (upright). The majority of the time, ski-specific socks with greater cushioning underfoot also offer a good degree of shin protection as a standard feature. Despite this, there are a few of lightweight padded alternatives on the market that mix a non-cushioned form with a little amount of shin protection. Finally, while shopping for crossover ski and snowboarding socks, keep in mind that these models usually do not have the intended padding around the shin.

FAQs

What kind of socks should I put on before going skiing?

Despite the fact that it is feasible to ski in any mid-calf sock, the benefits of wearing a ski-specific sock outweigh the cost of the purchase. In comparison to ordinary cotton sports socks, any ski sock will remain drier, fit more securely, and feel more comfortable inside the constraints of a ski boot. Skiing with poor socks for an extended length of time may result in blisters, rashes, and the possibility of frostbite if the socks stay wet in the cold. In addition to keeping your feet warm, a ski sock such as the Darn Tough Ski/Ride Function socks will keep your feet comfortable and free of friction-related pain.

Is it possible for me to wear more than one pair of socks at a time?

Ski boot liners are made to be as pleasant as possible while yet fitting as tightly to the foot as feasible. It is preferable if there is as close a connection between your body and the boot as is reasonably possible. Excessive sock use causes sweating, chafed feet, and hot patches where the socks bunch up within the boot lining, all of which are uncomfortable. It's usually preferable to choose a single thicker pair of socks to fill up any empty space in the boot or to provide an additional layer of warmth.

Does it make sense for me to tuck in my thermal base layer into my socks?

A ski sock's purpose is to keep your legs from sliding about. Tucking in your thermals, long underwear, or anything else that adds weight to your leg inside of the boot lining will become unbearably painful. It's important to keep any extra layers folded up and out of the way so that just your leg and sock are entering the boot's cuff.

How many pairs of ski socks will I need?

In an ideal situation, you'll have a new pair of socks for every day that you're out in the cold. However, if you are traveling and do not have access to a washing machine, or if you ski every day and do not want to spend $300 dollars on socks, you may get 2-3 days out of a pair before cleaning them. It is possible to get by with three or four pairs of socks for a weeklong ski vacation. If you choose merino wool socks, they will be a bit more odor resistant than cheaper synthetics, which is certainly worth mentioning.

Buy on Walmart

Wigwam Snow Sirocco Knee High Performance Ski Sock (Black, Medium) - Walmart Link

Icebreaker Merino Men's Ski Light Over The Calf Skiing Socks, Small, Fathom - Walmart Link

Eurosock Standard Zone Ski Socks, Gray/Jade, Large - Walmart Link

High Performance Wool Ski Socks – Outdoor Wool Skiing Socks, Snowboard Socks - Walmart Link

Burton Mens Performance + Midweight Sock, Mood Indigo Block, Medium - Walmart Link

Burton Mens Performance Midweight Sock, Oatmeal Heather, Large - Walmart Link

Bridgedale Men's Lightweight Ski - Merino Endurance Socks, Dark Denim/Blue, X-Large - Walmart Link

Swiftwick- PURSUIT TWELVE Warm Merino Wool Knee High Socks for Snow Sports (Black/Coal, - Walmart Link

Le Bent Le Send Cody Townsend Ski and Snowboard Sock, Tan, Medium - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Wigwam Snow Sirocco Knee High Performance Ski Sock (Black, Medium) - eBay Link

Icebreaker Merino Men's Ski Light Over The Calf Skiing Socks, Small, Fathom - eBay Link

Eurosock Standard Zone Ski Socks, Gray/Jade, Large - eBay Link

High Performance Wool Ski Socks – Outdoor Wool Skiing Socks, Snowboard Socks - eBay Link

Burton Mens Performance + Midweight Sock, Mood Indigo Block, Medium - eBay Link

Burton Mens Performance Midweight Sock, Oatmeal Heather, Large - eBay Link

Bridgedale Men's Lightweight Ski - Merino Endurance Socks, Dark Denim/Blue, X-Large - eBay Link

Swiftwick- PURSUIT TWELVE Warm Merino Wool Knee High Socks for Snow Sports (Black/Coal, - eBay Link

Le Bent Le Send Cody Townsend Ski and Snowboard Sock, Tan, Medium - eBay Link

Conclusion

After testing as many different ski socks we could discover, we came up with the following selection as our favorite.

We recommend the Smartwool Phd Light Ski Socks, which are available in both men and women sizes. They're composed of very soft Merino wool, which helps to keep you dry and warm thanks to its exceptional wicking capacity. They are held together by two distinct kinds of elastic to keep them from sliding. Additionally, the seamless toe design minimizes friction and helps to avoid inflammations on the skin. We hope you have a wonderful skiing.