Best Wool and Synthetic Ski Socks of 2024/25
The Top Men’s and Women’s Ski Socks for Warmth, Cushioning, Comfort, And Fit
Updated November 18th, 2024 to include testing notes on
five new pairs of socks, including two new winners
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Trust us, good ski socks are worth the investment. They can make or break your time in the mountains. While finding the best ski socks will never be as crucial as, say, your well-fitting ski boots, they’re an important piece of your ski kit and should not be overlooked—and even if you’ve got the perfect fitting boot, a bad sock can ruin that. If you’re renting ski gear, ski socks are the one thing we’d recommend buying for yourself.
Thick wool hiking socks might work in a pinch, but if you really want to avoid painfully cold toes, gnarly blisters, and pinched calves, a great pair of ski socks will make all the difference.
To find the best ski socks, we tested merino wool and synthetic over-the-calf socks. We ranked ski socks based on what is best for both the resort and backcountry ski touring.
We’ve also found that ski socks work like an insulated compression sock for many winter outdoor activities, and can double for cold-weather cycling, winter running, and hiking, too. While it’s not ideal to use other types of socks as ski socks, using ski socks for other winter activities is a great way to get more value out of a relatively pricey pair of socks.
To find the best ski socks for men and women, we researched dozens of models out there that feature the best materials and tech. Then we took to the slopes and skin track to test the socks for ourselves. For the sake of your feet, read on!
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Ski Socks Comparison Table
| SKI SOCK | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP | MATERIAL | THICKNESS | LENGTH | SIZES AVAILABLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion Unisex |
Best ski sock Read review |
$30 | merino (56%), nylon (39%), elastane (3%), polyester (2%) | Medium | 13" over the calf | S to XXL; men’s 3 - 14.5, women’s 4-12.5 (shoe sizes), youth sizing |
| Darn Tough Thermolite EDGE OTC Midweight Women's Men's |
Best synthetic ski sock Read review |
$30 | 60% Thermolite polyester, 38% nylon, 2% Lycra Spandex | Medium | Over the calf | men’s shoe sizes 8 - 14.5 (M to XL) , women’s shoe sizes 4.5 - 11.5 (S to L) |
| Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion OTC Women's Men's |
Best lightweight Read review |
$27 | 55% merino wool / 41% nylon / 3% elastane/ 1% polyester | Light Elite | 14" over the calf | men’s 6-14.5; women’s 4-12.5 (shoe size) |
| Darn Tough Outer Limits OTC Lightweight Women's Men's |
Best ski touring sock Read review |
$31 | 55% merino wool, 42% nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex | Light-Medium | Over the calf | Men's 8-14.5; women's 4-11.5 |
| Farm to Feet Wilson 2.0 Unisex |
Best sustainably made ski socks Read review |
$36 | 50% nylon, 44% merino wool, 6% Lycra spandex | None | Over the calf | women’s 4-12.5, men’s 6-14.5 |
For more of our favorite snow recommendations, see our most popular Snow Gear Guide stories:
The Best Ski Socks
Best Merino Wool Ski Socks: Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion
Material: merino (56%), nylon (39%), elastane (3%), polyester (2%)
Thickness: Midweight
Length: 13” over the calf
Sizing: S to XXL; men’s 3 - 14.5, women’s 4-12.5 (shoe sizes), youth sizing
What we liked: balance of warmth, comfort, moisture-wicking, durability, variety of sizing, and an excellent fit
What we didn’t like: on the expensive side
The men’s and women’s Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion Over-the-Calf socks have been a top choice among skiers for years now, and for good reason: they provide an excellent balance of warmth, comfort, and moisture-wicking with lasting durability. They’re an easy pick for our best all-around ski sock.
The Smartwool Ski Full Cushion socks are made of a merino blend, with 56% merino wool for maximum temperature regulation and moisture-wicking, and nylon and elastane mixed in for durability and stretch.
We also love that the Full Cushion ski socks are made with ZQ-certified merino wool, which “ensures environmental, social and economic sustainability and safeguards animal welfare.” And — 70% of the sock’s nylon is recycled (Smartwool is transitioning to eventually use 100% recycled nylon in their socks).
Compare prices of the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion
Booting up in the Smartwool Ski Socks. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
The midweight thickness strikes the right balance between a precise fit and just enough padding for overall comfort. Smartwool makes ski socks in a variety of thicknesses, but we think the targeted cushion offers the best overall performance for most skiers.
This Smartwool sock has an articulated fit — snug with a thinner weave around the center of the foot and at the ankle that prevents excess material from bunching up in your ski boot.
Padding under the heel and ball of the foot adds further comfort and warmth.
Booting up in the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion OTC socks. By Stasia Stockwell
A bit of extra cushioning in the shin helps to prevent shin bang without being too bulky.
Thanks to the merino wool in the fabric, this ski sock manages both moisture and friction well, keeping your feet as warm, dry, and blister-free as possible. And a bonus of the merino fabric is that it doesn’t hold onto odors as much as fully synthetic socks do.
The length of the Smartwool Ski is over-the-calf, which means the top of the sock lands just below the knee, which is ideal for skiing.
We tested the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion OTC socks over several days of resort skiing, along with a handful of touring days in the backcountry. These are excellent socks and (tied with the Darn Tough Outer Limits) the most comfortable in our test. The fabric is luxuriously soft, even on the first wear. And the snug and seamless design and very light cushion in the toe area makes for an excellent fit, even in a tight, performance-fitting ski boot.
We also love that these socks come in so many different color and print options to suit a variety of styles. And, Smartwool now makes an Extra Stretch version of these socks for folks with larger calves.
The Smartwool Ski socks are some of the most durable in our review. These socks have been the go-to for our writer for over a decade, and we’ve seen single pairs last that long, too.
The merino wool sock construction is sturdy without being cumbersome, and they have superior comfort for full days in the resort and on backcountry tours alike. If you’re looking for one excellent and versatile ski sock to do it all and last multiple seasons, we think the best option out there is the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion.
Best Synthetic Ski Socks: Darn Tough Thermolite EDGE OTC Midweight
Material: 60% Thermolite polyester, 38% nylon, 2% Lycra Spandex
Cushioning: Medium
Length: Over the calf
Sizing: men’s shoe sizes 8 - 14.5 (M to XL) , women’s shoe sizes 4.5 - 11.5 (S to L)
What we liked: lifetime warranty, excellent durability, good padding
What we didn’t like: not the most form fitting, feet get a little sweatier than when wearing merino socks
Darn Tough socks live up to their name, especially when you consider their unconditional lifetime guarantee. For synthetic socks with exceptional durability, the men’s and women’s Darn Tough Thermolite Edge Over-The-Calf (OTC) Midweight Ski and Snowboard Sock stands out among the crowd. With a Medium thickness, these socks are slightly thicker than the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion. These are a great option for an all-around sock for resort skiing if you like a little cushion in your socks.
Compare prices of the Darn Tough Thermolite EDGE OTC Midweight
Women's
Men's
The Darn Tough Thermolite (left) are longer than the Smartwool Medium (right). Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
The padding on these Thermolite socks is especially good, with ample cushion under the foot and at the shin. There is nice articulation in the foot to mitigate bulk and bunching in the ski boot, but these are not the most form-fitting socks in our review.
The synthetic Thermolite material does a great job at wicking moisture, and the socks are warm as long as they don’t get too wet. While synthetic material dries faster, wool will maintain much of its warmth even when wet. But because the Thermolite socks are all synthetic, it makes them slightly sturdier than their merino wool ski sock competitors. Those whose bodies run warmer may find synthetic ski socks more comfortable than merino wool, too.
The length of these synthetic socks, like all others in this review, is over-the-calf. These socks fit a bit longer than the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushions, reaching our 5’2” writer completely over the calf and just at the bend in the knee. Compared to our Best All-Around pick, these socks will fit folks with longer legs a bit better.
After several ski days at the resort, ranging from warm and sunny 30-degree days to bone-chilling days in the single digits, these socks did a great job at keeping our feet warm and dry. On warmer days we did notice sweat a bit more than with other merino socks. It’s not that our feet never sweat in other socks, it was just a bit more noticeable in these. But, that doesn’t discount them as still a great option for folks who want the durability of fully synthetic ski socks.
Best yet (and worth repeating), every Darn Tough Sock comes with a lifetime warranty, considered among the best in the industry.
Best Lightweight Performance Ski Socks: Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion Otc Socks
Material: 55% merino wool / 41% nylon / 3% elastane/ 1% polyester
Cushioning: None
Height: 14” over the calf
Sizing: men’s 6-14.5; women’s 4-12.5 (shoe size)
What we liked: precision and fit
What we didn’t like: lack of padding is not for everyone
Skiers looking for precision fit and performance in their ski socks will find it in the men’s and women’s Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion. These ultralight socks are made with 55% merino wool blended with nylon and elastane, and they are designed to give you the best fit possible in your ski boot with no unnecessary frills.
Though these are the lightest and thinnest socks in our review, they are still some of the softest and most comfortable, much like our Targeted Cushion overall winners. Of all of the thin, zero cushion socks we tested, these by far offer the most comfort, especially in the toe box.
Compare prices of the Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion Otc Socks
Men's
Women's
The Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion may be the lightest and thinnest socks in our review, but they still have extra padding where it matters most. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
While this thin sock isn’t quite as warm as others we tested — particularly merino ski socks like the Smartwool Ski Full Cushion or thicker socks like the Darn Tough Thermolite — they still offer a surprising amount of warmth for such a thin sock. This is because the biggest factor in keeping your feet warm on the slopes is having good fitting boots, and sometimes to get the best and most precise boot fit you also want a thin sock. Too much material or cushion often can add bulk inside the boot, decreasing circulation fo your foot, thus making them colder. That’s why none of the winners in this review are super thick ski socks.
The fit of the Ski Zero Cushion socks is comfortably snug and feels like you’re not wearing a sock at all — in a good way. And thanks to the merino wool, this lightweight sock wicks well and stays warm even when damp.
The Ski Zero Cushion socks come up just to the top of the calf without going over the knee. They offer a nice, snug fit in the calf. And like the Targeted Cushion version, these also have the option for extra stretch in the calf.
The men’s version worked well for our self-proclaimed large-calved testers. Our testers found that the women’s model didn’t fit large-calved people as well, so if that’s you, opt for the Extra Stretch model.
The Ski Zero Cushion has a tight and tough weave, adding durability to the thin sock design. Because they are on the ultralight side, they are prone to wearing out a bit quicker than medium-weight socks. But for an ultralight sock, we think they are plenty durable, capable of lasting at least a few good ski seasons.
Our primary tester for this story (the author) skis the resort in a snug, performance fit boot, and these are hands-down her favorite socks for resort ski days. So if you’re looking for a pair of thin and light socks for a performance fit without sacrificing softness and comfort, these are the socks for you.
Best Socks for Ski Touring: Darn Tough Outer Limits OTC
Material: 42% merino wool, 54% nylon, 4% Lycra Spandex (men's); 41% merino wool, 56% nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex (women's)
Thickness: light-medium
Length: over the calf
Sizing: men's 8-14.5; women's 4-11.5
What we liked: balance: a snug, precise fit; enough cushion for comfort; excellent breathability and wicking capabilities; durability
What we didn’t like: slim fitting around the calf may not work for some body types and shapes
The men’s and women’s Darn Tough Over-the-Calf Lightweight socks find a beautiful balance: a snug, precise fit; enough cushion for comfort; and excellent breathability and wicking capabilities. This combination of features — with the added bonus of Darn Tough’s famous durability — make these socks our favorite choice for backcountry ski touring. Out of all the socks we tested, these offered the best performance for constant movement during long days in the mountains.
The Outer Limits socks are woven with 56% nylon, 41% merino wool, and a bit of spandex (42% merino wool, 54% nylon, and 4% Lycra Spandex for the men’s versions). This blend gets the best of both the synthetic and merino wool worlds — offering excellent wicking ability while still fending off odors and staying warm when damp.
Compare prices of the Darn Tough Outer Limits OTC
Women's
Men's
We consistently reached for the Darn Tough Outer Limits when heading out for ski tours, thanks to some thoughtful features made just for this type of activity. Cushioning in the shin adds comfort and protection for the downhill while ultralight patches of fabric are placed strategically at the top of the foot, ankle, and calf for maximum breathability. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
We call the Outer Limits a light-medium cushion. The cushioning feels fairly similar to our winner, the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion, (review above) but has more cushion than the Ski Zero Cushion (review above). They fit over the calf without covering the knee and are on the slim-fitting side around the calf.
Where they differ from the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion is in the fabric around the calf and center of the foot. In these places, the sock is extra thin to allow for maximum breathability. That’s what makes these socks so great for backcountry skiing, since the majority of your time is spent moving uphill. We consistently reached for these socks when heading out for ski tours, thanks to some thoughtful features made just for this type of activity.
Light shin padding adds comfort and protection for the downhill while ultralight patches of fabric are placed strategically at the top of the foot, ankle, and calf for maximum breathability during high-effort days.
Light padding in the toe and heel provide a touch of comfort without adding any unwanted bulk or bunching. The snug fit matched with the comfortable fabric gives the Outer Limits socks a barely-there feel.
Our tester’s feet stayed warm on single-digit dawn patrols without excess sweating or overheating on the uphill, even when the sun came out and temperatures rose. If you’re looking for a sock that wicks well and stays warm on high-output days in the backcountry, the Darn Tough OTC Lightweight will keep your feet happy.
Best Sustainably Made Ski Socks: Farm to Feet Wilson 2.0
Material: 50% nylon, 44% merino wool, 6% Lycra spandex
Cushioning: None
Length: over-the-calf
Sizing: women’s 4-12.5, men’s 6-14.5
What we liked: Thin performance fit, made in the US with materials from the US
What we didn’t: Not quite as luxuriously soft and comfortable as Smartwool socks
While many brands in our review have good sustainability initiatives and use high-quality materials in their socks, none of them can boast the levels of sustainability and US-sourced materials that Farm to Feet can. That’s one of the biggest reasons we love the Farm to Feet Wilson 2.0 socks. But, they’re not just sustainably made. They’re also excellent ski socks.
The Wilson socks are ultralight and thin, with no cushioning. This allows for a great fit in ski boots—what we’d call a performance fit. We love the soft merino-blended fabric of these socks and think it has a great warmth-to-weight ratio while maintaining great wicking properties and odor repellency.
We also love that Farm to Feet socks come from a small brand that manufactures all their socks in the US, and uses materials made in the US. This ultimately means a lower carbon footprint in order to get these socks on your feet (as long as you live in the US, that is). Additionally, Farm to Feet partners with The Conservation Alliance, The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, The Pacific Crest Trail Association, and The Continental Divide Trail Coalition.
We tested these ski socks at the resort in Breckenridge and found them to be very comfortable, and we especially love the snug fit and thin design for a performance fit in resort boots. These socks are also comfortable for ski touring, especially since they’re not too thick. They’re not quite as soft and comfortable as the Smartwool socks that take our overall award, but these are still an excellent pair of ski socks for folks who want to prioritize buying from a sustainable brand using US materials.
Compare prices of the Farm to Feet Wilson 2.0
The Farm to Feet Wilson 2.0 ski socks are made of 100% merino wool. By Stasia Stockwell
Best Budget Ski Socks: Minus33 Micro Liner
Material: Merino wool (57%), nylon (21%), stretch nylon (21%), spandex (1%)
Cushioning: Medium
Length: Over the calf
Sizing: women’s 4-13, men’s 3-14.5
What we liked: high quality material, comfortable, excellent value, great size range
What we didn’t: precision fit not quite as dialed as Smartwool or Darn Tough winners
High performance ski socks often come at a high price, and sometimes it’s tough to fork over that much cash for a pair of socks. We get it. But we still think having good ski socks is crucial to being comfortable on the slopes. Over the years we’ve tested several pairs of what we’d call “budget” ski socks, with many of them coming in under $20. But, we were never satisfied with them. They were often far too thick, or had issues with fabric bunching in the toes. But then we discovered Minus33’s Micro Liner ski socks.
These socks aren’t under that $20 mark, but they’re several dollars less than most others in our test and we think they offer an excellent value and worth a couple bucks more to get a truly good pair of ski socks that are clearly designed to fit well in the foot coffins that are ski boots.
View the Minus33 Micro Liner
The Minus33 Micro Liner ski socks have some light cushioning in the forefoot and heel, but the fit is snug and the cushioning isn’t excessive like other budget socks we tried. By Stasia Stockwell.
These socks are a merino-blend fabric, like many of our favorites. They’re soft and comfortable and snug enough to avoid any fabric bunching when shoving our feet into ski boots. There is some cushioning around the toes and ball of the foot, heel, and shin. In fact, these socks have some of the most plush and comfortable shin cushioning in our test without adding extra bulk to the foot.
We tested these socks at the resort in performance fit boots and found them to be very comfortable overall and quite warm. They’re a touch on the thick side, but if that’s your preference you’ll like these. And, they’re a far cry from other budget socks that we’ve tested that are simply way, way too thick to ever go in a ski boot.
We love the fact that these socks are also made in the US, up in New Hampshire. We’re also impressed with the quality and durability of these socks, especially for the price. These socks truly are an excellent value.
Other ski socks we tested
We tested several pairs of ski socks that are still excellent options.
Icebreaker Merino Ski+ Light OTC
Material: 53% merino wool, 44% nylon, 3% Lycra
Cushioning: Light
Length: Over the Calf
Sizing: men's 5-15; women's 4-13
The men’s and women’s Icebreaker Merino Ski+ Light OTC socks offer cozy comfort and warmth for skiing both at the resort and in the backcountry. The merino wool material holds warmth, wicks well, and stays warm when damp.
Compare prices of the Icebreaker Merino Ski+ Light OTC
Men's
Women's
While they were close contenders for the best backcountry touring sock, we found after testing that the tight weave on the Darn Tough Outer Limits to be more durable, and more comfortable and compressive in ski boots. The Darn Tough socks have better availability at a range of stores in a range of sizes.
The Ski+ Light OTC socks also run a bit large, which means skiers with small feet or shorter legs may have a tough time finding a good fit without the fabric bunching up. (Those with wider calves might find more luck with these socks.) However, if you’re looking for an extra soft pair of merino wool ski socks, these would be a good choice — just consider sizing down.
Material: Precision-blended Merino wool and nylon
Cushioning: Medium
Length: Over the Calf
Sizing: men's 3-11+; women's 4-10+
The Voormi Ski Sock is a great choice for an all-around ski sock that does it all, from resort laps to long backcountry tours. The tight Merino wool blend weave gives these socks a snug fit with medium thickness and ample warmth and wicking ability.
However, the Voormi Ski Socks are on the pricier side for a pair of socks. After testing side-by-side with other socks at lower prices, we felt that they did not outperform our winning models enough to justify the price.
They also run a bit large and have limited sizing options, so skiers with smaller feet won’t find a good fit — our tester wears a women’s 7.5 street shoe (23.5 mondo size in ski boots) and found the small/medium size to be too big, and there’s no option to size down.
However, after testing on a combo of bitter cold days and a handful of backcountry ski tours, these socks proved to be very warm and comfortable.
If the sock fits and you don’t mind the added cost to support a smaller brand, these are a great option.
View the Voormi Ski Sock
Fox River Ultra-Lightweight OTC
Material: Nylon (44%), merino wool (39%), silk (12%), polyester (3%), spandex (2%)
Cushioning: Light
Length: Over the calf
Sizing: Women’s 4-12.5, men’s 3-12.5
The Fox River Ultra-Lightweight ski socks are another pair we considered for our budget pick. We tested the women’s Fox River Carve Ultra-Lightweight ski socks and the Gnar is a very similar men’s model.
The Carve are good overall merino blended ski socks, but they’re a little more expensive than our Minus33 budget pick, and we think you’d be better off spending less and getting the Minus33 or upgrading for the Smartwool or Darn Tough winners.
Compare prices of the Fox River Carve Ultra-Lightweight OTC
Men's
Women's
But, unlike many budget ski socks we considered, these are not too thick and have a good cushioning design. The material is good, but nowhere near as soft as the Smartwool Ski socks. And, we had some minor issues with bunching fabric at the toes when testing, and wish the toe box design was a little snugger and better overall. But, if you’re looking for a pair of thin and light ski socks at a reasonable price, we think these are a decent option.
Material: 60% wool, 30% stretch nylon, 9% stretch polyester, 1% Spandex
Cushioning: Medium-heavy
Length: Over the calf
Sizing: men's 5-15; women's 4-13
The Wigwam Snow Sirocco Performance Ski Sock sneaks into our honorable mentions thanks to its popularity as a budget sock. The Wigwam Sirocco wool-blend socks are half the price of most ski socks. For that reason, they get mentions from Wirecutter/New York Times, Gear Junkie, and Switchback Travel. While the Sirocco do offer some ski-specific features, like shin padding, they lack the design and precise fit in the foot that other socks in our review have. While the socks that won our awards all have a fairly snug fit with specific weaves and fabric thicknesses throughout the sock, the Wigwam Sirocco isn’t much more than a tube sock.
Overall, we found in testing that these socks are uncomfortably thick in ski boots, meaning they’re likely to restrict circulation or bunch up in the toe.
When it comes to considering these socks as a budget option, we’d strongly recommend spending a few extra bucks to get better socks, like the Minus33. Focus on saving money on other pieces of ski gear, like outerwear, where the price margins are greater, and quality budget options exist (see our Best Men’s Ski Jackets, Women’s Ski Jackets, Women’s Ski Pants, and Men’s Ski Pants guides for suggestions). While we didn’t love wearing these socks for skiing, they were rather thick and cozy to wear around the house after a cold day on the slopes.
View the Wigwam Snow Sirocco
Do I need Ski-Specific socks?
Treeline writer Matt McDonald earning turns. Photo courtesy Matt McDonald.
Skiing socks may seem like an unimportant piece of gear, but there is actually quite a bit of difference in design between ski socks and other kinds of socks.
Socks that aren’t designed for skiing are likely to bunch up, leading to an uncomfortable fit in your ski boots.
Wearing the wrong socks can also restrict your circulation, giving you cold toes. If they’re made of cotton or another material that doesn’t wick moisture well, you can get cold or damp feet or even blisters. Finding a good pair of ski socks helps to mitigate all of these issues — and if you snowboard, there are even snowboarding-specific socks to make a day on the slopes that much more enjoyable.
In general, ski socks differ from basic winter socks or hiking socks in a few key ways. Ski socks are typically longer — they tend to hit just below the knee. This not only helps with overall comfort — they won't ride down and get bunched up in your boots — but also helps to provide critical protection from “shin bang.” Shin bang happens when your shins get bruised or sore from the forward pressure you put on your ski boots, and most good ski socks have cushioning in the front to keep your shins intact.
Ski socks also feature a specific fit in the foot. Where tube socks or a regular sock designed for winter fit uniformly on your foot, ski socks are designed to compress in all the right places. Ski socks work like ergonomic socks — fitting snug around the arch and toes with gentle compression throughout the calves — and prevent any bunching in order to provide maximum warmth, wicking, and overall performance.
Snowboard socks share a lot of qualities with ski socks: both offer gentle compression in the calves and a snug fit overall. But they differ primarily in thickness since snowboard boots don’t fit quite as snug as ski boots. Skiers should opt for ski socks instead of snowboard socks to avoid getting socks that are too uncomfortable.
Likewise, snowboarders will find a better match in snowboard-specific socks since they’re designed specifically for snowboard boots.
We tested ski socks side-by-side to comparatively understand what makes them different and what makes one sock better than another. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
How to Choose Ski Socks
Design, material, and fit are the three primary factors to consider when buying ski socks. We go into all three of these criteria in our Criteria section below. We’d also recommend reading these guides from REI Expert Advice and for more background information.
Good ski socks should have cushioning in the right places — like the shin and the heel — without being too thick or restricting circulation. Ski socks should also be made of a moisture-wicking material that stands up to seasons of use. This can be a synthetic material, like nylon, or natural fibers, like Merino wool. Lastly, be sure that your ski socks fit you well, especially in the toe. You want them to be snug, so there’s no extra fabric to bunch up and cause discomfort in your boots.
The great thing about good ski socks is that — while you don’t want to use anything other than ski-specific socks for skiing — ski socks can be versatile to use on anything from winter hikes and snowshoeing and even cold-weather cycling.
Note: Our writer and tester wears a 7.5 street shoe and 23.5 size ski boot and found all of our award picks to fit true to size based on each brand's sizing recommendations.
Buying advice
Material: Wool vs. Synthetic
Close up of the padding for shin bang. Photo by Stasia Stockwell.
The ski socks in this review are made of strategic blends of materials, including Merino wool, nylon, and other synthetic materials. Some are all synthetic, while some are mostly wool, and each type has specific advantages.
Synthetic fabric often offers excellent moisture-wicking capabilities but won’t stay as warm as wool if they get wet, while Merino wool balances wicking with warmth very well and has the added bonus of being odor resistant.
Many of the ski socks in our review have a strategic blend of merino wool and synthetic fibers in order to gain the benefits of both materials. With the exception of the all-synthetic Darn Tough Thermolite, all of our award picks for ski socks are a blend of merino wool and synthetic materials, though the percentage of materials differs for each one.
One material that you won’t find in a good pair of ski socks is cotton. While cotton socks can be plenty cozy for lounging in, you’ll want to opt for synthetic or merino wool socks for skiing. Cotton retains moisture and gets cold when wet, meaning that you’re likely to get damp, cold, and blistered feet when skiing if you’ve got cotton socks on.
Thickness and Cushioning
Generally, you don’t want ski socks to be overly thick. You’ll find that ski socks often come in different thicknesses (like light, medium, and heavyweight). Ski socks that are a medium or heavyweight will keep your feet warmer, but only as long as they don’t restrict circulation. If your ski socks are so thick that they take up too much space in your ski boot and cut off your circulation, they will actually make your feet colder. This is why medium and lightweight ski socks tend to perform best. A lighter, thinner ski sock that keeps the blood pumping through your toes will keep your feet much warmer than a plush, thicker sock that barely fits into your boots. Always cold? See below for Tips on Keeping Your Feet Warm.
It should be noted, however, that while there is a general standard for how your ski boots should fit, certain folks may have personal preferences. Particularly aggressive expert skiers occasionally opt for a more snug-fitting boot (despite the tradeoff of comfort and potentially limited circulation), and will likely want light or thin ski socks.
Resort skiers and those new to the sport may prefer comfort over performance and choose boots with more room; in this case, medium and heavier-weight ski socks could work well. We strongly recommend finding a local shop with a good boot fitter to assist you. And if your boot fits right in the sweet spot, then light- and medium-weight socks are the way to go.
The cushioning in ski socks is strategically placed in order to give you the extra padding where you need it without cutting off your circulation. The cushioned areas are in the shins (to help prevent shin bang) and in the heel (to add comfort and keep your heel from lifting or moving around in the boot). Many ski socks will also have some cushioning in the toe for added comfort and warmth. It’s worth trying them on with your ski boots to see what amount of cushioning and thickness fits best. With ski socks, there is rarely any cushioning or extra material in the arch and top of the foot for the sake of breathability, wicking, and precise fit.
Length and Fit
Ski socks should come up to the calf or just under the knee for maximum performance. They should fit snug enough at the top so they don’t ride down, but not so tight that they cut off your circulation. Ankle-height socks should always be avoided, as they lack the protection and performance that a pair of full-length ski socks offer, and they’ll bunch up and be uncomfortable. Aside from length, you’ll want to make sure that the socks fit well in the foot and toe. They should be snug without any loose fabric that could bunch up in your boots.
Seamless Toe
A sock with a seamless toe will help reduce irritation and blisters. Seams can also cut off blood circulation, so a seamless toe will eliminate that problem.
Comparing the men’s (size large) and women’s (size small) Smartwool Ski Full Cushion socks side by side. The men’s version isn’t noticeably wider around the calf. Photo by Stasia Stockwell
What’s the Difference Between Men’s and Women’s Ski Socks?
There are often some key differences in the design of men's sock and women’s ski socks. Primarily, the design on a men’s sock will be slightly longer and a touch skinnier at the top of the calf while women’s socks will fit a bit shorter and wider to accommodate for shorter legs and wider calves.
We compared the men’s and women’s Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion socks side-by-side and didn’t find a noticeable difference between the calf size. After scouring customer reviews of multiple retailers, we didn’t find everyday users complaining about poor fit with these socks. However, our self-described “larger calved” testers found the men’s Smartwool to fit well, whereas our self-described “larger calved” testers found the women’s socks to feel tight.
Our takeaway from this experience is that even with gear as “simple” as socks, it’s important to look at sizing charts to get the right size AND to try it on before skiing. We recommend ordering from companies that have easy return programs like REI.com, which are free to return to a store for up to a year. Smartwool has a stellar free returns program that includes a free shipping label. Darn Tough’s return policy, as well as the 366-day return policy at Evo.com, and Backcountry.com’s return guarantee are all easy to use, but you’ll have to pay shipping.
Treeline Review recognizes that there are more genders than just men and women but works within the reality that clothing sizes and shapes are categorized this way. Choose the sock that best fits and feels comfortable to your body, regardless of how the brand may have labeled the item.
Ski Socks vs. Snowboard Socks
Because ski and snowboard boots are so different, there are actually some important differences between ski and snowboard socks.
Because ski boots have a bit more of a precise fit than snowboarding boots, you’ll want your socks to match your boots.
Ski socks aren’t typically quite as thick as snowboard socks, and they’ll have cushioning in different places, like in the shin and heel. Snowboard socks will have more overall cushion throughout the sock to echo the looser fit of snowboarding boots.
Snowboarders should opt for snowboard-specific socks, which tend to fit snowboard boots better. Photo courtesy Zach Davis.
How to keep your feet warm when Skiing
Tips for Skiers with chronically cold feet
There are a few key contributing factors if you have chronically cold feet when skiing. Some folks may simply have better circulation than others, and those with somewhat poor circulation in their feet are much more likely to suffer from cold feet when skiing. But there are a number of things you can address to make your runs a little warmer.
The first thing to consider if you get cold feet when skiing is boot fit. Your ski boots should be snug but shouldn't be so tight that they cut off circulation or cause pain in any part of the foot. While this can certainly happen if your boots are too small, it can also happen if your boots are too big and you’re compensating by buckling them too tight. The best way to make sure your ski boots fit is to go to a good, local shop and have them fit you for boots. See our guide on Ski Boot Sizing for more information on figuring out what size ski boot you need.
Of course, your socks could also be a major reason your feet are cold. Make sure your socks hit the right balance of thickness — insulating but not cutting off circulation — and ensure they fit well so you don’t have extra fabric bunching up and causing pressure points.
If your boots fit well and you’ve got the right socks but you still suffer from cold feet, there are a few things you can do to help your toes stay toasty on the slopes.
For other information on how to stay warm, see our guide on What to Wear Skiing.
Never start out with cold boots!
Be sure to bring your boots inside the night before skiing; don’t leave them in the car or garage. Better yet, set them by a heating vent or fireplace (close but not too close!) before putting them on to make sure your liners are nice and warm. Another great option for starting out with toasty boots is to keep them by the heating vents in your car if you’re driving to the resort.
While you could remove your boot liners from the shell to warm them in a pinch, this usually requires more effort than it’s worth. Your boots should be sufficiently warm without removing liners if you store them inside overnight and keep them by a heat source (whether it’s your car’s vents or otherwise) before putting them on.
Manage your boot buckling
Make sure your boots are tight enough to keep your feet from moving around, but not so tight that they cut off your circulation. There’s no need to crank your buckles down before you start skiing, so keep them loose until you’re headed downhill for maximum blood flow. Unbuckling your bottom buckles when you’re riding the chairlift and then clipping them down at the top can also help increase circulation.
Toe warmers
While there are single-use warming packets made specifically for boots, we find that they almost always do more harm than good. Not only do they make your ski boots uncomfortable, but they can also decrease your circulation by taking up space in your boot and causing too much compression in the front of your foot. Beyond that, they’re not likely to get very warm, since there isn’t much oxygen in your ski boots to help the chemical reaction along. Overall, we would strongly recommend against using these — instead, opt for good socks, and make sure your boots fit properly.
Ski boot warmers
You can buy electric boot warmers for your ski boots that use a battery pack to circulate warmth through your boot liners. They add a little extra weight and some extra cost to your ski setup but can be a real help if your cold feet won't warm up. (Note: You’d only want to use these battery-pack boot warmers for resort skiing and never for the backcountry. They add too much weight and bulk for ski touring, and your feet are likely to stay plenty warm while you're climbing uphill anyway.)
FAQ
Can I use regular socks for skiing?
While you can use regular socks for skiing, it's not recommended. Ski socks are designed to offer better performance, moisture control, and support, enhancing your overall skiing experience and comfort.
Do I need different socks for different skiing conditions?
Yes, the choice of socks depends on the weather conditions. Thicker, more insulated socks are suitable for colder climates, while lighter socks may be preferred for milder temperatures.
Are Merino wool socks worth the investment?
Merino wool socks are often worth the investment due to their natural moisture-wicking properties, temperature regulation, and odor resistance. They are a popular choice for skiers seeking high-performance socks.
How do I prevent blisters when wearing ski socks?
Choose socks with a seamless design to reduce friction. Ensure the socks fit properly, and use anti-blister products if needed. Proper boot fitting is also crucial in preventing blisters.
Can I wear multiple pairs of socks for extra warmth?
It's not recommended to wear multiple pairs of socks as it can lead to excessive sweating and discomfort. Quality insulated ski socks are designed to provide sufficient warmth without the need for layering.
Should ski socks be thick or thin?
The thickness of ski socks depends on various factors, including personal preference, skiing conditions, and the fit of your ski boots. Both thick and thin ski socks have their advantages, and the choice often comes down to individual comfort and the specific needs of the skier.
How many pairs of ski socks do you need?
The number depends on factors like the frequency and duration of your skiing trips. For a week-long trip, having at least 2-3 pairs is recommended, allowing rotation for dry and comfortable socks. Consider additional pairs if you prefer wearing freshly laundered socks each day or if you encounter varying weather conditions. Having extra pairs also accommodates personal comfort preferences and provides flexibility in boot fitting.
Should I get Compression Ski Socks?
Athletes sometimes use compression socks in order to help with blood flow and mitigate muscle soreness. Skiers who want these benefits in their socks may enjoy compression ski socks from brands like CEP or Dissent Labs.
While they’ll be more expensive than regular ski socks, if you’re looking for maximum performance and recovery you might want to consider compression ski socks.
Should I get Heated Ski Socks?
There are ski socks out there made with battery-powered heat elements that are meant for keeping your feet as warm as possible. However, the design of these socks often makes them cumbersome and a bit uncomfortable.
Plus, a heated ski sock is several times more expensive than a regular ski sock. While this could be an option for skiers with chronically cold feet or conditions like Raynaud’s syndrome, we find boot warmers to be a better solution than heated socks. If your feet run cold, see our advice in the section above on other ways to keep your feet warm.
Tips for ski sock care and maintenance
Ski socks, being a critical component of your winter sports gear, necessitate careful washing and drying to preserve their functionality and durability. Here's a detailed guide on proper washing and drying techniques for ski socks:
Separate from other laundry: It's advisable to wash your ski socks separately from other laundry items. This precaution helps prevent potential abrasion from zippers, buttons, or rough fabrics that could compromise the integrity of the sock's fibers.
Use mild detergent: Choose a mild, non-aggressive detergent specifically designed for technical fabrics. Harsh chemicals found in regular detergents can break down the specialized materials in ski socks, impacting their performance over time.
Turn inside out: Before tossing them in the washing machine, turn your ski socks inside out. This practice ensures that any accumulated sweat, body oils, or residues from lotions are effectively removed during the wash, maintaining the sock's cleanliness and performance.
Cold water wash: Opt for a cold water wash. Cold water helps prevent shrinkage and maintains the elasticity of the sock's fibers, a crucial factor in their ability to provide a snug and supportive fit.
Avoid fabric softeners: Steer clear of fabric softeners when washing ski socks. These products leave behind residues that can interfere with the sock's moisture-wicking capabilities and insulating properties.
Gentle cycle: Utilize the gentle cycle on your washing machine. This setting minimizes the mechanical stress on the fabric, ensuring a thorough yet gentle cleaning process.
Air dry preferably: The preferred method for drying ski socks is air drying. Hang them up or lay them flat to dry, allowing the natural airflow to preserve the sock's elasticity. If using a dryer, select the lowest heat setting to avoid any potential damage to the technical fibers.
Skip dryer sheets: Similar to fabric softeners, avoid using dryer sheets. These sheets can leave behind a coating that hampers the fabric's functionality, potentially diminishing the sock's performance on the slopes.
Putting on ski socks in the back of the truck. Photo by Josette Deschambeault.
How we researched and tested
We scoured media and customer reviews to find the most popular and top-performing ski socks on the market. We analyzed reviews from Outdoor Gear Lab, Gear Junkie, Switchback Travel, Wirecutter/New York Times, and Powder Magazine. From there, we compiled a list of 11 socks that received accolades from multiple editorial reviews.
After narrowing down our choices based on our criteria, we took the top 7 contenders to the slopes to test them for ourselves.
We spent dozens of days both at the resort and ski touring in the backcountry, testing the different models for warmth, comfort, performance, and durability. The result is a comprehensive review of the best ski socks out there.
Author’s Expertise: Why You Should Trust Us
The author in her natural habitat. Photo by Tom Callaghan.
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She's worked as a backpacking guide in southeast Alaska and has written for outlets like BACKPACKER, REI Co-op Journal, and The Dyrt, among others. Stasia is a lifelong skier, mountain biker, and trail runner who's passionate about lowering barriers to entry for outdoor sports. She hopes to inspire people to love and respect the wild natural world through her work.
Raised in the mountains of northern Utah and now based in Breckenridge, Colorado, she has skied an average of 50 days a year since she could walk. She has over six seasons of backcountry skiing experience under her belt, having ski toured in places like southeast Alaska, northern British Columbia, Japan, California, and her home in the Rockies. She’s spent time working as an outdoor guide in southeast Alaska and has also received her AIARE Level 1 certification. Stasia uses these years of experience to inform her ski gear reviews.
More of her work and adventures can be found on her website. To see all Stasia’s Treeline articles, see her author profile.
As a freelance writer and gear tester, Stasia is not sponsored, an ambassador, or an employee of any companies mentioned here. This review is unbiased, and we do this to help you find the best product for the best price. Treeline Review doesn’t accept sponsored content, native advertising, or paid reviews.
