Just like every other part of your body, what you wear on your feet during the winter season can make or break your day. Cold feet are uncomfortable and make you feel miserable. This is why you need a good pair of winter socks along with sweatshirts and jackets to protect you from suffering chafing and blisters and provide comfort and warmth.
But with the variety available on the market, it makes it difficult to find a perfect pair of socks. But don’t worry, I have compiled a handy guide for you which will help you analyze what to look for in a sock and which is perfect for you. Sounds interesting? Let’s begin.
What to Look For When Choosing Winter Socks?
Below is a comprehensive guide that will help you choose the right pair of winter socks.
Activity Socks
There are socks available on the market that are specifically designed for different activities.
Athletic Socks:
Classic white gym socks have moisture-wicking fabric and are best for gym goers. Technical socks are best for cross-training and running. It also provides sole cushioning to provide maximum comfort and support.
Running Socks:
They include socks with little padding or with dense cushioning at the ball of the foot. So, whichever sock you like depends on your preference, as both are designed to reduce discomfort.
Walking Socks:
These socks are best for walkers as they contain features like moisture-wicking and cushioning.
Casual Socks:
These socks are made from wool and are perfect for everyday use. These socks are also available in different styles, colors, and designs.
Hiking and Backpacking Socks:
These socks are thin and lightweight, which makes them ideal for hikers. They keep the moisture at bay and contain modest cushioning in the heel and football.
Mountaineering Socks:
These socks are bulky as they contain thick padding, which makes them best for use during cold and rugged conditions.
Ski and Snowboard Socks:
These socks are thin, padded, and are designed to provide maximum warmth. It also prevents rubbing inside the boots and interference when making quick turns.
Socks by Fabric
No matter what fabric you choose, cotton, wool, synthetic fibers, or silk, it must meet the three criteria mentioned below. This will make them the best to be used in the winter season.
- The sock material should have moisture-wicking properties. When worn inside heavy boots, it will keep your feet dry.
- They need to be highly comfortable, soft and non-irritating to your skin.
- The material needs to be breathable as it will help in keeping your feet blister-free, airy and dry.
Socks Sorted by Length
Winter socks are also available in a variety of lengths and heights. So, let's discuss each one of them briefly.
No-show Socks:
These socks are best for those individuals who don’t want other people to know that they are wearing socks. They are ideal for wearing in situations or outfits that expose bare legs. So, they are mostly worn by trainers, joggers, and trail runners.
Ankle Socks:
Also known as low-cut socks, they are 4 inches tall. It starts from the ankle bone and goes up to the heel. These socks are ideal for lightweight activities and with attire that shows bare legs.
Crew-Style Socks:
These socks are 12 inches in height and reach to mid-calf, or just below the knee. They are made from thicker wool and synthetic materials and are best worn with boots or other ankle-high shoes.
Over-The-Calf Socks:
These socks are 18 inches in length and extend up to the knees. It contains heaving padding and cushioning and is best for skiing and mountaineering.
Other Sock Features
Fit:
The sock needs to perfectly fit your shoe size and have the right length. To make sure they are cozy and don't cause discomfort, try them on while wearing your boots.
Padding:
High padding means high comfort, protection, and support. However, it should not make it feel too tight.
Length:
There is no ideal length for the socks as it totally depends on your preference and style.
Specialized Socks
Heated Socks:
These socks contain thin heating elements between layers of socks that are rechargeable. They keep your feet warm and prevent them from freezing.
Fleece Socks:
These socks are cozy and are perfect for being worn indoors. They can be worn with sandals or shoes.
Toe Socks:
These socks are designed to prevent blisters and are made from woven synthetics.
Liner Socks:
These are thin and lightweight socks that are worn with thicker pairs of socks. They are made from nylon and polyester and keep sweat at bay. They are mostly worn by hikers.
Conclusion
Use this guide when you are not sure which sock is best for you. It will help in getting the right pair that will last a long time and meet all your requirements.
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