The best socks for skiing can make a world of difference, especially for cold-weather sports. The socks in this article fit well, help you manage sweat, fit snugly inside ski boots and will keep you warm in cold temperatures.
It isn’t just the warmth that sets these socks apart, either. Style and variety also matter, like ski socks with cushioning, breathable mesh, and Merino wool for odour protection. For those with circulation issues, there are even heated socks and compression socks to help you get the best fit for your unique feet.
Table of Contents:
- Warmest Socks For Cold Weather Skiing
- Best Ski Socks For Moisture-Wicking And Warmth
- Best Wide Calf Socks For Skiing
- Best Ski Socks For Preventing Blisters
- Best Merino Wool Ski Socks For Winter Sports
- Best Compression Ski Socks
- Most Lightweight Ski Socks
- Best Heated Socks For Skiing
- Best Ski Socks For Kids
- Best Budget-Friendly Ski Socks
- Key Features To Look For In Ski Socks
- How To Care For Ski Socks To Maximize Longevity
Warmest socks for cold weather skiing
While we’re usually covered in thick, warm ski clothes, our feet don’t often get the same treatment, and they should. If you have circulation issues, cold feet, or just enjoy superior comfort, the Therm-ic Extra Warm Ski Socks are for you. The socks are soft and warm, feature moisture-wicking technology and are quick-drying. For more men’s ski sock options, click here.
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Best ski socks for moisture-wicking and warmth
Skiing is an intense activity, and between moguls, steeps and trees, you can work up quite the sweat! Defend against moisture with the best moisture-wicking ski socks, like the Therm-Ic Merino Reflector Heat Reflection Socks while keeping your feet nice and warm. Plus, with Merino wool, you can expect better odour control as well.
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Best wide calf socks for skiing
Not all feet have the same shape and that has a huge impact on your comfort level. For those of us with wider calves, the Snowboard Targeted Cushion Stripe Extra Stretch OTC Socks are a perfect option. The sock height is high, fitting nicely over your calves, and they are resistant to wear while maintaining crucial breathability.
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Best ski socks for preventing blisters
Blisters can crop up without much warning during intensive exercises like skiing. Luckily, the Dahlgren Slope Light Ski Socks come with shin cushioning and a flat fit, so they won’t bunch up. Whether your resort skiing or backcountry skiing, the design helps them stay on your feet and sturdy within your boot. If you have a history of blisters, check these socks out.
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Best merino wool ski socks for winter sports
Smartwool’s back on the list with these excellent women’s ski socks that combine comfort with the odour-controlling elements of merino wool. These are some of the best ski socks for comfort and breathability without sacrificing Smartwool's signature fit. If you’re a fan of merino wool, give them a try! For more women’s ski sock options, check out our selection here.
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Best compression ski socks
If you have varicose veins, vein thrombosis or additional ailments that affect blood flow, compression socks are the way to go. They work by applying consistent compression to stimulate blood flow, and the Ski Ultrafit Race Socks are the best options for skiing. Not only do they feel great, but they also grip the inside of the ski boot well to minimize chafing and blisters.
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Most lightweight ski socks
These ultralight socks weigh next to nothing, look great and extend up over the calf, reducing discomfort while in ski boots. The socks rarely bunch or rub, which elevates their appeal for long days on the hill. If you’ve heat moulded your boots, these lightweight ski socks can fit easily into the tightest spaces. For the hard-charging skier, this light and breathable option is a no-brainer.
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Best heated socks for skiing
If you can’t stand the cold, these socks are for you. While more expensive than others, the Powersocks Heat Fusion Heated Socks come with a built-in battery that produces heat for up to 16 hours. The heat travels effectively throughout the sock, which eliminates cold spots. They’re also Bluetooth-enabled and made with 54% merino wool.
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Best ski socks for kids
One of the best ways to develop skiers is to start them early. If you have kids and access to a ski hill, get them prepped with Wintersport Full Cushion Mountain Moose Pattern OTC Socks. These colourfully designed socks feature a ton of cushioning and a flat knit toe seam for added comfort. They are also made with 56% merino wool.
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Best budget-friendly ski socks
While options on this list are the best of the best, many are more expensive than your run-of-the-mill socks. For wallet-minded folks, expensive ski socks may not be in the budget. If that sounds like you, check out the Therm-ic Ski Insulation Socks. They are warm socks that don’t bunch, draw moisture away from your feet, and remain comfortable throughout the ski day.
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Key Features to Look for in Ski Socks
Before diving into a new sock purchase, consider some of the qualities that set these options apart.
- Material Composition: Merino wool ski socks have natural odour-controlling abilities, and merino is often used in the warmest ski socks, while synthetic fibres tend to be more breathable. Blended fibre ski socks utilize a combination of synthetic and wool properties.
- Thickness: Thinner socks fit better in highly curated ski boots. They’re also great in warmer spring skiing temps. Over the calf socks minimize chafing at the cuff of the ski boot (the top) and thick socks are best for cold temps, but they can bunch and may not fit in heat-molded ski boots.
- Moisture-wicking: Skiers sweat; it’s an intensive sport. Look for odour control and moisture-wicking ability to keep your feet dry and happy.
- Cushioning & Padding: Ski socks with cushioning in the shins or foot pads can alleviate pain and rubbing from collapsed arches or blisters.
- Durability & Longevity: Ski socks see a lot of use and can break down over time. Merino wool and fibre blends tend to last longer than thinner, synthetic material.
How to Care for Ski Socks to Maximize Longevity
Specialized ski socks require a little more care to maximize their usability. Make sure to follow all included care instructions to get the most out of them. If you have heated socks, there are likely several steps to take so you don’t impact the battery power and heat circulation. While there may be more steps, it is critically important to follow them so you can keep using your favourite ski socks year after year.
Once your socks are dry after washing, keep them in a dry and well-circulated area. Make sure to roll down your sock from the top after a ski day to minimize the stress and tearing you can cause by yanking them off by the toes.
FAQ
Q: What type of socks are best for skiing?
A: This comes down to preference, but a few truths should be mentioned. Over-the-calf socks do a better job preventing rubbing at the ski boot cuff, synthetic fibres improve breathability, and merino wool provides more warmth and odour control. For cold feet, heated socks may be a good fit. Cushioned socks reduce rubbing and discomfort over long periods of time.
Q: Are thicker or thinner socks better?
A: This is a great question and ultimately depends on the weather. For the deep winter months, when temperatures are coldest, thicker is better. However, once the temperatures increase, so does sweating. Sweat can lead to unpleasant odours, rubbing and blisters, so thinner, breathable socks have an advantage there.
Q: Are merino ski socks worth it?
A: Yes, they are comfortable, durable and have natural odour-prevention qualities. They are also more expensive, so factor that in, but if you’re able, Merino is a good bet. The only caveat is, again, during the shoulder seasons when temperatures are higher and thicker socks may facilitate more sweating.
Q: Do good socks make a difference?
A: They do! Each foot is unique and specialized socks are built to address that. Not all socks will provide what you need. Take a second to study your feet, do you have flat feet? Are your feet constantly cold? Do you sweat more? Are you prone to rubbing or blister creation? After a quick self evaluation, you should be able to find a sock that fits your feet the best. Factor in the price, but if you’re able, Merino is a good bet. The only caveat is, again, during the shoulder seasons when temperatures are higher, thicker socks may facilitate more sweating.
Conclusion
Confronted with numerous choices, it can be hard to pick the best ski socks. This list has you covered by isolating some of the best properties and qualities that benefit skiers. For cold-footed skiers, slip on a pair of the Therm-Ic Extra Warm Ski Socks. If that’s not enough, opt for the Therm-Ic Powersocks Heat Fusion Heated Socks.
If you want to avoid sweaty feet and ramp up your sock’s breathability, opt for the ultra-lightweight Peaks Over-The-Calf Ultra-Lightweight Ski & Snowboard Socks or the Therm-Ic Merino Reflector Heat Reflection Socks. Merino wool fans will love the Ski Targeted Cushion OTC Socks, and kids will love the Wintersport Full Cushion Mountain Moose Pattern OTC Socks. As always, Altitude Sports has what you need.
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