Like sunglasses and good books, socks are a very personal thing. There is no one best sock to rule them all, as it’s a matter of personal preference and what’s right for you. But, there are some universal things to look for when shopping for the best moisture-wicking socks. Here’s everything you’ll want to consider:
Fit: Fit is the most personal aspect of all when shopping for socks (moisture-wicking or otherwise). It can be especially difficult when many manufacturers offer socks that “fit shoe sizes 6-12.” Ideally, you’d want to try on any new socks first in store. If that’s not possible, be sure to pick a retailer with a generous return policy, so you can get something resembling a “free in-home trial.”
Thickness: Thickness goes hand-in-hand with comfort. If you’re planning to be very active in cool, warm, or hot weather, we almost always recommend a light- to mid-weight sock. If it’s going to be especially cold—you’re planning to go snowshoeing, winter hiking, or ice fishing—then consider something heavier. Just remember that, if you’re going to be active, you will warm up and that could mean sweating. Our best tip: always bring a second pair of clean moisture-wicking socks, so you have a backup plan for your feet.
Fabrics: In most cases, cotton is a no-go. It absorbs water very well, but is notoriously poor at wicking it away from your skin. In our opinion, responsibly sourced Merino wool is the hands-down best option for moisture-wicking socks. It’s naturally odor-resistant, quick-drying, and extremely efficient at wicking away sweat and moisture. The downside is that it’s almost always more expensive than synthetic alternatives. Synthetics—namely polyester and nylon—are more affordable, and still do a great job of wicking away moisture.
Compression: Compression socks used to be for people with serious medical conditions. These days, athletes, long-haul travelers, and anyone who works long days on their feet swear by them. As the name implies, they physically compress your lower extremities to help stimulate blood flow. Note that, if you’ve never worn them before, the sensation can feel very constricting and weird. They often take some getting used to, but there’s plenty of scientific evidence to suggest that they help promote better circulation and post-workout/post-training recovery.
Design: Some call this an option; we say it’s a must-have. And more specifically, a seamless design: A unique sewing technique that all but eliminates the awkward seam often found at the top of the toe in lesser socks—you know the one that perpetually digs into your feet all day long. It’s a far more comfortable option, especially if you’re active.
Durability: Durability is typically a by-product of the types of fabric used. The better the fabric, the longer your socks will last. You don’t have to spend a fortune to find durable socks, but the best models are more expensive. If you’re hard on your clothing—you work on your feet all day, hike on the regular, or run every other day—consider splurging on the most durable, moisture-wicking socks you can afford.
Budget: We know budget is always a factor when shopping for performance apparel. The good news is that you can score high-quality socks for less than $10 a pair. The best moisture-wicking socks, however, typically run north of $20 per pair. So be prepared to pay a premium.
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