There are few things that bother me more than the wrong pair of socks.
I’m so picky with my footwear, so I make sure that every pair of boots and shoes I own is the right shoe for the job.
But when they’re matched with the wrong sock—you know the kind: cheap, saggy, easily soaked through with sweat, and prone to wearing out quickly—they make every day just a little bit more uncomfortable.
That’s why I’ve become more intentional with my sock choice over the last few years and gone out of my way to choose the right pair of socks: a.k.a. wool socks.
I promise that once you make the switch to any of the best wool socks for everyday use on our list below, you’ll never look back.
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How Did I Come Up With My List?
Socks in Canada are a BIG DEAL.
During the winter, you need that extra layer of insulation to keep your feet warm in temperatures that plummet well below freezing (-30, anyone?).
But when the divinely hot summer rolls around, the last thing you want is for your feet to be trapped in shoes with stuffy, sweaty, and too-hot socks.
For about five years now, I’ve been a bit obsessed with finding the right boot socks. I’ve done a deep-dive into hundreds of different products, personally tested dozens, and combed through thousands of reviews—all so I can find the socks that will work for me all year long.
And yes, no surprise, my research has led me to wool socks as being the best choice. Wool is naturally durable, regulates temperature, suppresses odors, provides insulation, and, unlike cotton, won’t get soggy when my feet sweat. So yeah, the perfect material for socks that will be both versatile and long-lasting.
Each of the socks I chose for my list below will serve you well for a wide range of purposes. I’ve organized my choices by the pair I believe are best overall, followed by others suited to a specific need.
5 Best Wool Socks in 2023
Best Overall: Camel City Mill Lightweight
When I first tried on these Camel City Mill Lightweight socks, I was certain they were too light to be useful for all-year use. Sure, they were breezy and moisture-regulating enough for a hot Canadian summer. But winter? No way.
Boy, was I wrong.
Yes, they’re on the pricier side, but these socks are lightweight enough that you’ll barely feel them, and they don’t add any extra weight to your boot. Plus, the Ironside Merino wool used in their construction has impressive insulation properties and has done an amazing job of keeping my feet warm when the weather is freezing cold.
The fabric also incorporates a bit of nylon for added durability, as well as Spandex to make them just elastic enough that they slide comfortably on and off my feet without stretching and ultimately sagging.
I’m also a big fan of the light ribbed cushioning on the socks’ underside. There’s enough padding to keep my feet comfortable all day long in my hiking, hunting, work, cowboy, or snow boots, but the “ribbed” design incorporates ventilation so my feet can breathe and stay cool. Plus, thanks to the natural odor-resistance of Merino wool, I don’t have to worry about stinky feet after long hours of hard work, snowboarding, or running.
What I Like
Incredibly comfortable and lightweight socks.
Incorporates light compression on the ankles to improve circulation.
Backed by a 10-year guarantee.
Breathable, naturally odor-resistant, thermoregulating, and offers surprisingly good insulation despite its light weight.
Sturdy; I have yet to encounter any fraying or develop holes even after 5+ years of daily use.
What I Don’t Like
The price tag is a bit on the steep side. However, I’ll say that it’s very much a “quality costs but is worth it” situation. I’ve yet to regret purchasing these socks.
What Other Reviewers Say
In combing through all the reviews I could find on these socks, it’s become clear to me that users tend to love these socks as much as I do. A lot of people raved about how they were blister-free after years of discomfort in other socks, or how their feet stayed cool even in summer.
The only complaint I could find was that sizes tend to run a bit larger than average, so guys with feet near the smaller end of the size spectrum should consider the size down.
The Verdict
I’m yet to find an everyday sock that beats the Camel City Mill Lightweight. They’re comfortable, beautifully breathable, offer enough cushioning for work and hiking, provide good insulation during the cold months but are cool during the hot months, and last a long time. It’s easy to see why they’ve become my daily go-to.
Made in the USA from Merino wool, these work socks really are something else in terms of quality. They feature compression through the arch and calf which helps your feet recover after a long day. Plus, because they're Merino wool, they're breathable and help reduce foot sweat.
Best Ankle-Height: Darn Tough No Show Athletic Sock
During the summer, a calf-length sock just feels too stuffy and overly hot. Plus, it’s not the most stylish choice to pair with low profile shoes (a la deck shoes or slip-ons). Which is why I quickly fell in love with these Darn Tough No Show Athletic Socks as the perfect ankle-height no-show summer sock.
The socks are made from a blend of Merino wool, nylon, and Spandex that strikes just the right balance between durability, breathability, and elasticity. They slide on and off very easily (no compression), and their performance fit ensures they hug my ankles and feet snugly enough that they’ll stay securely in place whether I’m running, hiking, kayaking, or strolling down the Vancouver streets.
They’ve got a bit of arch support to reduce foot fatigue, and are designed to never slip or bunch inside your running shoes, no matter how sweaty your feet get. Best of all, they’re “Unconditionally Guaranteed for Life” so you can trust they’ll last you for many summers to come (all of them, really).
What I Like
Wonderfully breathable and lightweight, but still feel sturdy and fit like a glove.
Natural moisture-regulation and thermal regulation properties are ideal for summer use.
No-show design makes them stylish enough to wear with any pair of summer shoes.
Seamless toe, integrated arch support, and no-slip performance fit is great for long-distance running.
What I Don’t Like
The one complaint I have to make about these socks is their fit and sizing. I thought I ordered the right pair for my foot size, but the package that arrived contained socks that were both too small and too tight. Thankfully, a quick exchange solved the problem and I’ve loved them ever since.
What Other Reviewers Say
Overall, reviews of these socks have been largely positive. Reviewers praise their light weight, durability, breathability, and their versatility for three-season use. More than a few also raved about Darn Tough’s customer service, saying the exchange process was as “seamless” the socks themselves.
A few users who had a less-than-pleasant experience with these socks found the same issues I did with sizing (too tight/short). Some found the stitching on the heel just wasn’t quite right on their pairs (quality control issues?) so the socks slid around inside their shoes and bunched up.
The Verdict
For a low-cut, low-profile, low-hassle pair of socks, you just can’t beat the Darn Tough No Show Athletic Sock. Use them all summer long to keep your feet cool and dry, and you know they’ll pair nicely with your running shoes, slip-ons, boat shoes, really any ankle-height shoe or boot. You’ll be glad to know they’re also the most affordable pair on our list, but the “Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee” makes them a solid investment.
For a low-cut, low-profile, low-hassle pair of socks, you just can’t beat the Darn Tough No Show Athletic Sock. Use them all summer long to keep your feet cool and dry, and you know they’ll pair nicely with your running shoes, slip-ons, boat shoes, really any ankle-height shoe or boot. You’ll be glad to know they’re also the most affordable pair on our list, but the “Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee” makes them a solid investment.
Best for Steel Toe Boots: Camel City Mill Heavyweight
I’ve learned the hard way that the wrong pair of socks can make a day’s work in steel-toed boots very uncomfortable. Given that both of my sons (welder and mechanic) also wear steel-toed boots, it’s become an obsession of ours to find the “right” pair.
Camel City Mill again brings it when it comes to quality and reliability with their Heavyweight socks. The socks are heavy enough that they will keep your feet toasty warm during the winter. They also feature a thick cushion in the front incorporated specifically to provide padding for steel-toed boots. Features like light compression in the ankle and foot, a bit of underfoot cushioning, and cushioning in the calf (where your boot collar rubs) all add extra comfort.
Though they’re not the most breathable socks, they’ve got decent temperature regulation properties and will pull moisture away from your feet to keep them dry all day. Plus, they’re backed by Camel City Mill’s 10-year guarantee and you’re supporting a USA manufacturer.
What I Like
The socks hold up very well to daily use in steel-toed boots without fraying, wearing out, or sagging.
The light compression on the feet and calves improves circulation for anyone who’s on their feet all day.
The high-density Merino knit (with nylon and Spandex) is very durable, but also keeps your feet dry and prevents stink.
Excellent cushioning in the heel, toe, and calves to make wearing your boots all day more comfortable.
What I Don’t Like
The only thing I dislike about these socks is how hot they get in the summer. They’re a bit too thick and heavy for summer hiking, trekking, or backpacking. My sons have also said wearing them with their work boots on the hottest days can be unpleasant.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers who’ve worn these socks for work agree that they’re some of the best for steel-toed boots they’ve ever used. It’s largely thanks to the toe padding, but the heel and calf padding is also a bit selling point for working guys. More than a few raved about how the socks kept their feet dry, prevented the build-up of sweat, and stayed comfortable all day long.
On the negative side, real-life users found the socks can be too stifling and hot for summer use.
The Verdict
If you’ve got a long day of work in steel-toed boots ahead or you, the Camel City Mill Heavyweight socks promise to be a game-changer. Padded, protective, thermoregulating, sturdy, and comfortable, they’re everything you need in a great pair of socks for work as well as winter and long-distance hiking.
The Heavyweight from Camel City Mill is the best work sock you can get for a steel toe boot. The padding is heavy in the heel and toe, but since it's made with Merino wool, this sock is also very breathable and won't make your feet sweaty.
Best Over-the-Calf: Darn Tough Over the Calf Tactical Lightweight
For guys who wear full-length boots—such as tactical boots or cowboy boots—I recommend the Darn Tough Over the Calf Tactical Lightweight socks every time. Not only is their length just right for even boots 14”+ tall, but they’re light and breathable enough (thanks to the calf mesh panel) to keep your feet comfortable all day long.
The fabric (a blend of Merino, nylon, and Lycra) is tough right out of the gates, but the heel and toe have both been reinforced so they’ll hold up well even if you wear them day in and out. The cushioning incorporated into the underfoot, heel, toe, ankle, and around your lower calf will prevent lace bite and add more than enough padding for long hours spent on your feet.
Thanks to the performance fit, the socks will stay securely in place, with no bunching, sliding, slipping, or irritating rubbing.
What I Like
The socks are Berry Amendment compliant and can be used by U.S. Military and law enforcement personnel.
The integrated arch support reduces foot fatigue for long days of marching, hiking, or combat.
Breathable, lightweight, but very tough.
Unconditionally Guaranteed for Life and easy to replace/exchange thanks to Darn Tough’s excellent customer service.
What I Don’t Like
I’ve got extra-large calves, so the socks can feel a bit too tight at first. Only when I’ve been wearing them a while do they stretch out enough to be comfortable.
What Other Reviewers Say
With hundreds of reviews and a 4.8 out of 5 star rating, it’s clear these socks are a popular choice among guys who need extra-tall socks to wear beneath cowboy or tactical boots. Rave reviews highlight their snug fit, comfort, soft feel, good cushioning, and light compression.
One user even claimed he used them in Army Mountain Warfare School for “almost 80 miles in 11 days and never had a single hot spot”.
A few other users found the same problem I did with the socks fitting a bit too tight around their calves. And there were a few reports of quality control issues leading the socks fraying or wearing out quickly.
The Verdict
The Darn Tough Over the Calf Tactical Lightweight socks are my favorite choice to wear with my cowboy boots thanks to their extra length, thick padding, breathable calf-height mesh, and performance design. They’ve also proven to be some of the longest-lasting and best-quality socks I’ve tested.
The Darn Tough Over the Calf Tactical Lightweight socks are my favorite choice to wear with my cowboy boots thanks to their extra length, thick padding, breathable calf-height mesh, and performance design. They’ve also proven to be some of the longest-lasting and best-quality socks I’ve tested.
Best for Hiking: Fox River Matterhorn Lightweight
For long days out on the trail, I have yet to find a pair of hiking socks that I’ve loved wearing as much as the Fox River Matterhorn Lightweight.
What sets them apart is that in addition to the usual blend of Merino and synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon, and Spandex), they also incorporate a bit of silk into the fabric. Silk is incredibly tough (increasing the socks’ durability) but also wonderfully smooth against the skin. These socks do an amazing job of combatting blisters by reducing friction. They also keep your feet cool, dry, and largely odor-free.
And for the finishing touch, they feature the design of the Matterhorn woven into their upper. I find it amusing, fitting, and more than a bit “meta” to hike into the mountains with a mountain pattern on my socks.
What I Like
The socks feel silky soft against your skin and combat blisters/friction.
Good fit, performance design, won’t sag or bunch.
Light padding in the toes and heels increases comfort without being overly thick.
Mesh venting keeps your feet dry and cool.
What I Don’t Like
The compression on the socks’ shaft is a bit too tight on my extra-thick calves. They might work for the “average” guy, but for a man with tree-trunk legs like mine, they can be a bit constricting.
What Other Reviewers Say
Positive reviews speak highly of the Fox River Matterhorn Lightweight’s weight, durability, and, of course, the snazzy style featuring the iconic mountain. One review even claimed the socks helped to combat foot pain he’d been experiencing for years.
There’s not a lot of negative to say, though a few reviewers found the sock shaft’s compression made it unnecessarily difficult to slide their feet into the socks.
The Verdict
Hit the trail in comfort and style with these socks on your feet. The Fox River Matterhorn Lightweight delivers breathability, thermoregulation, durability, and versatility. Once you try them on and feel that silk blended into the fabric for yourself, I believe you’ll agree with my assessment that they’re among the most comfortable hiking socks you’ve worn.
Hit the trail in comfort and style with these socks on your feet. The Fox River Matterhorn Lightweight delivers breathability, thermoregulation, durability, and versatility. Once you try them on and feel that silk blended into the fabric for yourself, I believe you’ll agree with my assessment that they’re among the most comfortable hiking socks you’ve worn.
Why You Should Be Wearing Wool Socks Every Day
1. You Can’t Beat Their Durability
Wool—and especially Merino wool—is a very tough natural fiber. Sheep are capable of enduring temperature extremes because their coats keep them warm in the winter and provide cooling properties in the summer.
Wool also lasts longer than cotton. Cotton absorbs moisture and retains it for longer, which means the fibers tend to sag, stretch, loosen, and wear out quickly.
Wool reacts differently to moisture. The lanolin (natural wax found in wool) repels moisture, as does the epicuticle, the outermost layer of wool. There’s far less water absorption, so the fibers are far less likely to be damaged over time.
When synthetic fibers like nylon, polyester, and spandex are incorporated into the wool (to form a blend), it adds durability. Really, no socks will last as long as a wool blend sock.
2. Fight Sweat and Bad Odors
Wool naturally transports water away from your body, but doesn’t absorb it. Instead, it moves it to the surface layer where it is exposed to the environment (sun, wind, heat, etc.) to dry more quickly. Wool socks will pull sweat away from your feet, keeping them dry and cool.
On top of that, the elimination of sweat (which is fairly odorless) from your skin will prevent the build-up of odor-causing bacteria that are the real reason your feet begin to stink after long hours of heavy sweating.
3. Go Eco-Friendly
Wool is among the most sustainable fabrics on the planet.
Sheep grow new coats every year. Merino sheep can be shorn up to two times each year, which means there is always more fabric available. It’s the very definition of “renewable resources”.
Wool can be reused and recycled, and the wool fibers never lose their natural properties or their durability.
Wool is even 100% biodegradable and contributes to enriching the soil where it decomposes. There’s no pollution of the environment (a common side effect of the microplastics that result from the production of synthetic fabrics) so it’s as “green” a material as you could ask for.
Walk With Wool Every Day
Whether you’re hiking, marching, putting in a hard day’s work, strolling down the boardwalk, or leaping into combat situations, a good pair of wool socks will serve you well. Not only are they comfortable and versatile, but wool is an incredibly durable material that can last for 10+ years of daily use. You just can’t beat that.
For an “everyday” pair, I love the Camel City Mill Lightweight socks. They’re light enough I forget I’m wearing them on my day off, but they will be warm in winter, offer good cushioning to wear for work or hiking, and keep my feet odor-free all day long.
Made in the USA from Merino wool, these work socks really are something else in terms of quality. They feature compression through the arch and calf which helps your feet recover after a long day. Plus, because they're Merino wool, they're breathable and help reduce foot sweat.
Athletes and guys wearing low-profile shoes will love the feel, comfort, and performance fit of the Darn Tough No Show Athletic Sock. On those days you’re pulling on your steel-toed work boots, the Camel City Mill Heavyweight delivers the padding and protection your feet need.
In tactical situations or when wearing extra-tall cowboy boots, the Darn Tough Over the Calf Tactical Lightweight socks are designed with the height you need and enough breathability to stay cool all day long.
The Darn Tough Over the Calf Tactical Lightweight socks are my favorite choice to wear with my cowboy boots thanks to their extra length, thick padding, breathable calf-height mesh, and performance design. They’ve also proven to be some of the longest-lasting and best-quality socks I’ve tested.
And hikers, be prepared to fall in love with the silky softness and dazzling good looks of the Fox River Matterhorn Lightweight.
FAQs
Are merino wool socks good for everyday use?
Merino wool socks are the best for everyday use. They’re warm during the winter, breathable and cool during the summer, moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and thermoregulating. They’re also incredibly durable so you can use them day after day without worrying about them stretching, ripping, tearing, snagging, or wearing out.
What is the best wool for socks?
Merino wool is the best wool for socks, hands down. It’s not only tough and versatile, but it’s also fully sustainable and eco-friendly.
Among Merino wool options, Ironside Merino wool (used by Camel City Mill and other great brands) is among the best of the best. It’s durable enough to withstand daily use (even hard use, like in work boots, hiking, or tactical situations) and retains natural sweat-wicking and thermoregulating properties for easily 10+ years.
Are 100% wool socks better?
Pure wool isn’t as good as wool that has been blended with synthetic fabrics.
Wool lacks elasticity, so it won’t stretch quite as effectively for a “performance fit”. It also dries more slowly than synthetic fabric. Given that it absorbs up to 30% of its weight in water, that means your feet will be dry thanks to its moisture-wicking properties but the socks themselves will stay wet for longer.
Synthetic fabrics like Spandex and Lycra provide elasticity, while nylon and polyester help the socks to dry faster. Typically, a good wool blend sock will contain anywhere from 40 to 80% wool, and the rest will be synthetic fabrics.
Are wool socks good for your feet?
Wool is naturally insulating to keep you warm in the cold weather, so you’re less likely to suffer frostbite during the dead of winter.
However, it also regulates temperature and wicks away sweat to keep you cool on hot days. Wool’s natural antibacterial properties (in addition to pulling sweat away from your skin) will combat the bacteria that make your feet smelly and increase the risk of foot infections (like athlete’s foot or toenail fungus).
