With fall just around the corner, winter is not far behind. While winter has its charm with fluffy white snow and cozy nights wrapped in warm blankets, the frigid temperatures and harsh winds can be challenging to combat. When bundling up to brave the winter weather, you can’t forget your feet! Having a pair of thermal socks can make a huge difference in keeping you warm this winter season. The best socks for cold feet will keep you warm with little effort.

What are the benefits of thermal socks?

Keeping your feet warm is key when trying to stay warm in cold weather. When the temperature drops, your body pulls in heat from your extremities — such as your hands and feet — to keep your core body warm. Thermal socks are the best socks for cold feet and will help your body retain heat in freezing temperatures.

Wearing socks and weather- or cold-resistant shoes are obvious solutions to keeping your feet warm. Thermal socks, which are thicker and sweat-wicking, will keep your feet warmer than traditional cotton socks. Having a good pair of thermal socks can be the difference between a fun day out at the ice rink and a battle with the bitter cold.

There are many different types of thermal socks. When choosing the best thermal socks, be sure to consider the material used. Some common materials are polyester, nylon, lycra, acrylic, or merino sheep’s wool. These materials are designed to provide warmth and absorb moisture from your body without making your feet feel damp.

Common materials used in thermal socks

Wool is one of the best insulators and is a natural fiber derived from sheep’s fleece. Wool is naturally moisture-wicking and breathable, making it a good option for sledding, skiing, or other cold-weather activities that may cause you to sweat.

Merino wool socks are 100% ecological and are created using fibers from Merino sheep, which are sheared twice a year at no harm to the animal. The material is warm, light, breathable, and odor resistant. This material keeps your feet warm while also keeping them dry. Merino wool socks also do not stretch or sag, making it a durable sock and the perfect thermal sock for the working man, such as Ecosox’s Merino Wool Bamboo Blend Outdoor Socks.

Acrylic is a good alternative to wool for those sensitive to wool as it mimics the feel and appearance of wool. This material is synthetic and relatively absorbent and thick.

Cotton is a versatile material and is commonly used in socks. The downside of cotton thermal socks is that it’s not the most insulating material , and it can retain moisture, leading to damp and smelly feet.

Spandex/Lycra/Elastane are often used interchangeably. As a pro, these materials can be stretched dramatically and still retain their original shape without damage. As a con, they’re not the best when it comes to heat retention.

Polyester and Nylon are synthetic and made from plastic-derived materials, making these socks inexpensive to manufacture. Polyester/nylon are commonly used in lightweight workout clothing, but it can sometimes be used as filler in thermal clothing. Polyester/nylon are usually durable and moisture-wicking (when compared to cotton socks).

What are the warmest thermal socks?

Blue Flame thermal socks are thick and heavyweight, meaning these socks rate high on the warm index. The brushed acrylic material has a soft, comfortable insulation interior that retains 600% more heat than cotton. Blue Flame thermal socks rate four flames out of four for thermal properties on the warm index.

Blue Flame E-Tech thermals are made with bamboo viscose. These socks are the best thermal socks for the working man. The material will keep your feet dry, reducing the risk of foot-related infections and preventing odors. The thick inner loops of cushioning trap heat and keep your feet both dry and warm for hours. This sock is also rated four flames out of four for thermal properties.

If you’re looking for a lighter-weight sock, check out EcoSox Recycled Cotton Natural Crew Socks. These socks are made from recycled cotton crew socks, upcycled, and blended with polyester and spandex. Purchasing cotton socks helps limit the amount of waste in landfills. The socks also aren’t too thick or thin, making them a good option for someone looking for a warmer alternative to their everyday socks.

Finally, EcoSox has Merino Wool Bamboo Blend Outdoor Socks in its lineup of thermal socks. Blending merino wool and bamboo viscose make these full-length crew socks perfect for everyday wear. The cushioning will keep your feet comfortable, while the thermal properties will keep your feet warm and dry with moisture-wicking, breathable natural yarn. In addition, when purchasing any of the Ecosox bamboo thermal socks with the “This Product Plants One Tree” stamp, you’ll be planting a tree with One Tree Planted.

With a good pair of thermal socks, your body will lose less heat through your feet, making your body retain heat better. Though socks are often an overlooked article of clothing, your toes and feet will thank you for opting for thermal socks during the cold fall and winter months.