To determine the best men’s wool socks we considered the following factors: weight, style, durability, material composition, price, care instructions, and additional features. You’ll need to consider the activities where you want to use these socks, as well as the style you prefer. The material composition will also impact durability and fit. And care instructions may be a deterrent for some shoppers if they need to wash wool socks by hand.
After considering the above, we nominated the Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking & Walking Socks as our Top Pick. These smart wool socks offer anti-blister cushioning, a flat seam design for an improved fit and better ventilation and moisture-wicking properties. Keep reading to learn more about the rest of our top picks. And, if you need some more items for your closet, check out our best clothing apparel guide.
Top 7 Best Men’s Wool Socks
#1 Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking & Walking Socks
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: A great set of smart wool socks that are ultra-comfortable for activewear thanks to their ventilation, moisture-wicking properties, anti-blister cushioning, and flat seam design.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Excellent ventilation & moisture wicking
- Anti-blister cushioning
- Flat seam design
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Expensive
- Lower merino wool content
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
For the active set, you already know that the wrong pair of socks can leave you limping in pain after just an hour of wear. We’ve nominated the Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking & Walking Socks as our Top Pick because it’s a three-pack set of smart wool socks that are designed for serious comfort no matter how long you wear them. These merino wool socks are made of 30% merino wool, 36% nylon, 33% acrylic, and 1% elastane. And that means you get a pair of socks that offer the benefits of wool while also being durable and more comfortable to wear.
We like that that you get a flat seam at the toe and anti-blister cushioning to improve the comfort. You’ll also get ventilation lanes and temperature control to help improve breathability. These socks were even developed in conjunction with the famous mountaineer Rasmus Kragh. Plus the natural moisture-wicking properties of the merino wool content mean that you won’t be walking around in wet socks. Also check out the best mens v necks for your wardrobe.
#2 Alvada 80% Merino Wool Hiking Socks
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: A great pair of machine washable merino wool socks with a higher merino wool content that is itch-free, making this a great option for people with sensitive skin.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Best for sensitive skin
- Higher merino wool content
- Machine washable
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Inconsistent fit
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
When you’re shopping for merino wool socks, you always want to check the wool content as many companies will brand a product as merino wool when after checking the actual composition, merino wool might be the smallest contributor. But we think the Alvada 80% Merino Wool Hiking Socks are a great option considering that they contain 80% merino wool. The remainder consists of 15% polyester, 4% nylon, and 1% spandex. This makes them some of the best thick wool socks on our list. If you like to protect your clothes from dust and moths, check out our review of the best moth repellent.
You’ll appreciate that nylon inclusion as it helps to create a more comfortable wearing experience that’s itch-free, making it perfect for people with sensitive skin. You’ll also like the added cushioning in the footbed and the fact that these socks are machine washable. And that means that caring for these socks is easier than ever. Another one of the best men’s wool socks is the Smartwool PhD Outdoor Heavy Crew Socks made of 68% Merino Wool, 30% Nylon, and 2% Elastane. The best mens hoodies are also worth looking at.
#3 Carhartt Men’s A118-4 Cold Weather Wool Blend Crew Socks
Award: BEST FOR EVERYDAY
WHY WE LIKE IT: A sturdy set of wool blend crew socks that are cushioned for added comfort make these best wool socks for everyday use.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Best for outdoor
- Cushioned for outdoor use
- 4-pack
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Only 8% wool content
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
Wool socks don’t always have a reputation for being durable. And especially if you want to wear them regularly, it can be a tall order to find a pair of wool socks that can stand up to repeated and frequent use. These Carhartt Men’s A118-4 Cold Weather Wool Blend Crew Socks are the best wool socks for everyday use. While this four-pack of socks offers the lowest wool content in our guide, we do like that they’re machine washable and are designed for daily use.
The total composition is 41% acrylic, 36% polyester, 14% nylon, 8% wool, and 1% spandex. Again you’ll like the addition of the nylon and spandex as that makes these socks more comfortable and better able to conform to the shape of your feet and legs. Also, the yarn at the heel and toes is reinforced for improved durability and these socks include arch support to further provide stability and hold these socks in place. The best mens slippers can also help with that. An additional option for one of the best socks for both hiking boots and everyday wear is the Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Hiking Socks. These will keep your feet warm during outdoor activities while also keeping them dry and cushioned thanks to the merino wool.
#4 Time May Tell Men’s Merino Wool Hiking Cushion Socks
Award: BEST BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: A three-pack set of merino wool blend socks that can be machine washed makes these the best wool socks for frugal outdoor enthusiasts and hikers.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Best for hiking
- Merino wool blend
- Can be machine washed
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Shrinking may occur
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
You don’t necessarily need to pay a lot to buy a pair of quality merino wool socks. We selected the Time May Tell Men’s Merino Wool Hiking Cushion Socks as our Best Budget because we think these are the best wool socks for budget-focused shoppers. Even though these are the most affordable wool socks in our guide, we like that you still get a premium material content. These socks are 80% merino wool, 14% nylon, 5% polyester, and 1% spandex.
We like that these socks are made of a thicker construction to help regulate temperature and moisture. The added spandex and nylon also give you a more comfortable fit and keep your socks in place. And best of all, these socks are machine washable, helping to make owning a pair of authentic wool socks easier than ever. They wear well with the best running shoes.
#5 DG Hill Thermal Crew Men’s Wool Socks
Award: BEST FOR WINTER
WHY WE LIKE IT: A plush set of merino wool socks with reinforced heels and a brushed fleece lining that will keep you warm is why these are the best wool socks for winter.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Best for hiking
- Merino wool blend
- Reinforced heel
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Expensive
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
No one likes to be cold — especially if you work outdoors frequently. And smart people know that a major component of staying warm (or cool) is in regulating the temperature of your feet. If this sounds like a priority to you then the DG Hill Thermal Crew Men’s Wool Socks are the perfect solution. These thicker socks offer a merino wool blend composition that is 80% merino wool, 17% nylon, 2% spandex, and 1% elastic.
We liked that these socks have a brushed fleece lining, making them the best wool socks for winter. Other key features include a reinforced heel and toe and added arch support. But you’ll also appreciate that these socks (as is common with wool socks) are designed to keep your feet dry and odor-free thanks to the natural moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties. New socks are a great excuse to buy the best running shoe brand as well.
#6 PEOPLE SOCKS Men’s Merino Wool Quarter Socks
Award: EXCELLENT UNISEX
WHY WE LIKE IT: One of the thinnest warmest socks in our guide that is promoted as a unisex merino wool blend option with a quarter length that’s more fashion-forward.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Best warmest & thinnest
- Merino wool blend
- Reinforced toe and heel
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Must be hand washed
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
It’s not uncommon that women also buy socks from the men’s department. It’s no different than women buying men’s sweatshirts or sweatpants — they’re just more comfortable. If this sounds familiar, People Socks Men’s Merino Wool Quarter Socks is a great option. After all, it’s one of the thinnest warmest socks in our guide because it relies on 23.5-micron merino wool.
We like that this is a four-pack of quarter-length socks, which is great for people who don’t like crew length socks. You’ll also appreciate that the merino wool blend composition is 71% merino wool, 21% nylon, 7% polyester, and 1% spandex. Of course, the spandex and nylon help to create a more comfortable fit that conforms to your foot and ankle. You’ll also enjoy the cushioned sock for a more comfortable fit, along with a reinforced toe and heel and a non-abrasive toe seam.
#7 Kirkland Signature Men’s Merino Wool Socks
Award: BEST QUALITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: A great pair of merino wool socks designed with durability and comfort in mind thanks to the cushioned footbed and vented foot panels.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Best for formal occasions
- Vented foot panels for breathability
- Smooth toe seam
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Expensive
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
Finally, we’re rounding out our recommendations with the Kirkland Signature Men’s Merino Wool Socks. These merino wool socks are a great option since it’s a four-pack that features a great blend for improved comfort. The composition of these socks is 72% merino wool, 27% nylon, and 1% elastane — which helps to create a better fit.
We liked that these socks are cushioned throughout the footbed for added comfort. You also will enjoy vented panels at the bottom of the foot to improve the breathability and wearability of these socks. Other important features include the smooth toe seam to prevent irritation and the fact that these socks are also machine washable.
How We Decided
There are a range of reasons as to why someone would want to buy a pair of wool socks. But to create our recommendations we considered the following key features — weight, style, durability, material composition, price, care instructions, and additional features.
Except for our #6 pick, the rest of the socks in our guide are crew socks. Our #6 pick is a four-pack of quarter-length socks. However, they were also the only thin socks in our guide since the remainder were thicker and designed for winter wear.
Durability is important as no one wants a pair of wool socks that fall apart within a few wears. 100% wool socks are impractical because they would fall apart quickly. But durability goes hand in hand with material composition. You’ll note that we’ve listed the content percentages for every recommendation in our guide. While the majority of the socks in our guide offer higher wool contents (usually merino and from 71 to 80%), our #3 was the only option that didn’t include merino wool but just had an 8% wool content. And our Top Pick only offered 30% merino wool.
In general, wool socks, and specifically merino wool blend socks are relatively affordable. In our guide, we have our Best Budget which is very cheap, but even the other options are still affordable considering that everything in our guide was a multi-pack. However, this is one product where you can’t just focus on price. The right pair of wool socks is going to depend on the construction, the material composition, care instructions, and if there are additional features such as reinforced seams or breathability vents that make the sock more comfortable.
You’ll also want to consider care instructions as often, wool socks need to be hand-washed rather than machine washed. However, where possible, we’ve highlighted which options are machine washable (Honorable Mention, #3, #4, and #7). You’ll also look for value-added features such as enhanced cushioning, venting and airflow channels, and flat seams or seamless toes to improve comfort.
Best Men’s Wool Socks Buyer’s Guide
The Most Important Factors to Consider
- Weight
Wool socks come in a range of weights. And while many people think of wool as an option for dress socks, wool is also a great material for hiking socks. Depending on whether you’re going to be in warm or cooler weather, you’ll need to consider whether you want light, medium, or heavyweight socks. This will also impact whether there’s any additional cushioning or padding in the socks. - Style
Are you looking for men’s dress socks or hiking socks? Wool can be used for both as well as a range of other purposes, so you’ll want to think about your intended activity before you begin to shop for a quality pair of men’s wool socks. You can also find toe socks that are perfect if you want to avoid blisters between your toes. - Durability
No one wants a pair of socks that fall apart after a few uses. Often, the more expensive socks tend to offer better durability than cheaper options. But this isn’t always the case so it’s important to do your research before you select a pair of wool socks. - Construction
This will be one of the most important things you’ll need to review. Key construction features you’ll want to look for include options such as seams, the binding, padding, insulation, and weaving. If you’re looking for the most comfortable pair of wool socks, you’ll want to prioritize seamless socks or those that offer additional padding if you’re going to use these socks to hike. Likewise, do you want crew socks or do you prefer quarter or no-show? - Size
Socks usually come in a range of sizes that are meant to cover a segment of standard shoe sizes. But you’ll always want to confirm that the socks are sized according to shoe sizing in your country. Also, make sure that the brand guarantees that the socks won’t shrink after washing. This can be a real concern with wool. - Additional features
Depending on how you plan on using your socks, you might want to prioritize other value-added features such as moisture-wicking, waterproof socks, and even heated socks might be important to you.
