Socks. Not So Simple

We obsess over the smallest details when purchasing gear and equipment. We compare weights down to the ounce when adding yet another pair of XC skis to our quivers. We look for forums that debate the pros and cons of the latest, greatest waterproof breathable shells. Headlamps are ranked by the number of lumens they can deliver. Details matter.

Despite that attention to detail, the selection of which sock to wear during a winter workout is often as random as the most accessible pair found in the sock drawer. Pick the wrong sock and your day outside may end earlier than expected. The right choice will keep you warm, dry and comfortable until you are ready to come inside.

Thinking about socks as another technical piece in your gear collection, here’s a few criteria to consider when you are replenishing your sock drawer for the winter. Today’s sock brands have significantly raised the bar in terms of fit, performance, comfort and durability.

Materials

Basically, there are two choices. Synthetic or merino wool. Wool socks will keep you warm even if your feet get sweaty tromping through the woods. Synthetic socks wick moisture away and dry quickly next to a cabin fireplace. Many sock brands are offering blended models offering the best of synthetics and wool in the same model. Bottom line just don’t wear cotton socks during the winter.

Fit

The way a sock fits is no longer limited to a small, medium, large sizing choice. Socks have evolved to become technical pieces of equipment designed to improve comfort and performance. Design features like custom ventilation, location specific cushioning (see below for more) and varying degrees of compression make fit decisions a little more refined than grabbing the cheapest pair of large from a big box department store.

When your socks fit correctly, you don’t think about them. When they slip and slide, causing cold spots and blisters, the wrong sock choice can ruin a bluebird winter day,

Cushioning

Multi-layered socks offer application specific cushioning to help extend your time outside. Cushioning over or under the toes, under the forefoot and around the heel help prevent blisters, and uncomfortable pressure from tight boot laces and buckles. By tailoring the cushioning to specific areas of your foot, sock manufacturers can protect your feet without adding thickness and weight across the entire sock.

Height

Low, medium or high. Also known as crew, ankle and over the calf. Sock height is fundamentally related to the height of your winter boots or shoes. Of all the possible product features to compare, height is straightforward. Tall boots need tall socks. On to the next selection criteria.

Application

Like many gear and equipment choices for outdoor recreation, the question of which one is “best” is often answered by a less than clear “it depends.” A thin, lightweight, synthetic ankle sock designed for running is a poor choice for a bitterly cold day spent snowshoeing deep in the woods. Fortunately, sock brand product offerings are available for a wide variety of pursuits and applications. Although there are many excellent “one style does it all” models, there’s no need to compromise. It’s easy to find materials, cushioning, fit and height to match the application with an appropriate sock model. The only challenge is finding enough space in the sock drawer.

Fashion

White. Black. Brown. Today, those are no longer the only options. Does anyone really care about the color of your socks? Apparently, the answer is yes. Sock brands are bringing vibrant colors, patterns and designs to socks that get tucked in boots and under snow pants. The sophisticated knitting technology allows manufacturers to offer multi-layered cushioning and can also create amazingly intricate stripes, patterns, graphic designs and vibrant colors. Your friends may not see what color socks you are wearing, but a dash of color may inspire you to move a little faster.