Socks are often overlooked as an important part of a skier’s gear, but they can make a big difference on the slopes. Choose the wrong socks for skiing and you will have a miserable day. Choose the right socks for skiing and your day on the slopes will be terrific.
We will look at what makes a good ski sock, which socks work and give you a few options so your feet are toasty and comfortable in your ski boots.
What Makes a Good Ski Sock?
Ski socks are made from materials that wick away moisture and provide insulation, and they often have reinforced areas in key areas like the shin and heel. A good pair of ski socks can help keep your feet warm and dry, even when you’re sweating, and they can also help prevent blisters and other foot problems.
This is why you shouldn’t just be throwing on any socks and going skiing. It’s a common mistake among beginners.
A good ski sock should be thick enough to protect your feet from the cold, but not so thick that it makes your boots uncomfortable. I always say to try on your ski boots with the socks you will be wearing for the season. Once you find a comfortable fit, I personally get multiple pairs of the same sock since I have figured out it is the best sock for me.
Go on, buy a few pairs of my favorite socks below. I may get a small commission that all spend on overpriced resort food.
Socks for Skiing: The Materials
When it comes to ski socks, the material matters. Merino wool is a great option for a ski sock because it is naturally wicking, meaning it pulls moisture away from your skin. This is important because when you’re skiing, you want to stay as dry as possible to avoid getting cold.
Wool is also really good at insulating, so it will help keep your feet warm even when wet.
Another material to consider for your ski socks is a synthetic fabric. This type of fabric is also wicking and can help keep your feet dry. Synthetic fabric is often less expensive than wool, so if you’re on a budget, this could be a good option for you.
Synthetics just don’t do it for me on the slopes when season after season, merino works.
What Size Sock Do You Need?
When it comes to socks, one size does not fit all. Some manufacturers say this but don’t believe their hype. If they say a range then you are probably good i.e. if you wear a 10’s men shoe and they say the sock fits 8-11 men’s then it shouldn’t cause much concern.
The issue is when it is too narrow or not tall enough. You’ll need a ski sock tall enough to come up to the knee and one that isn’t too narrow.
Read More:
How to Layer for Skiing – Staying Warm on the Slopes
Ski Pants vs Ski Bibs [This One Is Better for Skiing]
How Many Pairs of Ski Socks Should You Have?
When it comes to ski socks, you can never have too many pairs, at least that is my opinion. It’s important to have multiple pairs of ski socks so that you always have a clean and dry pair to wear. Ideally, you should have 3-4 pairs of the same kind of ski socks.
I can’t stress this enough. Find one good ski sock and get multiple pairs of it. This way, you can rotate them and always have a pair that’s ready to go.
If you’re going to be skiing multiple days in a row, it’s even more important to have multiple pairs of ski socks. This way, you can make sure your feet are always comfortable and dry. No one wants to deal with wet and cold feet while they’re out on the slopes!
Make sure you have enough pairs of ski socks to get you through your entire trip. The alternative is taking a boot dryer with you on your trip and using it to dry your socks.
Are Heated Ski Socks Worth the Hype?
If you’re thinking about spending extra money on a pair of heated ski socks this winter, you might want to think again. While they may sound like a great idea in theory, they actually don’t work that well in practice.
For one thing, you need to remember to charge them before each use, which can be a hassle. Then while you are on the slopes, your battery pack can die.
Additionally, they don’t actually keep your feet that warm, so I personally think you’re better off just wearing two pairs of regular ski socks if you have to.
Can You Double Up Ski Socks?
You sure can double up ski socks, but be careful not to make them too thick. This can cause problems with your boots, and make it difficult to move around in them. If you do decide to double up socks, make sure they are the same size and thickness. Also be sure to try it on at home. Two pairs can be seriously stiff in the boots.
Socks for Skiing: Here’s the Ones I Wear
There is one sock that is my go-to and they are these ones. They come up to the right height, wick out moisture and keep my feet warm in my ski boots.
I have multiple pairs so I’m not guessing before going to the slopes. There isn’t much else to say about a good pair of socks but that’s what I wear. Give them a try this winter if you want warm feet too.
Socks for Skiing: Final Thoughts
You don’t need the fanciest socks for skiing but you should prioritize warmth. A good fit and warm socks are really all you need. There’s nothing too technical to get caught up with for skiing socks, just remember merino is the way to go.
Brianna Lee writes for Proper Peaks and lives in Duluth, MN. Her favorite thing about skiing is glades. If you want to find her out on the slopes then that is the first place you should look for her bright pink helmet.