Materials: 34% merino wool, 34% acrylic, 30% polyamide, 2% elastaneThickness: UltralightWhat we like: The cheapest merino option on our list.What we dont: Many of the socks above are softer and more durable. 100% Price & Performance Guarantee - Every Item, All of the Time. The main takeaway: its best to choose a ski-specific model (as opposed to a hiking sock or other type of sock) to ensure youre getting enough coverage. We wore the past generation of this sock (the very similarly built PhD Ski Ultra Light) for years, and the latest model shares the same excellent fit and breathabilitya great combination for high-output uses like ski touring and exploring the sidecountry. The Icebreaker model wins for best wicking capability. This is where merino wool shinesnot only does it wick moisture well, but it continues to insulate even when wet (unlike cotton). Materials: 68% merino wool, 24% nylon, 6% polyester, 2% lycraThickness: MediumWhat we like: The highest percentage of merino on our list.What we dont: Not as proven as Smartwool or Darn Tough. A quality ski sock gets the basics right: a close but not restricting fit, soft-touch materials that dont itch, and enough cushioning to keep you on the slopes all day. Many ski socks are sold as unisex, but some on our list offer womens-specific versions. Like many Smartwool products, this sock is soft and comfortable, fits and performs extremely well, isnt prone to loosening (you can wear it multiple times between washes), and looks good to boot (we love the new creative patterns and designs). Additionally, the fabric weave and construction is an important consideration, because some brands like Darn Tough prioritize long-term durability over supreme softness with a dense weave, while others like Icebreaker sacrifice a little on lifespan for coziness. Up to 60% Off Select Gear, Clothing & Shoes. We found them to be best used as a quiver sock, when compromises in fit and performance cannot be made. When looking at the list above, you might notice that all of the socks fall just below the knee. Materials: 55% nylon, 42% Thermolite polyester, 3% spandexThickness: UltralightWhat we like: More durable than merino.What we dont: Still nearly as expensive. And as is the case with most compression models, the CEP is around double the cost of our top picks. Boot liners insulated with products like microfiber Thinsulate are able to trap hot air against your feet far better than ever before. For more background, see our ski sock comparison table and buying advice below the picks. If your boots run small (were thinking of you, ski racers) or you just want minimal loft in your socks for high-output activities like sidecountry hikes or touring, the Thermolite RFL offers Darn Tough quality in an all-synthetic package. We found the Darn Tough to be snug if even tight fitting, but thought it was lacking in the cozy feeling we got from socks like the SmartWool PhD Ski Medium. The third Smartwool model to make our list is the most performance-focused of the bunch: their Athlete Edition Freeski OTC (formerly the PhD Pro Freeski). What stands out most about their Medium Ski sock listed here is the amount of merino: at 68%, its the highest percentage on our list (next in line is Smartwools Performance Ski Full Cushion OTC with 64%), which translates to a soft feel and excellent warmth and odor-fighting abilities. Its something that is enjoyed by casual and performance skiers in both the resort and backcountry, and is especially helpful for skiing on hardpack when your stance is more forward (as opposed to powder, when youre more upright). And the midweight option listed here is good for those that run cold, but modern ski boots are meant to fit snugly and have quality liners that do a lot of the insulating work for you. We ranked the Smartwool higher because we prefer its slightly snugger fit, and the Darn Tough socks are a little more prone to loosening if you dont wash/dry them after every outing. Its important to note that the Wigwam Sirocco is not ideal for performance-oriented skiers as the sock is a little thick and doesnt hug your foot as well as the pricier models above. If you're buying socks for their cozy factor, these socks are not for you. Synthetics build up stink more quickly, so youll want to wash these socks after every day on the slopes. As we noted with the Eurosock Ski Supreme above, many of the socks on the list are made with merino wool, and most of the time its the main actor. Compared to the all other socks tested, they feel very thin. Talk to one of our experts today! What weve found to be most successful is to turn them inside out and wash in cool or warm waterand use tech wash occasionally to help get out any lingering smells. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. GearLab is reader-supported. For a cheaper but still performance-ready option from Smartwool, check out their Performance Ski Targeted Cushion OTC, which boasts a little more wool (59%) but has less of a compression fit and lacks the contoured shin and ankle padding. If the sock gets wet and stays wet, your feet can become cold pretty quickly. Another downside is the amount of merino: at 48%, its far less than our top-rated Smartwool, which gives it a less cozy feel. On the plus side, it offers similar levels of warmth (and Wigwam recently added more wool to the build), and weve found it as cheap as $10 even in the heart of the winter buying season. MicroSupreme in the Eurosock Ski Supreme is an example of a synthetic that does a decent job at keeping the smells to a minimum.Nylon Editor's note: the supreme moniker here aligns with competitors lightweight options. Need help with bike sizing? If you require less cushioning and shin padding, we recommend the Eurosock Silver Ski Light or Ski Superlite.See the Eurosock Ski Supreme. Some of our favorite options include Darn Toughs OTC Lightweight models and the Icebreaker Ski+ Light OTC. Our favorite value option is the Wigwam Sirocco, which is around $10-$15 less than the Darn Tough and Smartwool options above (depending on color) yet still offers plenty of warmth and comfort for a typical day on the slopes. The designs will vary depending on brand, but some common features in synthetic socks are a performance fit and superior moisture-wicking properties. What we can say definitively is compression socks do offer a very supportive fit that performance skiers should enjoy. Dissent Labs may not be on everyone's radar, but theyve developed a loyal following among the ski touring crowd. Ski socks of old used to fall into this category, but the changes in ski boot technology have made a thicker sock far less important. As such, it is the one article of clothing youre most likely to swap out depending on weather conditions. The Darn Tough Ultralight is set apart from the field in this category. A blend of fabrics, usually including some nylon for toughness and elastane or spandex for stretch, is required to provide a supportive fit that stays in place. Following trends in running and performance gear, ski socks brands have been offering up more and more compression options. Choosing the right ski jacket is all about managing the conditions that you might encounter on the mountain. Made up primarily of MicroSupreme, these socks are designed to combat the biggest complaint of synthetic socks: stink retention. Read more about us. In other words, merino socks are able to keep your feet warm when the mercury drops, but you should also remain cool when spring rolls around. The thicker Smartwool and Darn Tough models above will last much longer, and we dont recommend wearing the Ski Zero Cushion for anything other than skiing (keeping them on around the house or in town will add unnecessary wear to the thin build). Evo does make a Lightweight version for an additional $2 per pair, but theyre still low on merino (36%). Some of our favorite designs are Darn Toughs Lars and Oslo Nordic Boot Light and Smartwools Performance Nordic Targeted Cushion Crew. More so than nearly any other application, having a proper fitting sock for skiing is essential. How can we improve GearLab? The current top dog in sock construction is merino wool. In a ski sock application, the goal is to leverage this improved blood flow to boost warmth as well as possibly reducing muscle fatigue. Snow sports retailer Evo doesnt have a major presence in the ski sock market, but their Ultralight Merino Plus Snow Socks earn a spot here for their combination of lightness and comfort at a great price. Womens legs, on average, are a bit shorter than mens, and the difference is meant to provide a better, more tailored fit. But the quality and durability nevertheless are top-notch, and you really cant go wrong with either brand.See the Darn Tough Solstice OTC Lightweight See the Women's Alpine OTC Lightweight. Smartwools Performance line includes several snowboard-friendly options, including their Performance Snow Full Cushion and Targeted Cushion OTC. Second, they dont offer quite the same next-to-skin softness as merino, although Thermolite still is reasonably comfortable. Let us know! With light padding to protect the bottom of your foot and leg, these socks are warm and wick moisture extremely well. One downside is that theyre prone to pilling up after a few runs through the washer (try and avoid drying them if you can), although the recent boost in nylon should help. For sock care, its always best to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. The thickness of the material also plays a role, and thinner merino wool socks, like the Icebreaker Ski+ Light, are standouts in this category. Darn Tough Vermont Kids' Snow Fox Over-the-Calf Midweight Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Light Hiker Micro Crew LC Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Kelso Micro Crew Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Kids' Jr Kelso Hike Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Kids' Sunset Ridge Jr. Lightweight Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks Charcoal, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Number 2 Micro Crew Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Bear Town Micro Crew Light Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Treeline Micro Crew Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Light Hiker Micro Crew LC Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Queen Bee Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Animal Haus Lightweight Lifestyle Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Captain Stripe Over-the-Calf Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Function 5 OTC P Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Edge Over-the-Calf Midweight Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Sacred Over-the-Calf Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Captain Stripe Over-The-Calf Light Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Kids' Camo Jr. Over-The-Calf Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Backwoods Lightweight Ski Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Men's Function 5 OTC PD Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's SoBo Micro Crew Cushion Socks, Darn Tough Vermont Women's Animal Haus Crew Socks. Again, there are a few downsides to bypassing merino. And the light cushioning provides that Goldilocks level of support: just enough to be comfortable but not overly bulky for sliding into tight ski boots. Despite the thin construction of these socks, they are very warm even when things get wet. First and foremost, you get high-quality merino wool (certified to the Responsible Wool Standard), added cushioning at the heels and toes to boost durability and comfort, and a seamless toe to prevent irritation and abrasion. We found them to get stiff under the balls of the foot after a single use, and could not get them to soften up after washing. The Darn Tough Over-the-Calf Ultralight is the warmest sock we tested for its weight. Not sure which skis to buy? The average skier absolutely does not need a compression sock, and only those that are looking for a very tight and secure fit, and perhaps a slight improvement in recovery time and warmth, should consider spending the $30 to $60 for a pair of socks. Made with a quality mix of nylon, merino wool, and spandex, these socks are for those that suffer from cold feet or want to get a leg up on muscle recovery. At $24, these socks are not cheap. Look to the sock fit range for sizes, and if youre right on the fence, we recommend sizing down. Granted, merino wool socks are rarely pure merino. Use this thin sock when you break out your performance boots, and wear a thicker, more plush sock on a casual day in looser boots. Got feedback? Finally, you dont get much in the way of cost savings here. FITS doesnt have the same cachet as Smartwool or Darn Tough, but theyre quickly making a name for themselves in the hiking and ski sock realms. If your boots are already tight or you prefer less cushioning, Smartwools latest Performance line also includes light and ultralight models in various prints and styles.See the Smartwool Ski Full Cushion OTC See the Women's Ski Full Cushion OTC. Those that like to run an ultralight sock for average conditions or for ski touring may want to have a slightly thicker, lightweight option for those chilly days. The socks above are purpose-built for skiing, but there are a healthy number of options on the market for snowboarders as well. While regular ski or hiking socks will work just fine, XC models are much more purpose-built and will help maximize comfort and performance. Most often, ski-specific socks with more cushioning underfoot also include a healthy amount of shin protection. Nothing ruins a good powder day faster than cold or painful feet, and ill-fitting boots also run the risk of not properly transferring energy No matter your experience level or budget, there is a great ski goggle waiting to be found. Materials: 64% merino wool, 34% nylon, 2% elastaneThickness: MediumWhat we like: Great fit and performance.What we dont: Cant match Darn Toughs warranty, and not everyone needs this much cushioning. The closer, streamlined fit also improves contact with the boots for improved performance. For standard downhill skiers, the lightweight category is a great place to bewith enough cushioning around and under your foot to be comfortable but not so thick and bulky that it feels awkward inside your boot. Below are our favorites for the ski season. In choosing an ultralight sock like this one, you do sacrifice some durability. While its a difficult thing to prove, in our experiences with compression socks, weve found them to have a very close fit that just may offer a slight increase in warmth. In what region No matter your ability level, a comfortable boot is an absolute necessity. Guaranteed for life with uncompromised durability and fit, Darn Tough socks won't let you down. The merino/nylon combination of Darn Toughs OTC Lightweight models is reasonably soft to the touch yet tough, and the seamless design helps to avoid irritation against your foot from a long day on the mountain. These models are often a bit shorterfor example, the Smartwool Performance Ski Full Cushion OTC mens sock is 14 inches, while the womens version is only 13. But keep in mind, boot liners are meant to fit snug, so a sock that is too thick can actually restrict blood flow and make your feet even colder. Merino wool specialist Smartwool dominates the ski sock market, and our favorite model for the 2022 season is their Performance Ski Full Cushion OTC. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. Materials: 80% MicroSupreme, 15% nylon, 5% elastaneThickness: LightWhat we like: A well-made synthetic sock at a great price.What we dont: Slightly less comfortable and warm than a merino option. Comfort and warmth are other concessions, although the differences aren't too major. Amazingly, a super-thin ultralight sock can be a suitable option even in cold conditionsas long as youve spent big bucks on a nice pair of modern ski boots. All of the picks above are downhill-oriented ski socks, but cross-country skiers have a slightly different set of requirements. Look to the SmartWool PhD if durability cannot be compromised. REI consistently hits an excellent balance between price and performance, and their Powderbound ski socks are no exception. But the real selling point is price: at $22, the Powderbound undercuts midweight models from Smartwool and Darn Tough by around $5 per pair, which is no small feat given its similar overall construction. Though these socks do perform well, they are not warm in the sense of cozy, and if that is of importance, the SmartWool PhD Ski Medium would make a better choice. Midweight Due to differences in boot fit (snowboarding boots typically are much looser than ski boots), most snowboarding socks fall toward the thicker end of the spectrum, with midweight varieties dominating the landscape. With baselayers, for example, going with a synthetic can save you as much as 50 percent over merino, which makes them very attractive. Its true that FITS socks undercut the competition by around $1 per pair, but thats not enough for us to recommend them over a more proven option from Smartwool or Darn Tough (yet). Like the Dissent, you get targeted padding in key areas like the shin and ankle, as well as a performance fit for support and warmth (albeit not as tight as the true compression designs). As such, we recommend taking good care of your expensive ski socks. While not everyone will like the snugness, it nevertheless adds a boost in support for those who need it. Merino and synthetic are the two most common materials used in sock construction, while nylon is a secondary fabric that boosts durability and gives the socks a consistent shape. But for casual resort-goers and those looking for a good value, the Powderbound is a well-made and comfortable sock at a great price. Like the medium and ultralight versions above, the Athlete Edition Freeski features the brands Indestructawool technology for added abrasion resistance and durability, a snug, foot-hugging fit, and a healthy amount of merino (57%) that boosts comfort and fends off stink. Modern ski socks also are thinner than in the pastboot liners have improved so that you no longer need an ultra-thick sock to be comfortable. The Darn Tough Over-the-Calf Ultralight keeping things warm and dry deep into the afternoon, when we just could not get enough!!!!!! What stands out with their GFX Compression model is its complete feature set: you get compression for a snug, reliable fit, padding in strategic areas for comfort on the up and downhill, and a synthetic build that breathes well and dries quickly. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. We also find that these socks cross over nicely for other winter activities like snowshoeing and ice skating. And, if youll be skiing a lot, it may be worth investing in a more expensive pair that comes with a warranty. Wicking moisture is what these socks do best. All trademarks property of their respective owners Privacy | Cookies | Terms. Comfort in these socks comes from a lack of padding to allow you foot to sneak into performance fitting boots. Despite the thin nature of these socks, we were surprised at how quickly these socks began to deteriorate. We want you to love your gear like we love ours. See the REI Co-op Powderbound Midweight. This can create hot spots or worse, blisters. If your boots are too big or youve packed out your liners, it could be a viable option. However, not everyone is totally smitten with the higher price tags.