Smartwool Socks Review

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Throughout my hiking career, I have tried Under Armour, Patagonia, Wigwam, & Smartwool socks — basically, any brand of merino wool socks out there, I have hiked and skied in.

The end result? Smartwool makes the world’s softest socks.

And I don’t mean for just hiking. I wear my wool socks 365 days a year for any activity.

Nothing keeps your feet cozier in the winter than merino wool, nor breathes as easily during summer strolls.

World’s Softest Merino Wool Socks

Using the best New Zealand shearling allows smartwool socks to breathe, which maintains a stable foot temperature and provides you with extreme comfort during any activity.

Increased breathability also means you can wear smartwool socks for days without making them smelly.

Need more benefits? High quality wool wicks away moisture, preventing foot blisters.

The bottom line is this: if you are looking for the best merino wool socks that dry quickly when wet, never get stinky, reduce the likelihood of blisters forming, and compress easily for travel, you need Smartwool socks.

Why Smartwool Socks are the
Best Merino Wool Socks

Smartwool puts the name “Smart” in their brand for a reason. Using the finest Merino fibers, Smartwool technicians will enhance natural merino wool qualities to make your sock, well, smarter!

They make your sock smarter by:

• Lightweight Knit – Maximizes your sock’s breathability, which increases overall comfort
• Elastic Ankle Brace – Never deal with crumpling, falling down socks again–while simultaneously enjoying super loose socks
• Increased Wool Measurements – Science says goodbye to itchy socks
• No Shrinkage – Nobody knows how they do it, but Smartwool socks never shrink
• No Smelly Socks – A 90% Keratin fabric wicks away stinkiness and bacteria

Styles of Smartwool Socks

There are three types of smartwool sock styles: light cushion, medium cushion and heavyweight cushion. Each has advantages and drawbacks.

Keep in mind before reading on, merino wool socks are not cheap (and good luck finding these socks discounted). However, the extra bucks is well worth it as wool hiking socks can last forever (oh, and did I mention they are also the world’s softest socks?)

Medium Cushion Hiking Sock – I never leave home without a pair of these.

Unquestionably, medium cushion is my favorite style of wool sock and can be used effectively day-to-day and while hiking.

Benefits of Medium Cushion Hiking Socks include:

• Warmth – No sock is better for skiing and snowboarding, or lounging around in the wintertime
• Perfect Thickness – Allows your foot to fit comfortably into your hiking boots
• Cushioned Sole – Each step you take while hiking is cushioned, thus reducing the wear and tear on your feet

Light Cushion Hiking Sock – Light cushion is the perfect choice for summer activities that do not involve long and extensive hikes. While these socks are suitable for mild day hikes, the relative lack of cushioning makes this style of merino wool sock less than ideal for long hikes or backpacking adventures. Biking, summertime lounging and general activities are perfect.

Heavy Cushion Hiking Sock – Extra insulation makes heavy cushion hiking socks perfect for extreme weather activities. However, you need boots with adequate room to accommodate the additional cushioning. Unless you plan on winter backpacking, or other comparable activities, you do not need these socks.

Caring for Smartwool Socks

In order to keep your merino wool sock as the world’s softest sock, you must provide some additional TLC than standard socks require. This includes:

• Washing in Cold Water – This is a must! Never, under any circumstances use hot water to clean merino wool socks
• Do Not Dry – Just hang wet socks on a hanger or clothes line. They will dry in no time
• Protect Them – There is nothing wrong with wearing your wool socks shoeless around the house or on a lawn. Concrete however, is a big No-No!