When the cold arrives, your feet are often the first part of the body to feel it. Men’s thermal socks and men’s wool socks are the simplest way to keep them warm, in town or in the mountains, without changing your shoes.
But not all winter socks are the same. In this guide we look at the difference between a thermal sock and a wool sock, which thickness to choose, how to match it to your shoe and how to wash it so it lasts all season.
Thermal socks and wool socks: what is the difference
“Thermal” is not a material but a purpose: it is a sock designed to hold in warmth. It can be made of thick cotton, wool, merino wool or a blend of fibres. It often has a denser knit or a padded inner layer, which creates a layer of air between the foot and the shoe.
A wool sock, on the other hand, takes its name from the fibre. Wool insulates well and stays pleasant even when your foot sweats a little. Merino wool has a finer fibre, which is why it usually feels softer on the skin and itches less. Many winter socks are made of a wool blend: the wool brings the warmth, the other fibres help the sock keep its shape.
Which one to choose for your day
The choice depends on how cold it is and what you are doing. A few practical pointers:
- Office and town: a wool-blend or thick cotton sock is almost always enough. It keeps you warm without making you sweat too much in heated rooms.
- Long hours outdoors: markets, building sites, the stadium, long walks. Here a padded thermal sock is the better choice, as it insulates you better from the cold ground.
- Mountains and snow: choose your warmest sock and try your boots on with the sock you will actually wear.
- Home: a soft wool sock is perfect for evenings on the sofa, even without slippers.
Our socks for winter
In the selection of men’s thermal socks you will find three different styles. The padded merino wool thermal socks are made of a merino wool blend, in one size EU 39–45, for the coldest days. The cotton thermal socks are the choice for anyone who prefers cotton, soft and breathable, even under everyday trousers.
If you want something with a bit of colour, among the men’s wool socks there are the patterned wool-blend socks: five pairs at mid-calf height, with cream, olive green, brown, navy and black backgrounds, in checks and stripes. They look good with jeans and ankle boots, and they add a touch of warmth to your look too.
Sock height: why it matters in winter
In winter a bare ankle is where you feel the cold straight away, especially when you sit down and your trouser leg rides up. That is why in winter it pays to wear a sock that reaches at least mid-calf. If you often wear ankle boots or hiking boots, a taller sock also stops the edge of the boot rubbing against your leg.
A taller sock does not have to be thicker. You can choose a long, light style for the office and keep the padded one for weekends outdoors.
Thickness and size: the most common mistake
Many people think a tighter sock keeps you warmer. In fact the opposite often happens: a sock that pinches squashes the insulating layer of air and is not comfortable. The same goes for your shoe: if you put a very thick sock into a shoe that already fits snugly, your foot stays squeezed and you may actually feel colder.
- Check the size guide for each style: sizes are shown in EU sizes.
- For padded socks, try your winter shoe on while wearing the sock.
- Keep your feet dry: a damp sock is far less warm. If you sweat, carry a spare pair.
How to wash wool and thermal socks
Wool needs a little care, otherwise it felts and shrinks. Always follow the garment’s label. In general, wash by hand or on a delicate cycle in cold or lukewarm water, turn the socks inside out and use a mesh laundry bag. Don’t wring them hard and let them air-dry, laid flat, away from the radiator.
Cotton thermal socks are easier to look after, but here too water that is too hot and the tumble dryer can change the size. It is best to wash them with similar colours and let them air-dry.
With the right sock, winter feels lighter: choose the thickness for your day, check the size and treat wool well. Your feet, finally warm, will do the rest.