At Merino Wool Gear, we believe that your clothing should generate positive emotions. The better you feel, the better you perform, and the circle of success continues. And the truth is that Merino wool socks embody this idea.
What we mean is that no matter the adventure, your socks will help you perform. However, each pair of socks is unique, and it’s imperative to discover a pair that meets the needs of your lifestyle. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best Merino wool socks for men.
We want you to discover the pair of Merino socks that best suits your needs.
Whether you’re planning on thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail or simply gearing up for the day at the office, we’ve done tons of research and testing for you! Within this list of the best Men’s Merino wool socks, we will jump from ultralight no-show running to cold-weather protective socks for the slopes. And, everything in between!
So, throw away your old, tattered cotton socks, and discover a brand new world of foot comfort. Let’s explore our favorite Men’s Merino socks and a few of our professional buying tips from the people who live and breathe Merino wool.
See Also: 14 Best Women’s Merino Wool Socks In 2022
- Best Overall: Darn Tough Hiker
- Silver Medal: Point6 Essential
- Best Value Merino Wool Socks: Merino.tech Crews
- Best Running: Smartwool Run Targeted Socks
- Best Ski Sock: Minus33 Ski/Snowboard
- Best Cycling: Swiftwick Pursuit Seven
- Best Hunting: Smartwool Hunt OTC
- Best Dress Socks: Boardroom Merino
- Best For Work Boots: Darn Tough Steely
- Best Everyday: GRIP6 Merino socks
- Best Sock Liners: Smartwool Hike Liner
- Best Padded: Farm To Feet Damascus
- Best Toe Socks: Injinji 2.0 NuWool
- Best Compression: Cloudline Retro Ultralight
- Best Winter: Darn Tough Tactical Boot
FTC Disclosure: To maintain genuineness and authenticity, Merino Wool Gear DOES NOT sponsor products. However, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Merino Wool Socks Buying Criteria
Merino Wool Composition
Not all Merino wool socks are made equally. Different brands use varying percentages of wool within their sock composition, so it’s essential to understand how that affects you as the end-user.
Typically, the more Merino wool within a sock, the more odor-resistance and better the foot feel. Also, while there isn’t any hard evidence to back it up, we’ve seen that more Merino usually means more warmth. On the flip side, wool is more delicate than synthetic fibers, making it less durable. And as you’ll see with all of our best Merino wool sock buying criteria, you take the bad with the good.
Fabric Weight
Traditional wool socks tend to have a large profile as they are made for warmth which may feel cumbersome. However, Merino wool’s finer diameter fibers allow for a broader range of fabric weights. Typically, the higher the density (gsm), the warmer and more durable the sock. On the other hand, thicker socks are less breathable and prone to slipping or bunching.
for you, think about where and for how long you’ll be using these socks. And if you understand the fabric density system, we’ve added a ‘relative’ approximation between the material weight and fabric density.
| Weight | Fabric Density (equiv.)* |
|---|---|
| Ultralight | 130 – 170 |
| Lightweight | 175 – 215 |
| Midweight | 220 – 280 |
| Heavyweight | 280+ |
Ankle Height
We always have viewed sock height as more of a personal preference. Still, it factors into each pair’s overall performance. No-show socks are more breathable, and extended crews pair well with work boots. Yet, the industry has no standard sock height (all crew heights are not the same). So, just pay extra attention to any special notes or information about the sock to determine the best for you.
Note: If you see Merino wool socks that you like, but need a specific height, please contact us. The same sock often comes in various heights.
Cushion Level
As Merino wool socks are high-performing, they need to have adequate cushioning in high-impact areas. The stress reduction may seem minimal, but those minor reductions add up with each step. In other words, the cushioning allows you to go further for longer.
However, less cushioning does not mean worse. Ultralight or minimal cushioning may be necessary for agile, athletic activities. They offer more foot-to-ground contact, which promotes better body awareness. So, the moral of the story is, know how you want your sock cushioning to work for you.
Style Options
In a broad sense, Merino wool clothing tends to be a bit drab, and there usually are only a few primary colors of t-shirts like black, gray, blue, navy, etc. Moreover, patterned Merino wool apparel is challenging to find. The lack of style is one of the few disadvantages of Merino wool.
However, for some crazy reason, Merino wool socks are the opposite. Brands like Darn Tough, Smartwool, and Boardroom Socks offer a wide variety of aesthetically pleasing Merino socks. Some have bold colors, while others have classic subtle patterns. There’s bound to be a pair that matches your sock style among the variety.
See also: Best Merino Wool Shoes For Men
True Price
You may not be accustomed to paying $20 for one pair of socks. Thus, you must understand the ‘true price’ of each of the items on this list. To us, ‘true price’ means the total lifetime value of any item. And, since many Merino wool brands have lifetime guarantees, you must factor in the long term when making your purchases.
For example, Darn Tough offers a lifetime guarantee on many of its products. And yes, each pair of Merino wool socks may cost $20-$30, but those are socks you will wear for life! That’s why we don’t like to put actual numbers for the price (and because they often fluctuate).
So, don’t be deterred by number alone when exploring these Merino wool sock options.
Why Are Merino Wool Socks Better?
Well, ‘better’ may be a subjective term. However, if you ask anyone who has switched over to Merino socks, they’ll say one thing: they’re better. Merino wool is odor-free, soft as can be, high-performing, and temperature regulating. Although, this isn’t the place to dig into the evidence. If you really want to understand Merino wool’s science, properties, and mechanisms, you can read our complete benefits guide here.
Best Overall Merino Socks For Men
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew
63% Merino, 35% Nylon, 2% Spandex | Midweight | 3/4 crew | Underfoot cushion | 8+ colors | $$$
Pros: Ultimate outdoor performance | Enhanced comfort | Lifetime guarantee
Cons: Not suitable for hot, humid conditions | Pricey
All hail the kings of the Merino Wool Sock World: the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crews.
Outdoor adventurers like myself are infatuated with Darn Tough Socks as a brand. The consensus is that their Hiker Micro Crews are literally the best of the best. They provide a perfect blend of stretch and support to perform in the backcountry. Moreover, these socks are crafted by the one-and-only self-proclaimed sock nerds in the industry. So, you know you can trust their brand.
But when you separate the Darn Tough name and take an objective look at the Hiker Micro Crew socks, they make a name for themselves. The terry-loop cushioning underfoot reduces the stress impact on your feet. The fine gauge knitting serves to add warmth and protection without adding additional weight. Lastly, the engineered design and seamless construction minimize rubbing and slippage. Subsequently, you’ll be more protected from those dreaded blisters.
View A-Z Darn Tough Sock Guide
Although, there are a couple of downsides to mention. First, they aren’t the most versatile pair of Merino socks, considering the style. For a more standard version with similar features, check out the Darn Tough Tactical. Also, if you’re in the summer months, the midweight fabric may be a bit warm, so go with the light cushioning version instead.
Overall, the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew maintains its spot on the top of the best men’s Merino sock list. And even though you may be shocked by the initial sticker price, you must remember: that includes their lifetime guarantee. And that’s a small price to pay to have quality socks for life.
Silver Medal: Men’s Merino Wool Socks
Point6 Hiking Essential Medium Mini Crew
57% Merino, 39% Nylon, 4% Spandex | Midweight | 1/4 crew | Medium cushion | 2 colors | $$$
Pros: Cuff minimizes lace pressure | High-quality craftsmanship | Added cushioning at high-impact areas
Cons: Does not match well with boots | Best for temperate conditions
Another stellar pair of socks from another stellar Merino brand, the Point6 Hiking Essential Mini Crews, come in second place on our best Merino sock list. And for a good reason; they are packed with engineered comfort features to keep your feet protected in the outdoors.
Let’s start off with our favorite feature: the ankle cuff. Unlike its competitors, the Hiking Essentials has a cushioned ankle cuff that aids in the reduction of ‘lace pressure.’ Subsequently, this leads to less severe swelling and discomfort on the trail. Moreover, there is reinforced cushioning in strategic high-impact zones to reduce foot stress. Then there’s the arch support, targeted ventilation zones for breathability, and even a seamless, annoyance-free construction.
In other words, these Point6 Merino Socks are one of the pinnacles of comfort & performance.
Still, we wouldn’t recommend wearing these socks in extended expeditions if you experience below-freezing temperatures. Also, due to its mini-crew height, these socks don’t pair well with hiking boots, and trail runners are better suited with them for optimal performance.
So, if you’re looking for a fresh pair of mini-crew Merino socks, look no further than the Point6 Hiking Essentials Mini-Crews. Oh yeah, and did we mention that they have a pretty awesome origin story? Anyways, check them out for yourself today!
Best Value Merino Wool Socks
Merino.Tech Hiking Crew Socks – 3 Pack
85% Merino, 13% Nylon, 2% Spandex | Midweight | Crew | ‘Anti-Blister’ cushion | Gray | $
Pros: Excellent price-to-quality ratio | Luxurious, silky feel | Supportive elastic ribbing
Cons: Excessive pilling reported | Not great for extended sub-zero temps
You may not have heard about Merino.Tech and their myriad of products aimed to provide users with affordable, quality Merino Wool Gear. However, it’s time you got to know this brand, as they are making significant waves in the Merino wool industry. And their surprisingly inexpensive 3-pack sock listing puts them atop the best value Merino sock podium.
The Merino.Tech hiking crew socks may look plain at first glance. However, like many of the other pairs on our list, they are packed with performance features. There are ventilated zones for added breathability, ‘anti-blister‘ cushioning, and even a reinforced heel & toe for added durability. Can you believe all those features at a reasonable price? Well, reasonable in Merino wool standards, of course!
Yet, as you can imagine, these ‘best value’ Merino socks come with their downsides, too. We’ve seen some excessive initial pilling, although, as you may know, that’s not necessarily an issue. It’s just the optics of it all. Also, there have been some user-reported fit & sizing problems, but we honestly haven’t experienced any significant defects.
So, there you have it; these Merino.Tech 3-pack hiking socks should be your go-to performance socks if you’re on a budget. Or, if you’re not ready to make the jump to some of the more expensive options, give Merino.Tech a try for an introduction to the comfort of Merino.
Best Merino Wool Running Socks
Smartwool Run Targeted Cushion Ankle Socks
56% Merino, 41% Nylon, 3% Spandex | Lightweight | Ankle | Light cushion | 7+ colors | $$$
Pros: Built for endurance | Increased ‘foot contact’ | Breathable, odor-free material
Cons: Height may be too short for high-tops | Reported longevity issues
So, what makes the perfect running sock? Is it the breathability features? Or, perhaps, the optimal ankle height? In our eyes, these Smartwool Run Targeted socks encompass all criteria of the perfect running sock. And here’s why.
When we think of high-performance running socks – or any athletic sock, for that matter – we imagine a delicate balance of cushioning and ‘foot feel.’ While the cushioning allows for stress impact reduction leading to better endurance, the amount of ground contact you feel will improve performance. And these Smartwool Merino socks are exactly the combination we are looking for in a high-performing endurance sock.
For one, the lightweight Merino wool material is solid and supportive, as it’s blended with both Nylon and Elastane. However, since it’s thinner than most, it tends to be not as durable. Still, with proper washing and care, this shouldn’t be an issue. As for the cushioning, Smartwool reinforces both the balls of the foot and the heel – two high-impact areas – with their Elite cushioning technology.
Finally, with these light running socks, you know you are getting quality Smartwool apparel. And with eight unique color options and other sock height options, there’s bound to be a pair of Smartwool socks that works best for you!
Best Men’s Merino Wool Ski Socks
Minus33 Ski & Snowboard Sock
78% Merino, 15% Spandex, 4% Nylon, 3% Polyester | Lightweight | Over-the-calf | Bottom cushion | 4 colors | $$
Pros: Fantastic warmth-to-weight | Targeted venting | Relatively affordable
Cons: Limited versatility | Not best for ‘arctic conditions‘
If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, you understand the value of a good sock. When strapped into your bindings, you don’t want your socks bunching up, or else you’ll probably have to head back to the lodge. However, you don’t want a sock too tight to restrict movement. Minus33 understands this balance and created the Ski and Snowboard sock.
Let’s start with the sock material itself. Unlike many winter socks, this pair isn’t the thickest of them all. Instead, it’s lightweight but still protects against the elements. However, I wouldn’t wear these if you’re facing severe negative temperatures. In those situations, you should choose something thicker, but for most weekend skiers, you’ll have plenty of warmth with these socks.
And when it comes to fabric performance, you’ll notice that Minus33 constructed the material differently than some competitors. While many Merino socks are blended with more nylon or polyester, these socks had a higher proportion of elastane than most. So, with the added comfort of Merino, you get the stretchiness of the elastane. Moreover, the elastic support prevents slippage, reduces blisters, and maximizes your performance.
Now, you’re probably asking yourself: why did they rank versatility so low? Well, as mentioned before, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. These socks are designed and engineered for the specific purposes of skiing and snowboarding. So, they honestly wouldn’t be the best for daily wear. However, with targeted venting zones and an affordable price, every ‘king of the mountain‘ should own a pair of these Minus33 Ski & Snowboard Socks.
Best Merino Wool Cycling Socks
Swiftwick Pursuit Seven Cycling Socks
63% Merino, 35% Nylon, 2% Spandex | Lightweight | Extended Crew | Med. Cushion | 11+ Colors | $$$
Pros: Excellent moisture management | Comfortable & breathable material | Ankle compression
Cons: Fabric may feel too thin for some | Not suitable for snow cycling
We’re not the most hardcore cyclists on the planet. However, on our occasional trip to Moab, we always pack a pair of the Swiftwick Pursuit Seven Merino wool cycling socks. They are a wonderful blend of high-performing materials and maximum comfort.
Yet you’re probably sick of all of that ‘marketing‘ speak. We are, too. But, there is no better way of describing these Merino cycling socks as high-performing. They have a lightweight blend of wool and synthetics, which both work together to manage your sweat. Plus, the thinner fabric density allows for more movement and ‘pedal contact.’ Although the downside is that lighter socks tend to age less well than their heavier counterparts.
Moreover, it’s Swiftwick’s proper attention to detail that captivates us. The seamless toe closure aids in comfort and protects against blisters. On the uppers, there are vertical seams that allow for added breathability. There is even a ‘half-density weave’ around the ankle to reduce bunching. And with the medium compression from the 7″ ankle cuff, you’ll be able to ride all day long.
So, if you’re looking for a pair of cold-to-moderate weather cycling socks, look no further than the Swiftwick Pursuit Sevens. With four color patterns, various heights, and sock thicknesses, there’s bound to be a perfect pair of Swiftwick socks for you. Take a peek at them below, or continue reading for the rest of the best Merino wool socks for men.
Best Merino Wool Socks For Hunting
Smartwool Classic Hunt Maximum Cushion OTC
73% Merino, 26% Polyester, 1% Elastane | Heavyweight | Over-the-calf | Max Cushion | Taupe | $$$$
Pros: einforced arch & ankle support | Extra cushioning | One of the warmest on our list
Cons: Not suitable for warmer conditions | Not multi-use
We’ve written about these Smartwool socks before in our Best Heavyweight Merino Wool Socks piece. But, we love these wool hunting socks so much that we have to talk about them again.
When it comes to hunting socks, you’re probably looking for a pair that is comfortable, warm, and supportive. And, as you can imagine, the Smartwool Classic OTC hunting socks excel in all three of these areas. The soft Merino wool and extra-heavy cushioning offer maximum foot comfort, while the thick sock material will keep your feet toasty yet dry. Finally, the supportive over-the-calf cuff will prevent these socks from sliding down. It may seem like a minor convenience, but it can make all the difference in the backcountry.
And again, don’t be alarmed by our versatility rating. It’s just the scale we chose, and it’s the honest truth: these Smartwool hunting socks are not the most versatile. You should only be wearing them in cold-to-cool conditions, and anything hotter may cause excessive sweating. Also, since these socks only come in Taupe/Tan, they don’t get great with most outfits outside of camo.
Still, suppose you’re in the market for a highly-specialized, extra comfortable pair of Merino wool hunting socks. In that case, you can’t go wrong with Smartwool. If you like Smartwool as a brand, we also put together a comprehensive brand review so you can see their Merino wool gear from behind-the-scenes.
Best Merino Wool Dress Socks For Men
Boardroom Over-the-Calf Merino Wool Socks
67% Merino, 30% Nylon, 3% Spandex | Lightweight | Over-the-calf | No cushioning | 13+ styles | $$
Pros: Perfect for on-the-go professionals | Sleek, classic sock design | Various colors & patterns
Cons: Not the best for physical activities | Must launder with care
Many of the high-performing Merino wool socks we’ve explored so far are meant for physical performance. However, some are not the most fashionable. Subsequently, Boardroom Socks brand noticed this gap in the Merino sock market and filled it with their Merino wool dress socks.
At first glance, they look like your typical dress sock. However, the 2/3 Merino wool construction aids in maximum comfort. Plus, the ribbing design will keep your socks put so you don’t have to keep adjusting them all day long. In addition, they may appear thin, but they are surprisingly durable.
Yet, what sets Boardroom Socks apart from other dress and lifestyle socks is their two-fold comfort approach. The lightweight Merino blend feels great on your feet, and the unique patterns will make you look good. And we all know that when you look good, you feel good. And when you feel good, you tend to be more successful. Or at least you can define success for yourself. And that feeling of personal success is what you get with Boardroom Merino wool socks.
Now you can experience the power of Merino wool, even if you’re stuck late in the office. So, if you like to take your dress shoes off at your desk as we do, your feet won’t stink up the whole office. Still, I’d suggest changing to another pair of Merino wool socks if you are headed to the gym after work.
Best Socks For Work Boots
Darn Tough Steely Full Cushion Boot Sock
56% Merino, 41% Nylon, 3% Spandex | Midweight | Boot cut | Full cushion | 2 colors | $$$$
Pros: Full cushioning (complete sock) | Height fits most 6″ & 8″ work boots | Lifetime guarantee
Cons: Material may feel too ‘snug’ for some | Reported ankle slippage
Since we covered Merino wool socks for the office worker, we must also shout the blue-collar workers. They are the people that lace up their boots every morning and put in an honest day’s work. And the Darn Tough Steely boot socks will be there every step of the way.
These midweight Merino wool socks were crafted specifically for those of us that wear sturdy boots. The extended crew height offers cushioning against the top of your boot. But it’s Darn Tough’s innovative fully-cushioned toe box that secured them a spot on the list. Basically, suppose you wear hard-toe work boots (steel, aluminum, composite, etc.). In that case, you don’t have to worry about toe irritation with the Steely socks. We mean, it’s kind of in the name.
Yet, even Darn Tough socks aren’t 100% perfect (and they would be the first to tell you that.) And as these Steely socks are designed for boots, the cuffs aren’t as compressive as many alternatives. So, if you are wearing low-tops, you may experience some slippage. Also, if you’re working outdoors in the winter, you may want something a bit thicker, depending on your preferences.
To sum up, if you’re on your feet all day at work or have to lace up your Red Wings each day, consider these Darn Tough Steely socks. And as always, each pair of Darn Tough socks comes with a lifetime guarantee. So, if you buy just one pair, you will have a pair for life. Now that’s a darn (tough) good deal!
Best ‘Everyday’ Merino Wool Sock
GRIP6 Merino Wool Socks Mens
56% Merino, 41% Nylon, 3% Spandex | Midweight | Ankle | 3 colors | $$
Pros: Versatile performance design | Wool tested by GRIP6 | 100% USA-made
Cons: Ankle height too short for high-tops | Lower wool percentage
When we first started Merino Wool Gear, we really didn’t have GRIP6 on our radar. That is because they were more in the business of a more specified catalog of belts and wallets. However, one Twitter argument later, a user turned us onto their new line of socks. And at an affordable price, they are definitely worth your time.
And when our tester put these GRIP6 Merino wool socks to the three-day wear test – 42,000 steps – they held up nicely. There were no odors after half a week of heavy use, and his feet stayed dry throughout. Although, he reported a bit of pilling, which led us to long-term durability questions. Yet, as we’ve contacted our tester for this piece, their pair of GRIP6 Merino Wool socks are still going strong.
Moreover, the one element we love the most is the All-American sourcing and manufacturing process. GRIP6 uses American Helle Rambouillet sheep for their wool (a close relative of the Merino). Also, they test their wool nearly in-house. That way, they can ensure that every step of the woolgrowing and harvesting processes are up to their high standards.
And that type of dedication and craftsmanship transfers to these ankle socks. Another solid, affordable, and versatile piece of everyday Merino wool gear. Plus, they are just super comfortable. Check them out below!
Best Merino Wool Sock Liners
Smartwool Hike Liner Crew Socks
59% Merino, 39% Nylon, 2% Elastane | Ultralight | Crew | Minimal cushion | 2 colors | $$
Pros: Best moisture management | Fantastic blister prevention | Maximum ‘foot feel’
Cons: Thin fabric not the most durable | May not be suitable for those with large calves
So, you may be thinking, why do I need a Merino wool sock liner when I’m already wearing a pair of Merino wool socks? Well, most of the time, you don’t. However, if you suffer from excessive foot sweat, smelly feet, or even are prone to blisters, then you should try out a pair of sock liners. Specifically, our go-to outdoor liners, the Smartwool Hike Liner Crew Sock.
In broad terms, Merino wool liner socks offer an extra layer of protection for your feet. Basically, they provide a ‘second skin‘ which regulates moisture, which leads to blister prevention. In our opinion, the Smartwool sock liners do the best job at amplifying these properties. The breathable, ultralight fabric makes it feel like you’re not wearing any socks at all. However, being so thin, they are more prone to tears and pinholes, so make sure you’re laundering them properly.
As for the fit, these highly supportive socks won’t slip down or bunch. All the material should be in the same place when you put your shoes on, as when you take your shoes off. Yet since they are so supportive, we don’t suggest them for people with large calves, as the ankle cuffs may feel too restrictive.
To sum up, these Smartwool sock liners are a must-have in any gear closet. On a more personal note, we use sock liners for daily use in the summer, as they are moisture-wicking and comfy. However, in the winter, we opt for a thicker sock. And sometimes, if we’re out in the cold for long periods, we’ll throw on the sock liner for a little added assurance. So, if you want a versatile, comfy, ultralight pair of Merino wool sock liners, look no further.
Best Padded Merino Wool Socks
Farm To Feet Damascus Lightweight 3/4 Crew
51% Merino, 46% Nylon, 3% Spandex | Lightweight | 3/4 crew | 5 colors | $$$
Pros: Engineered performance features | Additional venting | 100% made in the USA
Cons: Fit may feel snug for some | Style isn’t the most versatile
When you’re trekking through the outdoors, you may venture off-trail or climb above the tree line. Much of the time, you’ll be exposed to the elements. And while your gear doesn’t necessarily have to shield
you forever, at the bare minimum, it shouldn’t hinder you from exploring further. However, a few pieces of gear are designed to both extend your adventure and aid your performance. The Farm To Feet Damascus Lightweight 3/4 Crew socks falls into this unique category.
Named after a trail town in Virginia, these Damascus socks meet all the criteria for a successful hiking trip. The lightweight Merino wool material provides enough warmth for moderate climates without sacrificing breathability. In addition, there’s a small vent from the toe box all the way up the ankle cuff. And, since the heel and toe are uber-reinforced, these socks may even last you the entire 2,189-mile trail!
Yet what sets Farm To Feet apart is their true sock-engineering prowess. They use high-density padding in targeted areas across the sock. There is strip padding on the uppers and solid reinforcements along with the toe box and heel cup. And yes, they are super comfortable and perform amazingly, but these aren’t the type of socks you wear to the office. Unless, of course, your office is in the mountains.
So, it’s clear that the Damascus Lightweight 3/4 Crews are the favorite in the padded Merino wool socks category. Make sure to check them out below, or take a peek at all the high-performing socks that Farm To Feet has to offer!
Best Merino Wool Toe Socks
Injini 2.0 NuWool Crew Socks
43% wool, 43% acrylic, 12% Nylon, 2% Lycra | Midweight | Crew | Minimal cushion | 1 color | $$$
Pros: Top-of-the-line blister protection | Excellent toe mobility | Surprisingly versatile
Cons: Toe spacing may feel awkward at first | Don’t provide much warmth
We’ll be honest; we are not big ‘toe sock’ people, and we have nothing against them, but they just aren’t our style. However, when we tried out the Injinji NuWool crews, it almost turned us into believers. Almost.
The features of these Merino wool toe socks are similar to those of many other pairs on our list. The midweight fabric is soft and moisture-wicking. And while the Merino percentage is slightly lower, 43% is still plenty of wool to reap its benefits. Moreover, its upper-foot knitting acts as a mesh to promote breathability.
Yet, the blatant difference in these Injini Merino socks is their fit and performance. The toe-sock structure helps to prevent blisters, acting as a second-skin on any rub points. In addition, with more mobile toes, you’re able to perform in athletics better (especially if you pair them with Virbafoot Toe Shoes). The toe-spreading and minimal cushioning allow for a better ‘foot feel’ and promote blood circulation.
However, some users have noted that these Merino wool toe socks are not the most durable pair. While we haven’t worn them long enough to experience this issue, it’s still something worth noting.
Overall, if you’re a toe sock kind of guy, then these Injinji socks – and any of Injinji’s performance socks – look no further. But, we still suggest that you choose the NuWool crew since nothing beats a good pair of Merino socks. Even if they do look like a glove for your foot.
Best Merino Wool Compression Socks
CloudLine Retro Merino Wool Compression Socks
59% Merino, 36% Nylon, 5% Spandex | Ultralight | Over-the-Calf | Minimal cushion | $$$$
Pros: 15mmHg of calf compression | Excellent layering sock | Classic three-stripe design
Cons: Compression is not medical grade | Reported height discrepancies
Whenever I travel by plane, our ankles swell up like balloons. It’s honestly kankle city, population me. And, the only way we’ve found to combat this swelling is through using compression socks. They help to promote blood flow to the lower extremities, thus reducing comfort and aiding in recovery. Moreover, that’s not just pseudoscience. There is factual scientific evidence that compression socks aid in preventing deep venous thrombosis.
So, these Cloudline Ultralight socks are the best available when it comes to Merino wool compression socks. They provide approximately 15 mmHg of pressure in the calf area and are ultralight enough to allow added breathability. Although, if you are looking for a more medical-grade compression sock (20-50 mmHg), I’d suggest looking at materials other than Merino wool.
Aside from the unique compressive nature of the over-the-calf socks, I genuinely love their unique style and added features. The classic red/blue stripes provide a retro look to an otherwise drab piece of gear. Moreover, the high-quality materials feel silky smooth on your legs.
Note: While these compression socks have a reinforced heel and toe, they aren’t the most durable due to their ultralight construction. Still, Cloudline offers a lifetime guarantee if you ever wear through a pair. So, it’s only a minor inconvenience.
Overall, the market for merino wool compression socks is narrow. And, if you’re looking for a stylish sock that has been scientifically proven to aid in recovery, then you’re in luck. These Cloudline Ultralight Compression socks are a necessary piece of Merino wool gear for any adventurer that’s always on the go. See a pair for yourself below!
Best Merino Wool Socks For Winter
Darn Tough Tactical Boot Extra Cushion Sock
80% Merino Wool, 19% Nylon, 1% Lycra | Heavyweight | Boot cut | Full cushion | 3 colors | $$$$
Pros: The warmest sock on our list | Super soft Merino | Reinforced Heel and Toe
Cons: Not as “thick” as you may think | Potential sizing issues