21 of the Warmest Socks You Can Wear All Winter 2023: Smartwool, Darn Tough, Bombas

By Sara Coughlin

In case you missed Groundhog Day last week, we’re in for six more weeks of winter—and only the warmest socks will see us through to the springtime thaw. We love a simple cotton sock as much as the next person, but when it's freezing outside and all we want to wear are cozy sweaters, we much prefer warm socks made of merino wool, plush high-pile fabrics, and, if we’re feeling particularly fancy, cashmere. Luckily, you don't have to go out into the cold to pick up some new socks—you can find a whole slew of toasty-warm options online.

From Darn Tough hiking socks to fluffy UGG socks for lounging and breathable (yet insulated) running socks, you can find pairs of socks that are cold-weather ready and suitable for a range of outfits and occasions. They pair well with winter boots and slippers alike—so you can stay in or venture out if you so wish—and, despite their toasty warmth, they won't leave your feet a sweaty mess.

Here, we’ve selected some of the absolute warmest socks available to shop right now, according to enthusiastic reviewers. Read on to rescue your feet from the winter chill and kiss your icy toes goodbye.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Topped with a retro stripe pattern at the cuff, these ankle socks from beloved brand Bombas are stretchy, moisture-wicking, and supportive throughout the arch and footbed. Their ultrasoft wool composition allows them to keep your feet warm without overheating.

Available in sizes S to L.

Not only is wool sweat-wicking, it's odor-resistant too—so you can rest assured your feet will stay fresh in these merino wool blend boot socks from Darn Tough all day long.

Available in sizes S to L.

Allbirds’ merino wool blend also contains highly breathable eucalyptus fibers and spandex, so you get a lovely balance of warmth, temperature regulation, and stretch when you wear these cozy socks.

Available in sizes S to XL.

Your winter jogs just got a lot comfier with these Smartwool running socks, which are as breathable and fitted as they are warm and durable. They have targeted cushioning for long-lasting comfort, and are designed to prevent chafing and blisters.

Available in sizes S to L.

Part slippers part socks, these fleece-lined winter socks from L.L. Bean were made for padding around the house on extra-chilly days. They even have a gripper sole for added traction.

Available in sizes S to M.

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

By Sara Coughlin

You can wear these cool pastel socks scrunched down around your ankle for a faux-leg warmer look, or wear them at full length as calf socks. Either way, they’ll provide your feet with lightweight warmth.

Available in sizes S/M to M/L.

Of course you can trust Patagonia, a standard-bearer for cute yet functional essentials, to make a fantastic pair of socks for cold weather activities. "Man—I love these socks! They are super warm, but they don't cook my feet to the point where they sweat," one happy reviewer wrote.

Available in sizes S to L.

Even in cold, wet conditions, these over-the-calf, wool-nylon blend socks will hold in warmth and dry quickly. Pair them with some good waterproof hiking boots and you’re ready for wintertime treks.

Available in sizes S to L.

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

By Sara Coughlin

Get all the coziness of an UGG boot without the bulk in these plush socks from the popular brand. Though primarily made of fuzzy, soft polyester, they’re also made with elastane for a touch of stretch.

As their name suggests, Heat Holders’ thermal socks are made with optimal heat retention in mind. They have soft, brushed interiors, high-pile cushioning, and a chunky knit construction that blocks cold air from seeping in.

Keeping your feet toasty through snowy walks and cold mornings is easy in these thick, fuzzy socks from loungewear darling Barefoot Dreams. They come in several cozy neutral tones that’ll look great with any outfit.

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

By Sara Coughlin

Smartwool's midweight hiking socks keep feet warm and comfortable step after step. This pair of full-cushion crew socks are also known for serious durability—one reviewer wrote that their pair lasted five winters.

Available in sizes S to L.

These acrylic socks from Uniqlo provide all-over warmth thanks to its pile-lined soles and layered ankle cuffs. Reviewers also note that they retain stretch after multiple washes.

Hikers with cold feet have come to the right place—these Eddie Bauer merino wool socks were made for walking. In addition to their toasty-warm fabric, they have a midlevel weight and cushioning that prevents foot fatigue, and stretchy bands around the arches to keep feet supported.

Available in sizes S to XL.

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

By Sara Coughlin

Thanks to Nadaam's signature sustainable cashmere, this splurge-worthy pair of socks feels unbelievably soft and cozy. "They are not too thin and not too thick—just wonderful breathable warmth," one reviewer wrote.

Universal Thread's knee-high Slouch Crew socks are bestsellers at Target for its cute—yet functional—design. Reviewers were especially happy with how they looked poking out of the top of their winter boots, and how they didn't feel too tight or restrictive around their calves.

These knit socks from Solmate prove that no-show socks can still keep your feet warm. They’re thick, made from yarn (using recycled materials), and come in a range of intentionally mismatched, at times wacky, vibrant colors.

Available in sizes S to L.

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

By Sara Coughlin

Boasting over 600 five-star ratings, these thick bamboo socks won't make your feet itch, sweat, or smell. Instead, they’ll keep your feet warm during the winter and refreshed during the warmer months, as several reviewers reported.

Available in sizes M to XL.

Icebreaker's Ski+ Medium OTC socks were made to be snowboarding and ski socks, but anyone can enjoy the added warmth they generate through their temperature-regulating wool blend and over-the-calf coverage.

Available in sizes S to L.

These gripper-soled socks, which feature luxe fleece linings and adorable winter-themed patterns, pair well with pajamas, a roaring fire, and a warm beverage.

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

By Sara Coughlin

For a workhorse of a sock that you can wear for hours, look no further than these heavyweight socks made from both wool and synthetic materials. The ankle cuffs will retain their stretch, their toes and heels will resist ripping, and their cushioned soles will support your feet all day.

Available in sizes S to L.

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.