I’m headed to Iceland in March for a hiking trip. I already have good waterproof boots, but I need advice on non-wool winter socks due to a wool sensitivity. Previously, I used Champion brand socks from Target, but I can only find two pairs now. It’s tough finding reliable options from reviews alone. Any recommendations for synthetic socks suitable for cold weather would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Are you certain about your allergy? Wool can be naturally irritating, and many who think they’re allergic actually aren’t. Maybe test a pair of quality wool blend socks, like Darn Tough, and see if you react.
@Kasey
Interesting, I’ll consider trying a pair to see how it goes.
Have you considered bamboo socks? They’re soft and might be a good alternative.
Westley said:
Have you considered bamboo socks? They’re soft and might be a good alternative.
Bamboo-derived fabrics like viscose or rayon don’t wick moisture well, although they’re soft. True bamboo fibers, like bast fibers, do wick well but are harder to find.
I have a similar sensitivity to wool on my upper body but find merino wool socks quite comfortable. It might be worth trying them out.
Zan said:
I have a similar sensitivity to wool on my upper body but find merino wool socks quite comfortable. It might be worth trying them out.
Despite the request for non-wool options, could wool socks be an option?
@Emerson
I’m suggesting they might not have the same reaction with socks as with other wool garments.
Zan said:
@Emerson
I’m suggesting they might not have the same reaction with socks as with other wool garments.
It seems counterintuitive to recommend what they want to avoid.
Zan said:
@Emerson
I’m suggesting they might not have the same reaction with socks as with other wool garments.
It seems counterintuitive to recommend what they want to avoid.
Exploring if the sensitivity is consistent with different types of wool products isn’t unreasonable.
@Zan
We should respect their initial request for non-wool recommendations.
Check out Darn Tough’s synthetic options. They’re durable and designed for hiking in cold climates. Here’s a link to a model that might suit you: Women's Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Synthetic Hiking Socks – Darn Tough
You could use sock liners to prevent direct contact with wool. Silk or synthetic liners might be a good start.
Milan said:
You could use sock liners to prevent direct contact with wool. Silk or synthetic liners might be a good start.
Pairing those liners with wool socks could provide both comfort and insulation.
Consider thick synthetic socks or a combination of thin synthetic socks with a wool outer layer for insulation.
It’s worth revisiting wool socks made from high-quality, fine fibers like those found in some modern brands, which might not trigger your allergy.
Zephyr said:
It’s worth revisiting wool socks made from high-quality, fine fibers like those found in some modern brands, which might not trigger your allergy.
A similar rash could have been from the detergent rather than the wool itself.
Zephyr said:
It’s worth revisiting wool socks made from high-quality, fine fibers like those found in some modern brands, which might not trigger your allergy.
That’s a possibility. I might test a pair of my fiancé’s wool socks to check my reaction.
You could try using cotton liners under merino wool socks to keep the wool off your skin while benefiting from its thermal properties.
Alpaca socks are another soft, warm alternative you might find comfortable.