What are your favorite socks? I'm researching sock preferences for better recommendations

Seeking Advice
1

I’m curious about your favorite socks and the reasons behind your preferences. Do you wear the same socks throughout the year? What materials, weights, and brands do you prefer? Any particular issues with certain brands? Your responses will help improve the Footwear Information Thread I’ve been working on to better assist others.

For instance, I mainly use Smartwool Lolo Trail full cushion crew socks year-round, but I’m transitioning to their Hike Classic Edition extra cushion crew socks. I love their fit and the merino wool blend. I’ve had sizing issues with Darn Tough; their large is too long and medium too tight, making them uncomfortable for me.
n

image
image640×618 126 KB

2

I primarily use Darn Tough for hiking and Smartwool for running and casual wear.

3

Arielle said:
I primarily use Darn Tough for hiking and Smartwool for running and casual wear.

Thanks for sharing! What do you like better about Smartwool running socks compared to Darn Tough?

4

@Zeek
Smartwool feels better for me; it’s stretchy and comfortable, made of a 50/50 merino and nylon blend. My white Darn Tough socks turned yellow over time, which I didn’t like as much.

5

Arielle said:
@Zeek
Smartwool feels better for me; it’s stretchy and comfortable, made of a 50/50 merino and nylon blend. My white Darn Tough socks turned yellow over time, which I didn’t like as much.

Appreciate the details! I prefer darker socks too, to avoid visible staining.

6

@Zeek
I find Smartwool softer and more pleasant, while Darn Tough feels more synthetic to me.

7

Roux said:
@Zeek
I find Smartwool softer and more pleasant, while Darn Tough feels more synthetic to me.

Interesting points! Material feel is definitely a key factor for many. Thanks!

8

Smartwool is great, but I prefer Darn Tough overall for their durability. I also like Falke for a variety of sock types.

9

Arun said:
Smartwool is great, but I prefer Darn Tough overall for their durability. I also like Falke for a variety of sock types.

Good insights! I had some fit issues with Darn Tough but they’re certainly durable. Thanks for introducing Falke; I’ll check them out.

10

@Zeek
Happy to help! Falke is based in Germany; not sure about their international shipping though.

11

Arun said:
@Zeek
Happy to help! Falke is based in Germany; not sure about their international shipping though.

Thanks for that info! I’ll look into their availability and specs.

12

I usually opt for Darn Tough or Smartwool for hiking, depending on the cushioning I need that day. For general use, I wear thinner wool socks for better breathability.

13

Rowan said:
I usually opt for Darn Tough or Smartwool for hiking, depending on the cushioning I need that day. For general use, I wear thinner wool socks for better breathability.

Thanks for the input! It’s good to have different options for different conditions. Appreciate your thoughts on breathability and cushioning.

14

I like wool socks with a high wool content for all seasons. I’ve had good experiences with lesser-known brands like Windriver and JB Field’s from Canada.

15

Andi said:
I like wool socks with a high wool content for all seasons. I’ve had good experiences with lesser-known brands like Windriver and JB Field’s from Canada.

Great to hear about your experience with these brands! I’ll add them to my research list for Canadian options. Thanks!

16

@Zeek
You’re welcome! Here’s where you can find them online.

17

Andi said:
@Zeek
You’re welcome! Here’s where you can find them online.

Much appreciated! I’ll take a look and consider them for inclusion in the Footwear Information Thread.

18

I rotate my socks based on the season, preferring Wilderness Wear for winter and Lightfeet for warmer days. I value the quick-drying properties of some synthetic blends.

19

Rio said:
I rotate my socks based on the season, preferring Wilderness Wear for winter and Lightfeet for warmer days. I value the quick-drying properties of some synthetic blends.

Thanks for detailing your preferences and the brands you use! I’m curious about their availability outside Australia.

20

@Zeek
Both brands are Australian and offer a good mix of natural and synthetic materials. Wilderness Wear specializes in merino blends.