A few years back I did a blog on the warmest socks you can find, and there are some new additions to that list and some returning favorites. I have to admit wearing my new Bunny Boots makes me less worried about my feet at -30F this winter, but warm socks are still key to standing in the snow for hours. Some of these socks are really warm, but are not good for hiking, while others have great durability but are not as warm. I wear a variety of socks depending on what my photography outing is going to be. I use the warmest socks for standing around at night photographing aurora, while I use more durable but less warm socks for hiking around in the winter. Here goes!
Bridgedale Explorer Heavyweight Merino (1.). These are my favorite new sock since my last review. Bridgedale’s backstory is enough to get you buying a pair. This sock company is located near Belfast, Ireland and started making socks for soldiers during WW1. They have incredibly high standards and quality control..socks are what they do, and they are built to last. I have been wearing my pair constantly this winter, and I have to say they are amazingly warm and durable. I wear them in my bunny boots on subzero nights and hike in them through the snow. They are my new winter socks for about everything I do.
Heat Holders (2.). Heat holders still get my vote for the warmest socks, perfect for standing around in very cold conditions. They are inexpensive as well. These socks are arcylic and very thick. The downside is their durability. I go through a few pairs each winter, they just don’t hold up to rugged use. But at $18 a pair I get a few new pairs each winter. I wear these at -30F in bunny boots and my feet are toasty.
Qiviut socks (3.). Qiviut is fiber from Muskoxen, supposedly the warmest fiber out there. Qiviut can only be woven by native people, and the wool is very scarce. Expect to pay over a hundred dollars (yes you heard that right) for pair of socks. I had to try a pair so this winter I bought a pair Qiviut socks. Is it warm? Yes, they are very warm. Am I going to wear them a lot? At the cost I paid I feel like I will only wear these socks on rare occasions. They seem pretty durable, but I think I can get about the same warmth using other socks in this review.
Thorlo thick cushion mountaineering socks (4.). Over the calf socks add extra warmth to your upper leg. These Thorlo socks are incredibly durable, warm and a great choice for hiking all day in the winter. I use them covering sled dog racing which involves a lot of hiking. These socks are designed for movement and reducing blister issues.
Alpaca Warrior socks (5.). This is another over the calf sock and one of the warmest socks in this review. They have a nice mix of durability and warmth. I especially like the over the calf design, these socks keep my feet and legs warm in very cold conditions. Not are durable as the Thorlo socks, but warmer.
Remember not to size your winter boots too tight. Leave extra room so your circulation isn’t compromised. Happy holidays and enjoy some snowy winter photography!