The Hunt For The Coolest Men's Socks Brands

When it comes to the coolest socks for men, there are a few brands that stand out. One of the most popular brands is Bombas, which offers a range of styles including their popular Solids Calf Socks and Low-Cut No-Show Socks. Bombas socks are known for their comfort, durability, and stylish designs. Another brand that is often mentioned as a favourite is Darn Tough, which offers a lifetime warranty on their socks and has a range of styles including the Micro Crew Midweight and the Coolmax Micro Crew Midweight. For those who are looking for a more affordable option, Dickies offers a Dri-Tech Crew 6-Pack that provides comfort and durability at a fraction of the cost. Other brands worth mentioning include Smartwool, Stance, Nike, and Adidas, which all offer a range of styles and features to suit different needs and preferences.

Best socks for sweaty feet

When it comes to the coolest socks for men, GQ's top pick is Bombas Solids Calf Socks, which retail for $14. Described as the "clear winner in the sock game for years", these socks provide "a great level of support and cushion without sacrificing anything". They feature the brand's "honeycomb arch support", which cradles the midfoot for added snugness, and a cushioned footbed for extra comfort.

Now, onto the best socks for sweaty feet. According to Verywell Health, the best socks to combat sweaty feet are those made with a blend of different materials labelled as "moisture-wicking" or "increased ventilation". The publication's top pick is the Patagonia Ultralightweight Crew Socks, which are ideal for odour control due to their moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating abilities. They are made from a blend of recycled polyester, nylon and lycra spandex, and are designed to keep your feet cool and fresh.

Another option is the Under Armour ArmourDry Run Lite Tab Socks, which offer impressive odour control and moisture-wicking fabric. During testing, wearers reported staying "refreshingly cool" and "substantially dryer than [they were] used to".

If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Dickies Dri-Tech Moisture Control Crew Socks are a good choice, retailing for $14 for a pack of six. With over 199,000 reviews on Amazon and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, these socks are a popular choice for those with sweaty feet.

For men with sweaty feet, it's best to avoid 100% cotton socks, as these can worsen the problem by absorbing moisture and not wicking it away from the skin. Instead, opt for socks made from materials such as polyester, merino wool, or copper or silver ions, which help to slow bacterial growth.

Best socks for working out

When it comes to the best socks for working out, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, they should be snug but not too tight, providing a comfortable and secure fit that doesn't cut off circulation. Secondly, opt for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters and odours. And lastly, look for features such as cushioning, arch support and seamless toe construction to provide extra comfort and protection during high-impact activities. With that in mind, here are some of the best socks for working out:

Lululemon Power Stride Socks

Lululemon's Power Stride socks are designed to offer maximum support for your feet during workouts. They feature a snug fit, with 360-degree arch support, seamless toe construction and a 3D-knitted heel to prevent slipping and friction. They also have an extra-long fabric tab at the back to protect against blisters. These socks are a great option for running and high-intensity workouts, and come in a pack of three.

Bombas Men's All-Purpose Performance Ankle Socks

These Bombas socks are highly cushioned and breathable, making them ideal for running and other high-impact activities. They feature a unique Honeycomb Support System that cups the midfoot for added support, as well as a cushioned tab at the ankle to protect against blisters. They are designed to fit the left and right foot specifically, ensuring a performance-savvy feel. Plus, Bombas offers a mission that donates a pair of socks for every pair purchased.

Swiftwick Maxus Zero Tab Maximum Cushion Socks

The Swiftwick Maxus socks offer the perfect blend of performance, support and comfort for high-intensity workouts. They feature a relaxed arch band that provides light compression, a microtab at the heel to prevent blisters, and a roomy and padded toebox. The footbed is thick and cushioned, making these socks ideal for running and other impact movements. While they are a premium option, they deliver maximum cushioning for intense workouts.

Nike Everyday Plus Cushion Training Crew Socks

Nike's Everyday Plus socks are a versatile and reliable option for both casual and athletic wear. They feature a blend of two-thirds cotton and one-third synthetics, providing a quick-drying and comfortable feel. The added spandex provides stretch, ensuring a snug and supportive fit. With a cushioned heel and forefoot, these socks offer great value for money, delivering a premium feel at an affordable price.

Stance Performance Crew Socks

The Stance Performance socks are designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable during workouts. They are made with a moisture-wicking fabric and feature cushioning in key areas such as the heels and balls of the feet. They also provide a great fit, sitting in place all day without feeling restrictive. These socks are ideal for those who suffer from sweaty feet or hyperhidrosis, a condition that affects around 3% of the population.

Other Recommendations

Other popular options for workout socks include the Adidas Superlite Prime Mesh 3 Socks, which are breathable and packed with cushioning, and the Darn Tough socks, which are guaranteed for life and feature moisture-wicking, anti-odor and anti-blister properties. For those on a budget, the Dickies Dri-tech Moisture Control Crew Multipack Socks offer great value, providing comfort and moisture-wicking capabilities at an affordable price.

Best socks for hiking

When it comes to hiking socks, the best options are those that are durable, breathable, moisture-wicking, and thermoregulating. Here are some of the top-rated hiking socks on the market:

Darn Tough Hiker Full Cushion

The Darn Tough Hiker Full Cushion socks are an excellent choice for hiking, offering a balance of comfort and warmth with unmatched durability. They are designed to be thick and cushiony, providing protection for your feet on long trails. The socks are also incredibly durable and come with a lifetime warranty. While they may be too thick for hot weather, they are perfect for cold-weather hiking and can even double as cosy sleepers.

Danish Endurance Unisex Merino 3-Pack

If you're looking for a great value option, the Danish Endurance Unisex Merino 3-Pack is a fantastic choice. These socks are comfortable and perform well across the board. They are compatible with both boots and shoes, and their unique venting stitch design enhances breathability. While they may not be as durable as some other options, they offer excellent value for money.

Smartwool Classic Mountaineer Maximum Cushion

For hiking in freezing temperatures, the Smartwool Classic Mountaineer Maximum Cushion socks are a great pick. They feature a high wool content, providing exceptional warmth while still wicking away moisture. They are plush and comfortable, perfect for keeping your feet cosy on cold adventures. However, they may be too warm for summer hiking.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew

The Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks are a fantastic lightweight option, offering superior breathability and wicking power. They are well-suited for warmer months and provide quick-drying performance. The high concentration of nylon ensures powerful wicking, while the breathable stitching on the instep keeps your feet ventilated. These socks are a great choice if you're prone to sweaty feet.

Darn Tough Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew

If you're not a fan of wool socks, the Darn Tough Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew is a synthetic option that delivers exceptional performance. They are comfortable and breathable, effectively wicking away moisture during your hikes. While they may not be the warmest option, they are a solid choice for those who prefer synthetic fibres.

When choosing hiking socks, consider the height, weight, and fabric to ensure they meet your specific needs. Taller socks can provide more protection and are often compatible with hiking boots, while shorter socks are ideal for hotter temperatures and can be worn with hiking shoes. Thicker socks offer more warmth and cushioning, while lighter socks provide better breathability. Finally, wool-synthetic blends offer a balance of warmth and breathability, while synthetic socks tend to be quicker-drying.

Best socks for dress shoes

When it comes to the coolest socks for men, there are a plethora of options to choose from. But what about when you need to pair them with dress shoes?

Firstly, it's important to note that dress shoes should always be worn with dress socks. Not only will this ensure you look the part, but it will also keep you comfortable. Cramming a bulky sock into a dress shoe will not only be uncomfortable but may cause rubbing and lead to blisters. Thick socks will also cause your trousers to bunch up around your ankles. So, what are the best options?

If you're looking for a reliable, reasonably priced option, Boardroom is a good choice. Their socks are full over-the-calf, come in cotton or merino wool, and have a good range of colours. They are also made in the USA. For a slightly more expensive option, Darn Tough socks are also a great choice, with merino wool construction, ensuring they are comfortable, durable, and smell-resistant. If you're looking for something more affordable, Uniqlo socks are simple and cheap, while still offering a range of 50 colours.

When choosing the right dress socks, it's important to dress for the occasion. If you're attending a formal event, you may want to opt for a more subtle pattern or solid colour. However, if you work in a casual environment, you can add more colour and express your personality.

Best socks for boots

When it comes to choosing the best socks for boots, there are several factors to consider, including comfort, durability, breathability, and style. Here are some recommendations for men's socks that are perfect for wearing with boots:

Darn Tough Socks

Darn Tough socks are a popular choice for boot socks, known for their durability, comfort, and moisture-wicking properties. They are made with Merino Wool, which is soft, odour-resistant, and effective at keeping feet dry. Darn Tough offers a range of styles, including lightweight and midweight options, as well as different thicknesses to suit varying temperatures. They also provide a lifetime warranty on their socks, making them a worthwhile investment.

Wool Socks

Wool socks, particularly those made from Merino Wool, are an excellent option for boot socks. Wool is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping your feet comfortable and dry. It also provides a good amount of cushioning and padding, making it ideal for long days in boots. Wool socks can be worn all year round as they keep your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Some popular options include Danish wool socks from Amazon and socks from the Buffalo Wool Co.

L.L. Bean Adults' Bean Boot Socks

These boot socks are designed with a blend of ultra-soft merino wool and CoolMax, a breathable polyester fabric. This combination wicks away moisture effectively and provides a hint of stretch, making them perfect for activities that involve a lot of foot motion. They also feature a flat toe seam to reduce bulk and prevent rubbing, ensuring a comfortable fit.

Dickies Men's Dri-Tech Moisture Control Crew Socks

Dickies offers moisture-control crew socks that are perfect for boot wearers. They are made with a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, providing moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and odour-resistant properties. These socks are highly rated and affordable, making them a great option for everyday use.

Wrangler Men's Ultra Dri Seamless Toe Western Boot Socks

These Wrangler boot socks feature a seamless toe design and are made with Sorbtek technology to keep your feet dry. They are available in a pack of three and are designed to provide comfort and durability.

Gold Toe 656s Cotton Crew Athletic Socks

Gold Toe has been a classic sock brand for years, known for their durable and comfortable socks. Their 656s socks are made with a blend of wool and nylon, providing warmth and support. They also feature AquaFX Moisture Control to help wick away sweat and keep your feet cool and dry.

In addition to these options, there are several other brands that offer great socks for boots, including Carhartt, Fox River, Timberland, and Smartwool. When choosing the best socks for boots, consider the climate you'll be wearing them in, the level of activity, and the specific features that are important to you, such as odour control or extra cushioning.

Frequently asked questions