Warm Socks

Warm socks are the simplest fix for cold feet: on a winter walk, in your boots on the sideline, or at home on a cold floor. This guide covers wool, thickness, height and fit. Gløde does not sell socks yet; for extra warmth we have guides on heated socks and insoles.

Which warm socks suit you?

Type	Good for	Keep in mind
Wool or merino socks	Winter walks, everyday wear, boots	The amount of wool varies a lot; read the label
Thick thermal socks	Standing still, at home, roomy winter boots	Only fit in shoes with room to spare
Walking socks	Hikes and long walks; cushioning under heel and ball of the foot	Often thinner on top, with a closer fit
Boot socks	Wellies and winter boots	Choose a height that comes above the top of the boot

Why a tight sock feels colder: a warm sock works because its soft, loose fibres hold warm air. Squeezed into a tight shoe, even a thick sock is pressed flat and loses much of that. A little room for your toes often makes your feet feel warmer.

What to look for

• Wool: more wool usually feels warmer and softer. Some synthetic fibre or nylon adds strength at the heel and toe.
• Thickness that suits your shoe: try new socks with the shoes or boots you will wear them in.
• Height: ankle, crew or knee-high. For boots, the sock should come above the top edge so the boot does not rub.
• Cushioning: a padded heel and sole help on long walks or when you stand on hard, cold ground.
• Flat toe seam: more comfortable in walking boots.

When warm socks are not enough

If your feet stay cold even in thick wool socks, for example when you stand still for a long time, added heat can help. Gløde does not sell heated socks either, but these guides compare the options.

• Heated socks or insoles? How to choose between heated socks, heated insoles and heated boots.
• Always cold? Tips for warm feet and hands at home, at work and outside.
• How to stay warm watching football: for cold feet on the touchline and in the stands.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of socks help with cold feet?

Wool or merino socks in a shoe with enough room are a good start. Thick thermal socks suit standing still or roomy boots. If your feet still stay cold during long periods outside, heated socks or insoles are the next step.

Can I wear two pairs of socks?

You can, as long as your shoe or boot still fits comfortably. Two pairs in a tight shoe often feel colder, because the socks are pressed flat. One thicker sock in a slightly roomier boot often works better.

Are wool socks itchy?

Coarser wool can feel scratchy. Merino is a fine wool that many people find soft against the skin, and blends with synthetic fibres often feel smoother too. If wool usually bothers you, try a merino or blended sock first.

How high should socks for boots be?

Above the top edge of the boot, so the boot does not rub against bare skin. For wellies, many people choose knee-high socks, which also keep their calves warm on a cold walk.

Walking socks or thick thermal socks?

Walking socks have cushioning where your foot lands and a closer fit, so they suit long walks in boots. Thick thermal socks are softer and roomier, which suits standing still, the sofa or roomy winter boots.