How to Choose a Pair of Socks

Socks are an often overlooked article of clothing. Many people feel that socks take second place to shoes in terms of comfort, but this is simply not the case. Socks provide the first layer of protection, comfort and hygiene to your feet. Here's how to choose a pair of socks.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Wear wool. It doesn't matter what you're doing or what the temperature is, wool socks are good for your feet. Wool socks don't have to be thick and scratchy, there are plenty of wool socks that are made with quality and made for warmer weather.

2. Use liner socks. A liner sock is a very thin sock, typically made of cotton or silk. These socks provide a layer between your normal sock and your foot keeping bacteria and moisture away from your foot.

3. Refrain from overlayering. In cold weather, many people feel that having more socks means more warmth but this isn't always the case. Your shoes need air pockets in them or your feet will get cold. Typically, even in the coldest of weather, a cotton liner sock inside a single mid-to-heavy weight wool sock will keep your feet warm.

4. Choose quality over price. Nice socks typically range from $8 to $20 per pair. While this may seem expensive, they are worth the cost. Not only do better quality socks keep your feet more comfortable, they keep them healthier and will last much longer then their cheaper counterparts.

Tips & Warnings

• To reduce cost, choose wool socks with a wool blend. Anything 50 percent wool or more works well.
• If you are allergic to wool try socks made by Smartwool. These socks are specially treated and are often worn by those with wool allergies.