How to Choose Ski Socks

The proper socks will make your ski trip more enjoyable.

Ski socks help to make your ski boots more comfortable, and will keep your feet warm. Rented ski boots can be uncomfortable, and having the proper ski sock can make them more usable. If you own your own ski boots, you still need to choose socks that will not make them uncomfortable. It isn't difficult to choose ski socks, but finding advice about which ski socks will work best for you can be difficult. By considering a few things you can make sure you have the proper ski socks.

Instructions

1. Consider the size of the ski socks you will need. Like any other athletic sock, ski socks should fit your foot snugly to prevent them from bunching up at the toe or heel. If the sock bunches up in your ski boot it will be very uncomfortable. Make sure the sock will be taller than your ski boots, as a sock that is shorter than the boot will often ride down your leg too deeply into the boot.

2. Determine the thickness of material you need for your socks. Very thick materials can cause the feet to retain too much heat. Ski boots are well insulated, so choose a thinner material for ski socks to prevent your feet from sweating and becoming cold while you are skiing. The main reason for wearing ski socks is to keep your feet dry; the boots will keep them warm.

3. Take the type of material into consideration. Popular choices for ski sock materials today include wool and synthetic fiber. Wool socks can be blended with silk to increase comfort and reduce itch. Ski socks made with Teflon are available for people who are going to be doing a lot of skiing or skiing in extreme conditions.

4. Visit a ski shop and try on as many different types and sizes of ski socks as you can. According to Mama's Health (http://www.mamashealth.com), you should "Make sure you try on different sizes, brands, fabrics, and models." Bring along your ski boot if possible, as this will help to make sure that you are getting a sock that will work well with your boot.

Tips & Warnings

• All skiers will be more comfortable using ski socks, but the more extreme or difficult the skiing you are doing the more ski socks will help you to be comfortable.

References

• Mama's Health: Ski Socks