These Top-Rated Socks Will Keep Your Feet Warm and Cozy All Winter Long

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When it comes to winter weather, soft sweatpants, cozy slippers, and plush robes are a must for staying warm and dry. So are puffy coats and winter boots. But if your feet get cold at any point, the winter chill could creep in—and the last thing you'll want around the holidays is to get sick!

That's why having the warmest, coziest pair of winter socks will save you this winter. But not all socks are made equal. You'll want to keep an eye out for fabrics like wool, fleece, and cashmere that trap heat when searching for socks this winter. And if you plan to spend any time out in the snow or walking through slush (hi, New York City commuters!), make sure your socks protect against dampness with water-resistant fabric.

Whether you're looking for a pair of socks for your next ski trip, or a cute set to wear with your favorite winter boots, we've rounded up the best socks for this winter season. Not only are they made with fabrics guaranteed to keep your feet warm, but they also come in a variety of colors and patterns to match any outfit you plan to wear this winter.

So, as the temperatures begin to get cooler and cooler, stay cozy indoors with these budget-friendly socks that are guaranteed to keep your feet warm and dry. According to Amazon shoppers, you'll want to live in them all winter long!

Frigid temperatures call for stocking up your wardrobe with all the cold-weather staples—including the best winter coats, snow boots, and winter gloves. But when it specifically comes to keeping your feet nice and toasty, there’s one item of clothing that’s a must-have: a pair of thick, warm socks. After all, there’s nothing worse than freezing toes and cold feet in the winter—whether you’re bundling up at home or braving the elements outdoors.

Not all warm socks for women are truly up for the challenge. When searching for the best pairs of socks to keep your feet warm, you’ll want to keep an eye out for fabrics like wool, fleece, and cashmere that trap heat (without interfering with breathability). If you plan to spend any time out in the snow or walking through slush, it’s a good idea to make sure your socks protect against dampness with water-resistant or quick-drying fabric.

Whether you’re looking for a pair of socks for your next ski trip, or a cute set to wear with your favorite ankle boots, we’ve rounded up the best socks for this winter season. Our list includes pairs for every occasion and price point, from affordable, everyday wool socks that pair with everything to compression socks to wear while you’re traveling to a pair of heated socks that will keep your feet warm for hours in the outdoors.

Ready to wrap up your feet in warm, cozy comfort? Ahead, check out top-rated warm socks for women that you’ll want to live in all winter long.

Thermal Heavy Duty Crew Socks

Made from a blend of wool, polyester, and nylon, these thermal socks are perfect for winter wear. The wool-lined interior traps heat, while their quick-dry technology keeps toes from getting wet. You’ll want to reach for these warm socks before trekking through any rain or snow—and you’ll be glad you did!

“These socks were super comfortable and warm! They kept me super comfy while hiking Pike’s Peak in April when it was still actively snowing. I’m usually super picky about wool socks, as I find most of them itchy. So thankful these were super soft and comfy,” one Amazon reviewer wrote.

Super Thick Wool Socks

These top-rated socks boast over 13,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, with reviewers raving about how soft, thick, and warm they are. Coming in a pack of three pairs, they’re lined with fluffy wool on the interior and feature cushioning in the underfoot area for extra comfort.

“Soft and cushy like a cloud! These things feel like heaven for my feet!” said one Amazon reviewer. “These socks are a lifesaver for someone who always has cold feet!” another wrote. “The second I put them on, my feet instantly feel warmer and stay warm. They’re super soft and really durable, as I’ve been wearing mine pretty consistently for months, and they still feel the same way that they did when I bought them.”

Merino Wool Blend Quarter Socks

Looking for a pair of everyday socks that you can wear to any occasion during the winter season? This best-selling pick from popular sock brand Bombas comes in a versatile quarter length and is made of a soft, warm merino wool blend that naturally wicks away moisture. Plus, it features plush cushioning in the footbed and a seamless toe.

“I was looking for a wool blend sock for the fall/winter and came across these ones. They fit just right and definitely keep my feet warmer. The wool is very soft and not itchy like some wool or wool blends can be,” wrote one reviewer. “They fit well and are very soft and comfortable on my feet,” said another. “They provide additional warmth, but not too much. I wear them inside most of the time, and they are just right temp wise.”

Cozychic Heathered Socks

There’s nothing like a pair of fuzzy socks to keep you warm and cozy on cold-weather days—especially if it’s this top-rated one from Barefoot Dreams. Made from the brand’s signature, super-soft polyester microfiber fabric, these heathered socks boast a nearly perfect rating on Amazon from over 4,000 shoppers.

“They’re sooo cozy. Not tight around the ankles. I feel like they transform my feet into teddy bear paws,” wrote one satisfied customer. “I can’t say how fabulous these delightfully soft yet lightweight socks are,” said another. “They are like a pillowy hug...They wash beautifully and maintain their shape and color.”

Heated Socks

If you’re looking for socks that will actively will warm up your feet for hours, look no further than a pair of heated socks. This pick from Snow Deer, which is made from a thick, moisture-wicking fabric, features heating elements that cover the toes as well as the top and bottom of the foot. It’s powered by rechargeable lithium batteries that last up to 6.5 hours and offers three different heat settings, so you can adjust them to your liking.

“I skied four hours per day and used the socks on the lowest power level. My toes were toasty the whole time,” wrote one reviewer. “They work great! I used them for ice fishing, and the batteries still had charge in them after nine hours!” said another shopper. “The switch is easy to get to above your boots, and I was able to turn them on and off during the trip, or leave them on low as needed.”

Unisex Toasty Toes Ultimate Alpaca Socks

Plush alpaca wool is all your feet will need this winter to stay cozy. Although these hypoallergenic crew socks are warm and soft as can be, they’re also moisture-wicking, so you won’t sweat. Plus, they offer arch support and feature a reinforced toe and heel for the ultimate comfort.

Amazon shoppers say they’re worth every penny. “These are the thickest, most indestructible socks I’ve ever owned,” one customer wrote in a review.

Cashmere Trouser Sock

If you’re seeking a luxurious feel, opt for these highly-rated socks from Quince. Available in six different colors, each pair is made with quality cashmere that’s lightweight, breathable, and oh-so-soft. “I love these socks so much! It’s like wearing cozy little blankets on your feet. They are incredibly soft,” wrote one reviewer. “They are on the thinner side, which I like since it allows me to wear them with slip on shoes (penny loafers). However, they are still warm and keep my feet so cozy. I am ordering several more pairs, I’m hooked!”

Heavyweight Synthetic-Wool Blend Boot Sock

Cold, snowy weather has nothing on these boot socks by Carhartt. Made with merino wool, acrylic, and spandex, these warm socks sit high on the calf to ensure that no cold snow leaks into your winter boots. They even have a cushioned sole to add extra support while you move.

One Amazon shared their experience with these socks during a cold weather camping trip: “They. Are. Awesome! The temperature was 26-30 degrees for almost 24hrs, and my feet were *never* cold at all.”

Fleece-Lined Fuzzy Socks

Get into the holiday spirit with these cozy, warm slipper socks that are perfect for lounging around in the house. Not only do they come in 18 adorable colors and patterns, but they’re lined with fleece to keep your feet extra cozy. They also have grips on the bottom, so you won’t slide around the house.

“These slipper socks are awesome…I love them; they’re warm, soft, cozy, and I love the plastic dots on the bottom, so you don’t slip and fall. I love them so much I have three different pairs,” wrote one Amazon customer.

Thermal Socks for Women

If your feet are extra cold in the winter, these thermal socks will become your new best friend. They’re made with a moisture-wicking exterior to keep you dry from sweat and the elements, but the inside is a warm, fuzzy thermal material the cold is no match for. They’re also extra thick and designed with a ribbed elastic top that prevents them from slipping down.

One Amazon shopper said the socks kept their feet warm through -20-degree weather: “My feet were in heaven!” Another reviewer described them as “like a warm winter lodge on my feet,” writing: “My room is normally freezing and my feet are usually the first to go ice brick cold, and so I bought these socks...These bad boys actually helped so much.”

Popcorn Cable Sock

Made almost entirely of merino wool, these warm socks for women help keep the cold out and lock heat in. The cable-knit style hugs your calves and ankles to prevent slippage, and they even have soft, light cushioning on the bottom to provide additional support.

“My heavy wool socks are too heavy and my thin cotton socks are too light right now...So, I tried the Popcorn Cable Crew socks from Smartwool. Love them. Soft, comfortable, just enough cushioning and warmth without strangling my feet,” wrote one reviewer. “These are far and away the best socks I’ve ever purchased,” said another.

Cushioned Performance Hiker Socks

For you runners out there, keeping the calves exposed while you jog may help you feel more comfortable—but you shouldn’t have to freeze if you do so. These merino wool ankle socks will keep your feet warm and dry without weighing you down. They’re also cushioned, moisture-wicking, and provide arch support with a reinforced heel and toe.

“Whether I’m hiking in my hiking boots or walking long distances in my road running shoes, these socks perform well. They wash well, too! Highly recommend,” wrote an Amazon customer.

Over-the-Calf Wool Socks

Keep every inch of your shins covered (and warm!) with these top-rated over-the-calf socks from Amazon. They fall just below the knee and are made of a soft, warm wool blend to lock in heat. You can slip them beneath boots, or just wear them on their own at home, as they come with a thick, cushioned sole. And at just $20, you can get three pairs in gorgeous winter colors like wine, charcoal, and mauve.

Reviewers say they have a great stretch to them and fit well—even for those with wide calves. “Good, soft knee socks are hard to find these days, but these fit the bill perfectly,” wrote one Amazon customer. “I have wider calves, and they stretch easily to fit great. Nice and soft, and they stay up all day.”

Wool Hiking Socks for Women

Adventurers will love the way their feet stay warm and dry with these popular hiking socks. The blend of merino wool and nylon ensures heat stays locked around your feet and calves, while the spandex will prevent any slippage. They also feature cushioned soles and come in 30 stylish color and pattern options.

And with nearly 10,000 five star ratings on Amazon, these socks are a customer favorite. “Wow! Bought these for a trip to Iceland to wear with hiking boots and was thrilled with them—great price, excellent quality,” wrote one satisfied shopper. “Not itchy at all, and I’m pretty sensitive to itch. The thicker sole was great for walking/hiking and my feet were never cold. Not once.”

Merino Wool Compression Socks

Airplanes are one of the notorious places where feet and ankles tend to freeze up, so keep your limbs warm with these merino wool compression socks. Not only do they add and trap warmth, but they also help encourage circulation with their moderate level of graduated compression. Plus, they also offer arch support, a light cushioned sole, and a seamless toe closure.

“As someone who is on their feet eight-plus hours a day, these socks are great,” wrote one reviewer. “Before, when I would wear normal socks my legs and feet would just ache, but these compression socks are amazing.”

Wool Socks

These fun patterns scream cabin vibes, so stock up on these socks to add a rustic feel to your winter wardrobe. They’re made of a cozy wool blend to keep your feet warm and dry and are versatile enough to wear with anything from winter boots to sneakers. And for just under $13, you get a total of five pairs, all with different patterns—that’s a steal!

Reviewers especially love that they’re soft, comfy, and warm without being too bulky. “I am amazed at how soft and comfortable these socks are. They fit very well and I love how they stay up without being too tight. Definitely a great pair of socks to wear during the winter months,” wrote one Amazon customer.

Merino Wool Socks

For an all-purpose cold-weather sock that’s suitable for most activities and needs, these merino wool socks are hard to beat. They come as a set of three pairs with an affordable price tag (around $20), considering they’re made of soft, cozy 80% merino wool that effectively traps in heat. Also, if you and your partner have similar-sized feet, you can buy a set or two to share.

The pick has racked up over 7,000 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers. “These socks are a great value, comfortable, and I recommend for many of my patients,” wrote on reviewer (who happens to be a podiatrist). “I wear them most days. They are cushiony. You will have happy feet.”

Vintage Crew Socks

If you’re looking for socks where style meets comfort, consider these vintage crew socks, which boast over 19,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. Made of a soft and breathable wool blend, these socks come in a wide array of colorful shades and patterns that are perfectly stylish for the winter season. And at only $15 for a pack of five pairs, they’re super affordable, too.

“I was gifted these socks and absolutely love them. I machine wash and dry them with no problem....I love the patterns, too. I don’t wear any other socks in the winter now!” said one happy Amazon reviewer.

Merino Wool Socks

Another solid, well-reviewed pair of wool blend socks may not stand out significantly from the rest of the options out there, but these Ebmore wool socks have an extra fun feature—the internal lining is a contrasting color to the exterior, making them especially cute when worn as a fold-over sock. With merino wool as the primary fabric as well as a fuzzy inner lining, these top-rated socks also do their job at keeping feet warm and comfy.

“Great socks! Thick and very warm! Use boots or shoes with some room, because these socks are very thick but keep you so warm in snow or cold weather,” noted one Amazon customer.

Cozy Chenille Socks

For anyone who loves nothing more than curling up in front of a fire on a cold winter night, wrapped in a robe and a pair of fuzzy socks, these cozy chenille socks from Ugg are a nice choice. Soft and warm, they’re not intended for outdoor wear or more active endeavors, but they’re perfect for wrapping your feet in extra comfort while you’re lounging.

“I love these socks. They’re so soft and comfy. They’re a little on the expensive side, but they’re comfortable, and I’ll purchase more,” said one Amazon reviewer.

How to choose the warmest socks

A sock’s warmth typically boils down to a few specific features:

✔️Fabrics used to construct the socks. Wool and merino wool blends tend to be the warmest fabrics available. although alpaca wool is a good alternative if you’re allergic to sheep’s wool. You may also want to consider fabric blends that include acrylic due to its insulation power.

✔️Moisture-wicking or quick-drying capabilities. One of the best ways to end up with cold feet is getting your feet wet. If your socks make you sweat, or if water seeps in through your shoes and your socks don’t wick it away and dry quickly, your toes are going to get cold very quickly. Look for socks with sweat- or moisture-wicking properties (wool blends are naturally moisture-wicking and breathable, which makes them a good choice).

✔️Thickness of the sock. Thicker socks tend to be warmer than thin socks.

✔️Height of the sock. Taller socks keep more of your leg warm than short socks.

✔️Compression that encourages blood flow. If your toes tend to get cold due to poor circulation, socks with graduated compression that help encourage blood flow may help keep your toes and feet warm.

When trying to select the warmest socks, it’s important to weigh all of these factors against your personal needs. For instance, what type of activity will you be performing in the socks? Where will you be wearing them? What shoes will you be pairing them with? What type of weather or conditions will you be dealing with?

Someone who works outside in a Chicago winter will have different needs than someone who wants to stay warm at home in Texas during a cold front. Keep this in mind when selecting warm winter socks.

What are the warmest type of socks?

Generally speaking, wool, Merino wool, or wool blend socks are going to be the warmest socks available. Wool socks are naturally moisture-wicking, breathable, and odor resistant, while also offering superior insulation from the cold. Merino wool tends to be less itchy than other versions, and Merino wool blends often offer other performance benefits, like compression and support, that make them ideal for outdoor activities.

You may also want to look for socks with acrylic blends, which can help with insulation.

Does wearing two pairs of socks keep your feet warmer?

While it may seem obvious that if one pair of socks is good for warmth, then two pairs would be better, it’s really not true. Depending on the shoes you’re wearing with your socks, doubling up can actually constrict your feet and create blisters or other uncomfortable hot spots, and it may actually reduce some circulation to your feet and toes. If your blood doesn’t keep circulating well, your feet are actually going to end up feeling colder, not warmer. It’s best to select a single pair of socks that’s intended for the weather and the activity you’re performing, rather than doubling up and hoping for the best.

How we chose the warmest socks for women

We compared socks from popular and lesser-known brands to note details like the material used, thickness, height, style, intended purpose, and special features (moisture-wicking, odor control, increased breathability, and the like). We then read through hundreds of ratings and reviews to select the top options available.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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