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Looking for the best ski socks? Our ski and snowboard experts have tested dozens over the last 8 years, with 10 in our current lineup. Our diverse test team can be found from Colorado to Alaska, lapping the resort in chilling temperatures and navigating ski traverses in the High Sierra. Our testing allows us to evaluate each model based on its comfort, fit, durability, breathability, and warmth. Whether hiking uphill or taking cold lift rides to get your turns, we have advice to help you find the best sock for your needs.
Your quality of experience in the realm of snow sports is widely dependent on the gear you have. Whether that is a top-rated ski jacket for staying warm, a pair of photochromatic ski goggles on a stormy day, or a protective ski helmet, our in-depth and recommendation-based reviews aim to help you select the right gear for your needs.
Editor's Note: We updated the award section of our ski sock review on November 18, 2024, to provide further recommendations on socks we love.
The Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion is our go-to ski sock. This lightweight sock with targeted cushioning provides padding where you need it without influencing the overall fit of your boot. It offers some of the best breathability in our test. This sock's thickness is most appropriate for boots that have yet to or are just starting to pack out. The overall fit is snug in key areas like the toe box, arch-heel cup, and upper cuff.
Compared to other models tested, the primary disadvantage of the Ski Targeted Cushion is its higher price and lack of a lifetime warranty. Some shoppers might find the price point prohibitive, especially those planning on purchasing multiple pairs of the same sock. Smartwool does offer a two-year warranty; if you are unhappy with your products, they will work to get you into new gear. Though we prefer the comfort of Smartwool socks, if you're looking for a great warranty, check out the Darn Tough Pennant RFL Ultra-Lightweight or Darn Tough Solstice OTC Lightweight. Some manufacturers, like Darn Tough, offer lifetime warranties on their socks and even cover holes. Still, Smartwool is a leading brand for a reason, and this particular sock is best for dedicated skiers and riders looking for a spectacular fit and breathability to keep their feet warm and happy.
Cayambe 18,998' was the perfect testing ground for the Smartwool. This model performed well throughout all of our test metrics.
Toes, instep, heel, and upper cuff could have more compression
Breathability is so-so
The Fox River Chatter Ultra Lightweight is a well-rounded performer to fit the needs of most skiers at an approachable price. While nothing blew us away, the Chatter delivered reliable performance. Our feet were warm and dry for most days, ranging from 15 to 40 degrees. The fit was far superior to models of a similar price point but less refined than its high-priced competitors. Beyond its impressive performance and price, this sock is made in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty. The company states that if you are unsatisfied with the socks' quality, you can return them for a replacement.
The Chatter Ultra performed well across every testing metric but has some notable drawbacks compared to other socks. The fit is generally good, but we think a more discreet toe seam and more compression zones would be an improvement. The toe seam was more noticeable than other models we tested when wearing tighter-fitting ski boots. We also noticed this sock tends to slide down thinner calves, and the fit of the heel and instep can become loose over a riding day. Finally, the full-synthetic construction is a little less breathable than wool socks. The Eurosock 1112 Ski Zone Medium is another decent, affordable option, especially if you only need a ski sock a handful of days per year. Caveats aside, the Chatter is a great choice for anyone looking to enter the ski sock world or continue to build their quiver with a smaller financial burden.
The Fox River Chatter is a solid option to add to your quiver.
The Dissent GFX Compression Hybrid DLX-Wool is an all-around great sock due to its quality of fit, targeted cushion, and calf-to-foot compression. This sock maps your foot to provide a snug and nearly mirrored fit, and it kept its fit when wet throughout a 5-day ski traverse. The Dissent was also able to dry out rather quickly, thanks to its lightweight and targeted cushion design. The cushion allows it to maintain a low profile that's compatible with performance-fit boots while offering protection and added comfort to the user. Many athletes have been transitioning to compression socks for their stated recovery benefits, such as increased circulation (i.e., warmth), decreased swelling, and injury prevention. We found ourselves reaching for these socks for our biggest days in the mountains because of their added benefits and reliable fit that resists bunching when wet or dry. The model features top-tier construction and has withstood dozens of washes without pilling or changing its shape.
The main issue is the price barrier, as the Dissent GFX is one of the most expensive socks we've ever tested. That said, you get a quality product for your buck. Another great compression sock is the CEP Ski Merino Tall Compression, but it's just as pricey. With the Dissent, multiple ski patrol friends have reported three seasons of heavy use before a hole developed in the heel. A minor downside to note with all compression socks is that they are noticeably more difficult to put on than a traditional ski sock. Considering everything, we think the Dissent is best for avid skiers and riders looking to experience the benefits of compression that require a reliable fit when using low-volume boots for ski touring or resort riding.
The Dissent GFX was our go-to sock for guiding a high-altitude expedition in Boliva with peaks up to 21,122'.
The Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion is our favorite zero cushion sock because of its materials and fit quality. This sock uses 55% Merino wool to maximize the warmth the thin material can retain. Nylon and elastane create a compressive fit across the entire profile, and the thin nature and wicking materials promote breathability that's well-suited for multi-day trips and high performance. This thin sock has a reinforced toe box to increase durability alongside a two-year warranty. We feel the Zero Cushion is among the best choices for touring as it regulates temperature well, especially during longer springtime missions.
Designed as ultralight, the Ski Zero foregoes cushioning, reducing the warmth that padding can help provide. Naturally, it is less durable than thicker socks, and comfort depends on whether you're using it in the intended settings. If you prefer a cushioned sock, consider the Icebreaker Ski+ Light or Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion. All things considered, the Ski Zero is a terrific choice for anyone wanting an option that provides the best boot fit for the subsequent performance and sensitivity benefits.
The Smartwool Zero Cushion sock is one of the first socks we grab for new boots or ski touring.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
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The best sock is one that you can forget about so you can enjoy the moment.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
How We Test Ski Socks
Our field testing involves finding the right team and then doing market research. We purchase our entire test fleet at full retail and analyze our chosen socks while sitting on lifts, hiking mountains, and charging through powder stashes. We've tested across America, including the iconic Telluride Ski Resort, the surrounding San Juan mountains, and the world-class Sierra Nevada range. In addition to field testing, we evaluate each sock comparatively, performing tests like wearing each on a different foot for true side-by-side analysis. We assess wicking ability and evaluate the different levels of cushioning and comfort. We also wear these socks while running and hiking to see how each breathes and insulates. For more detailed info on our testing, see our How We Tested Ski Socks article.
We tested and scored these socks based on five performance metrics:
Comfort and Construction (25% of overall score weighting)
Warmth (25% weighting)
Breathability (25% weighting)
Fit (15% weighting)
Durability (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
We assembled a ripping team of male and female testers who ski and snowboard hard. Our primary tester, Isaac Laredo, spends over 130 days a season in ski and snowboard socks and works as a ski guide in the Sierra Nevada region, guiding people to the best snow and providing product recommendations to help his clients get the most out of their experience. Amber King also helped set the stage for this review as a dedicated explorer of backcountry terrain who has been adventuring on a splitboard for the last decade. She brings over 16 years of snowboarding experience to the table.
We tested the comfort and construction side by side both indoors and on the mountain.
The fit of a sock determines how it will perform throughout the day. A loose sock is bound to bunch up, while a snug sock will map your foot and minimize the formation of blisters.
We take our ski socks into all kinds of terrain and weather to push the limits and determine aspects of versatility.
Analysis and Test Results
We chose ski socks that are high quality and top performers for both skiing and snowboarding and tested in both backcountry and resort skiing conditions. After testing each in the field, we assess them across five important metrics: comfort and construction, warmth, breathability, fit, and durability. Our goal is for our rating metrics and comparative evaluation to help you find the best ski sock for your needs. See our dedicated buying advice article for more info on what to look for when choosing a ski sock.
What's the Best Value?
Ski equipment isn't known for being cheap, but it may be a surprise that high-performing ski socks can cost a pretty penny, too. It is important to decide what you're willing to pay. Some lower-priced options perform nearly as well as their higher-priced counterparts. The Fox River Chatter Ultra Lightweight is one of the lowest-priced options with a technical performance build. These socks represent the lowest-priced option that we recommend. Spend less, and you'll not likely get a ski sock worth taking to the slopes. The Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion took home our top award for its overall performance and build. It does have a higher price tag but still provides good value because of its warmth, profile, and high-quality materials. As you climb the price ladder into the category of compression socks like the CEP Ski Merino Tall Compression and Dissent GFX Compression Hybrid DLX-Wool, the value statement becomes more personalized and budget-based. These high-quality products should last and keep your feet happy, but the cost is significantly higher. Ski patrollers, instructors, and guides stand by both these products and often find the price tag worth it for the performance they receive.
Socks can be tempting to try and save a buck on. We recommend you buy pairs from reputable brands that provide the correct fit for your boot and warmth for your climate.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
Socks are a quick way to improve or degrade your ski experience. Very low-priced ski socks are often simple tubes of fabric that don't have a precise fit or wick moisture well. They are typically thicker in construction and offer nice warmth when dry, but as soon as you start moving, they don't breathe well. They also tend to leave something to be desired regarding fit, tending to bunch or create pressure points in your ski boots. These are not high-value products, so be sure to avoid them if you know you're going to be moving as well as standing still, as one does on the ski hill.
Ski socks are a worthy investment to help you get the most from your day in these magical places.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
Comfort and Construction
The construction of a ski sock is what dictates its overall comfort. A comfortable model features compression paneling and strategic cushioning to increase comfort and support. In addition, a comfortable sock shouldn't slip out of place or deform throughout the day. No one wants to have to remove their ski or snowboard boots mid-day to adjust a sock bunched up at the toes, ankle, or midfoot.
In this metric, we examine sock construction and its relative comfort on the slopes. Socks that scored the best are thoughtfully constructed with ventilation paneling in “sweaty” areas like around the arch and at the ball of the foot. The most comfortable socks also have additional padding zones in potential pressure point areas like the shin, ankle bones, and toes. The lowest-scoring socks lack these features and are more like long fabric tubes without thoughtful engineering.
Comparing the toe seam between the SmartWool (left) and the Fox River Chatter (right). Both socks are constructed in one piece and closed with a toe seam. The toe seam on the Fox River sock is a bit bulkier but still hardly noticeable. Darn Tough and Icebreaker use a similar construction process.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
The Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion is a comfortable sock because of its additional cushioning and construction that intersperses strategic paneling for breathability. Like the Dissent GFX, and Icebreaker Ski+ Light, the Ski Targeted Cushion has light cushioning at the shin with a stretch band at the top and compression throughout to ensure it doesn't slide down. The Icebreaker also has an additional padding panel directly behind the ankle in the Achilles area for added support and comfort. Conversely, the Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion and Darn Tough Solstice OTC Lightweight lack padding except for a small section in the toe box. A zero-cushion sock may be ideal for some users seeking the most precise fit in a tight boot, but it won't be for everyone.
When flipped inside out, a sock's true colors are revealed. Here we can see how the shin padding varies sock to sock.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
The CEP Compression and Dissent GFX Compression are standout products in this metric due to the highly effective compression zones around the midsole, toes, ankle, and calf that ensure the sock does not move throughout the day. We had both of these socks quite wet and escaped any blistering thanks to the sock not shifting inside our boots — an appreciated feature when spring ski touring. Additionally, both maintain a low profile feel with effective and strategic padding at the toebox, Achilles, arch, heel, and shin.
Two full cushion socks side by side: Smartwool (left) compared to the Eurosock (right). The Smartwool has a reduced profile despite its cushioned nature compared to the Eurosock. The Smartwool has more overall use yet has pilled less then Eurosock.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
Of all the socks in this review, the Wigwam Snow Sirocco and Eurosock 1112 Ski Zone Medium provide the highest levels of cushioning. While the Snow Sirocco is a great option for wearing after a long day of skiing, these less expensive options are more like big tubes of fabric than well-engineered skiing options. They lack compression paneling and are generally thicker. The Eurosock is also a great après sock primarily because it lacks a snug fit around the ankle, heel, midsole, and toes. The medium weight of this sock is relatively thick and would change the fit of low or medium-allowance boot fits. As a result, we'd opt for the Fox River Chatter if you're seeking a less expensive but comfortable option.
Many beginner and recreational skiers expect that thicker socks are more comfortable because they feel better when worn in the store. However, on the slopes, thicker socks can compromise the fit of a tight boot, making a day at the resort rough on the feet. We strongly recommend socks that are midweight to ultrathin. Don't double sock your foot, and avoid heavyweight socks for skiing or snowboarding.
Warmth
Warm feet are an essential part of a good day on the mountain. You don't want to return from a day on the ski hill with numb feet or early signs of frostbite. Socks are the foundation of warmth. But the majority of the warmth will come from your boot. Many boot fitters will tell you that you should try on your ski boots with the socks you plan on wearing because boots are supposed to fit tightly. If you do these two things, you'll greatly increase your chances of having warmer feet.
When comparing sock warmth, we look at the relative warmth while skiing and snowboarding at the resort and in the backcountry through all sorts of cold and wintry conditions. First, we evaluate the materials used. Then, we wear each pair throughout the winter, and often, we wear a different sock on each foot while riding to directly compare their performance. We also observed which socks retained moisture and felt warm, even when wet.
To test warmth, we went North to snow camp and ski on a glacier. Here we snap a pic of our plane as we get ready to pack up after a great trip.
Credit: Amber King
The Icebreaker Ski+ Light is the warmest sock we tested — it does a fantastic job of thermoregulating, and our feet stayed happy all day. The Icebreaker, Darn Tough, and Smartwool socks use high percentages of Merino wool to increase their warmth potential. The Dissent and CEP socks maintain warmth through their wicking properties, which help keep the sock drier overall. The compressive nature of these socks should also increase your blood flow and help keep your feet warmer. One tester with circulation issues in his feet rarely had cold feet when using these socks on multi-day winter tours. The CEP is slightly warmer than the Dissent, likely due to a higher percentage of wool.
Nothing can negatively influence a day of riding like getting cold feet. The Icebreaker Ski + Light kept us warm on colder days.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
The Darn Tough Pennant RFL Ultra-Lightweight and Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion maintain warmth thanks to their wool and wicking properties. These socks will keep your feet warm and dry from high-intensity activities that build up heat, like skinning or carving groomers, to the chair lift. They are recommended if you own a pair of tight ski boots and want a sock that wicks super well to provide better overall warmth.
The Wigwam Snow Sirroco both provide great warmth when dry and not in snow boots. In both ski and snowboard boots, the thickness impeded the fit and subsequent overall warmth throughout the day. Sometimes we had to switch them out at midday simply because they limited circulation in normal-fitting boots. That said, this is still a great option for wear after skiing when hanging out in front of a fire with friends.
The Wigwam Sirocco is listed as a midweight sock but has properties that emulate a heavyweight construction.
Credit: Amber King
Breathability
Wicking ability and drying speed are important for keeping feet dry. A drier foot is a warmer foot. When skiing, your movement generates heat through muscle activation. But when you stop, for example, to sit on a chair lift, the water vapor generated along with the heat from your downhill skiing begins to condense. If it condenses on your skin as a liquid, it can make your feet cold. A good sock is made of materials that will transport that water vapor from the surface of your skin to the outside of your sock. A boot liner that vents well also transports the moisture out and away from the sock. In the case of wicking ability and drying speed, thinner is better.
In this metric, we looked at how well each sock kept our feet dry after touring and skiing at the resort for hours. We wore different socks on each foot to comparatively assess wicking ability and drying speed. We also noted if our feet were “clammy” and cold on the hill. To finalize this metric, we subjected each pair of socks to objective drying speed tests at home to see which fabrics dry the fastest.
The Smartwool ventilation panels increase breathability and moisture management. The ventilation panels are the white stitching on the instep of the sock.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion is a favorite for its lightweight construction. This sock uses a thin wool construction to provide extra wicking power. The lighter and tighter fit of a zero-cushioned sock is ideal for breathability.
A sock must be able to manage moisture to keep your foot warm and dry. Generally, the targeted cushion and ultralight models perform better than thicker models.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
The Darn Tough Pennant RFL and the Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion are cushioned socks that offer impressive breathability. All three models have woven-in mesh paneling on the instep to increase breathability. The CEP and Dissent are other targeted cushioned models that are close behind. Even though none wick moisture nor dry as quickly as our wool ultralight favorites, we didn't notice wet feet while skiing at the resort or in the backcountry. Overall, if you're seeking a sock that dries quickly and wicks well, these options are your best bet.
The CEP and Dissent Compression sock managed to keep our feet dry despite the hot spring temperatures of the Eastern Sierra.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
Fit
A good fit is essential for warmth and comfort on the mountain. While rating fit, we look at a few important details. We note sock height to ensure it provides the needed coverage. The level of stretchiness and elasticity is also important to ensure the sock doesn't deform when wet or under stress. We consider seam construction and relative thickness. Finally, we note how much volume and stretch are found in the sock to accommodate thicker calves. Overall, we rated each sock on its performance when stuck inside a boot for hours.
All the socks we tested have seamless construction and are free of problem areas that might contribute to blistering or chafing. That said, the Dissent GFX provided the best fit of any sock within our review. The compressive nature allows the fit to almost identically map to the foot. The socks never bunched or bound up throughout long days in the mountains, even if they got wet. The overall hold and tight nature of the socks are impressive. The CEP Compression sock is not far behind as it provides a tight and mirrored fit with just a bit more room in the toe box. The targeted cushion on both models allows for a great fit in performance or particular boot fits.
The fit of a sock can influence the performance of your boots and riding.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
The Icebreaker Ski+ Light, Ski Targeted Cushion, Ski Zero Cushion, and Darn Tough Pennant provide great and versatile fits. They all incorporate compression panels and elastane or spandex to provide a supportive and snug fit that stretches and maps the foot. The Icebreaker uses thinner padding, allowing for a more specific boot fit. The Smartwool models fit more like a compression sock, whereas the Icebreaker offers a little more room throughout the leg. As a result, we'd recommend the Icebreaker if you're looking for a longer sock with a little more volume throughout the calf. The upper cuff would sometimes slide down on our testers with skinnier legs. The Fox River Chatter offers a decent fit and good shape, but the lack of distinct compression zones in the toe, instep, heel, and shin means the fit is less snug and more prone to movement.
Durability
It's important to know that the sock you buy will last you more than just a few days on the mountain. This metric looks at overall construction quality and level of wear and tear after a winter of use. All products did okay in this metric, with none showing major failure or flaws through our testing period.
Years of experience have shown us, anecdotally, that Darn Tough socks tend to last the longest. We have also personally utilized their lifetime warranty, where we returned socks with a hole or torn seam, even after years of use, for a new pair. This makes them one of the highest-value products despite being on the upper end of the ski sock price spectrum.
Socks follow the “buy cheap and buy twice mantra”. Some brands like Darn Tough offer lifetime guarantees.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
The Smartwool Ski series also stands out for durability. Two of our main testers have used previous iterations of these socks for several ski seasons before they gave out. In those years, both testers put in over 100 days of use each winter, and they are still going strong after several years. While we did observe a little pilling after the first washes and a tiny bit of shrinkage, this small detail is a minor issue compared to the quality and craftsmanship Smartwool brings to the table. To lessen pilling and shrinkage, air-drying wool or partial-wool socks is recommended.
Both the CEP and Dissent socks are very well made; the inner side is neat with no loose ends, and both models have been washed dozens of times and have shown no signs of pilling.
We hope we've helped you find the best sock for you and your budget.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
Conclusion
Choosing a ski sock might take a little time and research, but we've taken the time to do the leg work for you. Say goodbye to cold feet this winter and welcome a brand new pair of ski socks to your outdoor wardrobe. We hope our review has been helpful in your search for this important piece of winter gear. If you're looking for other types of socks, see our full sock roundup review where we outline our favorites for hiking, running, general wear, and more.
