We Tried 46 Pairs of Socks, and These 10 Are the Warmest

"As cheesy as it sounds, there really is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to warm socks-and as a lifelong New Yorker who despises the cold, I've learned that firsthand. After four years in Syracuse, New York, and countless winters in New York City and its surrounding suburbs, I've worn just about every type of sock out there. To find out which warm socks are actually worth packing, Travel + Leisure tested dozens of options-46 to be exact-in climates from freezing Iceland to rainy Seattle."

"These thermal socks make an immediate case for themselves: they're thick, cozy, and surprisingly soft inside, all while coming in at just $20 for a two-pack. We found them ultra-plush from the moment we pulled them on, and the brushed interior feels great against bare skin. The uniform thickness creates a cushioned, cozy feel that's best suited for low-movement cold-weather days-think lounging at home, working at a desk, quick dog walks, or even sleeping. After several washes, they kept their shape without pilling or fraying, and while they're clearly designed for softness over long-term durability, the comfort and warmth they deliver make these a steal."

"To determine the best warm socks, we tested 46 pairs-25 heated socks, 10 hiking socks, and 11 winter socks. Each one was worn straight from the package to assess initial f it, feel, and construction, then put to work in real-life conditions- commuting, long-haul travel days, chilly hikes, and camping trips. We evaluated four key attributes: fit, comfort, warmth, and quality. Testing will also continue so we can track long-term performance."

No one sock suits every cold-weather situation. Forty-six pairs were tested across climates from freezing Iceland to rainy Seattle, including heated, hiking, and winter categories. Each pair was worn straight from the package and evaluated for fit, comfort, warmth, and quality, plus breathability, durability, and footwear compatibility. Thermal socks offered thick, plush warmth and a brushed interior ideal for low-movement days, retained shape after washing, and prioritized softness over long-term durability. Testing covered commuting, travel, hikes, and camping, and will continue to monitor long-term performance.

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