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Winter cycling socks are an essential piece of gear for keeping your feet warm on those cold winter rides. But with so many different types and brands of cycling socks available, it can be hard to know which ones are worth investing in. That’s why in this article, we shortlisted 15 best winter cycling socks on the market, so you can make an informed decision about which ones are right for you.
What to look for when shopping for winter cycling socks?
Thickness & Insulation
The first thing you need to consider is thickness and insulation. If you plan to ride in freezing temperatures, you will want a thicker pair of socks that provides more insulation. On the other hand, if you’re riding in moderately cold weather, you can get away with a thinner pair of socks.
One thing to caution about here is that thicker socks are not always the best choice. For example, if your socks can’t fit properly into cycling shoes due to little extra space, then your blood vessels will be compressed. This will restrict blood circulation and actually make your feet colder. So, while thicker socks might seem like a good idea all the time, make sure your shoes have enough space for them.
Material
There are two main material types: wool and synthetics. Wool is an excellent insulator that keeps feet warm even when wet. On the other hand, synthetic materials are better at wicking moisture away from your skin, which is very helpful if you tend to sweat while riding. Nowadays, most socks are made with a blend of both materials to take advantage of the best properties of each.
Construction
Material distribution and construction are other important considerations. For example, look for socks with thicker material around the toes and heels where you need extra warmth. Also, some socks come with reinforced panels in high-wear areas to prevent easy wear and tear.
Length
As far as length goes, there are three main options: ankle-length, calf-length, and knee-length. Calf-length socks are the most popular choice for winter cyclists since they strike a good balance between warmth and comfort.
Size
Obviously, when shopping for winter cycling socks, it’s essential to make sure you buy the correct size. If your socks are too big, they’ll bunch up and be uncomfortable. If they’re too small, they’ll be uncomfortable and could cause blisters. So, make sure to check a sizing guide.
Style
Finally, don’t forget about style! Winter cycling socks come in various styles, from solid colors to fun patterns and prints. As always, style is a matter of personal preference. If you’re looking for something simple and understated, stick with solid colors. But if you want your socks to make more of a statement, go ahead and choose something with a fun pattern or print. There’s no wrong choice here!
Why should you consider investing in a good pair of winter cycling socks?
Well, for one thing, they’ll keep your feet a lot warmer than regular socks will. This is important because cold feet can lead to all sorts of problems, from frostbite to numbness. Additionally, winter cycling socks are often made from materials that wick moisture away from your skin, which helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Last but not least, cycling socks last for a very long time. So, even though they might cost a bit more than regular socks, they’re definitely worth the investment.
Our Pick of 15 Best Winter Cycling Socks
1. dhb Aeron Winter Weight Merino Cycling Socks
Positives
- Warm
- Reinforced with merino wool at the toes
- Pleasant to wear
- Quite long cuffs
Negatives
- Not much
The dhb Aeron Winter Weight Merino Sock is made from a blend of 65% merino wool, 20% polyamide (nylon), and 15% elastane (spandex). The merino wool is highly effective at trapping heat, even when wet, making it ideal for winter cycling. These socks are also reinforced with merino wool at the toes for added durability. In addition, the cuff is quite long, which provides extra warmth. And they’re enjoyable to wear, thanks to the softness of the merino wool.
2. Föhn Winter Cycling Socks
- Fabric: 35% Wool, 30% Polypropylene, 25% Polyamide (Nylon), 5% Elastane (Spandex), 5% Polyester
- Colors: 3
Positives
- Warm
- Reinforced heel and toe box
- Comfortable to wear
- Reasonable price
Negatives
- Limited color choices
The Föhn winter sock is an excellent choice for most cyclists! It is made of a wool blend fabric that is warm and comfortable. These socks have a reinforced heel and toe box for added durability. The price is also very reasonable. However, there are only three color choices available. If you are looking for a well-made, affordable winter sock that will keep your feet warm and dry while cycling, the Föhn winter socks are a great choice.
3. GripGrab - Merino Winter Cycling Socks
- Fabric: 41% Polyamide (Nylon), 28% Wool, 27% Acrylic, 2% Elastane (Spandex), 2% Polyester
- Colors: 3
Positives
- Nylon reinforced heel and toe box
- Comfortable to wear
- Long cuffs
Negatives
- Limited color choices
If you’re looking for a great pair of socks to help get you through the winter months, look no further than GripGrab’s Merino Winter Socks. Made from a blend of wool, nylon, acrylic, and spandex, they’re soft, comfortable, and breathable. And with a reinforced heel and toe box, they’ll stand up to all the abuse you can throw their way. So don’t let the cold weather keep you off your bike this winter—grab a pair of GripGrab Merino Winter Socks and hit the road!
4. Endura BaaBaa Merino Winter Cycling Socks
Positives
- Warm
- Good warmth-to-weight ratio even when wet
- Comfortable to wear
- Padded sole for extra comfort
Negatives
- Not much
If you’re looking for a pair of warm, comfortable socks for winter riding, we would definitely recommend the Endura BaaBaa Merino Winter Socks. They’re well-made and reasonably priced and do a great job of keeping your feet warm—even when wet. So if you’re in the market for a new pair of winter riding socks, be sure to give the Endura BaaBaa Merino Winter Socks a try. You won’t be disappointed!
5. Defeet Woolie Boolie 2 6" Cuff Winter Socks
Positives
- Finest merino wool
- Warm
- Comfortable to wear
- Padded sole and cuffs
- Great warranty
Negatives
- Limited color choices
Woolie Boolie 2 from Defeet are some of the best cycling socks on the market today. Made from soft and durable merino wool, these socks will keep your feet comfortable no matter how long you ride. They also have padded soles and cuffs for extra protection and warmth. So if you’re in the market for a new pair of cycling socks this season, be sure to give the Woolie Boolie 2 from Defeet a try!
6. Endura Pro SL Primaloft Winter Socks II
- Fabric: 45% Nylon, 35% Polyester, 8% Silk, 7% Wool, 5% Elastane (Spandex)
- Colors: 2
Positives
- Padded toe and metatarsal terry
- Warm
- Comfortable to wear
- Premium fabric
- Long cuffs
Negatives
- Limited color choices
- Quite expensive
If you’re looking for a warm, comfortable sock to keep your feet happy on long rides, the Endura Pro SL Primaloft Sock II is definitely worth considering. Yes, they’re expensive, and there aren’t a lot of color choices, but they’re made from premium materials, and they perform exceptionally well. So if you can afford it, we say go for it! Your feet will thank you.
7. Specialized Merino Deep Winter Tall Logo Winter Socks
- Fabric: 35% Merino Wool, 30% Polypropilene, 25% Polyamide, 5% Polyester, 5% Elastane
- Colors: 2
Positives
- Full terry foot and front of ankle construction
- Good wicking properties
- Comfortable to wear
- High cuffs
Negatives
- Limited color choices
Specialized Merino Deep Winter Tall Logo socks are excellent for cyclists looking to keep their feet dry and comfortable in colder weather. The high cuff helps to keep them in place, and the merino wool blend provides good warmth without being too bulky. The only drawback is the lack of color choices, but if you’re looking for a functional sock to get you through the winter riding season, the Specialized Merino Deep Winter Tall Logo sock should definitely be at the top of your list.
8. Sealskinz Waterproof All Weather Mid Length Cycling Sock with Hydrostop
Positives
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Pleasant to wear due to seamless design
- Warm
Negatives
- Quite expensive
Wait, what? Waterproof winter cycling socks? Yes, indeed! The Sealskinz Waterproof All Weather Mid-Length Sock with Hydrostop socks are perfect for cyclists who want to enjoy their rides no matter the weather. Thanks to Hydrostop technology, your feet will stay dry and comfortable in all kinds of weather conditions. And because the sock is made from a breathable synthetic fabric, your feet won’t overheat and sweat.
The only downside is that these socks are pretty expensive.
9. Castelli Distanza 20 Winter Cycling Socks
Positives
- Nylon reinforced heel and toe box
- Comfortable to wear
- Long cuffs
Negatives
- Not warm enough for deep winter
The Castelli Distanza 20 cycling socks are well-made and comfortable to wear. However, there are not as warm as some other winter socks on this list. If you are looking for socks to wear on milder winter days or prefer wool over synthetic materials, these could be a good option for you. However, if you need something warmer for deep winter riding, you may want to choose a different option.
10. Swiftwick Pursuit Seven Winter Cycling Socks
Positives
- Reinforced heel and toe
- Very comfortable
- Pleasant to wear
- High-quality fabric
Negatives
- Not for deep winter
Swiftwick Pursuit Seven Winter Cycling Socks are made from a high-quality fabric blend that includes 63% merino wool, 35% nylon, and 2% spandex. The merino wool helps to regulate temperature and prevent odors, while the nylon provides durability and the spandex ensures a snug, comfortable fit. The socks also feature reinforced heels and toes for added durability and warmth.
The only downside is that they’re not suitable for deep winter conditions, but they’re an excellent choice for the rest of the time.
11. Fox Racing 8" Defend Winter Cycling Socks
Positives
- Thick and warm
- Extra cushioning for more comfort
- MTB-specific
- Pleasant to wear
Negatives
- Very expensive
- Limited color choices
The Fox Racing 8″ Defend Winter Socks are made from a thick, wool-blend fabric designed to keep your feet warm in cold weather. They also feature extra cushioning for more comfort on the trails and are even MTB-specific. So if you’re looking for warm and comfortable socks to get you through the winter riding season, the Fox Racing 8″ Defend Winter Sock should definitely be at the top of your list. However, they are expensive, so keep that in mind when deciding.
12. Giro Winter Cycling Merino Wool Socks
Positives
- Very comfortable
- Plenty of color choices
- Look good
- High percentage of wool fabric
Negatives
- Not for deep winter
The Giro Winter Merino Wool Socks are made from a high percentage of wool fabric, which makes them extremely comfortable to wear. They also feature a lycra cuff for added comfort and support, and they come in various colors to choose from. So if you’re looking for a pair of winter socks that look good and feel great, the Giro Winter Merino Wool Socks should definitely be at the top of your list. However, they’re not warm enough for deep winter conditions, so keep that in mind.
13. Rapha Pro Team Winter Cycling Socks
Positives
- Stylish looking
- Lightweight but insulating
- Long cuffs
- Good wicking properties
Negatives
- Slightly expensive
- Not for deep winter
Rapha Pro Team Winter Socks are comfortable, stylish-looking and do a great job at keeping your feet warm in moderate temperatures. The only downside is that they’re slightly expensive compared to other winter socks on the market. But if you’re looking for high-quality socks that will help you look good and perform well on those cold winter rides, the Rapha Pro Team Winter Sock is definitely worth checking out.
Rapha also offers Deep Winter Socks for those freezing days when you need extra warmth.
14. Gore M Thermo Mid Cycling Socks
Positives
- Extra toe and heel protection
- Comfortable
- Pleasant to wear
Negatives
- Not for deep winter temperatures
- Limited colors
Gore M Thermo Mid Socks are well-made with extra toe and heel protection, and they are also comfortable and pleasant to wear. The only negatives are that they are not for deep winter temperatures and come in only one color (black). Despite these minor drawbacks, we would still recommend these socks to any cyclist looking for a good quality product.
15. REI Co-op Merino Wool Crew Winter Socks
Positives
- Reinforcement at heels toes and footbeds
- Comfortable to wear
- Warm
- High merino wool count
Negatives
- Could be too thick for cycling shoes (not cycling specific)
- Limited colors
The REI Co-op Merino Wool Expedition Hiking Crew Socks are ideal for cyclists who want to stay comfortable and warm without sacrificing performance. The high wool count means they’re incredibly comfortable and warm, while the Lycra spandex provides a snug fit that won’t slip down inside your cycling shoes. In addition, the reinforcement at the heels, toes, and footbeds ensures that these socks will hold up to plenty of wear and tear. However, they could be too thick for some cycling shoes, so keep that in mind.
Conclusion
Let’s be honest, cycling in the winter can be challenging, but the right gear can make it a lot more fun. In this article, we shortlisted the 15 best winter cycling socks on the market. We hope that you found this article helpful and were able to find the perfect pair of socks for your needs. Thanks for reading, and leave a comment below if you need any further help!
Frequently asked questions:
1. Are thicker winter cycling socks always the best choice?
Actually, no. Usually, cycling shoes have very little space inside them, so if you choose a sock that’s too thick, it will compress your blood vessels and reduce blood flow to your feet, making them even colder. Instead, it’s best to choose a sock made from a breathable synthetic or merino fabric so your feet can stay dry and thus warm and comfortable.
2. What are the benefits of winter cycling socks?
Winter cycling socks are a must-have for any dedicated cyclist who wants to keep pedaling through the cold months. They are made of thicker, warmer fabric that helps to insulate your feet and keep them comfortable in freezing temperatures. Winter socks also often have additional features like reflective details that help to improve visibility in low-light conditions. And because they are designed specifically for cycling, they provide a snug, supportive fit that helps to prevent blisters and hotspots. Whether you’re training for a winter race or just enjoying a leisurely spin on a snowy day, winter cycling socks should definitely be part of your winter cycling gear!
3. Are there any particular features that distinguish winter cycling socks from other socks?
Winter cycling socks are designed to provide extra warmth and protection in cold weather. They are typically made from thicker materials, such as merino wool polyester, and may include an additional layer of insulation. In addition, winter socks generally have a higher cuff to help keep the legs warm and special padding in critical areas to prevent chafing. While winter cycling socks can be more expensive than other types of socks, they are an essential piece of gear for anyone who wants to stay comfortable on the bike in cold weather.
4. Do all winter cycling socks provide the same level of insulation and warmth?
While all winter cycling socks provide some level of insulation, there can be significant differences in warmth and breathability. For example, some socks are made with thicker materials that offer more insulation, while others have special vents that allow excess heat to escape. As a result, it is essential to choose a sock appropriate for the conditions in which it will be used. Generally, thicker socks are better suited for colder temperatures (but not always – see above). In contrast, thinner ones with vents are ideal for milder conditions.
5. What are the best materials for winter cycling socks?
Wool is a great option, as it insulates well and wicks away moisture. Merino wool is even better, as it’s softer and less itchy than other types of wool. Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon can also work well, as they’re good at wicking away moisture. However, they don’t insulate as well as wool. Ideally, you want a sock that’s a blend of wool and synthetic fibers. This will give you the best of both worlds: a sock that’s warm, dry, and breathable.
6. What are some alternatives to wearing a pair of cycling socks in the winter?
Winter cycling socks are a great way to keep your feet warm during the cold months, but they can be a bit pricey. If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, you can try wearing a pair of regular socks underneath your cycling shoes. This will provide some insulation, and you can always add an additional layer if needed. Another option is to wear toe or shoe covers. These fit over your shoes and help to block out the cold air.
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Hi Mikhail,
Thanks for spotting this mistake. It was now corrected. The right fabric mix is the following: 35% Merino Wool, 30% Polypropilene, 25% Polyamide, 5% Polyester, 5% Elastane.
Specialized MERINO WOOL socks don’t have any wool in them – Fabric: 45% Polyester, 25% Polypropylene, 25% Nylon, 5% Elastane. Is it a mistake?