Socks are an essential and often overlooked item of clothing for skiers and snowboarders.
The right socks can ensure that your snowboard boots fit snugly and your feet are dry and warm.
They’re probably the cheapest gear you’ll buy, but you still need to shop smartly.
What Kind of Socks Do You Wear Snowboarding?
There are a few things you need to keep in mind when shopping for snowboard socks.
Before we get to those things, let’s first address the thickness.
Typically, if you want warmer feet, you buy thicker socks.
But the same isn’t always true for snowboard socks.
If the socks are too thick, they may create a much tighter fit for your snowboard boot, thus hindering circulation and potentially making your feet colder.
What you actually want are socks that are made from a tough but thin and lightweight material, one that is designed for warmth but doesn’t rely on thickness to get that warmth.
Most snowboard socks are actually thicker than traditional winter socks and wool socks for this very reason.
The Material
Merino socks are very popular right now.
Made from merino wool, these socks have moisture-wicking capabilities but they are also soft, warm, and natural.
Look for merino wool ski socks or snowboard socks if this sounds like the perfect material for you.
Alternatively, there are very good snowboard socks made from polyester, nylon, and acrylic, as well as other synthetic fibers. Many socks also feature a mixture of materials.
Arguably, merino wool is one of the best materials and seems to be included in the best snowboard socks, but there are other effective options as well.
Are Smartwool Socks Good for Snowboarding?
Smartwool socks are very high-quality socks made from merino wool and other materials.
They are a little expensive, but you get what you pay for and these socks should last for years.
Darn Tough also produces high-quality ski and snowboard socks made from merino wool and synthetic materials.
The Fit
The socks need to provide a snug fit.
A snug fit will prevent cold feet on the slopes but it will also prevent bunching, which can make for a very uncomfortable and frustrating experience.
Your socks need to fit snugly over your feet and you should still be able to slip into your snowboard boots or ski boots.
The Price
The best snowboard socks can cost upwards of $30, which is a huge sum to pay for a pair of socks.
Other options are around $10 to $15.
Generally speaking, you’ll pay much more than you would for a traditional pair of socks, but you won’t need to break the bank.
Summary: Are Snowboard Socks Worth It?
Snowboard socks are expensive.
Looking at the prices of the best socks, you could be forgiven for wondering why you can’t just wear everyday socks.
Well, you can, but you probably shouldn’t.
Snowboard socks are not just overpriced super-thick socks that will keep your feet warm.
They are designed to provide a more ergonomic fit, preventing them from bunching up inside tight-fitting snowboard boots.
They are also moisture-wicking and carefully padded, providing protection for key areas while preventing your feet from getting wet.
The best snowboard socks will make your life much easier.
You won’t need to keep adjusting them, you should have fewer issues with pressure points and abrasions, and they’ll keep your feet warm and dry as you carve those slopes.
