Socks are as essential to our everyday lives as the footwear that encases them. They are no longer the unwanted holiday gift of old (though I would suspect that neckties still make that list). They are now made of superior fabrics and state of the art construction. Here are a few of our favorite travel socks that work in the office and on the trail.
Darn Tough Vermont Switchback Crew, $20
The name says it all. Darn Tough has been making and creating socks for over 40 years at a single mill in Vermont. This rugged trail sock features the brand’s “put it on, forget it’s on” feel. Made of 41 percent Merino wool, the fabric promises breathability and comfort.
Balega Blister Resist Crew, $18
Originally designed, tested, and manufactured in South Africa, Balega introduced its first U.S.-made product in 2015. The Blister Resist technology reduces friction while the combination of mohair and Drynamix works to keep feet cool and dry regardless of season.
Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Pattern Light Crew, $22
Colorado-based Smartwool seeks out the highest quality Merino yarn available. The PhD stands for “performance in the highest degree.” These socks are comprised of 58 percent Merino wool and feature the patent-pending construction method called Industructawool.
Icebreaker Hike+ Medium Crew, $23
Born in 1995 in the heart of Merino wool country, Icebreaker works with nature to create performance outdoor clothing. These socks are right- and left-fitted for maximum comfort.
FITS Business Crew and OTC, $18-$21
As the name implies, the founders of FITS set out to create the most comfortable and best-fitting socks in the world — and keep production stateside. Both the crew (pictured above) and OTC (over-the-calf) models feature the patented Full Contact Fit, 51-percent Merino wool, and mild compression around the foot and leg.
Feetures! Elite Light Cushion Mini Crew, $18
The founder of Feetures! worked in the sock industry for over 25 years before starting his own company because he believed a better performance sock was possible. This 96-percent nylon sock is designed to enhance fit while the patented Sock-Lock technology provides targeted compression.
Feature image courtesy of Smartwool/Facebook.
