The best wool socks for workouts, the outdoors and everyday wear

The best wool socks for outdoor activities and everyday wear include products from Darn Tough, Bombas, Smartwool and more.

Buying socks is an inevitable part of life and in my experience, wool socks are a necessity. Their moisture-wicking properties come in handy for skiing and other outdoor sports, and when you’re indoors, wool is the coziest fabric you can wear to keep your toes toasty warm during the wintertime. Before buying a pair of your own, read on for expert shopping advice from Ben Clower, an outdoor enthusiast and marketing coordinator at JAX Outdoor Gear in Colorado, Ken Bernard, an outdoor enthusiast and owner of Outlandish, an outdoor gear and apparel store in Brooklyn, NY, and Ashleigh McClary, a hiking enthusiast and Backcountry expert Gearhead. I also gathered a list of options to shop informed by their guidance and our testing experience.

Want more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. Tested and approved: The best wool socks This roundup includes top-rated options, expert recommendations, and products tested (and loved) by NBC Selected staff. Best overall These socks come recommended by Clower — their material is Merino wool blended with nylon and lycra, giving them a stretchy, flexible feel, according to the brand. These socks are thin and lightweight, making them great for everyday wear without overheating your feet, and have a slight cushion on the bottom for added comfort. Best ankle socks