If you're seeking a ski sock for the season, this model is the most reliable across the board
Featuring “indestructawool” technology, this sock isn't just durable but warm and comfortable to wear all day long. Whether you are an avid skier or taking your first turns on the slopes, this is our top recommendation and go-to if you're looking for a comfortable sock that will last you the rest of the season and those to come.
Performance Comparison
Comfort & Construction
We are absolutely delighted by the amount of cushioning and comfort offered in the construction of this midweight, fully cushioned sock. Constructed of 66% Merino Wool, 32% Nylon, and 2% Elastane, not only does it stretch and stay in place, but provides great overall thermoregulation. The Ski Full Cushion is one of the most cushioned socks in the review. Despite its impressive cushioning, it maintains a relatively thin profile which fits well in tight boots.
Loaded with soft underfoot padding, our testers' feet were comfortable for the entire day on the mountain. The padding at the toes, underfoot, and heel provided an extra layer of insulation while the padding at the shin provides a little protection from “shin bang” for skiers.
While skiing, the compression panels around the arch, top of the foot, and ankle provide thermoregulation and keep the sock in place. Smartwool uses 4 stretching bands that are designed to act as anchors and provide a tighter fit throughout the sock. These bands are located on the lower instep, upper instep, ankle, and arch. Each band grabs the foot to maintain an excellent fit that doesn't slip or bunch up.
Overall, this is the most comfortable contender we tested.
Warmth
This is one toasty sock! If you like slipping your foot into something that insulates and provides warmth all day, then we feel these are a great option.
We have used this sock in the resort and in the backcountry, and in both settings, we seldomly had cold feet. The higher proportion of wool used in its construct aids in making it one of the warmest options out there. Merino wool provides great insulation, breathability, and dries quickly. The compression paneling and wool help wick the moisture away from the skin and transports it to the other side of the sock. This allows for better overall warmth management on the slopes as you are less likely to start sweating and the sock will absorb less moisture.
In addition to backcountry splitboarding and skiing, we've also tested this sock extensively on the resort slopes. Even on the chairlift, our toes were seldomly cold and often warmer than the other foot when comparatively testing. Overall, we found this sock to be warmer than any other contender and it does a great job with moisture management.
Breathability
Breathability refers to a sock's ability to wick away moisture from the skin and transport it away from the foot. The Ski Full Cushion does a good job in this regard.
We attribute its breathability performance to material properties, ventilation zones, and the overall fit of the sock. Wool is a very breathable material that effectively wicks moisture. There are “mesh” ventilation zones on the top of the foot that help moisture and heat pass through this thinner area of the sock. This helps the sock be warmer overall as it's less likely to absorb moisture. In terms of drying, it does dry quickly for a ski sock — allowing you to use it for a couple of days on end — but it's not the fastest to dry out there. The integrated merino wool does an amazing job at moving water vapor from the skin to the surface before it condenses into a cold sweat. We have yet to have warm feet result in a damp sock.
Fit
This sock truly “fits like a glove”. Integrating Elastane into the construction, these socks have stretch and rebound to provide a secure fit and fits nicely inside a pair of tighter ski and snowboard boots. While the padding does provide additional comfort, it's not so lofty that impedes a proper fit in a tight boot.
Designed to fit tightly against the skin to amplify wicking ability, this sock feels quite snug. Many of our testers liked this fit attribute, but some complained of it almost being a bit too tight. That said if you've got more pronounced calves then, this might not be the most comfortable sock for you.
The 4 Degree Elite Fit system provides 4 bands across the sock that work as anchors to prevent slipping or movement of the sock. This greatly helps the fit of the sock as it remains securely in place and tight to the foot and lower leg which ultimately helps the sock from moving or bunching, thereby preventing blisters.
If you like the sounds of this sock, but prefer a lightweight option, check out the Smartwool Ski Zero Cushion instead.
Durability
We have experienced great levels of durability using Smartwool socks and so far this model meets the same expectations.
It uses Indestructawool to help reinforce the sock. Indestructawool uses nylon reinforced wool on the outside of the sock to increase durability and 100% merino wool on the inside to maximize the warmth and wicking properties of the natural fiber. Our testers have had some Indestructawool socks for the past five years and state they are some of the most durable socks on the market. While it doesn't come with a lifetime no-questions-asked guarantee like the Darn Tough, it does come with a 2-year satisfaction guarantee.
Value
This sock scored very well across all of our performance metrics to earn the top spot on our ski socks podium. The price might be a little higher than some, but we are thoroughly impressed with their bomber performance. We feel the quality, comfort, breathability, and durability justify the asking price.
Conclusion
Winning our top score overall, this ski and snowboard sock is perfect for everybody looking to keep their feet warm in cold temperatures. Its precise and thoughtfully engineered architecture allows for superior wicking ability while balancing all-day comfort.
