Like ski gloves, ski socks are an essential piece of ski clothing, especially when the weather is colder than normal. Good ski socks are a great investment for a more enjoyable experience on the snow. Not only do they keep your feet warm but they also make wearing ski boots more comfortable.

Although relatively inexpensive ski socks are worth spending money on. Go for the best quality possible and make sure they are specific to skiing. Walking socks or any other sports socks, for example rugby, are not at all recommended. They might look similar to skiing socks but they are not designed to be worn with ski boots. Other types of sports socks might be abrasive against the skin once ski boots are put on.

It’s also best to go for the type of sock that is contoured to the foot rather than the ‘tube’ variety. Tube socks are fine but they will not be as comfortable then socks made for your foot size. They also tend to be thicker and made of less expensive materials. You might think they are warmer but they are not necessarily. Good quality socks tend not to be thick but are made of high quality materials that keep your feet warm whilst still providing lots of feel through the feet to the ski boot.

Thorlo are a well known manufacturer of good quality ski socks and they can be bought from good ski stores everywhere. There are other companies that make similar items that are equally as good and all good ski shop professionals would be able to advise you on what to buy.

For a weeks skiing, you should have a minimum of 2 pairs of good skiing socks. That way you can wear them for 2 days, change them and wash the first pair then change them again once dried. Always change out of your ski socks as soon as possible to prevent too much sweat building up on them whilst indoors in the warmth.

If the temperature gets really cold, i.e. below minus 12 degrees centigrade, then a very thin under sock can be worn which will add to the insulation. There are special socks that can be purchased which are made of nylon or silk. Normally one pair of socks is sufficient and the more socks you wear the less feel you get through the boots and therefore ultimately the less control you have over your skis. But if it is really cold, keeping your feet warm is very important.