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10 best thermal socks for warm, cosy feet this winter
Don’t let winter chills stop your feet from feeling warm and cosy. Treat your toes with our pick of the best thermal socks, as recommended by Mumsnet users.
By Lucy Cotterill | Last updated Nov 23, 2023
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When temperatures drop, there are few things more uncomfortable than chilly toes. To get a foothold on this problem, investing in a comfy pair of the best thermal socks can help keep your feet toasty and cosy all day long.
Usually made from heat-insulating fabrics like wool, thermal socks tend to be thicker than your average pair of socks, with many designed to offer extra support and cushioning – perfect for keeping warm while walking the dog or cheering on the kids from the sidelines. There are also cosy pairs that work just as well at home, whether you’re pottering around the house and team them with the best women’s slippers or wear them snuggled up on the sofa with a hot water bottle.
To help you choose the right ones for your budget, we’ve scoured our forums for Mumsnetter-recommended thermal socks, seeking out pairs that were praised for their comfort, durability and, of course, warmth. We then scrutinised verified consumer reviews to highlight the best thermal socks you can buy to keep your toes super snug all winter long.
Best thermal sock overall
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What we like
Pack of three offers excellent value for money
Extra stretch for comfort
Thick and warm
What we don't like
Some may prefer the lighter colour pack
Key specs
Price on writing: £10 for three pairs | Material: 88% viscose, 11% polyamide and 1% elastane lycra® | Size range: 3-5 or 6-8 | Care: Wash at 40°C, not suitable for tumble drying
What Mumsnet users say
Our verdict
This pack of three stylish socks from M&S not only offers excellent value for money, but they also genuinely live up to their name. Super soft to the touch, they have a ribbed ankle-length design including extra stretch for additional comfort.
With a medium thickness and warmth rating that is cosy and comfortable without feeling bulky or weighty on your feet, they’re ideal for wearing both inside and outside the home, trapping air against your feet to keep them toasty warm when temperatures drop.
Related: Discover the best electric blanket according to Mumsnetters
Best budget thermal socks
What we like
Great value for money
Selection of colours
Cosy warmth rating
Tear and crease-resistant
What we don't like
The gift box, while a nice touch, is Christmas-themed, making it less suitable for all-year-round gifting
Key specs
Price on writing: £10 for five pairs | Material: Polyester | Size range: 4-7 | Care: Machine wash
Our verdict
Looking for socks that’ll keep your toes toasty warm without a significant price tag? This URECOVER pack of five thermal socks offers excellent value for money, working out at just £2 a pair.
While the polyester fabric may not appeal to everyone, they offer cosy warmth and excellent insulation, with a durable ankle-length design that’s suitable for wearing as bed socks or worn inside and outside the home. It’s worth noting that they do come in a festive gift box, which while ideal for a Christmas gift, may be a bit random when gifting at other times of year.
Best thermal socks for Raynaud's
IOMI Heat Holders Thermal Socks
What we like
Designed specifically for people who suffer from Raynaud's syndrome
Non-slip grips on the sole
Claim to be eight times warmer than a standard cotton sock
Double layer 3.1 tog rating
What we don't like
Costly for a single pair
Some found them too tight on the leg so you may want to opt for the larger size if you’re above shoe size 6
Key specs
Price on writing: £14 | Material: 89% acrylic, 8% polyester, 2% polyamide, 1% elastane | Size range: 4-8 or 6-11 UK | Care: Machine washable
What Mumsnet users say
Our verdict
Heat Holders are a brand trusted by Mumsnet users, but in this recent collaboration with IOMI, they’ve produced a pair of thermal socks specifically for those with Raynaud’s syndrome – a medical condition which can cause feet to feel bitterly cold and numb. These double-layered socks have a tog rating of 3.1, claiming to be up to eight times warmer than a traditional cotton sock.
While they work out relatively costly for a single pair, these practical socks are ideal for both inside and outside the home, with non-slip grippers on the sole to prevent slipping on tiled or wooden floors.
Related: The best heated gloves and hand warmers for Raynaud's syndrome
Best thermal socks for durability
What we like
Made from super warm merino wool
Seamless design
Breathable, moisture-wicking and antimicrobial for more active days
Durable cushioned sole
What we don't like
Hand wash only
Costly
Key specs
Price on writing: From £21 | Material: 54% polyamide, 43% wool (merino), 3% elastane | Size range: S, M, L | Care: Hand wash only
What Mumsnet users say
Our verdict
They may not come cheap, but if you’re looking for high-performance thermal socks that are suitable for a more active lifestyle, this durable pair is certainly worth the investment. Darn Tough promises that you’ll experience “no slipping, no bunching, and no blisters” when wearing their outdoor socks, which feature a seamless, cushioned design that’ll keep you warm and dry during your travels.
Made from merino wool, these socks regulate your body temperature and offer excellent insulation with a breathable, moisture-wicking design that can keep your feet comfortable and dry all day long. Pair them with your warmest winter coat and you'll be ready to face the cold wherever your adventures take you.
Best thermal socks for comfort
What we like
Wide range of colours and designs
2.3 TOG rating for cosy warmth
Comfortable brushed inner
Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
What we don't like
Can be a bit thick under normal shoes
Synthetic fabrics are not as breathable as natural fibres
Key specs
Price on writing: £10 | Material: 91% acrylic, 5% polyamide, 3% polyester, 1% elastane | Size range: 4-8 | Care: Machine wash
What Mumsnet users say
Our verdict
Heat Holders have a great reputation for their thermal socks, and they're praised by Mumsnet users for their cosiness, warmth and quality. While they’re priced at the higher end of the market, they claim to be seven times warmer than a regular cotton sock, with a 2.3 TOG rating and fluffy brushed inner that exudes cosy comfort.
Available in a huge variety of colours and styles, these socks are best for use at home when you’re snuggling up on the sofa or staying cosy in bed. Their thickness makes them pretty bulky, so they won’t feel comfortable in a standard pair of shoes, although they’d work well as wellie liners to keep feet warm on a cold and wet day out walking. It’s worth noting that with synthetic materials, they’re not as breathable as some thermal socks, so we recommend you take them off at intervals to let your feet ‘air out’.
Related: Best draught excluder for insulating your home
Best long thermal socks
What we like
Reinforced heel and toe
Stretchy fabric
Antibacterial to prevent stinky feet
Choice of black or grey
What we don't like
Some reviewers found they slipped down when walking
Key specs
Price on writing: £10 for two pairs | Material: 93% viscose, 6% polyamide and 1% elastane lycra | Size range: 3-5, 6-8, 3-5W, 6-8W | Care: Machine wash at 40°C
What Mumsnet users say
Our verdict
When it gets really cold outside, or you need to keep your legs warm when working from home, it’s well worth layering up in your best thermals and pulling on a pair of cosy knee-high socks. These M&S Collection socks fit the bill, are available in a choice of black or grey, and offer great value at just £10 for a pack of two.
With stretchy fabric for a flexible, comfortable fit, they even have antibacterial ‘Freshfeet technology’ that can keep bad odours at bay - a great choice for all-day activities or long commutes to work. With a reinforced heel and toe, they won't wear out easily – however, some reviewers did find they slipped down a little on more active walks.
Best thermal socks for hiking
What we like
Infiknit technology that never rips or tears
Excellent breathability
Performance cushioning
Reinforced heel and toe
What we don't like
Costly
Hand wash only
Key specs
Price on writing: £13 | Material: 37% nylon, 35% merino wool, 26% polyester, 2% elastane | Size range: Small or medium | Care: Hand wash only
What Mumsnet users say
Our verdict
If you’re looking to keep your feet warm and dry while hiking, walking or exploring the great outdoors, these high-performance Stance Crew Socks make a worthy investment. With cushioning across the arch to support you over longer distances, they include reinforced heels and toes that won’t wear out, no matter how far your travels may take you.
The breathable merino wool not only offers excellent insulation but is also breathable and moisture-wicking too, preventing your feet from getting sweaty even after extended wear. With Infiknit technology that is tear and rip-resistant, these cosy and classic socks are built to last, keeping your feet warm and comfortable for many winters to come.
Related: The cosiest kids’ blanket hoodie according to parents
Best thermal socks for extreme cold
Bridgedale Women's Midweight Plus Ski-Merino Endurance Socks
What we like
Shockzone advanced padding for extra support and comfort
Super soft merino wool socks
Thermal, moisture wicking and breathable
Supportive fit over the calf
Flat seams for comfort
What we don't like
Costly
Warm but not particularly thick
Key specs
Price on writing: £26 | Material: 34% merino wool, 32% nylon/polyamide, 33% endurofil/polypropylene, 1% LYCRA/elastane | Size range: Small, medium and large | Care: Machine wash
What Mumsnet users say
Our verdict
If you’re heading off skiing, taking part in winter sports, or simply hoping to keep your feet warm in more extreme weather conditions, these Bridgedale Women's Merino Endurance Socks will make a great addition to your drawers.
With a non-bulky design that comes halfway up your calf, they offer excellent coverage to protect you from the elements. The SHOCKZONE advanced padding system offers additional cushioning across the high-impact areas of your foot, while the merino wool fabric provides excellent warmth, breathability and moisture-wicking no matter how high energy your adventures may be.
Best lightweight thermal socks
What we like
Choice of five colours
Non-bulky design
Soft and comfortable
Ideal for everyday wear
What we don't like
Not as warm as some thicker pairs
Relatively costly for a single pair
Key specs
Price on writing: £8 | Material: 51% acrylic, 19% polyamide, 16% viscose, 11% modal, 2% elastane, 1% polyester | Size range: 4-7 | Care: Machine wash at 40°C
Our verdict
Uniqlo’s thermal HeatTech range has proved popular amongst Mumsnet users, with their thermal tops and leggings being praised for their ability to keep you warm and comfortable when working from home during the winter months.
These thermal socks are no exception. Despite their relatively thin and lightweight design, these ankle-length socks have a ribbed fabric that helps retain body heat to keep your feet warm and comfortable all day long. They’re not the thickest or warmest socks for outdoor wear, but they are ideal for everyday use around the home, especially when paired with the best heated throw for cosy nights on the sofa. We love the pick of five colours too – from traditional white and black to a bolder pink or beige.
Best thermal bed socks
What we like
Good value for money
Ideal for use around the home
Super soft and comfortable
What we don't like
Synthetic material
Less breathable than some thermal socks
Key specs
Price on writing: £10 for three pairs | Material: 90% acrylic, 10% polyester | Size range: 4-8 | Care: Machine wash
Our verdict
If you’re looking for a cosy pair of socks to wear at home or in bed with your blanket hoodie, then look no further than these soft and fuzzy ones from Good Ideas – with three pairs for £10. With subtle pastel shades of pink, blue and white, they have great reviews, mostly focused on the extreme comfort and softness, as well as the quality material that doesn't shrink in the wash.
The obvious downside to these socks is that they’re made from completely synthetic materials, so your feet may get a little sweaty if the temperature gets too warm. Overall though, considering the great price and super cosy comfort, these socks make a great choice for indoor use.
Related: Best thermal curtains for keeping the cold out
What to consider when buying thermal socks
With so many thermal socks to choose from, it can be difficult to decide on the right pair to purchase. Here are some things to consider when making your choice:
Where will you be wearing them? - Are you looking for thermal socks to wear around the home or in bed, or are you after thick and warm socks to help protect you from the elements when outside in cold weather conditions? Some brands are more durable and better suited to outdoor use, while others are best for indoor use to prolong their life.
What material are they made from? - Some thermal socks are made from synthetic materials, which while offering excellent warmth and insulation, are not as breathable and moisture-wicking as natural fibres such as merino wool.
How thick do you want them to be? - Some thermal socks are relatively thick, which while great for warmth, can make them feel a bit bulky and difficult to wear under regular shoes. Others offer medium warmth and a thinner design which are better suited to everyday wear.
How active are you? - If you intend to go hiking or be particularly active in your thermal socks, you may want to consider those with reinforced toes and heels for durability. You should also consider the length and seams – seamless or flat seam designs are less likely to cause irritation or friction on more active days.
How easy are they to clean? - Some merino wool designs recommend hand washing to protect their fibres, whereas others can be washed in the machine at 40 degrees. Synthetic designs tend to dry more quickly than natural fibre designs.
Budget - How much are you willing to spend? While you may pay more for performance socks or those specifically for medical conditions such as Raynaud’s, you can find multi-packs of thermal socks that offer great value for money for everyday use.
What are the warmest socks?
For everyday wear around the home, Heat Holders offer significant warmth, with a high TOG rating and a thick, fleece lining that can keep your toes toasty warm when snuggling up on the sofa or working from home.
If you’re heading outside, however, and want to keep warm whilst being active, the performance Darn Tough thermal socks offer the ideal combination of insulation and durability.
Plus, if you're wanting an extra boost of warmth this winter, we also have a guide to the best heated socks.
About the author
Lucy Cotterill is a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in parenting and lifestyle product reviews and round-ups. Having written reviews on her own blog Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy has extensive experience researching and exploring the pros and cons of products, something she brings to every Mumsnet Swears By guide she writes.
Working from home for the majority of her working week, Lucy treated herself to a selection of thermal socks last winter, including our top pick M&S thermal socks and a few pairs of thick and cosy Heat Holders for additional comfort.
Originally from a HR background with a degree in Business Studies, Lucy developed a real passion for blogging and writing when her children were young, going on to write for several online publications including US parenting site Pregistry and the Evening Standard. When she’s not manically tapping the keys of her laptop, Lucy loves nothing more than to cosy up with her Kindle and enjoy the latest thriller, or compete in Nintendo Switch rallies with her daughters aged six and 10.
How we chose the best thermal socks
Recommendations from real Mumsnet users
First up, we sought out parents' advice on the Mumsnet forums to discover what thermal socks they had bought and whether they were still happy with those purchases some time on. We also made sure to note any brands or socks that Mumsnetters didn’t rate too.
Authentic consumer reviews
To find the best warm socks, we then scoured verified reviews to see what consumers were saying and assessed the merits and disadvantages of each product.
Expert opinions
After that, we consulted in-depth analysis on fashion, lifestyle and outdoor pursuit sites. We then collated both lists to develop a shortlist of thermal socks that had won industry awards, accolades from experts and applause from real people.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.
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