You might not think about your socks very often until your toes get cold. The truth is, these are a super important part of your snowboarding ensemble that can make or break a great day in the snow. You need to have high-quality snowboard socks if you want to stay warm and dry.
I’ve been snowboarding for decades, and you guessed it, I’ve worn socks every single day that I’ve been on the mountain. I have experience with dozens of winter and snowboard socks and know what to look for in the best option.
The Smartwool PhD Medium is my pick for the best snowboard socks of the year. These are warm and durable and also super comfortable. They are the perfect thickness for wearing with snowboard boots.
Snowboard socks can be a personal preference as much as they are a functional choice. With that in mind, I’ll show you all of my top options in this post to help you find a pair that will work best for you.
Pull ‘em up, and let’s get going.
Contents
Best Socks for Snowboarding
Here are my top picks for the best snowboard socks to keep you warm and comfortable when you ride.
1. Smartwool PhD Medium
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: Medium cushion, Indestractwool tech, 4-Degree fit system, breathable, comfortable
- Weight: Medium
- Materials: Merino wool, Nylon, Elastane
- Cost: $$
The Smartwool PhD Medium is my top choice for the best snowboard socks. These are a great all-around option that will deliver quality comfort and excellent cold-weather performance. Any rider will appreciate what these socks have to offer.
The PhD features a special blend of Merino wool and nylon that gives you a lot of warmth while also being breathable. They are made of over 60% Merino, giving you excellent insulating properties without being too bulky.
The blend of materials is engineered for durability and is known as Indestractawool Technology. This makes the socks very strong in addition to all the warmth they provide. You can reliably wear these for many seasons without worry.
A medium thickness gives you the perfect weight to sit comfortably under your snowboard boots. They aren’t too thin or too thick. They hit the sweet spot, giving them exceptional performance.
A 4-degree Elite fit system gives you a fit that won’t slide down or slip off as you ride. The over-the-calf height adds to this functionality for a sock that is fully built with performance in mind.
There isn’t much of a downside to mention with the PhD, but the medium thickness might be too much if you like a thin sock.
==> You can also get it on DICK’S or Public Lands or Cotswold.
2. Darn Tough RFLC OTC Ultra Lightweight
- Best for: Lightweight
- Key features: Comfortable, low profile, ultra-light cushion, performance fit, moisture-wicking, seamless design
- Weight: Ultra-light
- Materials: Merino wool, Nylon, Spandex
- Cost: $$
If you want a lightweight and super thin sock, check out the Darn Tough RFLC OTC Ultra Lightweight. These socks are light enough to be used in all seasons, but they will give you the warmth you need while riding.
This is another option that utilizes a Merino wool blend to give you superior comfort and performance. Featuring 51% Merion, the RFLC gives you enough insulation to keep your toes warm while also providing moisture-wicking properties.
They are also super durable thanks to the synthetic blend of Nylon and Spandex used in the weave. This makes them a good value that you can count on for many seasons of solid performance. They won’t wear out for a long time.
The RFLC also has decent cushioning, even though they are an ultra-light option. This gives you a little extra bounce underneath your feet to keep you comfortable all day long. It’s subtle, but it works.
The nature of Merino wool also gives you antimicrobial properties that will help reduce any odor from building up after long days on the mountain. The socks are also shrink-treated, so they will retain their size for endless washes.
These will be too thin for anyone who struggles with cold feet and might not be the option to go with when the temperatures are extremely cold.
==> You can also get it on Darn Tough or Evo or Buckman’s.
3. Burton AK Endurance
- Best for: Sweaty Feet
- Key features: Moisture-wicking, breathable, fast-drying, compression engineered, comfortable, reinforced footbed
- Weight: Light
- Materials: Nylon, Polyester, Elastane, Merino
- Cost: $$$
If you struggle with sweaty feet, you need socks that will help you out. The Burton AK Endurance is the best option for sweaty feet, thanks to an innovative construction that can wick away moisture in a hurry.
These feature a mostly synthetic blend of materials with only minimal use of Merino wool. While usually I would second guess that, Burton did an excellent job of coming up with a highly effective blend.
They will dry out super quickly even if you sweat a lot, which helps your feet stay dry at all times. The material is also very breathable, which helps funnel sweat away where it can dry off away from your skin.
The Endurance also is compression engineered to give you a superior fit that can help your feet stay warm. They will remain in place all day long and won’t slip down while the compression can feel great on sore or tired feet.
An ergonomic fit gives you natural mobility that isn’t restrictive at all. The reinforced footbed gives you added durability as well. These socks are built to last, which adds to their solid value.
The Endurance is somewhat expensive for a sock. They also don’t have much Merino wool if that’s the material you are looking for.
==> You can also get it on Burton or Buckman’s or Backcountry.
4. Smartwool PhD Women’s Medium
- Best for: Women’s
- Key features: Warm, comfortable, durable, women’s specific fit, 4-degree Elite fit system, Idestructawool tech
- Weight: Medium
- Materials: Merino wool, Nylon, Elastane
- Cost: $$
The Smartwool PhD Women’s Medium is the best women’s specific snowboard socks. These are the exact same as my number one pick on this list. They just come in a women’s specific fit that female riders might prefer.
A heavy Merino wool design gives you lots of warmth while also being comfortable and provides moisture-wicking properties. This is also antimicrobial, so you won’t have to worry about stinky socks.
Indestructawool technology utilizes synthetic materials to boost the strength and durability of the PhD for the long haul. A pair of these will easily last you for several seasons and even more if you take care of them.
They also have a medium weight that hits the sweet spot in terms of comfort and cushioning. They aren’t bulky, so they won’t get in your way, but they are thick enough to give you a little extra warmth and bounce.
An over-the-calf design means they will stay in place all day long and sit near the top or above your boot line. The 4-degree Elite fit system helps prevent them from bunching up along the way as well.
I wish they came in a few more colorways and patterns but other than that, these are a top performer.
==> You can also get it on Outdoor Gear Exchange or DICK’S or The Mountain Edge.
5. Weierya Ski Socks 2-pack
- Best for: Cheap Option
- Key features: Affordable, comes in 2 pack, technical design, moisture-wicking, good fit
- Weight: Medium
- Materials: Cotton, Chinlon, Spandex
- Cost: $
The Weierya Ski Socks 2-pack is the best cheap option on the list. These aren’t the highest performing socks out there in terms of superior warmth, but they will keep you cozy and come in at a very affordable price.
You’ll get two pairs of these socks for less than what one pair of the other options will set you back. That can be great for any rider on a budget or if you don’t snowboard often and just need a quick solution.
They have a medium weight that offers good comfort and warmth. They are also slightly cushioned to give you a little added protection from impact and help fill your boots.
A cotton-based blend offers good moisture-wicking properties and keeps the socks very breathable. They also have synthetic fibers to help them dry out quickly.
The downside is that cotton is not going to help you stay warm if they get wet. These aren’t the warmest option around.
6. Lenz Heated Sock 5.0
- Best for: Cold Weather
- Key features: Battery-powered heating, durable blend, breathable, moisture-wicking
- Weight: Light
- Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Merino Wool, Spandex
- Cost: $$$$
If you want to make sure that your feet and toes stay warm and comfortable no matter the temperature outside, the Lenz Heat Sock 5.0 is for you.
These feature a lithium battery powered heating system that will provide you with added warmth in the toe and ball of the foot. If you have never worn heated socks before, you’ll be in for a treat. The battery powered system is effective and does its job well.
The socks also feature a good material blend on their own for providing warmth and comfort. They are primarily synthetic but also have a bit of Merino wool for added warmth and antimicrobial properties.
This also makes them breathable with moisture-wicking properties. If the temperatures heat up, you can turn off the batteries and use the socks on their own.
The only bad thing is that all of this comfort will cost you. These socks cost as much as a cheap snowboard.
7. Burton Kids Midweight
- Best for: Kids
- Key features: Warm, comfortable, quick-drying, odor-resistant, padded arch and ankle, reinforced toe and heel
- Weight: Medium
- Materials: Acrylic, Nylon, Polypropylene, Spandex
- Cost: $
Kids and parents alike will appreciate the Burton Kids Midweight socks. These are an excellent option to keep any little groms warm and comfortable as they learn to ride.
They feature a synthetic blend of materials that do a solid job of providing comfort and protection against the elements. A medium-weight offers another layer of insulation while also increasing padding.
The socks are also quick drying to help remove any moisture that builds up from sweat or snow. They also have natural odor-resistant properties.
An elastic band ensures that the socks will stay and place without riding. They also have reinforced toes and heels to make them more durable.
I wish these had a little bit of Merino wool built into their construction, but other than that, they are solid all-around.
==> You can also get it on Burton or Buckman’s or Skis.
How to Choose Snowboard Socks: Buying Guides
For some tips and tricks to getting the best snowboard socks, read through the following sections and keep them in mind when making a buying decision.
Sock Material
Merino wool is probably one of the best choices. It’s fine, soft, breathable, moisture-wicking, antibacterial, and can keep your feet at an even temperature by insulating instead of trapping heat.
The natural crimp of the wool fibers can help in trapping air to act as an insulator against the cold environment. A pair of socks that are made up of merino wool and some other synthetic fibers such as Nylon or Elastane should be able to keep your feet warm, dry and prevent odors.
Wool is a great material for ski socks, and most of the top options are made with a wool and synthetic blend.
Thickness of socks
This is more a personal choice – some snowboarders prefer thinner, while others prefer thicker.
If you don’t know what thickness you prefer, I suggest trying out different types of socks until you find the option that works the best. It never hurts to have more socks in your drawer.
If your socks are too thick and tight, the circulation of your legs may slow down and lead to cold feet and frozen toes.
Lightweight and medium thickness socks are my preferred choice. This gives you plenty of warmth without being too bulky or restrictive.
Technology and Features
Compression socks – specially made, tight-fitting, stretchy socks that gently squeeze your leg. It can help improve the blood flow to your feet to keep them warm, reduce muscle fatigue, and improve your riding performance.
Heated socks – These socks are great for those who love the backcountry or struggle with cold toes because they are good at keeping your feet warm through the use of a battery-powered heating system.
Most of the heated socks come with different heat settings from low to high. Depending on your settings, the battery life is around 2 – 20 hours. Just know that heated socks are much more expensive.
Snowboard Sock FAQs
Here are a few quick answers to some common questions relating to snowboarding socks.
Are snowboard socks worth it?
They certainly are. However, you don’t have to get a sock from a snowboarding brand to have a good snowboard sock. Any winter socks made with high-quality materials that fit your feet will help you out when you ride.
Are ski and snowboard socks the same?
Basically. Sometimes ski socks can be thinner to work well inside of a tight-fitting ski boot. Usually, the only real difference between a snowboard and ski sock is the brand name. You can use them interchangeably.
Are snowboard socks thick?
Snowboard socks come in a variety of thicknesses. You can get thicker socks if that’s your preference, or you can get a thin, or even ultra-thin, model. This all comes down to your needs and warmth level.
Should you wear two pairs of socks when snowboarding?
I wouldn’t recommend it. Try to find a pair of socks that work well to fill up your boot and provide you with enough warmth. With the variety of sock thicknesses available, you can easily find an option that will work.
Additional Tips and Resources
The general rule of thumb is — always buy your snowboard socks before heading to the mountain! You don’t want to realize that you are without a good pair of socks and have to buy them at the resort. It’s more expensive, and they might be sold out.
When you return from a snowboarding trip, washing your socks carefully can help extend their life. Here are some useful tips regarding how to wash snowboard socks:
- Read the instructions before washing your socks, and follow them!
- Turn your socks inside out to prevent pilling.
- Wash them with warm or cool water with a gentle cycle.
- Use mild detergent.
- Hand dry or use a low heat dryer to retain the elasticity.
- Use a washing bag.
- Avoid iron, dry clean, using fabric softener and bleach.
You might not think a simple item such as socks needs to require any special treatment, but if you take care of them by following the tips above, a good pair of snowboard socks can last you for years.
My Verdict
My top pick for the best snowboard socks is the Smartwool PhD Medium. The blend of Merino wool and synthetic materials make these a very warm option that is also extremely comfortable. The medium weight is also the perfect thickness for most riders.
Socks are simple, but there’s a big difference between a regular sock and one designed for snowboarding. All of the options mentioned here will give you cold-weather performance and long-lasting comfort you can rely on.
About Lorraine