Top 12 best thermal socks for women

It is never comfortable heading out on a freezing winter’s day, only to end up with cold feet that feel numb. So a pair of the best thermal socks is pretty much essential when it comes to anything outdoorsy.

I suffer majorly from cold feet; it doesn’t take much for me to feel the chill and before I know it, I’m walking weirdly as the stumps of ice at the ends of my legs take slow steps forward.

So what makes a thermal sock different from a regular sock?

The materials used are one major element. A regular pair of cotton socks might not be as warm as a pair of wool socks for example.

Thermal socks also differ in length; some come to the knee, offering warmth up the entire leg.

Some thermal socks are made specifically for the great outdoors and may come with waterproof elements too.

I decided to test out some of the best thermal socks so my feet (and yours!) stay toasty this winter.

Best thermal socks for women at a glance:

• Best overall thermal socks for women: Hemy Waterproof Socks
• Best women's long stockings: Explorer Women's Merino Thermal Mid-Calf Socks
• Best boot socks: Tore women’s Boot Socks 3 pack
• Best fluffy thermal socks: Damart Thermolactyl socks
• Best budget thermal socks: HJ Cotton Softop
• Best compressive thermal socks: Sock Geeks

Tore

• Tore women’s Socks 3 pack £9.99 - buy here

Pros: Great price for three pairs, sustainable

Cons: I actually can’t find one

Rating: 5/5

These socks by Tore tick all the sustainability boxes as they’re made from 100% recycled materials and they’re certified by the Textile Exchange Organisation, which is pretty impressive.

If you’re wondering how socks can be made from recycled materials, the socks and the packaging are made from pre-consumer and post-consumer waste.

Just one pack diverts 2.4 plastic water bottles and 0.6 t-shirts from landfills.

Do they work though? In short, yes. They’re so, so comfy, the padded heel is great in big boots or wellies and for £9 you can actually add your own initials for a more personal touch.

I wore these around the house as sock slippers and they worked a treat!

Material: 44% Recycled Cotton, 18% Recycled Repreve Polyester, 20% Recycled Polyester, 15% Recycled Polyamide, 3% Recycled Elastane, Style: crew length, Number of pairs: Three

BAM

• BAM Walking Socks, £16 £8 - buy here

Pros: Merino wool, super thick, gorgeous colour

Cons: Might be too thick for trainers

Rating: 4/5

I adore the colour of these; the turquoise-green shade is gorgeous. Plus, they're incredibly comfy.

Made with BAM’s unique merino wool and bamboo blend, these are ultra cosy and soft without feeling too restrictive and hot.

Why bamboo? BAM is famous for its sustainability credentials; this is a brand I have loved for a while and they use bamboo to make their clothes as it’s far more eco-friendly than other fabrics.

These socks are quite thick - which I guess is great for the warmth factor - however they might not feel too comfortable in a standard pair of trainers.

But, if you’re donning a pair of hiking boots, then these will work wonders. The ribbed top also keeps the heat in and stops them slipping down.

BAM also says that these socks have thermo-regulating properties so feet stay warm on cold days and cooler on warmer days.

Material: 56% Bamboo Viscose, 16% Merino Wool, 26% Recycled Polyamide, 2% Elastane, Style: hiking socks, Number of pairs: One

Damart

• Damart Thermolactyl socks, £10 - buy here

Pros: Versatile, affordable, great for bedtime!

Cons: Short, might not trap in too much heat

Rating: 5 / 5

If you’re anything like me, a pair of bed socks gets you excited. So these pink fluffy socks, which are incredibly girly FYI, became firm favourites of mine.

They not only work well in hiking boots or under jeans but also generally around the house or in bed, to keep tootsies warm.

They’re made with Damart’s Thermolactyl blend for warmth and the calf length ensures they’re cosy, trapping in heat.

I love how comfy these are. They're the kind of socks you never want to take off and come Christmas, I may even ask for another pair...

Material: 100% Polyester, Style: Knee-length, Number of pairs: One

Lululemon

• Lululemon Women’s Evolution Leg Warmer, £48 - buy here

Pros: Various colours, high up the leg, good for yoga and Pilates if you need grip on the floor, very thick

Cons: Expensive, no toe and heel coverage

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Designed for yoga, these leg warmers offer a bit of a twist on a classic thermal sock. When these arrived, the parcel was fairly heavy for a pair of leg warmers. I just knew from the weight that these would be super warm.

They fit snugly on the leg and the open toe and heel means you have a firm grip on the floor, should you need it during your yoga or Pilates workouts. They also work well with another pair of thin socks underneath or a thicker pair of socks on top, so you really have the ultimate warmth for your feet and lower legs.

They are made with Lulu’s knit Cashlu fabric, which offers a touch of luxurious cashmere, so they feel super soft against the skin.

The big downside to these though is that they cost an eye-watering £48. If you think you’ll get the wear out of them, however, then I would recommend investing.

Material: 55% Polyester, 45% Merino Wool, Style: Leg warmer, Number of pairs: One

Mountain Warehouse

• Cosy Women's Thermal Welly Sock, £19.99 £12.99 - buy here

Pros: Great for wellies, VERY well cushioned, fur lining

Cons: Could be too hot for everyday useRating: 5 / 5

A pair of wellies needs a pair of knee-length wellie socks such as these cosy thermal socks that are undoubtedly some of the thickest socks I have ever felt and worn.

Honestly, damp and cold is a thing of the past in these plus, they’re super-soft thanks to the use of soft materials; my feet were sweltering when I put these on.

The sleeve of these socks describes them as ‘high cushion’ which is an understatement, to be honest; they are so cushioned that it’s like walking on clouds.

The toes and heels are well protected and I feel like it would take a fair bit of wellie walking to wear these down. As an added perk, on the inside these socks are furry. Yes! They have inner fur so you’ll feel permanently snug. Good luck wanting to take these off is all I’ll say!

Material: Not stated, Style: Welly sock, Number of pairs: One

Mountain Warehouse

• Explorer Women's Merino Thermal Mid-Calf Socks, £17.99 £12.99 - buy here

Pros: Long to keep ankles warm and trap in heat, made with toasty merino wool

Cons: Expensive for one pair

Rating: 4.5 / 5

These are comfortable mid-calf length socks made with a very soft merino blend.

These would work great in a pair of hiking boots, where you need cushioning against tough shoe backs, as well as softness and warmth to protect against outdoor temperatures.

I like that these are made for explorers, as their name suggests, as they are sweat-wicking and naturally anti-bacterial, so less of the smell and sweat that can arise from a big hike in the hills.

I love these and feel as though they’re very comfortable and snug, trapping in heat and making sure no cold gets down to my feet.

Material: Elastane 1%, Polyester 8%, Acrylic 44%, Elastodiene 1%, Polyamide 2%, Merino Wool 44%, Style: Boot socks, Number of pairs: One

Helly Hansen

• Helly Hansen Touring Socks, £30 - buy here

Pros: Unisex, light compression

Cons: Expensive

Rating: 5/ 5

You can’t usually go wrong with Helly Hansen; I’ve found their clothing to be of great quality and it’s always protected me against the elements. These socks are no different.

Despite being on the pricier side, they do offer plenty of warmth and I reckon they’d make an epic pair of bed socks for those insanely cold winter nights.

The structure and cushioning of these socks (they’re anti-chafe FYI) is great for protecting feet when you’re wearing tough outdoor shoes, or walking over various different terrains.

They’re not only made with light compression, to help with blood flow in the leg, but they trap in heat thanks to a ribbed cuff. The merino wools also means these are super soft and I enjoyed wearing them in a pair of winter boots.

If you’re sweating however and getting hot, then the ventilated toes stop you from overheating. I'm a big fan of the technical elements of this sock; they’re expensive, yes, but they do tick the boxes!

Material: 45% Merino Wool 40% Polyamide 8% Polyamide (Recycled) 6% Elastane 1% Polyester, Style: Ski socks, Number of pairs: One

Animal

• Animal Cosy Womens Recycled Thermal Socks, £12 - buy here

Pros: Furry top, grippy bottom, so warm and cosy, good price

Cons: Thick fur makes it harder for clothes to slide on top

Rating: 4 / 5

For a really great pair of slipper-style socks, then these Animal Cosy Women's Recycled Thermal Socks are perfect.

Everyone needs a pair of winter socks for lounging at home and thanks to their thickness as well as the fur top and grippy sole, I reckon these do the trick.

They are also made of super soft recycled fabric so you know they’ve got decent sustainability credentials too.

The big downside however is that if you plan on wearing these out, under jeans or trousers, the fur top might be an issue as it does get in the way a bit.

Material: Recycled Fabric, Style: Slipper socks, Number of pairs: One

Hemy

• Hemy Waterproof Socks, £29.99 £19.99 - buy here

Pros: Waterproof, come in various lengths

Cons: Expensive feel very different to normal socks

Rating: 5/5

For socks that keep feet dry AND warm, then this pair by Hemy are just the ticket. Although they do feel different to usual socks as they’re thicker and waterproof, so they're not as soft.

The sock contains three layers and it’s the middle layer that’s waterproof. I can vouch that these are waterproof. They got wet of course, but my feet stayed dry when I went out in some deep puddles.

I tried a pair of the ankle-length socks although these socks are available in varying lengths. They’re comfortable and fit well, plus Hemy says these are anti-dust and odourless, so no matter how much I sweated, I didn’t get that awful damp foot smell.

Whether you’re walking in streams, skiing, getting caught in downpours, kayaking or simply splashing your way through puddles, feet will stay toasty and dry. These are a game changer and I would say they’re worth the expensive price tag.

Material: Outer Layer: 61% Nylon, 32% Polyester, 7% Elastane, Style: Choose from crew, ankle or knee-high, Number of pairs: One

Polarn O.Pyret

• Polarn O.Pyret Thermal Merino Kids Wool Socks, £14 - buy here

Pros: Made for kids, wool blend

Cons: Expensive for one pair

Rating: 4/5

Available in a range of different kids’ sizes, these merino wool socks are ideal for keeping tootsies warm.

Naturally, I couldn’t try these myself as I do have women’s size 6 feet however these feel gorgeously soft thanks to the use of merino wool, and because they have a lovely ribbed style, these seem like the type of sock that will stay up and keep the heat trapped in.

Great for school or outdoor activities, these are a bit expensive for a single pair, however, they’ll keep kids’ feet and toes warm even on the coldest of days.

Material: 86% Merino Wool, 10% Polyamide, 4% Elastane, Style: kid's socks, Number of pairs: One

ESPA

• ESPA Home Cashmere Ribbed Knit Socks, £36.00 - buy here

Pros: Incredibly soft, 100% cashmere

Cons: Very expensive

Rating: 4.5 /5

Fancy some real luxury in your life, or rather, on your feet? Then a blowout on these cashmere socks, made from 100% cashmere, are what you need.

I put these on and immediately felt so warm and snug; these are brilliant for wearing at home, in bed, or in a pair of casual lifestyle trainers underneath trousers.

I love the fact they’re ribbed as they look really on-trend, and the white colour screams cosy.

The only reason these did not get a full 5/5 rating is because they cost so much. Other than that, they’re brilliant.

Material: 100% Cashmere, Style: Ribbed Knit, Number of pairs: One

Sock Geeks

• Sock Geeks, £9 - buy here

Pros: Non-elastic top for comfort, love the check design

Cons: Quite thin

Rating: 5/5

Considering these have a non-elastic top, they stay up and don’t fall down at all. Sock Geeks says that these have three unique relaxation panels which contract vertically and stay up all day without leaving marks on the legs or restricting circulation.

These were created for those who don't want restrictive socks or those who suffer from poor circulation or diabetes. They are also endorsed by the institute of chiropodists and podiatrists.

I’m a big fan of how cosy these socks are - they’re super warm without feeling too hot. They are thinner than many of the other socks I have tried but they still did a great job at keeping my feet warm thanks to their wool-rich blend.

These socks have a s12-month guarantee too, which I don't usually see on socks, so at least you know they won’t fall apart too quickly.

Sock Geeks specializes in offering premium quality socks that combine functionality with fashion. Their range includes thermal socks perfect for winter, crafted with sustainable materials to keep your feet warm while reducing environmental impact. With innovative designs and a focus on comfort, Sock Geeks ensures that every step you take is stylish and cosy. Explore their vibrant collection to find the perfect pair for any occasion, from outdoor adventures to cosy nights at home.

Material: 65% Cotton, 35% Polyamide, Style: Boot length, Number of pairs: One

Where to buy thermal socks for women in the UK?

There are a wide variety of places you can shop women's thermal socks in the UK: from outdoor specialist brands to high street retailers and department stores.

How much do thermal socks cost?

As with most products, prices can vary when it comes to shopping thermal socks for women - but typically, you can find a pair (or pairs) in the price range of £10 to £20.

In our search, the cheapest was HJ's Cotton Softop at just £6, while the most expensive was Lululemon Women’s Evolution Leg Warmer at £48.

Conclusion:

Thermal socks are an essential addition to your wardrobe, especially during the colder months. The variety available - from waterproof designs to fluffy, cosy options - ensures that there’s a perfect fit for everyone, whether you’re braving outdoor adventures or lounging at home. Sustainable materials, innovative technologies, and thoughtful designs are at the forefront of 2024 trends, offering not just warmth but also style and comfort. By choosing from this curated list, you can step confidently into the chill, knowing your feet will stay toasty and comfortable all winter long.

Questions and Answers:

1. What makes thermal socks different from regular socks?
   Thermal socks are made from materials like wool or bamboo blends that provide superior insulation and moisture-wicking properties. They often feature additional design elements, such as added cushioning or waterproof layers, to ensure warmth and comfort in cold conditions.

2. Are thermal socks suitable for outdoor activities?
   Absolutely! Many thermal socks, such as the Hemy Waterproof Socks and Mountain Warehouse Explorer Socks, are designed specifically for outdoor activities. They offer features like waterproof layers, anti-chafe designs, and extra cushioning to handle rugged conditions.

3. Can I find sustainable thermal socks?
   Yes, brands like Tore and BAM offer thermal socks made from recycled or eco-friendly materials, combining warmth and sustainability. These options are ideal for eco-conscious consumers looking for high-performance socks.

4. What are the most affordable thermal socks?
   Among the list, HJ Cotton Softop socks stand out as a budget-friendly option at just £6. Despite their lower price, they deliver warmth and comfort, making them a great value for money.

5. Which thermal socks are best for lounging at home?
   For indoor use, Damart Thermolactyl socks and Animal Cosy Thermal Socks are excellent choices. Their fluffy, cozy designs make them perfect for relaxing at home or even wearing to bed during cold nights.