Believe it or not, I have written about the best travel socks before.
Sometimes, stocks are even more important than shoes when travelling. If you’ve read anything about me, you know that there’s only one shoe I will wear: AllBirds.
Best Accessory Apparel for Travelling – Head to Toe
I’m not quite as strict with my socks, but close. I’m willing to wear socks that aren’t my favourite brands, but that is not the case now when I travel. In the post above, I told you that darn tough are my favourite socks and my second choice is Ice Breakers. They are made with merino wool, a must in my books. I will use over-the-counter compression socks when flying for over three hours. Let me get to my beef about a specific style of icebreaker socks. The truth is they’re perfectly acceptable and, in fact, probably even better designed.
My issue is that socks become more difficult to put on as you age. If they’re tight, even sitting down can be a challenge. I remember the days of pantyhose and wouldn’t want to go back there forever anything. In the end, you were never successful as your crotch was hanging down halfway between your knees, and well, you get the drift.
Ice Breaker makes wonderful heavy-duty socks specifically designed for left and right feet. They have a little “L” and “R” near the big toe’s position to ensure you’ve got them on the right path.
Now, here’s my question:
Why is there a 50-50 chance that you’ll put it the right way or wrong way if you don’t look at the little letters BUT get them on the wrong feet 75% of the time?
Wondering if any other wearers of these kinds of socks run into similar problems now. I know you’ll tell me I should look to see the letters before I begin. Sometimes I do, and I don’t know if it’s dyslexia, but I still get them on wrong, but most of the time, I’ll be honest with you: I don’t look; I’m not thinking I just put a sock on. There’s not until I look down at my feet and about to put shoes on that I realize I’ve screwed it up.
Here’s the irony: I have a pair of merino gloves specific for the left and right hand because they have a design on the back, and you know what? I never get those wrong.
Best Travel Socks Criteria
Choosing the right socks can significantly affect your comfort and health when travelling abroad. Here are some key features to consider when selecting the best socks for international travel:
- Material: Look for socks made of merino wool or synthetic blends. Merino wool is excellent for temperature regulation, keeping your feet warm in cold conditions and cool in heat. It’s also naturally antibacterial and can be worn for multiple days without odour. Synthetics like polyester or nylon are quick-drying and durable.
- Cushioning: Depending on your activity level, you may want cushioned socks that provide extra comfort during long walks or hikes. However, avoid overly thick socks, which may make your shoes fit too tightly and cause blisters.
- Compression: Compression socks are beneficial for long flights or train rides because they promote blood circulation, help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and reduce swelling in the ankles and feet.
- Fit: Proper fit is crucial. Too tight Socks can restrict circulation, while too loose can bunch up and cause blisters. Look for socks with elastic bands at the top to keep them in place without being too constrictive.
- Breathability: Breathable socks will help keep your feet dry, reducing the risk of fungal infections. Mesh ventilation zones in socks can increase airflow.
- Moisture-wicking: This feature pulls moisture away from the skin to the outside of the sock, where it can evaporate, helping to keep feet dry and comfortable.
- Seamless: Socks with no or minimal seams reduce the risk of irritation or blisters, especially important when you’re on your feet exploring new places.
- Length: The length should be chosen based on the climate and your activities. Longer socks can protect against insects and underbrush if you’re hiking, while ankle-length socks might be better suited for urban exploration.
- Durability: Travel can be tough on socks, so look for reinforced heels and toes to ensure they last through your adventures.
- Easy to Clean: Since you might need to wash them on the go, quick-drying socks that can be easily rinsed in a sink are a plus.
Brands like Smartwool, Darn Tough, and Icebreaker are known for their high-quality travel socks embodying many features. Always pack multiple pairs, as fresh socks are essential for comfort and foot health during your travels.