EcoCult Recos: What Socks Are We Wearing?

I want to know how you're keeping your toes cozy.

I’m writing this from my drafty Vermont farmhouse, where I can’t leave the bathroom after a shower without pulling on a pair of wool, alpaca, or cotton socks. Uninsulated tile is cold, y’all!

One thing I refuse to do is wear synthetic socks. A pox on Nike.

Plastic socks aren’t just smelly. The azo-benzene disperse dyes used on synthetic fibers are known skin sensitizers. And synthetic socks are also prone to trapping moisture, which can lead to problems like athlete’s foot, especially if you’re a hiker.

So I favor merino and alpaca wool in different weights year-round, because they’re naturally odor-resistant, temperature regulating, and moisture-wicking. Organic cotton, Tencel, linen, and bamboo viscose are comfortable and breathable options for summer.

If you have sensitive skin, there are a couple of brands that pull off 100% natural socks: Cottonique and Arms of Andes.

I do have a couple of pairs from Darn Tough, that beloved Vermont sock company. Their socks last forever, but that’s because they’re up to half nylon. You’re just going to have to choose between longevity and natural fibers. My wool socks wear through the heel in about two years of wear. I’m okay with that.

For the purists, there are un-dyed socks that embrace the natural colors of the fibers, like Harvest & Mill, which I own and love. Also look for the labels Oeko-Tex and bluesign to be sure that they don’t contain hazardous substances that will mingle with your sweaty feet.

Okay, table has been set. And now I can share our favorite sock brands. But I also want to know your reviews and additions!

For paid subscribers, tell us which socks you’re loving these days?

1. Harvest & Mill makes dye-free organic cotton socks in natural colors. Its non-toxic and unbleached cotton is grown, spun, and knit in the U.S.

2. Formerly known as Knickey, Subset is a Brooklyn-based, PFAS-free brand that makes Fair Trade and Oeko-Tex-certified organic cotton socks. Its cotton is from an organic farm in India, where it’s also ginned, spun, dyed, and sewn.

The list continues for paid EcoCult members….