Socks for winter boots

Short answer: Boots have room for a thicker sock, but it is still a dry foot that keeps the warmth. Choose a style that moves moisture away and fills the boot without squeezing the foot.

Room matters more than thickness

A sock that presses the foot against the boot restricts circulation and makes the foot colder, not warmer. Choose a thickness that just fills the boot, so there is still a little air around the toes. That air insulates, and the toes can move. Browse the styles among the most popular from Copenhagen Bamboo and try them with the boots you actually wear.

Moisture is the enemy in winter

Snow, sleet and long walks make the foot damp, even when it is cold outside. A wet foot loses heat much faster than a dry one. A sock that moves moisture away from the skin therefore keeps you warmer through the day. Browse the socks for men and women, where bamboo viscose absorbs moisture and releases it again.

The length must match the boot

The sock should reach higher than the top of the boot. Otherwise the edge rubs directly against the skin, and cold air finds its way down the leg. For tall boots, a sock that reaches some way up the calf is the right choice. For short winter boots, the classic length above the ankle is usually enough.

Layers when it is really cold

In hard frost it can make sense to wear two layers. A thin sock closest to the skin moves moisture away, and a thicker outer sock holds the heat. That only works if the boot has room for both. If the boot is already full, the extra layer makes the foot colder, because it presses and removes the insulating air.

Change when you get home

A boot is damp inside after a long winter day, and so is the sock. Change into a dry pair of socks for women when you come in, and let the boot dry until the next day. If you go out again in the same damp socks, the foot starts the day cold and stays that way.

Dry the boots properly

Take out the insole and leave the boots at room temperature with the shaft open. Stuffing them with newspaper helps soak up moisture. Avoid placing them directly on a radiator or in front of a fan heater, because strong heat can damage leather and glue. If you own two pairs of boots, alternate between them.

Wash the socks gently

Winter socks work hard and are washed often. Wash them at 40 degrees with ordinary detergent and no fabric softener, which coats the fibres and makes them worse at moving moisture. Let them air dry on a rack. That way they keep both shape and function through the whole season and are ready for the next cold morning.

Frequently asked questions

Is bamboo warm enough for winter boots

Indoors and in mild winter weather, yes. In hard frost, bamboo is often combined with a thicker outer sock, so the inner layer keeps the foot dry and the outer one holds the heat.

Should I wear two pairs in boots

Only if there is room. If the boot is full, two pairs make the foot colder, because the socks press and push out the air that would otherwise insulate the toes.

How do I dry the boots

Take out the insole and leave them at room temperature, ideally with newspaper inside. Avoid direct heat from a radiator or fan heater, as it can damage the material.