What Are the Best Socks for Sweaty Feet?

Choosing the right socks for sweaty feet helps promote foot health and everyday comfort. If your feet are prone to excessive sweating, here’s how to choose socks that don’t trap moisture, foot odor, or bacteria.

Should You Wear Socks With Sweaty Feet?

People who struggle with sweaty feet can certainly benefit from giving their toes some breathing room whenever possible. 

But it’s not always possible to avoid socks and shoes altogether. Most people need to slip on socks to wear under their work boots or gym shoes. If they don’t, they may end up with irritated blisters, smelly footwear, and even more moisture trapped in their shoes.

What to Look for When Choosing Socks for Sweaty Feet

What kind of socks keep your feet from sweating? Whether you’re seeking the best work socks for sweaty feet or a reliable pair to get you through tough workouts, here are a few key sock material and style considerations.

Breathable Fabrics

Breathable socks for sweaty feet don’t trap in humidity. Instead, they support air circulation to keep your toes cool and dry. Look for fine merino wool (Sockwell’s signature fabric), semi-synthetic and synthetic materials like rayon from bamboo, or a blend of both.

Moisture-Managing Material 

Choose socks designed to manage moisture. Merino wool, for example, constantly absorbs and evaporates moisture. It can hold up to 30% of its weight in moisture, but unlike cotton, wool allows the moisture to freely evaporate.

Suitable Styles

Select socks in the right fit and style to ensure your clammy feet are protected and not prone to rubbing and blistering. Try crew socks with your running shoes. Wear work socks with extra cushion under your steel-toed boots. And consider compression socks for long walks to reduce swelling.

Are Cotton Socks Good for Sweaty Feet?

Cotton is a natural material, so you might think it’s a good idea to stash cotton socks in your drawer for trips to the gym or long walks in humid weather. But cotton does not allow moisture to freely evaporate, so this fabric is not ideal for those who struggle with extra-sweaty feet. 

As the American Podiatric Medical Association notes, “One hundred percent cotton socks absorb moisture but do not wick it away from the skin and frequently lead to blisters, so they should be avoided.”

Are Wool Socks Better for Sweaty Feet?

Although wool is great at keeping you warm, it’s also an ideal material when it comes to keeping your feet cool.

According to REI, “The fine, itch-free fibers of merino wool have virtually replaced the scratchy ragg-wool socks previous generations used. Their biggest advantage is that they are thermostatic (temperature-regulating), so your feet stay comfortable in a wide range of temperatures.”

Stop the Sweat With Sockwell

Don’t let sweaty feet hold you back! Opt for socks made with the right materials and in the right styles to kick sweaty feet worries to the curb. Stash an extra pair of Sockwells in your bag or car so you’ll always find comfort in every step.