10 Best Socks For Work Boots In The Market

Anybody that wears work boots pays a lot of attention when buying the most durable work boots, but they tend to underestimate the importance of fitting work socks.

If you don’t wear the right socks, even the most comfortable work boots can cause discomfort, distractions, or be a safety hazard in the workplace.

This is especially true for workers that spend most of their time standing or working on their feet.

While searching for the best socks for work shoes, we found that the Carhartt Men’s All-Season Cotton Crew Work Socks was our favorite.

The socks cushion the feet, have ventilation channels to aid airflow, reinforced toes and heels to increase comfort, and are elastic!

Keep reading this article to see our list of the best socks to wear with work boots, how to choose work socks, and the qualities of good work socks.

To use your boots to their best, you have to pair them with one of our top 10 socks for work boots.

How to Choose the Best Socks for Work Boots

A lot of consideration goes into picking work boots but what about work socks? Different people prioritize different qualities when looking for socks.

Some factors that affect the qualities people prioritize are their personal taste, budget, and the type of work they do.

Even though different people prioritize different qualities, there are some qualities that are prioritized across the board. These qualities are:

Discomfort

You can experience discomfort if your socks are made of a tight material on one extreme or a material that is slack on the other.

Socks that are too loose or tight can restrict blood flow, increase the risk of inflammation and blisters, and reduce breathability. You’ll need an elastic fit that isn’t too tight to cause chafing.

Moisture

Sweating is inevitable no matter your job. Bacterial infections, foul odors, and unpleasant skin problems can all be caused by moisture.

If the material of your sock traps moisture rather than absorbing it from the skin, you can experience fungal infections, itching, or odors.

Affordability

Standard work socks are more expensive than lower-quality socks. Since prices and quality vary so widely, it’s difficult to strike the balance between the two.

Longevity

Your socks go through a tough time while you’re on your feet all day.

If your socks are made of low-quality materials and are poorly constructed, wear and tear can occur easily in high-impact areas like the heel and toe.

You’ll have to replace them often, and you’ll probably spend lots of money doing so.

After going through these issues, you’ll be relieved to learn that many businesses have listened to their clients’ complaints and have devised solutions to fix them.

If you want to know what features of work socks solve these issues, and the brands that have been the most successful in ensuring these features, keep reading this article.

Features of the Best Socks for Work Boots

Any company that produces socks with these qualities is high on the list of our top picks for the best socks for work boots. The following are qualities that we look for in work socks:

Comfort

You’ll need a material with high-quality design that will provide comfort, help you escape aches, and concentrate on the task at hand.

Odor Prevention and Breathability

To avoid odors, bacterial infections, itching, and severe skin problems, choose a design and material that absorbs moisture from your feet.

Affordability

Affordability is just as important as quality. You want socks that are of good quality, but not too expensive. You don’t want to go into debt just to buy some work socks.

Longevity

To avoid premature wear and tear, your socks should be made of a sturdy material that will last long and prevent you from needing to replace them all the time.

TOP 10 BEST SOCKS FOR WORK BOOTS

We compared various brands on the market and their differences in terms of these qualities. Below is the list of our top 10 best work socks, as well as advantages and disadvantages of each pair. Let’s take a look at some of the best socks for work boots:

01

BEST OVERALL: CARHARTT MEN’S ALL-SEASON COTTON CREW WORK SOCKS

Comfort

In areas like the toe and heel, soft cushioning material is added. This provides an extra layer of comfort to face a long, exhausting day at the office. Some people dislike the elastic in these work socks, but that is purely a matter of personal preference.

Breathability

The socks’ high cotton content, combined with other moisture-absorbing fabrics, allows for increased breathability and sweat resistance, keeping your feet cool.

Affordability

The All-Season Cotton Crew Work Socks are affordable, if you consider their brand name and high quality material.

Longevity and Durability

Thanks to the addition of high-quality cotton in the materials, the All-Season Crew Work Socks are built for long-lasting durability and can be worn at any time, and any season.

The toe and heel of these socks are strengthened with frictionless yarns to prevent gaps in these areas. It also helps to increase their durability.

Sum Up

These socks are the best choice for workers that want breathable work socks and work in an unstable climate.

Pros:

  • Durable heel and toe for protection
  • Affordable
  • Washable with machines
  • Arch-support for added comfort
  • Fits all sizes
  • Breathable material to keep feet from sweating
  • Good for all seasons

Cons:

  • Elastic is a little loose or tight at times
02

BEST PERFORMANCE: DICKIES MEN’S DRI-TECH MOISTURE WICKING CREW WORK SOCKS (6-PACK)

Comfort

Thanks to the arch compression and strengthened toe and heel, these socks provide a lot of comfort. With these socks, you won’t have to think about slipping or bunching.

Breathability

The best feature of these socks is their top-rated moisture-wicking style. Cotton, spandex, and polyester combine to make a breathable, moisture-wicking sock that keeps feet dry. A unique ventilation system and mesh around the toes provide extra odor and sweat protection.

Affordability

Among the other options on this list, this Dickies design is a very affordable choice, particularly considering the well-known brand name and its quality.

Longevity and Durability

Dickies is a popular and dependable workwear brand, and these socks live up to their name. These socks are made of high-quality fabrics and are ideal for long days on the job.

Because of the reinforced heel and toe, these work socks are also suitable for use with steel-toed boots. Since they hold up so well, most people purchase them specifically to wear with work boots.

Sum Up

When it comes to work boot socks, these are one of the best socks you can buy for your work boots. They come in a pack of six, breathe well, and hold up well even after extensive use.

Pros:

  • Quite affordable
  • Comes with reinforced toes and heels for boots with steel toes and all-round durability
  • Ventilation channels to reduce sweating
  • Breathable mesh material
  • Moisture absorbing material to keep the feet dry
  • Support and compression in arch area to increase comfort

Cons:

  • Might not be high enough up the calf for taller people
03

BEST FOR OUTDOORS: SMARTWOOL MEN’S ULTRA LIGHT WOOL CREW WORK SOCK

Comfort

Its Elite-Fit design is adjustable around the ankle, providing flexibility as well as protection at this point. The toe seams and elastic arch brace add to the sock’s excellent support and comfort. The padded sole simultaneously provides comfort and arch protection.

Breathability

Warmth is guaranteed with wool, but breathability is a drawback. Mesh zones added in the Smartwool socks allow moisture to be ejected, allowing your feet to be dry.

Affordability

Just like with the Dickies brand, you will have to pay a little higher than average to buy these socks. This is mostly because of the popular brand name and high-quality design.

Longevity and Durability

Smartwool made these socks using high-quality, wool technology, ensuring that they can last a long time. High-impact areas are protected by a reinforced and cushioned sole.

Sum Up

These socks are a great choice if you spend most of your on my way working outside in every season, particularly in different terrains.

Pros:

  • Thin enough for hot weather
  • Durable material
  • Padded sole for extra comfort
  • Flat-knit toe gives added comfort
  • Breathable mesh portions to prevent sweating
  • Arch brace to ease movement

Cons:

  • Some people find the top band a little tight
04

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: DARN TOUGH MEN’S MERINO WOOL FULL CUSHION CREW WORK SOCKS

Comfort

These socks have an exceptionally high number of stitches per inch, allowing for a snug fit without the bulk that characterizes wool socks. As a result, slipping and bunching are practically non-existent! Blisters caused by seams are avoided with the seamless finish.

Breathability

Merino wool, unlike other wools, is quite breathable and has natural antimicrobial properties, which help to avoid bacteria that cause odors. The sock has fast-drying action, which removes moisture from the sock, in addition to the fabric’s natural breathability. Merino wool gives Darn Tough the upper hand in terms of bacteria and moisture resistance.

Affordability

Darn Tough is definitely not the cheapest brand. Although this pair of work socks is on the more expensive side of the price spectrum on this list, the price reflects the quality in terms of comfort and longevity, so you can rest assured that you’re spending a little more for a good reason.

Longevity and Durability

Darn Tough used high-quality wool knitting to make these socks. High-impact areas are reinforced with finely-knit wool to avoid gaps and tears. As a result, these socks will last a long time. An unconditional lifetime guarantee seals the deal on these high-end socks.

Sum Up

These socks are the best for workers that are willing to spend some extra bucks for comfort and durability.

Pros:

  • Seamless for added comfort
  • Fast-drying action to keep feet from sweating
  • Reduces moisture with breathable Merino wool
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • High-density knitting

Cons:

  • Doesn’t dry quickly
05

BEST FOR HIKING: YUEDGE MENS COTTON CUSHION CREW WORK SOCKS

Comfort

These work socks are extremely comfortable, particularly for their price. They’re quite comfortable because they’re made of thickened terry. The sock was designed to reduce foot fatigue and friction.

Breathability

To improve breathability, these socks have a mesh pattern. The sock keeps the foot comfortable and dry since it was designed for hiking. As a result, it’s suitable for use as a work sock.

Affordability

These socks are relatively affordable if you consider the amount of comfort and durability they provide.

Longevity and Durability

These hiking socks are made to endure a lot of use. As a result, they’re ideal work socks. Elastic bands are stitched into the sock to ensure that it maintains its shape over time. At its price, the durability of the sock is excellent.

Sum Up

Although this sock wasn’t specifically made as a work sock, it works extremely well for this purpose. It’s comfortable, durable, and breathable, which are all qualities you want in a whole sock.

Pros:

  • Extremely comfortable
  • Fits all sizes
  • Extremely durable
  • Very elastic
  • Affordable
  • High level of breathability

Cons:

  • Might not be high enough on the calf for taller people
06

BEST FOR COLD WEATHER: WIGWAM MEN’S S1221 CREW WORK SOCKS

Comfort

The extra padding on the sole —especially the heel— provides comfort while working. These socks also have a comfortable length that reaches the upper part of your calf and are fitting enough to prevent slipping or bunching.

Breathability

The sock’s material has antimicrobial properties that prevent bad odors by fighting odor-causing bacteria.

Affordability

These Wigwam’s work socks are affordable compared to other socks on this list and compared with their quality and function.

Longevity and Durability

The soles of these work socks contain synthetic fibers to avoid holes from long wear and heavy use. They can be washed in the machine, but it’s best to wash them inside-out to avoid the fabric losing its elasticity. These socks are backed up with a lifetime warranty because of how confident Wigwam is in them.

Sum Up

These socks are a great choice if you’re looking for something durable and comfortable.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Washable with machine
  • Cushioned heel for extra comfort
  • Reinforced sole to prevent holes
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Fits too tightly on large calves
07

BEST ON A BUDGET: FRUIT OF THE LOOM MEN’S HEAVY-DUTY WORK SOCKS

Comfort

The heel to toe area has reinforced padding which makes the foot comfortable. The socks fit snugly and protect the feet from blisters.

Breathability

Polyester, cotton, and spandex make up these socks. The materials provide warmth in the winter and breathability in the summer. Moisture-absorbing fabric helps to keep feet dry by wicking away sweat.

Affordability

Fruit of the Loom is quite popular for its pocket-friendly prices and the Crew Socks are no exception. They are one of the cheapest on this list.

Longevity and Durability

The work socks from Fruit of the Loom are a nice mix of safety, comfort, and breathability. The entire sole is reinforced with extra padding from heel to toe to boost protection and durability, and the leg elasticity holds up well to washing and heavy use.

Sum Up

These socks are a good choice if you need something affordable and durable at the same time. They’re also quite comfortable, both for your feet and budget.

Pros:

  • Wicks moisture well
  • Affordable
  • Thick, padded sole for comfort
  • Excellent elasticity to prevent slipping and bunching
  • Fits all sizes
  • Great quality for the price

Cons:

  • Might seem thin to those used to thicker socks
08

BEST OVER THE CALF: HANES MEN’S TUBE OVER THE CALF WORK SOCKS

Comfort

Its design makes sure that the top of your calf to your toes are all protected and covered. Padded soles, as well as reinforced seams in the toe area gives added comfort when you wear these socks.

Breathability

These socks are made of high-quality cotton which makes them quite breathable, and reduces sweating.

Affordability

Hanes Tube socks are one of the cheapest options on this list.

Longevity and Durability

The cotton, spandex, and polyester mix in this sock, combined with its elastic ribbing, makes sure that it will last for a long while without becoming less elastic.

Sum Up

This is a fantastic option if you prefer tube socks. If you also prefer calf coverage but still want the padded soles of a great sock, this choice may be perfect for you.

Pros:

  • Reinforced seams for added comfort
  • Over-the-calf design
  • Padded soles for protection
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Gets thinner after frequent washing and wearing
09

BEST BREATHABLE: KMM MEN’S HEAVY-DUTY MOISTURE WICKING COTTON CREW WORK SOCKS

Comfort

This sock has a deep heel pocket to strengthen arch support and keep the sock from sliding around. It also has extra padding in high-impact areas and wide cuffs to avoid slippage, and finally, hidden toe seams keep blisters and pain at bay.

Breathability

This sock’s combination of high-quality fabrics, such as polyester and cotton, greatly improves overall breathability.

Affordability

KMM is an affordable brand, and these socks are one of the most affordable on this list.

Longevity and Durability

These socks were designed by KMM using a premium material mix that extends the life of the socks significantly. Reinforced toe and heel areas are even more durable.

Sum Up

The overall comfort of this work sock is the perfect finish to its design. So, if you suffer from a lot of foot pain at work, these work socks are the perfect choice and will greatly improve your comfort.

Pros:

  • Extremely comfortable
  • Seamless finish for added comfort
  • Quite affordable
  • High-quality design and materials
  • Quite breathable
  • Provides arch support with heel pocket

Cons:

  • May cause mild irritation during extremely hot weather
10

BEST FOR HOT WEATHER: CARHARTT MEN’S COTTON STEEL-TOE WORK SOCKS

Comfort

These socks have special Y-stitches around the heels for extra stability and comfort in addition to the padding. These stitches, with the elasticity in the leg section, keep the sock from falling down or bunching up as you move around, so you won’t have to adjust it over and over during the day.

Breathability

Nylon and cotton were used to make these socks, which are perfect for comfort, odor control, and breathability, although they’re better suited for hot weather.

Affordability

As compared to the other brands and styles on this list, this Carhartt design of socks is in the average area of the price spectrum.

Longevity and Durability

These socks are made to be worn with steel-toed boots, so they have extra padding in the heel and toe regions, providing additional cushioning for both durability and comfort.

Sum Up

If durable material in the heel and toe are your primary concerns, this option is perfect.

Pros:

  • Best for boots with steel toes
  • Reinforced and padded heel and toe areas to prevent holes and blisters
  • Increased arch support
  • Quite affordable for the brand
  • Elasticity to prevent slippage

Cons:

  • Long nails may break seams
  • More suitable for hot weather than cold weather

CONCLUSION

When selecting the best work socks, there are many factors to consider. To begin, think about what kind of work you’ll be doing. Terrain, duration of use, temperature, and the type of boots you’ll wear will influence your decision. How Should Boots Fit

Then, you must determine which qualities you prioritize. Qualities like comfort, longevity, affordability, and breathability.

Also consider the prices mentioned above for these brands. If prices are a major factor in your decision, make sure to find out the prices of each pair separately to get the best deal.

Selecting the best socks for your work boots should be an easy process. After you’ve gathered knowledge about issues and the qualities that solve them, you should be able to determine which features are your priorities.