Best socks?

[Aerows]

I asked in the Lounge, but no one answered. I probably should have asked here to begin with.

Everyone needs socks. I want to get some nice socks for northern relatives. And maybe some Southern ones too.

Not gaudy things, every day wear nice, warm socks that don't fall around your ankles, but also don't cut off the circulation to your legs.

[Aerows]

1. I'm a shitty gift giver, aren't I?

I couldn't think of anything else. I wanted everyone to have some nice socks that they can enjoy all year round, since I hate crappy socks and mismatched socks. :sigh: Back to the drawing board.

[El_Johns]

8. Personally I would love to get some good socks for Xmas, as all of mine have been darned repeatedly

and are basically a mass of linked darnings. They were cheap socks to begin with, too.

But I don't know what the good brands are.

[Aerows]

12. I like nice socks, too

That's why I thought of them as a nice Christmas gift, practical without being extravagant and over-extending my budget. They are something I'd want, but something nice people don't think of.

[CTyankee]

127. I get wonderful socks at TJ Maxx at a big discount!

I have a big supply for the winter because I hate doing a lot of laundry (and can't because of arthritis in my spine). So I have a very full sock drawer! And I don't spend a lot of money for good quality socks.

[doc03]

47. People still darn socks? n/t

[El_Johns]

53. Necessity. Didn't want to spend the money to replace them, didn't want to wear thrift store

used socks.

[doc03]

59. I apologize that was kind of an insensitive remark. I sew buttons on

shirts and sometimes mend a rip in my jeans but never heard of anyone darning socks now days.

[El_Johns]

75. I wasn't offended. I don't think many people darn socks now days. But it saved me a little money.

[Aerows]

87. There are many in need in our community.

I don't say it as an admonishment, but just acknowledging a reality.

[Aerows]

114. If you have a favorite piece of clothing

or you of an odd size, shoe, or otherwise, you learn to darn.

[CTyankee]

129. I still have a wooden "darning egg" but I never use it. I am dreadful at sewing, always have been,

but I used to darn socks all the time. I don't know why I don't have to any more...my socks now never develop holes...

[Aerows]

130. It's always useful

to know how to sew, darn socks and keep a needle and thread handy. I've sewn a pair of beloved sandals back together.

There was no sarcasm intended

Heck, I'm eating grits for lunch because it is cold, and I didn't want to go out, even though it is 40 degrees

[ananda]

24. Try LL Bean.

..

[winter is coming]

84. ^^ This. n/t

[petronius]

26. Heh, no, it's probably just that asking about 'socks' on DU makes people twitchy

Anyway, I think comfy socks are a great gift - we just bought some for my MIL (hope she doesn't read DU), and my wife was pretty stoked to get some for herself...

[Aerows]

39. I honestly didn't think of that

Oh my what a surprise people will get from this thread LOL. I was literally asking about ... socks.

[ohheckyeah]

79. Cabela's has some great socks.

For boot wearing I love my Dan Post socks.

Good socks are one of life's pleasures.

[ohheckyeah]

83. I don't think so....

I love new socks. We bought three 2-packs of Cabellas socks for gifts.

http://www.cabelas.com/catalog/browse/socks-accessories/_/N-1103984/Ns-CATEGORY_SEQ_106308180?WTz_l=Unknown%3Bcat105591780%3Bcat105751080

[NMDemDist2]

2. wool socks with some cashmere for softness

http://www.amazon.com/Ladies-Womens-Thermal-Chunky-6-5-9-5/dp/B0038JSF16/ref=sr_1_13?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1387145680&sr=1-13&keywords=wool+socks

here's a whole page of them, read the reviews and go for it

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_4?url=search-alias%3Dapparel&field-keywords=wool%20socks&sprefix=wool%2Capparel%2C256

[Aerows]

13. Those look awesome

I hope that when I get some of them they are appreciated.

[uppityperson]

3. For winter, I buy Costco wool blend socks. They are grey, warm, thick. I buy them in the store

as can not afford the online "smartwool" ones. A 4 pack is around $15 (link below to amazon). We in the north, where it gets cold or cold and damp, a wool blend is good during this time of year.

Beware fleece ones as sometimes they stretch only one way and can be restrictive around the calf for those of us with larger than stick thin legs. There are some that stretch both ways, but some don't.

ETA, Kirkland is the costco brand. I found them on Amazon. Kirkland is a good brand for daily use, they are quality for the price. I buy the ones at the second link and wear them all the time. They also last for a few years which is nice.
http://www.amazon.com/Kirkland-Signature-Outdoor-Trail-Merino/dp/B009LB8CX6/ref=sr_1_10?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1387145770&sr=1-10&keywords=wool+socks
http://www.amazon.com/Kirkland-Wool-Outdoor-Trail-Medium/dp/B008UFLZ06/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1387145811&sr=1-2

[Aerows]

9. I don't want to give a bad gift, but I would like to give something useful.

Thank you for the suggestion and the advice!

[uppityperson]

11. I wear these, added links. They are comfortable, warm, and last. sox are good present

[Aerows]

14. Not a crappy gift, then?

I just thought it would be something nice for the family all year round.

[uppityperson]

19. Not crappy at all. The Kirkland ones are made in the USA also, so you can feel good about that

and any socks are good gifts. People do not need things, stuff, but consumables and wearables and socks are very much in the appreciated category for me and my family. Stuff a piece of candy in each and say Santa joined in.

[Aerows]

40. "Stuff a piece of candy in each and say Santa joined in"

Nice idea, UP Thanks

EDIT: Bought the pack of four, and I'll add some nuts and candy as per your idea. That was such a sweet idea, I appreciate it. I'm a bit of on a budget this year and can't go to the moon on gifts (and I pretty much was out of ideas).

[uppityperson]

48. Now you have me thinking of doing this also, thanks for the good gift idea.

[Aerows]

52. Tie a nice bow around the top?

I know it doesn't make for an extravagant gift, but it does show love.

[madmom]

27. Just bought my mom & dad some of the merino wool ones (2nd link).. I

paid only $10 a package for them at Burlington Coat Factory.

They recently moved here (NW Ohio) from a slightly warmer state. Thought they might like/need them.

[uppityperson]

33. Good job. I've gone through a lot of wool socks over the years and really like these

they are basic but warm, soft, durable. I have had too many darned and redarned ones with no heels, these ones are doing good. They cost less at Costco than on Amazon too. And made in USA.

[Aerows]

44. I ordered them

And you additionally had a great idea, nuts and candy in the toe! I'm not exceptionally creative when it comes to gift-giving because I'm kind of stuck on practical. That was a nice idea, and I appreciate it.

[kcr]

36. I second the socks from Costco

I love the Kirkland wool socks I got this year.

[Aerows]

45. I'm glad that

it isn't a crappy gift idea. I didn't know what else to do.

[kcr]

46. Not crappy at all

[Duer 157099]

72. I third the wool socks from Costco

Unbelievably comfortable and durable. Highly recommend. And it IS a great gift. So are the blankets from Costco.

[KentuckyWoman]

100. I fourth the wool socks from Costco

Mine are the murano wool kind. I have them on right now.

Best socks I ever had. Summer or winter.

[arcane1]

4. These are absolutely the best socks I've ever worn. I would dance for joy to receive more as a gift.

Plus they're made in the USA

http://www.allamericanclothing.com/made-in-usa/S1221.html

[Aerows]

6. Yay! So it isn't a bad Christmas gift idea?

Thanks! I know I'm probably too practical, but I like to give things that are useful and bring joy to people's lives all year round.

Those look awesome.

[arcane1]

18. In my opinion, it's a great gift idea!

They're sturdy and comfy too

[Aerows]

34. Ooo, and they come in black, too!

Yay! Thank you!

[arcane1]

37. I'm wearing the black on es right this minute

[edbermac]

5. The best socks?

The 2013 World Champion Boston Red Sox!

[LiberalElite]

7. Thorlos!

https://www.thorlo.com/

Thorlos are a little pricey but worth it. I try to get the factory imperfect seconds in discount stores. Good padding and support. Numerous styles for different uses. Made in USA too. A co-worker told me about them years ago and they spoiled me for any other brands.

[Aerows]

16. Thank you!

See, this is the advice I needed. I don't want to give a crappy gift, but I like to be practical.

[jmowreader]

20. They are not "a little pricey" at $14 per pair

They are really nice socks, though.

I like Woolrich socks when I go cross-country skiing.

[madinmaryland]

10. Socks the cat, of course...

[Kingofalldems]

15. Costco has some nice thermal boot socks and athletic socks

with this soles.

[pinboy3niner]

17. Depends. What kind of puppets are you making?

[Aerows]

21. I always stress when gift-giving

I'm horribly practical, and mine would likely end up being a mitten-puppet.

An oven mitt.

[aikoaiko]

22. Check out LL Bean's selection

http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/502854

When I lived in NH I used them year round.

And they have a great return policy -- guaranteed for life.

When I was a poor graduate student I would return them with holes in the heels and they would replace them no questions asked.

[Aerows]

32. Thanks for the link, I'll check it out

I'm pleased no one thinks that this is a bad gift idea.

[aikoaiko]

35. It's a fine idea.

[jberryhill]

23. I LOVE these - also US made

http://www.smartwool.com/mens/socks-2.html

These are absolutely fantastic socks. They will knock your, uh, socks off.

[Aerows]

31. I'm bad ...

I ordered a pair for me instead of as a gift . I got the PhD socks in black for myself LOL.

[jberryhill]

42. They are pricey, but a good value

They also make good support socks, if you are prone to ankle swelling from airplane trips. You're going to like the way your feet feel in them.

[Aerows]

113. I have very narrow feet and don't weigh much

I'm looking for things that supports that. These might work . I'll let you know.

[Little Star]

25. Vermont Country Store might have something......

I like these for women or men:
http://www.vermontcountrystore.com/store/jump/productDetail/Women&aposs/Shoes_&_Accessories/Socks_&_Hosiery/Ragg_Wool_Socks/50705

[Aerows]

28. I was going to order them

but they said they would ship ... Dec 26. .

[Little Star]

51. :( Sorry but they did look nice huh?

[Aerows]

58. They look like your toes

would be having a massage in eternal joy .

[Vinca]

29. World's Softest Socks.

I found them at a Hanes Store, but you can also buy them online. Best socks ever!

http://www.worldssoftest.com/?gclid=CJijtZOns7sCFclQOgodCWUAbw

[Warren DeMontague]

30. You came to the right place.

Trust me. What's funny is, they still think no one notices.

[Brickbat]

38. Wigwams: Union-made in the USA.

[XemaSab]

82. Field biologist approved

[Aerows]

111. We'll see if they are

network engineer field approved .

[BainsBane]

41. These are glorious socks, and I'm very picky

They are cold weather, merino wool socks.

http://www.qvc.com/3-Pair-Merino-Wool-Blend-Boot-Socks.product.A70001.html

[erinlough]

50. Best socks ever, just re-ordered. Nt

[LWolf]

43. My favorite socks,

believe it or not, are diabetic socks. I'm not diabetic, but I like their softness, stretch, and roominess. Here's a sample; I'm sure you can buy them direct:

http://www.amazon.com/Diabetic-Socks-6pair-white-100-cotton-RIBBING/dp/B00BRQLU6Y

[Mopar151]

120. Another rec. for diabetic socks

Especially if your feet swell, for whatever reason, or the seams in some socks bother you. Also, as a big galoot myself - if somebody has (shoe) size 13 or bigger, normal "large" (for shoe size 8-12) are NOT big enuff, it's worth the effort to find the correct size.

[LWolf]

121. My feet

are a 7 or 7.5, depending on the shoe, but they're so wide and my arches are so high that I can't squeeze into a "normal" B width women's shoe. I pay extra to find WW in shoes, and the roomier socks help.

[Aerows]

124. Mine are so narrow

that "normal" socks bunch up and irritate the hell out of me. I have high arches and long skinny toes and feet. Finding 8A shoes that are fashionable is not easy. Finding socks that don't bunch up around your toes and try to drive you crazy is worse.

[LWolf]

131. But we're all supposed

to have B width feet; at least, that's what the manufacturers seem to expect. My high arches lead to supination; I've rolled my right ankle so many times that it's permanently swollen, and at this point, I not only look for double wides, I buy $$$$$ orthopedic shoes built for heel stability.

[HillWilliam]

49. Try bamboo

OMG, they're awesome. They're soft, wick sweat away, stay up on my calves where they belong, and they feel as sexy as socks can possibly feel. Right up there with chocolate.

There's a bamboo sock store in Burlington, NC. There are bound to be more; certainly there are some online. Get yourself a couple of pair while you're shopping. You won't regret it.

[Aerows]

55. I actually have two pair of bamboo running socks

that I cherish. Paired with my hard to find narrow running shoes, they are a blessing. I adore them.

[rdharma]

54. REI Merino Wool expedition socks .......

...... are my favorite cold weather socks.

[bemildred]

63. Yah. nt

[FSogol]

77. Same here. n/t

[rdharma]

81. Oops! Replied in the wrong spot.

[hootinholler]

56. If you're trying to keep your feet warm

Dryness is key. Wear a thin silk sock under thicker wool. The silk wicks moisture into the wool, which will insulate even when wet.

[shedevil69taz]

57. Who would know better than an Army Soldier?

I wear under armour. A little bit spendy but where feet are concerned I feel that the little bit extra is so worth it when you do what I do.

[Aerows]

60. And you would be happy to receive such for Christmas?

If you would be, I can guarantee that most here on DU would chip in to send you a pair.

[shedevil69taz]

64. Oh absolutely...if I needed any more...

I am quite set for the forseeable future...other Soldier's though yes they would love them.

[Aerows]

65. DU Drive

Send great pairs of socks to our soldiers.

Let your feet be warm, because mine are at home.

[Aerows]

66. I'll help, and so will DU, here's the thread I started

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=forum&id=1002

[pintobean]

61. A dog's life

[doc03]

62. I just buy those 6 packs of Gold Toe socks, they are good

enough for me.

[KittyWampus]

67. Aerows >>>go to Sockdreams. Even if you don't get anything for anyone else you'll drool

http://www.sockdreams.com/products/socks/thigh-highs/

[Aerows]

70. OMG... shoes and stockings

I think I need to go be by myself for a while ... Thanks for the link, I'll wipe the drool up in a minute.

[KittyWampus]

73. "Tentacle" thigh highs

?c=

[Aerows]

95. Oh, look at the pond

I got a little wet when I fell into it looking at that.

[2naSalit]

68. SmartWool socks

are the very best, I have several pair that have lasted years and are good for every day and even Xcountry skiing, good elastic, merino wool. there are a couple other brands but I can't remember them right now, and I got a 3-pack of some awesome wool socks at Costco last year that I love.

[Sienna86]

76. Smartwool socks are my favorite

Comfortable and warm.

[dflprincess]

108. I like them

They keep warm when you're outside and are "smart" enough to not overheat your feet when you're inside.

[TexasProgresive]

69. Looks like you got plenty of good advice. Prof. Dumbledore of Harry Potter fame

would've like your gift idea.

Harry, "What do you see when you look in the mirror?"
Dumbledore"I? I see myself holding a pair of thick, woollen socks."
Harry stared.
"One can never have enough socks," said Dumbledore. "Another Christmas has come and gone and I didn't get a single pair. People will insist on giving me books.

Of course books are great gifts as well. Can't have enough books or good socks.

[delta17]

71. Dickies work socks are pretty good.

Soft, and they absorb moisture. They are cool enough to wear in the summer. Wool blend socks are great for the winter.

[murielm99]

74. Wigwams. n/t

[Aerows]

94. I'll look into them!

They sound nice

[shanti]

78. Handmade socks are the best!

Custom designs, perfect fit, if you're lucky enough to know a knitter. My favorite people get my handmade socks

[Aerows]

88. Can I be a favorite people

:bats eyelashes:

[knitter4democracy]

106. Amen to that!

Better yarn, too.

[spanone]

80. thorlo...north carolina

https://www.thorlo.com/

[Aerows]

89. Looks like the best place

to stick a foot. Already linked to, and looks like a great place for feet.

[spanone]

99. i've had some, they are great...pricey, but great socks.

[rdharma]

85. And then there is this type of Socks.......

The "First Kitteh" in the Clinton administration.

[Aerows]

91. I have a meow meow

kind. She's gorgeous, I love her, and she has mittens and big feet with socks. She has the longest toes that I've ever seen on a cat. She practically has alien sock toes, but she's so piled up on the rug inside she couldn't care less about people judging her socks.

I couldn't either. I love her.

Edit: I have long toes, too. We were meant for each other.

[we can do it]

86. Just make sure that the person is not senstive to wool if giving merino or smart wool or ingenious.

They make your feet blow up like a pink itchy balloon if you are (no matter what their advertising says)

[Aerows]

93. Uh oh

how will I know? That would be awful to give a gift that causes an allergic reaction.

Damn. I thought I had the most bland, not causing trouble gift to give.

Holy cow.

[we can do it]

98. I guess ask or get someone to find out.

I got some beautiful (and I'm sure expensive) socks that caused my feet to be very unhappy. They were sold to her as "hypoallergenic" and everyone can wear them......You could always check out Acorn very warm and perform like the wool socks.

edit for link that makes sense
http://www.amazingsocks.com/web-acorn-socks-category-2A1A2A1A0A0-brand.htm

[HappyMe]

122. I can't wear wool. It's itchy for me to

the point of .

I have Smart Wool socks on right now. Not at all itchy, they wear well and no special washing instructions.

[beac]

90. I've recently become a smartwool believer.

I also found some great ones from Duluth Trading for when you want a thicker, heavier sock:

http://www.duluthtrading.com/store/product/mens-heavyweight-primaloft-crew-socks-22502.aspx?kw=socks&processor=content

I bought these for mr beac but ended up snagging a few of the pairs for myself b/c they are SO squishy and cozy-- great for keeping my feet warm in snow boots or just sitting around the house.

It's worth Googling for a coupon for Duluth as there always seems to be a least one good one out there, often including free shipping. (Duluth also carries smartwool for women at pretty good prices.)

[Aerows]

92. Thank you, beac

I'll look into a pair of those.

[adirondacker]

96. Fox River Wick Dry are my absolute favorite...

http://www.amazon.com/Fox-River-Socks/b/ref=dp_apparel_byline_ety?ie=UTF8&node=2592140011&field-lbr_brands_browse-bin=Fox+River+Socks

Others bunch up in my boots or have excess toe material that flips around. The Wick Dry's stay close to your feet and are extremely comfortable hiking, biking, skiiing or casual walking.

[Aerows]

97. You know about socks!

"bunch up in my boots or have excess toe material that flips around"

I'll add "excess toe material that flips around" and annoys the shit out of you because your toes are scrunching around trying to get away from it. It's like having a diamondback rattlesnake in your shoes, and you are trying to keep your toes away from it.

[adirondacker]

103. Exactly!

I have severe pronation due to very high arches and anything ill fitting is like wearing a torture device. I used to hike extensively and occasionally ski, and bike and have never suffered blisters or discomfort from their socks. I've tried EVERY sock on the market and no other compares to the comfort of Fox Rivers. They last long and are made in the USA.

You may want to check out their own website for the latest and greatest...
http://www.foxsox.com/defaultEcomm.aspx

I often buy their seconds on Sierra Trading Post...
http://www.sierratradingpost.com/s~fox-river-socks/?perPage=24

Happy Feet! and Happy Holidays Aerows!

[Aerows]

110. Narrow Feet!

Me too!

Thank you for the link. You, more than everybody, know what my feet go through. Severe pronation describes it.

[question everything]

101. We like Land's End

but they are not cheap..

Though they now have a 40% sale on everything..

Good luck

[Chan790]

102. I once had a lovely pair of hand-knit wool socks made from the same heavy yarn...

that Icelandic knitters use to make sweaters for fishermen. I inherited them from a 90-year old man my parents looked out for because he had no family.

Sadly they got a hole and then another hole and another and later enough they were more hole than sock. I looked to replace them but they're not cheap, like €26/pair.

Warmest fucking socks ever.

[Aerows]

112. Oh

Iceland is a nice country. The people there are so nice, I'd bet someone would darn them and make them again for you chan790dottir

[MrMickeysMom]

104. Adidas!

Honestly, go to the sports stores, or men's section. They're really sports compression socks with a support in the arch and the base to toe area. And, they are good for guys and ladies. I wear them inside my Dansko's staying toasty, keeping up, and not cutting off circulation.

[knitter4democracy]

105. I go to Sierra Trading Post for wool socks.

That is, if I'm not wearing my own handknit socks.

[magical thyme]

107. goldtoe, according to the add that just popped up on my screen

never heard of them before and have no idea what the eff kind of socks they are. Just sayin'...

[WinkyDink]

109. Re: circulation: I bought my husband "socks for diabetics".

[LittleBlue]

115. 113 replies about socks. Well played

[Aerows]

118. I asked a question so that I could buy gifts for the family

since I love them all. Love. Family. Caring about people, even down to their socks. Their feet.

[LittleBlue]

119. Powerful stuff, Aerows. You should be in advertising

Suddenly I feel the urge to buy socks.

[Aerows]

123. I wasn't selling, but offer me a higher paying job

and I might take it . I love network engineering, though, so you'll have to pony up!

[RobinA]

116. Fits

light hiking socks. Best socks ever.

[Laffy Kat]

117. Well, don't go to Walmart. ALL their socks suck.

Even the name brand ones. Don't know why. They are cheap, of course; however, the "get what you pay for" was never so true.

[Aerows]

126. LOL

I am hoping that everyone in my family has warm feet for Christmas, that's my aim