Merino wool socks: what they do and why they matter
A sock is the layer between your foot and the lining of your shoe. Over a day, a foot releases a steady amount of moisture, and whatever the sock does not take up goes into the leather. What that layer is made of decides how dry your foot stays and how well your shoes hold up.
Why merino
Merino wool comes from the merino sheep and is considerably finer than ordinary wool. The fine fibre bends against the skin instead of pricking it, which is why merino does not itch the way a wool jumper can.
Wool absorbs moisture into the fibre itself, up to about a third of its own weight, and still feels dry against the skin. Cotton takes up moisture too, but holds it on the surface and feels damp. Synthetic fibres take up very little and leave the moisture on your foot.
The natural crimp of the fibre traps air. That keeps your feet warm in winter and lets heat escape in summer, so the same sock works year round under a leather shoe.
Wool also binds odour compounds in the fibre, and because the sock stays drier, bacteria have less to work with. In practice a merino sock stays fresh for longer than cotton.
Good for your shoes
Moisture the sock holds does not end up in the lining and insole. That matters most in unlined shoes such as the Lecce, where the suede sits directly against the sock. Combined with a cedar shoe tree after wearing, it keeps the inside of the shoe dry from both sides.
Crew or knee high
Our merino socks come in two lengths. The crew length suits loafers and casual shoes. The knee high dress sock stays up when you sit and cross your legs, so no bare shin shows between trouser and shoe.
Care
Wash at 30 degrees on a wool programme, inside out. Lay flat to dry, not in the tumble dryer; heat shrinks wool. Between wears, airing is often enough.
Our merino wool socks
Made in Italy. Sizes 41/42, 43/44 and 45/46, €14.95 per pair.
Frequently asked questions
Do merino socks itch? No. Merino fibres are fine enough to bend against the skin rather than prick it.
Are merino socks too warm for summer? No. The fibre lets heat and moisture out as well as keeping warmth in, so it works in both seasons.
