Smartwool has been a go-to brand among Men’s Health staff for years. Many of its best-selling socks rely on a clever blend of Merino wool (already great for all of the reasons we alluded to above) with next-gen synthetics. The result: incredible moisture-wicking, all-day comfort, and A+ odor-resistance, so you can wear them for days without washing (not that we recommend it) if you have to.
The Nordic Crew Sock boasts all of the above features. It has a Merino wool base mixed with elastane and two different types of nylon for a soft, quick-wicking sock that didn’t tear or stink even after I wore it on an hours-long hiking trip during a cold-as-hell weekend. This is a performance-minded sock that has mesh zones throughout for extra breathability, making it great for every type of activity. It’s got a thin layer of cushioning, which added a touch of comfort when I lounge around my home in it.
What sets these apart, however, is the midweight thickness and minimalist look. The fit and aesthetic are perfect for all-day wear, no matter what you’re getting into. So, it transitions from the couch to the office to the trail seamlessly. It looks great and will keep you comfortable and, perhaps most importantly, warm in cold weather mile after mile. In fact, I’ve used the same pair of socks for more than a year, and found that they look and feel as good as new.
Read more: Best Thermal Underwear for Men