The 6 Best Vegan Alternatives to Wool Socks

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Wool socks have 2 major things going for them: they’re warm, and they’re comfortable.

But there are quite a few vegan alternatives to wool socks that are just as warm or comfortable, and most of them don’t even cost any extra.

The most common vegan materials that are used for wool alternatives are:

Material Type Main Properties
Bamboo Natural
  • Anti-fungal
  • Odor resistant
  • Very soft
Cotton Natural
  • Soft
  • Warm
  • Breathable
  • NOT warm when wet
Polyester Synthetic (petroleum-based)
  • Warm
  • Breathable
Acrylic Synthetic (petroleum-based)
  • Water-resistant
  • Warm and soft
  • Feels fairly similar to wool
Nylon Synthetic (petroleum-based)
  • Durable
  • Stretchy
  • Not too common for socks

Most socks are a blend of those, but polyester and bamboo are the 2 “main” materials in most vegan socks.

If you think the socks will get wet, go with a synthetic option. Cotton and bamboo will NOT keep you warm when wet.

I’ve compiled the most highly rated recommended wool sock alternatives that I could find. They are great for cold winter weather sports and hiking.

Some links go to women’s or men’s versions, but they all have multiple models or are unisex.

1. Darn Tough Coolmax Micro Crew Cushion Socks

Main material: Polyester

This sock is specifically designed for hikers.

It’s made from 34% CoolMax polyester, 37% nylon, 26% acrylic, 2% Lycra spandex.

CoolMax materials were originally developed by DuPont in 1986. The modern versions feature moisture-wicking abilities, but are also very warm.

Here’s the women’s version of these socks.

2. Dig bamboo fiber socks

Main material: Bamboo

Something I learned not too long ago is that socks can be made from bamboo.

I would’ve never guessed.

These are eco-friendly socks that take 1/3 of the water to make that cotton socks would need.

They’re intended for light hiking weather. I wouldn’t recommend them for freezing hiking weather, but they’re a good choice if you want a comfortable, warm casual sock.

3. Sierra Socks Women’s Outdoor Winter Bamboo Crew Socks

Main material: Bamboo

sierra vegan socks

Sierra Socks makes a whole bunch of different women’s socks. They all have amazing reviews.

These ones in particular are 88% Rayon from Bamboo, 10% Nylon, and 2% Spandex.

They are medium thickness, so while warm, they’re not the best for extreme cold weather.

Finally, they are anti-microbial and anti-fungi, and are moisture-wicking, so your feet won’t get sweaty.

4. Unisex Premium Bamboo Socks (Low-cut)

Main material: Bamboo

bamboo low cut unisex socks

The reason that bamboo is such a good sock material is that it’s naturally antibacterial, making it odor resistant and anti-fungal. Plus it’s still comfortable.

These socks are 88.6% Rayon from Bamboo, 10.2% Polyester, and 1.2% Spandex.

They are very soft, but good casual socks year-round because the moisture wicking keeps your feet cool in the summer, but they’re still warm in the winter.

5. Areke Advanced Cushion Crew Socks for Hiking

Main Material: Cotton

areke advanced hiking socks

These socks are 85% Cotton, 12% Polyester, 1% Spandex, 1% Nylon, and 1% Rubber. Being mostly cotton makes them super soft and warm.

The other materials are included for moisture wicking and odor-resistant properties, which help your feet stay dry even during hiking.

6. Soft Warm Microfiber Fuzzy Socks

Main material: Polyester

microfiber socks

Last but not least are these fuzzy microfiber socks.

Pretty warm, and super comfortable. They are very soft, and probably the best vegan alternative to merino wool.

These are made from 93% polyester, 5% polyurethane, 2% spandex.

Again, more of a casual sock than a hiking in the mountains sock.

About the author

Dale Cudmore

Your friendly neighborhood vegan from Toronto. I've spent over 6 years as a freelance nutrition writer and researcher. During this time, I've tested over 50 vegan protein powders, and over 100 other types of vegan supplements.