Boot Socks

[JacketAddict]

Hi guys and gals - I searched for this topic before posting but perhaps it has not been taken up yet. I am wondering about your favorite boot socks. Out of necessity I went to the local Kohls and bought several brands. I may go look at a few other places today like REI or Dick's Sporting Goods. Seems that good quality "real" boot socks are hard to find especially in larger (12+ sizes). I have found most socks to be way too tight and XL or larger than a top size of 12 are difficult to find at most stores. Also, my socks tend to wear holes in the heels rather quickly.
I am a size 11.5-12 W in boots.
The "Crofts and Barrow Boot Sock" size 7-12 is too thin and too tight - not impressed. To be returned. Another brand called "Power Sox Goldtoe" in Large (9-12.5) are pretty nice. Fairly thick and pull on nicely. Nice weave patterns also.
Anyone care to share your favorite brand and sources for boot socks? I wouldn't mind paying a bit more for some very good high-end socks that do what they are supposed to do as far as providing comfort and cushioning and long wear - not that just say "boot socks" on the label.

 

[Hurricane Jack]

I like Thorlo Western Boot Socks with cowboy boots. They have some cushioning in the heel, arch & ball of your foot but are not overly thick in other areas. If you are wanting thick socks for work or hiking boots then these may not serve the purpose. They are made from a mix of acrylic, cotton & spandex material. Because of the acrylic they will last a long time. About $15/pair at better western boot stores. You won't find these at Kohls or Target.

 

[RMF308]

Check out "Darn Tough" wool socks made in Vermont. It's what many backpackers swear by and the guarantee is hard to beat (they will replace if they wear out). They are a little more expensive than some others (smart wool) but well worth it. You can find them at REI. They have over the calf versions, as well as shorter versions; offer multiple sizes, colors, and padding choices. They are the best socks that I've ever worn and I'm about as picky about socks fitting as Mr. Pitt was in the Seinfield sock episode

 

[KILO NOVEMBER]

Check out Duluth Trading. I prefer over-the-calf socks. I have bought maybe a dozen pairs over the years. The earlier ones have a tendency to sag (not every one, but one is enough to be annoying), but the ones I've bought recently are differently constructed and don't sag. They come in several weights.

 

[Ernest P Shackleton]

I'd check Sierra Trading Post. Also CostCo. Also Slick Deals online for bargains. Lots of user feedback on Slick Deals to give you an idea of quality and performance.

Many years ago, when in an antique store, I found some "Alaskan military socks" for $10. Used socks for $10? Yes. These looked unworn. Above the knee. 1" to 1.5" thick (not exaggerating). Folded, they look thicker than a sweater. I'd never seen anything like them and still haven't after periodically looking on eBay. If nothing else, I could wear them around the house as slippers, because they were that thick and cushiony. I've only worn them a few times. Too hot to wear in the house, and I'd have to buy a pair of boots a few sizes too big in order to use them. I like them.

 

[buler]

Another huge vote for Darn Tough socks. I've tried just about every brand possible and these are the best. You have to get over the price, but they are well worth it. I buy them from gobros.com. Sign up for their email alerts. They have regular Darn Tough sales. I've also bought a few pair at TJ Maxxs/Marshalls.

B

 

[SkyTurtle]

I have more of a system rather than a particular sock. I'm mainly wearing my boots on the motorcycle and I hate for the socks to fall below the top of the boots, so I prefer simple cotton (usually Gildan) socks under a pair of the basic football socks sold by Dick's. They are a cotton blend, stay up over the calf very well, and come in a wide variety of colors so I can [theoretically] more easily keep them paired through the washer/dryer. Have done it this way for years now but I'm open to change so I may try some of the ones you guys are mentioning.