Smartwool Split Stripe Socks

Lightweight, crewcut sock that can easily pass as a dress sock. Merino wool will keep feet dry and cool, but comes without cushion. I won't use them for anything beyond casual use.

Conditions and Use: I've had these a few months now and have worn them many times. These are great socks for casual or business needs, but I wouldn't use them for any adventure activities due to a lack of cushion. Don't be surprised if people say things along the lines of " hey, I like your crazy socks" or "wow, those socks are pretty funky." 

If covertly letting others know your brand loyalties is important to you, you'll notice in the photo that the SmartWool name is not stitched across the toe like it is on many other SmartWool (and other brands) socks. If you need to remind yourself and others of the company's name, it's buried on the lower side of each sock.

Construction and Durability: The 67% merino wool is great, with 30% nylon and 3% elastane (for the arch and ankle bands). Whenever possible I buy products with merino wool as it has all the best heating/cooling/drying properties. These socks are witness to that. Extremely lightweight, and breathable. If you're used to cotton socks or even heavy wool socks, you'll forget you're even wearing socks with these on. That's how lightweight they are.

Sizing: This may be the most important part of the review: I wear a 12.5 - 13 men's shoe and bought the large (9 - 11.5) instead of the extra-large (12 - 14.5). I've learned to do this with every pair of SmartWool socks I own. For some reason, I think the smaller size fits better.

Also, these socks seem to be on the taller end of the crewcut spectrum. I have long legs (I'm 6'3") and these still come up higher than most other crewcut socks I own. I measured them after the photo below was taken and they are 9.5" above the top of my ankles. Not a problem, just an observation (See photo below).

Temp: These babies are 67% merino wool, so they will keep your feet cool and dry. If you can't tell, I have a thing for merino wool. These are better for keeping feet cool in the warm weather, not necessarily warm in the cold weather. They're just too thin for that.

Notice how tall the SmartWool Split Stripe Sock (Right Foot) is compared to a "normal" crewcut sock. These are very tall for being considered crew cut. These are 9.5" above the top of my ankle.