Woolx Fearless Socks Crew Length Full Cushion

This is an extremely tough, durable, and comfortable pair of socks! I have used these socks for three-season wear, hiking, and snowshoeing in cold and warm temperatures. I have also found them a warm sock to wear under my dry suit booties for cold water paddling. They are reasonably priced, and I am comfortable recommending them to other folks.

                                                     Manufacturer's photo

During my outdoor pursuits over the past few years, I have come to appreciate the value of merino wool for base layer tops and bottoms, as well as hats. This year, I have been converted to my WoolX merino wool socks, as my favorite socks beneath my three-season hiking boots, and my winter snowshoeing/hiking boots as well.

I have used wool socks from various manufacturers, and there are many solid, dependable, and good quality sock manufacturers available. But I am tough on socks…for whatever reason, I seem to wear them out at a faster than normal rate, resulting in toe-holes and worn heels.

I first tried the WoolX sock because I absolutely love this brand’s merino wool base layers, and hoped that maybe this sock would survive my tendency towards sockicide. Yes, it has met my expectations, and I can highly recommend this sock.

My preferred sock height for snowshoeing and hiking is crew length. This WoolX sock is great, as it stays up on my calf well, and thus remains above boot-top level. This is most likely a result of the lycra component; I have yet to encounter any bunching, or sock slouching. The smooth, snug, but not too tight fit means no blisters, and no foot irritation.

This model sock is 75% Australian Merino Wool, 15% Nylon, and 10% Lycra. The merino keeps my feet warm in each of my different pairs of boots, and also does not itch at all. WoolX does make other socks, with different wool percentages, but I have found this is the best for keeping me warm, but not allowing my feet to get too hot or sweaty. Can a sock breathe? I think this one does, and I have successfully used these socks in temperatures from well below zero up to 70 degrees (f). The instep portion of the sock is mesh weave, which is reported to aid in ventilation.

This particular sock is considered “Midweight” by the manufacturer. When my first pair arrived, I was a bit disconcerted, since they appeared a bit thicker than I wanted. However, they pull on smoothly, and are actually correctly labelled as midweight. There is only a flat seam at the toe, and the sock is cushioned, providing a nice level of comfort.

                                    Inside out...nice and soft and cushioned

I followed the instructions on the packaging when washing the socks; warm water and tumble dry low. The socks washed fine, and have remained at the noted comfort level. I did note that my first pair seemed to “pill” a bit, and I wondered if that had occurred not only from wear, but also from my washing them. I checked the laundry directions that accompanied the online order...alas, on the website description, it is mentioned you should “Machine wash and dry – turn inside out”. So, with my next pair, I have turned them inside out before washing, and the pilling is not as noticeable.

               Pair #1, after washing w/o turning inside out..a bit of pilling on foot and upper

Pair #2, after I began turning inside out before washing...less pilling. Not sure it affects performance, and not a big cosmetic issue, but probably a good idea to turn them inside out before washing.

I searched the manufacturer’s website, and other outdoor sources, but was able to find them only for sale in the Charcoal color.

Durable! Yes, these socks have shown no signs of wear, after months of wearing, and washing, them frequently. Good durable socks, that have become my favorites, and I can highly recommend them.

                   Can't see 'em, but they are there, under the neoprene booties!