Is Merino Wool Itchy to Wear? - FITS®

October 27, 2022

Whether you’re looking for cozy socks to lounge around the house or a new pair of running, hiking, or cycling socks, merino wool socks are an excellent choice. Socks made from merino wool have long been the gold standard in comfort, quality, durability, and breathability. 

Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial, meaning it resists bacteria and fungus growth. Plus, the fibers naturally help regulate temperature and prevent foot odor. These properties make merino wool an ideal fabric for socks to wear in any weather or for any activity. But are merino wool socks itchy? If itchiness is a concern, keep reading to learn whether or not merino wool is itchy.

What is Merino Wool?

Merino wool is a type of wool that comes from the Merino sheep. The sheep are native to Australia and New Zealand, and they are known for their high-quality wool. The wool is exceptionally soft and versatile, making it ideal for a variety of garments. In order to make merino wool, the fleece is first shorn from the sheep. It is then cleaned and processed into yarn to be used to knit or weave fabric. Because of its many desirable qualities, merino wool is often considered one of the best types of wool available, especially for socks. 

Are Merino Wool Socks Itchy?

So, is merino wool itchy? No! Many people find that merino wool socks are actually less likely to cause itchiness than socks made from other materials. The hair of the Merino sheep is among the finest of all wool, making it exceptionally soft and smooth. So much so that socks made from merino wool fibers can even help prevent skin irritation.  

Additionally, the fibers are able to absorb moisture, which helps keep feet dry and comfortable. As a result, people who wear merino wool socks often find they can enjoy all the benefits of wool without any of the itchiness.

How to Make Merino Wool Less Itchy

While merino wool is naturally soft and smooth, that’s not to say it can’t cause itchiness if you have sensitive skin. The good news is that you can still experience the benefits of merino wool socks by using household products to relax the fibers and reduce any irritation or itchiness. Nevertheless, if you experience a consistent reaction to merino wool, we suggest wearing clothing made from a different fabric. 

READ MORE: Does Merino Wool Shrink When Washed?

How to Care for Merino Wool Socks

Merino wool is a delicate fiber, and merino wool socks require special care to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips for caring for your merino wool socks to keep them feeling soft and smooth and not itchy.

  • Turn your socks inside out before washing
  • Wash your socks by hand or on a gentle cycle
  • Wash your socks in cold or warm water (not hot water, as it could cause your socks to shrink)
  • Do not use bleach on your merino wool socks, as it can ruin the fibers
  • Do not use fabric softener on your merino wool socks, as it can alter the moisture-wicking properties
  • Dry your socks by gently squeezing out excess water
  • Lay your socks flat to dry (or use your dryer on a low setting)

Keep in mind that you can wear merino wool socks multiple times before they need a wash. This is because of the anti-microbial, odor-resistant, and moisture-wicking properties naturally found in merino wool.

READ MORE: How to Wash Wool Socks to Increase Wear

So, Is Merino Wool Itchy?

Nope! Merino wool socks are not itchy. That means you can wear them and experience all the benefits without any repercussions. Merino wool socks keep your feet warm and dry in the winter and cool and sweat-free in the summer. So, whether you’re looking for the best socks for skiing, lightweight cycling socks to make your rides more enjoyable, or socks for everyday wear, socks made from merino wool are an excellent choice.

If you’re ready to get your hands on a pair of soft, smooth wool socks, look no further than FITS wool socks for men and wool socks for women.

Find Your Perfect Pair of Non-Itchy Merino Wool Socks at FITS

At FITS, we offer a wide range of merino wool socks in different sizes, styles, colors, and thicknesses. The low-cut style is perfect for running or hiking in warm weather, while the mid-calf style provides more coverage and insulation for colder days. The crew style is ideal for everyday wear, and the knee-high style is perfect for skiing or snowboarding. No matter your needs, there is a pair of FITS merino wool socks for you! Browse our collection of merino wool socks today to find your perfect fit. 


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Sock Sizing
women and men size chart

The Perfect Fit Starts With the Right Size.

Your sock size shouldn’t be a guessing game. Our socks range from small to double XL, but the best way to know the perfect fit for you is to match your shoe size to the chart on the left. That way, you’ll know the size you select will give you the fit and feel you expect.

Between sizes? Go with your gut, but rest assured that your socks will still fit great. If you receive your order and find yourself wishing you’d gone up or down a size, just let us know. We’ll happily send you replacements for your preferred size.

Concerned about laundry mix-ups? All FITS® socks are coordinated by color and size, based on the colors you see on the size chart. So, you won’t have to worry about mixing up your sizes with the other FITS® wearers in your home. (But stray socks mysteriously going missing in the dryer? Unfortunately, we can’t help with that.)

 

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How Do You Determine Sock Size?

Sock sizes are typically measured in inches, not by your shoe size. So, a sock size 6-8 will comfortably fit someone whose feet are between six and eight inches long. However, at FITS®, we make it easy for you to choose the ideal sock size without having to measure your foot. Simply use our sock size conversion chart based on your shoe size to select the right fit for you. 

How Do You Measure Your Foot for Socks?

To measure your foot for socks, measure the length from the heel of your foot to the tip of your longest toe. The measurement in inches correlates to your sock size. For example, if your foot is 10 inches long, a sock size 9-11 should fit you comfortably. At FITS®, you can skip this step and find your sock size based on your shoe size using our conversion chart. 

What Is the Sock Size Conversion?

The sock size conversion refers to sock size compared to shoe size. While all companies may vary slightly on which size socks to purchase based on your shoe size, you can always measure your foot to find the right fit for you. 

What is Sock Size to Shoe Size?

Because sock sizes are determined by the length of your foot in inches vs. your shoe size, shoe and sock sizes differ. The FITS® sock size to shoe size conversion is as follows:

Knowing this makes it easy to choose the ideal sock size based on your shoe size without measuring your foot. 

What Age is Sock Size 9-12?

Sock sizes typically don’t correlate with age. For kids, age can be a general indicator of what size sock they’ll need, but everyone is different. An adult sock size 9-12 fits anyone whose feet are approximately nine to twelve inches long. For kids’ sock sizing, check with the company to find exact details to ensure your little one gets the perfect fit. 

Got more questions about finding the perfect sock size for you? Let’s talk.

 

 

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