Types of Men’s Wool Socks: Which Should You Choose?
Not all wool socks are made for the same purpose. From dependable merino wool socks for regular wear to colourful patterned pairs and luxurious cashmere socks for relaxing at home, the right choice depends on when, where and how you plan to wear them.
In this guide, we take a closer look at the different types of men’s wool socks and what sets each one apart.
Classic Merino Wool Socks
If you're looking for a versatile pair of wool socks for regular wear, merino is an excellent place to start.
Our classic wool socks are made in Britain from a blend of 70% merino wool and 30% nylon. Merino wool provides natural warmth and softness, while the addition of nylon gives the socks extra strength and durability.
The result is a comfortable, practical sock that can be worn regularly with everything from smart shoes to boots. Available in a choice of classic colours, they're a firm favourite with Joseph Turner customers and a dependable addition to any sock drawer.
Best for: regular wear, work, weekends, smart shoes and boots.colder climates that inspired them.
Patterned Wool Socks
For those who prefer a little more colour, patterned wool socks combine the warmth and comfort of a wool blend with more distinctive designs.
Made in Leicestershire, our patterned socks include traditional Fair Isle and Nordic inspired designs alongside classic stripes. They're an easy way to introduce colour and pattern to an outfit without straying too far from classic style.
Wear them with jeans, chinos or corduroy trousers, or choose a patterned pair as a useful gift.
Best for: casual wear, country outfits, adding colour and gifting.
Cashmere Socks
At the more luxurious end of the sock drawer are cashmere socks.
Our cashmere socks are knitted in Leicester using yarn from renowned Scottish cashmere specialist Todd & Duncan. Made from 80% cashmere and 20% nylon, they are exceptionally soft, warm and gentle against the skin.
Cashmere socks are considerably more delicate than our classic merino wool socks and are not intended to replace your regular pairs. Instead, they are best worn at home without shoes or with slippers, where you can enjoy their exceptional softness without subjecting the fibres to unnecessary friction.
Cashmere is a natural fibre and will naturally relax during wear. To help preserve their softness and shape, our cashmere socks should be hand washed only.
Best for: relaxing at home, wearing with slippers and gifting.
Merino Wool or Cashmere Socks?
Merino wool and cashmere are both natural fibres renowned for their warmth and softness, but they serve rather different purposes when it comes to socks.
Merino wool is the more practical choice for regular wear. Our classic merino wool socks combine 70% merino with 30% nylon, giving them the durability needed for wearing inside shoes and boots while retaining the natural benefits of wool.
Cashmere offers an exceptionally soft and luxurious feel but requires more careful treatment. It is better suited to relaxing at home than regular wear inside footwear.
For a dependable pair to wear throughout the week, choose merino wool. For something particularly soft and indulgent, choose cashmere.
Plain or Patterned Wool Socks?
Choosing between plain and patterned wool socks largely comes down to what you're wearing them with.
Plain wool socks are particularly versatile and work well with both smarter and more casual outfits. Traditional shades are easy to coordinate with chinos, cords, jeans and tailored trousers.
Patterned socks provide an opportunity to introduce a little more colour. Fair Isle and Nordic designs work particularly well with relaxed autumn and winter clothing, while classic stripes are easy to wear throughout the year.
There's no particular reason to choose one or the other, of course. A well stocked sock drawer has room for both.
Which Wool Socks Should You Choose?
The best men's wool socks are the ones suited to how you intend to wear them.
Choose classic merino wool socks if you want a comfortable, durable pair for regular wear with shoes or boots.
Choose patterned wool socks if you want the warmth and comfort of a wool blend with a little more colour and interest.
Choose cashmere socks if softness and warmth are the priority and you're looking for something luxurious to wear at home.
Whether you prefer classic merino wool, traditional patterns or luxurious cashmere, find the right pair for you in our collection of men’s socks.