Merino Wool Socks Benefits - Keep Feet Dry in Extreme Weather

Most people think of wool socks as being too warm and itchy. That is simply not the case today.

Yes, wool socks are known for their warmth but today, they do not make your feet sweat but actually whisk moisture away - keeping your feet dry and comfortable. And they are no longer itchy either. What many individuals do not know is that not all wool is the same, and not all wool is itchy.

Wool is unlike any other product in the marketplace.

There are many different types of sheep in the world. Some of them are ideal for meat and others are known for their wool.

There are breeds of sheep that have wool that is very soft and not coarse. This wool is silky and comfortable. It stills retains its ability to keep the feet warm, and to pull moisture away from the skin. The breed of sheep is the Merino. The wool of the Merinos has a very high fiber count. The high fiber count enhances the quality of the wool because it makes it more dense. The density of the wool intensifies its properties of warmth, moisture absorption and elasticity.

The wool of the Merino also has a high crimp count. Its count can be as high as 100 crimps per inch. This adds to its softness, quality, and the ability to manipulate it. Like other wools, Merino wool has the ability to resist static electricity. Wool overall is also very flame retardant. This makes it an ideal material for use in children's clothing and apparel.

Wool has many other benefits as well. It is comfortable and soft, and very breathable. Many grades of wool are very strong and durable as well. It has amazing elasticity so it can move and adjust to the positions and movements of ones' feet.

Another benefit is that wool stabilizes the temperature of one's feet. It will keep the feet warm when it is cold, and cool when it is warm. Wool will pull the moisture away from the feet and keep the feet dry. This allows for a lessened level of the bacteria that can grow and fester around the feet. In doing this, wool dissipates odors and athlete's foot.

Wool will keep the wearer quite warm. Many outdoors sportsmen wear wool socks for its many qualities. Hikers, cyclists, bikers, walkers, runners, snowboarders and skiers all swear by the warmth and dryness of wool socks.

Wool socks keep the temperature of the feet level and keep the feet dry and comfortable. Especially in colder temperatures, wool will keep the frostbite away and keep the wearer dry and snug. Wool is the optimum material for socks. Merino wool is the best for keeping moisture away from your body.

What must be kept in mind is that wool must be washed very gently. Rougher cycles in the washing machine can shrink and distort the shape and fibers of wool. The individual should hand wash their wool socks in order to retain their shape. Never use excessive detergent because this can harm the quality of the socks.

Fill the sink about half way with warm water and then add just a pinch of detergent. Work the dirt and grime out of the socks with your fingers. Rinse them thoroughly with warm water, until the water runs clear. Do not over wring the sock to remove the water. Gently press the sock to remove any excess water. Then lay the sock out flat to dry. One should never dry a wool sock in the dryer. This will seriously damage and shrink the sock.