Geoff Hodge tests socks
The best socks for you when you’re out in the garden in cold weather
There’s nothing more uncomfortable than having cold feet when gardening. This is especially true for those gardeners with poor circulation and even Raynaud’s disease. That’s where a good pair of trusty warm gardening socks will be a godsend. So, I put my best foot forward and went out and tested some! All the best ones contained merino wool. This is renowned for being super soft, breathable to reduce sweating, wicks away moisture and helps to regulate body temperature.
1 Lorpen 4-Season Sock £30
This two-sock system features a thinner inner sock, worn on its own in summer, and a thicker outer sock, which kept my feet lovely and warm. They can be worn together for double insulation. Three sizes available. Quality ★★★★★ Performance ★★★★★ Comfort ★★★★ Value ★★★★ Supplier Genus, 0203 617 1166, www.genus.gs.
2 Rohan Cool & Cold £16 & £19
Extremely comfortable and warming, they have a reinforced toe and heel box. The standard length (£16) came half-way up my calves, making them very supportive. Versions are available for men and women. The Cool & Cold Long Socks (£19) were just longer, coming to just below my knees, perfect for Wellies and again, available for both men and women. Quality ★★★★★ Performance ★★★★★ Comfort ★★★★★ Value ★★★★★ Rohan, 08008 401411, www.rohan.co.uk.
3 HJ Hall Wellington Boot Sock HJ608 £10
Excellent long, woolly socks, especially suited for wearing with Wellingtons and very warming for the whole lower leg, especially as they came up to and just beyond my knees. Sizes available for men and women. Quality ★★★★★ Performance ★★★★ Comfort ★★★★★ Value ★★★★★ Supplier HJ Hall, 0116 244 1342, www.hj.co.uk.
4 HJ Hall Premium Boot Sock HJ213 £10
These were slightly longer than the other socks tested, coming three-quarters of the way up my calves. This and the high-wool content made these socks the heaviest tested, but were warm and comfy. Available in two sizes. Quality ★★★★★ Performance ★★★★ Comfort ★★★★★ Value ★★★★★ Supplier HJ Hall, 0116 244 1342, www.hj.co.uk.
5 Bridgedale Trekker Endurance Sock £18
Lightweight socks which came half way up my calves. A tight, but comfy, fit that didn’t slip and stayed up permanently. Lots of underfoot padding and lack of underfoot seams added to the comfort level. Available in four sizes. Quality ★★★★★ Performance ★★★★★ Comfort ★★★★★ Value ★★★★★ Supplier Bridgedale, www.bridgedale.com.