When it comes to your foot health socks are usually over shadowed by the search for the best exterior footwear. However, choosing the right socks is a highly important part of keeping your feet (and general health ) in the best condition. When the seasons are changing and the weather is turning colder it's well worth the effort to stock up on the appropriate socks. Sock Season should not be taken lightly.
Like most people, your sock drawer is probably crowded full of a wide variety of styles and colors of cotton socks.
The reason cotton socks are absolutely terrible choices for cool weather is because they have little insulation value and because they absorb and hold moisture. Worse yet, once a cotton sock is wet, it loses all insulation value. The end result of wearing cotton socks during the winter is that as your foot perspires the sock absorbs the moisture and then holds it, thereby coating your foot with a slick film of water while losing all insulation value in the process.
For cold weather, a sock made of wool, IsoWool, shearling, fleece and similar type synthetic materials must be used. The reason these types socks are excellent for winter wear is because if the socks get wet (due to excessive perspiration from the foot), the socks themselves do not lose their insulating properties. Additionally, the various styles of synthetic socks are also generally far thicker than a standard thin cotton sock, allowing the sock to absorb far more moisture. Moreover, and one of the neatest features of these types of socks, is that dry themselves out by simply being worn. The body heat of a person can actually dry out these types of socks.
Winter socks aren't just for outdoor use, either. If you suffer from cold feet while just sitting at home, as many people do, take a look at the socks you wear. If they are made from cotton, regardless of how thick or stylish they might be, you might as well be sitting around barefoot as the sock is potentially doing more harm than good.
Remember, in cold weather, particularly if you engage in strenuous activities, avoid any socks that has any cotton content in it. Your foot will be thankful to you for it.
Reference: http://www.bigskyfishing.com/snow-boots/winter-sock.php
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