Outdoor activities in cold weather pose challenges for both safety and comfort. That’s why it’s imperative to wear optimal clothing. Heated socks contain battery-powered heating wires in the instep, forefoot, and toe areas to keep feet warm in frigid conditions.
They’re ideal for winter sports such as skiing, hiking, ice fishing, and more. Additionally, heated socks meet the cold-weather needs of those who work outdoors on farms and ranches, construction jobs, and similar occupations. People who experience pain and stiffness from arthritis or chronically cold extremities due to circulation problems also benefit from wearing heated socks. The best heated socks provide relief from the effects of Raynaud’s syndrome as well.
- BEST OVERALL: SNOW DEER 2022 Upgraded Rechargeable Heated Socks
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: TrazonHeated Socks for Men and Women Rechargeable
- BEST FOR SKIING AND HIKING: Dr.Warm Wireless Heated Socks, Remote Control
- BEST FAST-RECHARGING: SAVIOR HEAT Heated Socks for Men Women Rechargeable
- BEST BATTERY LIFE: Gobi HeatTread Heated Socks
- BEST REMOTE CONTROL: VELAZZIO Heated Socks for Men Women, Remote Control
- BEST COMPRESSION FIT: Day Wolf Heated Socks for Men Women, Electric
- BEST FOR WOMEN: Rabbitroom Heated Socks Women Electric Battery Socks
How We Chose the Best Heated Socks
After consulting numerous expert sources online and carefully perusing the product descriptions for 16 options, we assembled our list of recommendations for the best electric heated socks. We focused on the best rechargeable heated socks, as the convenience of rechargeable batteries contributes to the value of the heating socks. Battery life and remote control features came to the forefront of our investigation as well.
Additionally, we considered the materials that go into the battery-heated socks. We gave preference to products made from stretchy, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials, as these qualities contribute to comfort. We also considered the durability of electric socks with extra built-in padding, as these provide comfort for the wearer over longer periods of time.
Our Top Picks
Considering high-quality materials and desirable features for heated socks made by reliable manufacturers, we assembled our list of top picks. Read on to discover our recommendations.
Photo: amazon.com
Time spent outdoors in cold weather is more pleasant with these heated socks from Snow Deer. They’re ideal for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, hunting, cycling, fishing, hiking, camping, and more. The infrared heating elements cover the entire front area of the foot to provide warmth and stimulate circulation.
Choose your desired heating level from among high, middle, and low settings. The 7.4-volt lithium-ion polymer batteries last from 2.5 hours up to 6 hours. Users can recharge the batteries in 3 to 4 hours.
These heated socks are suitable for both men and women; select from four size options, including small, medium, large, and extra large. Additionally, the breathable fabric is absorbent and quick drying. Extra padding is included in the heel and the toe for durability and comfort.
Product Specs
- Materials: 55 percent CoolMax (polyester), 25 percent elastic, and 20 percent spandex
- Battery type:Rechargeable 7.4-volt 2200-milliamp-hour lithium-ion polymer
- Maximum temperature: 130 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Rechargeable batteries get back to full power in just a few hours
- Moisture-wicking, breathable material that stays comfortable during activity
- 3 heat settings match changing body temperature and weather conditions
- Reinforced and padded heel and toe provide all-day comfort
Cons
- Does not feature remote control operation
- Battery life is not as long as some other options
Get the Snow Deer rechargeable heated socks on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
In these heated socks by Trazon, the heating elements are situated between a soft inner layer and a windproof outer layer of fabric. While providing comfort and warmth, this design offers safety from accidental electrocution, even when wet.
With 90 percent cotton threads, the breathable fabric keeps feet dry and comfortable. Additionally, with 10 percent spandex (a stretchy material), the socks fit snugly to feet and legs without sagging.
For those working outdoors in cold weather or participating in winter sports, these heated socks will provide warmth for 3 to 7.5 hours. Low, medium, and high temperature settings allow the selection of heat output ranging from 100 degrees to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. For added convenience, the batteries have indicators that alert the user when it’s time for recharging.
Product Specs
- Materials: 90 percent cotton, 10 percent spandex
- Battery type: Rechargeable 5-volt Type-C lithium-ion polymer 2000-milliamp-hour
- Maximum temperature: 122 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Rechargeable batteries provide heat for up to 7 hours
- Breathable material blended with spandex to keep socks in place during movement
- Soft inner layer with windproof outer layer
- Battery level indicator helps prevent unexpected loss of power
Cons
- Does not feature remote control operation
- Battery life is not as long as some other options
Get the Trazon heated socks on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Dr.Warm heated socks work well under ski boots and other boots intended for winter work and play in cold temperatures. The thickness of the fabric (almost ⅛ inch) contributes to their comfort while helping to retain the heat. Additionally, the tall height of the socks facilitates wearing them with boots.
After a 4-hour charging time, the lithium batteries will deliver warmth for 3.5 to 11 hours. Use the remote control to select from low-, medium-, and high-heat settings, ranging from 113 degrees to 149 degrees Fahrenheit.
The heating membrane wraps around the foot’s instep and toes to deliver soothing warmth where needed. In addition to their usefulness for skiing, hiking, fishing, hunting, and working outdoors, Dr.Warm heated socks benefit people with arthritic joints and Raynaud’s syndrome.
Product Specs
- Materials:Cotton, acrylic, nylon, and spandex
- Battery type: Rechargeable 7.4-volt 2600-milliamp-hour lithium-ion
- Maximum temperature: 149 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Remote control for easy adjustment without fussing to get under layers of clothing
- Extra-thick material for softness and insulation
- Machine washable for easy care
- Maximum temperature is higher than other options, reaching up to 149 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
- Battery life is not as long as some other options; requires more frequent charging
Get the Dr.Warm heated socks on Amazon or My Cooling Store.
Photo: amazon.com
It takes only 3 to 3.5 hours to recharge the batteries in these heated socks. Then, the infrared-fiber heating elements will begin to deliver soothing heat in only a few seconds. Choose a low-, medium-, or high-heat setting to enjoy warmth ranging from 95 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Utilizing a fabric blend of CoolMax polyester, elastic, and spandex, the socks stay in place without slipping. Moreover, the Savior Heat company recently increased the softness of the electrical wires by 10 percent to ensure a comfortable wearing experience.
These long socks extend up over the calf area, making them ideal to wear with winter boots. Use them for cold-weather outdoor sports or simply when walking the dog. Savior Heat socks are especially helpful to people with poor circulation or arthritis.
Product Specs
- Materials: 55 percent CoolMax (polyester), 25 percent elastic, 20 percent spandex
- Battery type: Rechargeable 7.4-volt 2200-milliamp-hour lithium-ion
- Maximum temperature: 140 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Padded and reinforced heel and toe increase durability
- Battery-recharging time of 3 to 3.5 hours
- Nonslip fabric keeps socks from bunching at the heel or around the ankle
- Soft electrical wires for increased wearing comfort
Cons
- Does not feature remote control operation
Get the SAVIOR HEAT heated socks on Amazon or Savior Gloves.
Photo: gobiheat.com
Whether for long days working outdoors or hitting the ski slopes all day, the batteries in Gobi Heat heated socks will deliver heat for up to 12 hours. Alternatively, they provide overnight warmth for winter campers or for people with poor circulation or arthritis.
Use the wireless remote control to select from among low-, medium-, and high-heat settings. The steel fibers embedded in the 100 percent cotton socks deliver heat in just 30 seconds. In addition to the breathable cotton fabric, these socks feature mesh areas for enhanced breathability. They’re available in three attractive color combinations.
The rechargeable lithium-ion polymer batteries feature an ultra-slim, compact design and recharge in 3 to 4 hours.
Product Specs
- Materials: 100 percent cotton
- Battery type: Rechargeable 2400 milliamp-hour lithium-ion polymer
- Maximum temperature: 140 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Wireless remote control operation makes for easy temperature adjustments
- Breathable material stays dry even on sweaty feet
- Embedded steel fiber technology delivers heat in only 30 seconds
Cons
- More expensive than other heated sock options
Get the Gobi Heat heated socks on Amazon or on Gobi Heat.
Photo: amazon.com
Pair the batteries with the remote to moderate the temperature of Velazzio heated socks using the compact remote control. Lights on the remote device indicate the temperature settings. The red light indicates a high-heat output (up to 145 degrees Fahrenheit), the green light indicates medium heat (up to 135 degrees), and the blue light indicates low heat (up to 110 degrees).
The polyester material in these heated socks wicks moisture away from the body. Additionally, the fabric dries quickly if the socks become wet.
Two heating areas in the Velazzio socks surround the instep, the forefoot, and the toes with warmth. Heating is detected within 30 seconds after activating the batteries. On low heat, the batteries last up to 7.5 hours. The medium setting ensures battery operation for up to 6 hours, and when operating on the high-heat setting, the batteries will last up to 4.5 hours.
Product Specs
- Materials: Polyester
- Battery type: Rechargeable 3.7-volt 4000-milliamp-hour lithium-ion
- Maximum temperature: 145 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Wireless remote operation moderates temperature without effort
- Heat-indicator lights on the remote provide quick reference for setting
- Moisture-wicking fabric dries quickly if socks become wet
- Heating areas surround the forefoot and the instep areas
Cons
- Battery life is not as long as some other options
Get the VELAZZIO heated socks on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Day Wolf heated socks offer a compression fit for muscle support and comfort during cold-weather activities. Additionally, they stimulate blood circulation and provide relief for stiff and painful joints.
The polyester elastane material creates a stretchy quality that allows freedom of movement. Moreover, the breathable fabric wicks moisture away from the body. As an added bonus, the socks feature ergonomically knitted padding for the heels and toes.
The infrared heating elements cover the entire forefoot area of these socks. Therefore, both the sole of the foot and the toes receive soothing warmth from the hidden wires that are sewn into the fabric. For extended use, the rechargeable batteries last up to 13 hours when fully charged.
Product Specs
- Materials: 92 percent polyester and 8 percent elastane
- Battery type: Rechargeable 7.4-volt 2200-milliamp-hour lithium-ion
- Maximum temperature: 131 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Moisture-wicking material helps keep feet dry
- Extra padding for the heels and toes for added comfort during all-day wear
- Long battery life provides double the wear time of several other options
- Hidden heating wires cover the forefoot area to warm both the sole and toes
Cons
- Does not feature remote control operation
Get the Day Wolf heated socks on Amazon or Day Wolf.
Photo: amazon.com
Constructed from a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, these heated socks from Rabbitroom stretch to fit women’s shoe sizes 6 to 10. The fabric is breathable to enhance comfort, and the heating elements cover the top of the foot, near the toes.
Light indicators on the batteries indicate high-, medium-, and low-heat settings. Operate the batteries on the low-heat setting (green light) for up to 6.5 hours. When set on medium heat (orange light), the battery life is up to 5 hours. On the high setting (red light), the batteries last up to 3.5 hours. The heat output will reach a maximum of 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
Use these heated socks for outdoor winter sports and cold-weather activities. Alternatively, people with poor circulation, arthritis, or Raynaud’s syndrome may benefit from the toasty warmth these socks provide.
Product Specs
- Materials: Cotton, polyester, spandex
- Battery type: Rechargeable 3.7-volt lithium-ion
- Maximum temperature: 125 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Stretchy material made of blended cotton, polyester, and spandex offers a snug fit
- Available in a range of attractive colors
- Colored-light indicators for 3 heat output settings
Cons
- Does not feature remote-control operation
- Maximum temperature output is lower than other options
- Battery life is not as long as other options
Get the Rabbitroom heated socks for women on Amazon or Rabbitroom.
A Recap of Our Recommendations
- BEST OVERALL: SNOW DEER 2022 Upgraded Rechargeable Heated Socks
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: TrazonHeated Socks for Men and Women Rechargeable
- BEST FOR SKIING AND HIKING: Dr.Warm Wireless Heated Socks, Remote Control
- BEST FAST-RECHARGING: SAVIOR HEAT Heated Socks for Men Women Rechargeable
- BEST BATTERY LIFE: Gobi HeatTread Heated Socks
- BEST REMOTE CONTROL: VELAZZIO Heated Socks for Men Women, Remote Control
- BEST COMPRESSION FIT: Day Wolf Heated Socks for Men Women, Electric
- BEST FOR WOMEN: Rabbitroom Heated Socks Women Electric Battery Socks
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Heated Socks
Heated socks fill the need for warming people’s feet in a variety of situations. However, shoppers searching for the best heated socks for skiing, hunting, working outdoors, or soothing arthritic joints may agree on a list of commonly desirable features. These features focus on several considerations, including the materials, comfort, fit, and intended use for the electric socks. Additionally, one might consider battery life and the remote control capabilities that make heated socks functional and convenient to wear.
Material and Warmth
Wool socks and thick, insulated socks constitute reliable footwear for cold weather. But heated socks go a step beyond regular socks in producing warmth. They radiate heat by way of battery-powered heating elements sewn into the socks.
Generally, the heating wires surround the instep, the forefoot, and the toe areas of heated socks. They are powered by small, slender batteries placed in pockets near the tops of the socks. When they’re connected to the heating wires and activated, the batteries power the radiant heating process.
Manufacturers use a variety of blended materials to produce soft and warm socks that conform to the foot, ankle, and lower leg without slipping down. These materials include cotton, wool, polyester, elastane, spandex, and nylon.
Comfort and Fit
Heated socks for women and men are available in a range of sizes. Shoppers might look for heated socks that stretch to achieve the most desirable fit. These socks include elastic, elastane, and spandex blended with other materials such as cotton, wool, and polyester. The stretchy socks will enhance the fit by conforming to the contours of the user’s feet, ankles, and lower legs.
For comfort, many heated socks include extra padding in the heel and toe areas. Additionally, the thick socks hold in the heat for comfort in cold weather.
Breathability and moisture wicking are additional features that add to the comfort of heated socks. For controlling foot perspiration during use, the material in some heated socks wicks moisture away from the body. Additionally, materials designated as “breathable” allow moisture to escape during wear.
Activity and Intended Use
Heated socks provide warmth for users engaged in a plethora of cold-weather activities. These include winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. When the mercury dips, heated socks are also useful for simple activities such as shoveling snow or walking the dog.
On the other hand, heated socks are an ideal choice for anyone engaged in cold-weather outdoor work. Examples include ranching, farming, construction, logging, and landscaping to name a few. For those who work outdoors for hours in frigid temperatures, heated socks provide comfort and protection.
People who experience poor circulation in their lower extremities find relief with heated socks. They soothe the pain and stiffness of arthritis and Raynaud’s syndrome, a disorder in which blood supply to the extremities is limited. Users might wear heated socks during the day, but they’re also useful when worn in bed for a comfortable night’s sleep.
Battery Life
Manufacturers include batteries with their heated socks. In most cases, these are rechargeable lithium ion–type batteries. Heating elements in the socks will produce warmth as long as the batteries continue to operate. When a battery’s charge fades, the heating function subsides.
Heated socks differ in their projected battery life, as various manufacturers offer different types of batteries. In general, batteries may last up to 12 hours when operated on a low-heat setting and only 3.5 hours when working at a high-heat capacity. Shoppers might take note of the battery life advertised for individual heated-sock options.
When heated socks operate on low-heat settings, their batteries demonstrate maximum battery life. Alternatively, the use of medium- and high-heat settings results in a commensurately shorter battery life.
Temperature Control
Users need to control the heat output of heated socks, making adjustments in response to temperature changes and their own comfort needs. Most heated socks offer three temperature settings: high, medium, and low. The maximum heat output ranges from approximately 122 degrees to 149 degrees Fahrenheit.
In some heated socks, the temperature controls are located on the tops of the batteries. Users place the batteries in pockets near the tops of the socks to allow connection with the heating wires. Handy indicator lights on the batteries show that high-, medium-, or low-heat settings are engaged.
On the other hand, some heated socks feature remote control of the temperature output. The remote resembles a small key fob. It may be placed in the user’s pocket or attached to a key chain. Furthermore, a few heated socks available today offer remote control via an app on the user’s phone.
Safety Tips for Using the Best Heated Socks
It’s wise to consider safety when using any electric-powered products. Therefore, people may wonder if it’s safe to wear heated socks that are battery powered.
Heated socks are designed to be worn safely, even when wet. A waterproof membrane separates the heating-element wires, making them safe to wear while damp. However, the socks should never be submerged in water while in operation.
Always remove the batteries before laundering heated socks. Some manufacturers indicate that their heated socks are machine washable and others recommend the socks be washed by hand.
When recharging the batteries for heated socks, always use the charger that came with the product. The lithium-ion batteries could overheat, melt, or ignite if they are charged with a charger other than the one included by the manufacturer with the purchase of the socks.
- Do not submerge the socks in water while they’re operating.
- Always remove the batteries before laundering the socks.
- Use the charger that came with the socks.
FAQs
For many people, heated socks fill a need for warming the feet. Whether it’s for cold-weather sports participation, working outdoors in winter, or providing relief from the discomfort of circulation problems, heated socks may be the answer. Read on for frequently asked questions about the use and care of heated socks.
Q. How do you wash heated socks?
Always remove the batteries before laundering heated socks. Some manufacturers say their heated socks can be machine washed. Hand-washing prevents possible damage to the heating wires. Use mild detergent and cool water.
Q. Can heated socks go in the dryer?
After washing, place heated socks on a flat surface to dry. Or, hang them over a drying rack. Do not tumble-dry heated socks in an electric dryer.
Q. Should you wear socks under heated socks?
Many users recommend wearing a thin pair of socks (sock liners) underneath heated socks. However, this is optional.
Q. How long do heated socks stay warm?
Heating duration depends on the life of the batteries in the socks. When operating on a low-temperature output, the batteries will last longer than when they operate on a high setting.
Q. What type of socks are best for cold feet?
Wool socks and padded, insulated socks help to hold in body heat. Battery-powered heated socks offer the additional advantage of radiant heat produced by heating elements sewn into the forefoot and toe areas of the socks.
Q. Can heated socks get wet?
Heated socks may become damp during wear, but you should never submerge heated socks in water while in operation. Remove the batteries before washing the socks.
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