Socks...

I'm interested in what all you hard core winter photogs wear for socks... I have wool socks that keep my feet reasonably warm for short periods and as long as I keep moving, but while I'm standing still, my feet get cold fast when the temp drops below about 25 degrees...

The other problem is that they are thick and because of that, I can really only wear one layer.

Hey! COOL! it just started snowing out here again!

I'm not that hardcore but I wear two pairs of REI brand woll socks. I wear a light pair on the bottom and then a super heavywieght on the outside. But I am hardly ever out when it is below 30 or so. If I know my feet will be getting wet I replace the inner layer with some neoprene "hydroskin" socks. I have never tried waterproof socks but I have heard the do not work.\

I have a friend who swears by a pair of pink fleece socks he stole from his tween sister! - covered by a light pair of black wool socks ofcourse

Curtis,

You may want to check out "mountaineering xhvy mid-calf" socks (80%wool, 19%nylon, and 1%spandex -- pc 10-133) made by Smartwool, these with liners make a good combination in very cold weather (you could also add chemical heat packs -- Grabber makes full insole, or toe types which attach to the outside of the sock).

You may also want to look at the type of hiking boot you are using.

Regards, Simon

Good point Simon, so since you brought it up... What about boots? I don't do Hudon/Adamus style adventure, but I do get into the snow on occasion, but so far not for more than a couple hours at a time. Although in about three years, after I've recovered from knee replacements, I'd like to do some moderate snowshoeing...

A second vote for the Smartwool socks. I use them almost all year round.

-Brett

I also give my vote for smart wool. I think Andy may have thought you were talking about 25 below zero.

Curtis,

Unfortunately I think you will find there is no one boot which is right for all types of hiking or conditions. Further, stating the obvious, but hiking boots (like packs) need to be tried on in person. Some general things I tend to look for beyond comfort are: Rubber outsole for traction on ascents and descents, Breathable interior which wicks moisture away from your feet, Protective toe rand, Padded collar and tongue, Gusseted tongue, Waterproof Gore-Tex (I love Gore-tex), Insulated if they are to be used for cold, and so on.

A general purpose boot which I like and use (your mileage may vary) is the Asolo FSN 95 (don't know if they still make these, but I like Asolo products).

My suggestion would be to go to someplace like REI and try some different boots on.

Regards, Simon

I admit I'm a wuss. I can't keep my feet warm without.....electric sox. PLUS
Started using them when I was an avid skiier, and still love them.
The new versions have such a thin cord you can't even feel it., especially with thick wool socks.
Sandy

At WinterBoots.com you can find a decent selection of more casual winter footwear that you can later search for in town and try on if you're so inclined. Smartwool has some great winter socks, but you all have to keep in mind that more and/or heavier socks DO NOT mean warmer feet. Thick socks can reduce circulation to the feet so remember to buy winter boots a half size bigger. Adding really thick socks to your normal boots probably will not keep you any warmer. It's more an issue of the type of material - synthetics and merino wool being best, and good blood circulation. Don't put on several sock layers. Again, this just reduces circulation. Layer your feet appropriately with an insulated boot, mid or heavyweight sock, and if it's really cold and you will be out for quite a while and overboot will eventually become necessary. Overboots are bulky and offer additional protection for long exposure to sub-zero conditions. Lastly, you can find cheap heating packs for insertion into between the sock and boot interior at practically any outdoor store, and they are quite long-lasting and versitile.

I generally use smartwool but have some thicker socks... but I'm finding they don't always keep my feet warmer becaue they make the boot tighter so Marc's right - thicker is not better.

Well it looks like my socks are not the problem then. I've been wearing smartwool socks for years. I wear the year round. I'll try bying larger boots to wear with my thicker socks and see how that works out. Thanks for all the feedback folks!