Sock Knitting Expert Kate Atherley’s 5 Favorite Sock Yarns

I’m not just a committed sock-knitter, I’m a committed sock-wearer. Well, ok, not in the summer, but from September to May, my feet are covered—and always in a pair of handknit socks.

There are two reasons for this: The first is that I’ve got a lot of handknit socks. I’ve been knitting socks for over 25 years, and so I have a fairly extensive selection . . . enough that even if I’m not keeping up with the laundry, I’ve got fresh wool socks every day. And the other reason is that I live in Toronto, and it gets cold here. Really cold, in the winter. Our temperatures are consistently below freezing between early December and late March.

Because I wear them, all the time, and in cold weather, my favorite sock yarns share two key characteristics: they are hardwearing and warm. For warmth, I always want a majority-wool blend, and for longevity, I prefer yarns with something included specifically for strength. I lean towards a yarn with 15-25% nylon alongside the wool, as that provides a strong core and ensures they’ll stand up to . . . well, all that standing!

Best Every-Day Sock Yarn

I adore the Regia line from Schachenmayr. My first sock-knitting love, I have pairs knitted in this yarn that are over 20 years old and still going strong. There are colors for every mood, style, and outfit. You cannot go wrong with this one.

Related: Kate Atherley’s Top 5 Tips for Sock Knitting

Most Fun & Colorful Yarn for Socks

For fun and colorful socks, I turn to another great classic: West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-ply. Their blend includes 35% BFL (Blue-faced Leicester), which is a breed of sheep whose wool is almost as shiny and luscious as the much-loved Merino, but significantly harder-wearing. They do themed color collections, and if it’s your thing, they do a special edition Holiday color every year. (Wearing holiday socks is fun enough, but wearing handknit holiday socks is the best!)

These first two yarns might not feel as soft and squishy as some on the market, but soft and squishiness aren’t good for something you’re walking on. The softer the yarn, the more likely it is to pill. And when a sock pills, that means that it’s wearing away. Of course, you don’t want to use anything that makes you itch, but a sturdier yarn is going to make a significantly longer-lasting sock.

Unbeatable on Your Feet for Warmth & Prettiness

Sweet Georgia Yarns’ Mohair Silk Sock is Merino-based, with that all-important nylon for longevity, of course, but it’s also got 15% each of silk and mohair in the blend. Silk and mohair are fantastic additions: these fibers are both warmer and more insulating than wool, and stronger. Plus, the silk adds a nice sheen, too. Sweet Georgia has a wonderful section of hand-dyed solid and nearly solid colors, lots of brights, and some lovely, sophisticated neutrals. This yarn is deceptively soft and fancy-looking, given how tough it is.

Related: 5 Reasons Knitting Socks is Better than Buying Socks

Pure Luxury for Heels & Toes

The Fibre Co.’s Amble is pretty special in a couple of ways: it uses another super-warm fiber—alpaca— blended with Merino and nylon. But don’t worry, it’s still machine washable! The Fibre Co. prides itself on its commitment to sustainability. They use recycled nylon and an environmentally responsible method for making the yarn machine-washable.

Premium Organic Sock Yarn

Neighborhood Fiber Co. uses a pure Merino base for its Organic Studio Sock, which is excellent for those who have extra-sensitive feet, or really want a lot of softness and beautiful sheen in their colors. Pure Merino isn’t always the best for sock, but this one is created specifically with sock knitting in mind: it’s a tightly twisted, 8-ply construction, which is much hardier than most Merino bases. It’s also environmentally responsible. It’s pure organic wool and uses a different process than the standard for making it machine-washable.

Choosing the right sock yarn is essential for both comfort and durability. Whether you prioritize warmth and longevity or desire a touch of luxury, various yarn options are available to suit your needs. Some yarns with added nylon provide strength and wear resistance, ideal for everyday use in colder climates. Others blend materials like mohair and silk for added warmth and sheen. Additionally, some brands focus on sustainability, using recycled materials and environmentally responsible processes.

Related: How a Sock is Supposed to Fit

Ultimately, the perfect sock yarn depends on your preferences, whether it’s softness, durability, or eco-friendliness. So, select your yarn wisely, and keep your toes snug throughout the cooler months.

What’s your favorite sock yarn? Share your picks in the comments below!

Kate Atherley is Knitty.com’s Managing Technical Editor, and a seasoned designer and teacher of all things knitterly. She has written eight books and edited a ninth. She is also the co-publisher of Digits & Threads, an online magazine about Canadian fiber and textile arts, crafts, and industry. Visit her at www.kateatherley.com or on social media @kateatherleyknits.