When you're hiking, running or working out you want comfortable socks that protect your feet from blisters and chafing. Woven socks have a unique weave that adds structure and durability to the sock, and they're often made of natural fibers that are sustainable and eco-friendly. They also keep your feet cool and comfortable for longer than other socks.

There are several different kinds of woven socks including cotton, wool, bamboo, and silk. The main advantage of cotton is that it's naturally breathable and wicks sweat away from the feet. Bamboo is a more sustainable option because it grows quickly and doesn't require fertilizers to thrive. It's also free of chemicals that could irritate the skin and cause itching or discomfort. Silk is a high-end material that adds comfort and longevity to a sock. It's soft against the skin and dries more quickly than cotton or other synthetic materials. Silk has anti-bacterial properties that prevent odor and keeps the feet fresh for longer periods of time.

Wool, like merino wool, is a natural material with many benefits. It's a great insulator, keeping your feet warm in cold conditions, and it can even be comfortable when wet. Merino wool is softer than regular wool and isn't itchy, but it can be pricier than other options.

If you're looking for the ultimate in warmth, look for a sock that incorporates more wool than other materials. The Smartwool Classic Mountaineer Maximum Cushion and REI Co-op Merino Wool Expedition are excellent examples of this. This kind of sock provides impressive insulation both in wet and dry conditions, and it's also very easy to pack. However, if you're planning to wear these socks all the time, be prepared to replace them more frequently than other kinds of socks.

Other woven fabrics include nylon and polyester, which are synthetic fibers that offer similar benefits as merino wool but cost less. These fabrics are often combined with cotton or lycra(tm) spandex, which help the sock retain its shape and create a snug fit. Nylon and lycra also wick moisture away from the foot, helping it to stay dry and reducing the likelihood of blisters. Other synthetic materials that are used in some sock styles are CoolMax(tm) polyester, Wickspun(tm) acrylic, and Isolfil(tm) polypropylene.

If you're looking for a way to give your employees or customers a custom promotional item that will be worn regularly, consider woven logoed socks. These use the same process as a knitted sock to etch a logo into the fabric, so the image will last longer than a printed logo on a separate piece of material. The result is a more polished, professional appearance that your staff or clients will appreciate.