Review of Heated Socks

Several companies make battery-powered heated socks using “D” batteries. The differences are where the battery is located on the heated socks. The ones with the battery at the top of the sock cuff cause the sock to fall down with the weight of the battery. Some have a connector cable making it so the battery can be positioned anywhere on the sock that would be comfortable for you.

Another problem with the “D” battery is that they have a limited charge time only about two hours. However, there are some designs that will stay heated for up to 10 hours. Some battery heated socks use re-chargeable batteries that can be worn other places like a belt or a pocket. These are the best kind of socks because of the heaviness of the “D” batteries; however, they are more expensive. The following two brands show you the differences in cost and warmth.

The Lectra Battery Heated Boot Style Socks from Nordic Gear, Inc. feature a built in area to keep the heating unit. It is made of 36% virgin wool, 33% winter acrylic, 22% polyester, and 9% nylon. This style has a heated toe and requires one “D” battery per sock. The good thing about this sock is that it keeps your feet dry for a cost of $20-$30 for each pair you buy.

The bad thing is that battery operated socks barely get warm and this particular one was reviewed showing that it was made too tight to be comfortable putting it on and off. They have a wire that goes under your toes making them hurt your feet. But at least these heated socks keep your feet dry.

First Gear heated socks are warm and safe for the motorcyclist. They heat up your toes and are made of micro fleece. They are made using a flat heat technology allowing them to store easily. Compared to the battery heated socks they are warmer and more comfortable with no wires to feel when you walk.

They are heated with 9 watts of heat in each sock. The only problem with these is you do have to buy a heat controller separately and the socks are already expensive at a cost of $59.95 per pair.

Another kind of sock is the Heat Factory Merino Wool Pocket Socks. These do not use batteries or electricity, but they do use a pack that you put in the toe to warm your feet. One pack of Heat Factory Foot Warmers is included but you will have to buy extras for later use. The cost of the sock is $26.95 plus the cost of the warmers.

The socks are made with heavyweight Merino wool blend with a pocket over the toes to hold the foot warmers. They will give you around six hours of warmth. At least these do not have the big “D” battery to carry around all day! And they are a little cheaper than the flat heat technology ones.

Gerbing’s is a company that uses a special technology to heat their socks. It is a Microwire Heat Technology heating system. This heating system lets the heat warm above and below your feet. They are made of perspiration-wicking 4 way stretch material to allow a snug fit for more warmth.

Each sock is cut to be specifically for either the left foot or the right foot so they fit and wear better. The wire that heats it with is so thin you barely notice it at all. This company also offers a Lifetime Warranty for these socks. And they only cost a mere $89.95 a pair. So, you can decide at what cost do you want to stay warm?

Thunderbolt socks are made to give your feet a continuous direct heat which also helps to stay warm all over. The socks come with an AC adapter to be plugged into a wall socket. They are good for people with poor circulation due to diseases or cold climates.

On the downside the costs of staying warm inside with a pair of Thunderbolt socks is $144.95, and just remember if you move from your spot in the house to be sure to unplug the cord.