Best cashmere socks to keep your toes warm this winter

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Ashmere. It’s almost onomatopoeia, the word itself feels soft.

The fabric is named after the area where wool was first developed – Kashmir, in the northernmost region of the Indian subcontinent. Today, the production region includes China, Mongolia, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran, where cashmere-producing goats are raised at an altitude of more than 1200 meters.

Cashmere, also known as the fiber of kings, or the golden fleece, has earned its luxury reputation for its difficulty in harvesting – it takes a single goat an entire year to produce enough cashmere for just one shawl. The extremely soft hairs form exclusively under the rough outer coat of the goat, on their neck and underbelly.

In Greek mythology, Jason and his loyal Argonauts are said to have set out in search of the golden fleece of the winged ram to secure his rightful place on the throne of Iolcus in Thessaly. However, the term ‘cashmere’ did not come into use until around the sixteenth century, when it came to be used to describe the woolen cloth spun by Kashmiri artisans on the Silk Road to India.

Cashmere fibers are longer, smoother and straighter than other types of wool. They even get longer as the seasons get colder and in Inner Mongolia temperatures drop well below minus 40 degrees Celsius. Born out of an evolutionary need to adapt to their environment, no animal can withstand the cold better than Mongolian goats. Towards the end of winter, the goats begin to shed their inner and outer coats and the cashmere fibers are carefully and expertly harvested with a single fine-toothed comb.

That’s why there is simply no better wool to keep you warm during the winter months. We all shudder at the feeling of a partner’s unwelcome, ice-cold toes in the middle of the night, or tiptoe painfully across icy kitchen tiles in search of a midnight snack — but it’s nothing a pair of cashmere socks can’t fix.

How do you care for cashmere?

Due to its luxurious nature, it is essential to understand how to care for your cashmere item so that it lasts (metaphorically, don’t go hiking in cashmere socks, please). We spoke to Ali, owner of the sustainable, second-hand cashmere brand the Nearly New Cashmere Co, for some top tips to extend the life of your cashmere.

“It’s important to be aware that if you’re buying cashmere socks, they’re not for everyday use with hiking boots,” notes Ali, urging those interested in purchasing a pair to wear them only to keep warm indoors. “However, they are especially great for people with poor circulation in the winter,” she adds.

“Cashmere loves a good wash. With most cashmere you can put them on a short gentle cycle at no more than 30 degrees and a quick spin – they look like new again,” says Ali. Cashmere, contrary to popular belief, also regenerates incredibly well .Just buy one cashmere comb to remove excess fluff and give your garment a second life.

Who said getting your parent, partner or friend a luxurious pair of socks for Christmas was a no-no? Check out our roundup of the best cashmere socks on the market right now.

Pantherella 1 Pair 85% Cashmere Rib Socks Women

sock shop

These mid-height, pink ribbed cashmere socks from Pantherella fulfill all our off-duty ballerina dreams. They are made of 85 percent cashmere and a small amount of nylon to make them more durable. Don’t worry, because with such a high percentage of cashmere in the fabric composition you still get that luxuriously soft feeling.

Brora women’s cashmere socks in eucalyptus

Brother

In a refreshing eucalyptus green, these 90 percent cashmere socks are made from ultra-soft Scottish cashmere with 10 percent nylon reinforcement in the heels and toe to prevent that inevitable wear and tear. We especially love the subtle, thin ribbed design and that extra bit of shin length for the perfect Mary Jane pleat.

M&S pure cashmere socks

MRS

These luxurious cashmere socks from M&S in a delicate melange gray combine easy and stylish loungewear with quality for ultimate comfort at home. They are 100 percent cashmere and machine washable, just be sure to hang them up to dry.

The White Company Cashmere bed socks

The White Company

No one does better when it comes to sleeping comfort than The White Company, and the incredibly cozy and warming 100 percent cashmere bed socks are a godsend.

The high-quality cashmere ensures that you do not suffer from that itchy wool feeling that makes you kick your socks off in the middle of the night. Winter becomes a breeze with these wonders.

Cash Ca cashmere socks

Cash Approx

We love the ribbed, contrasting white trim on these ankle-length cashmere socks from Cash Ca. Founded in 1999, the English knitwear company is known for its traditional, trusted knitting techniques and dedication to using the finest high-quality cashmere. The brand recommends hand washing this delicate, ultra-soft pair.

Johnstons of Elgin Cable knit cashmere socks

Johnstons of Elgin

Knitted cable pattern? For winter? Pioneering. Still, we are a huge fan of these super classic off-white cashmere socks from Johnstons of Elgin. The Wool Mill was established in Elgin in 1797 and has been producing the finest wool fibers ever since. You really can’t go wrong with 100 percent Scottish sourced cashmere.

Calzedonia Short Socks with Cashmere and Glitter

Calzedonia

Sparkling socks and the holidays go together like brie and a well-rounded merlot. However, they often result in unbearable scratchiness and absolutely no heat. Enter: the cashmere and glitter mix ankle socks from Calzedonia.

They’re only 10 percent cashmere, so they’re one of the few pairs in this roundup that’s better suited for fashion than bedtime — but they’re sure to keep your twirling toes warm on the Christmas party dancefloor with a pair of chunky platform sandals.

Hansel From Basel Rib Cashmere Knee High Socks

Hans from Basel

Los Angeles-based hosiery specialist Hansel From Basel inspires playfulness and creativity in each of his woolen creations. The pieces are ethically made, with 30 percent of each collection produced using 100 percent renewable energy.

These scarlet red knee high cashmere socks have a funky contrasting lilac nose. They can be worn all the way up or pushed down for a folded legwarmer vibe. Crafted from space-dyed yarn with dip-dyed thread, no two pairs are exactly the same – so it’s a good idea to hand wash these cozy essentials in a blend of cashmere and merino.

Birkenstock 1774 Cashmere Socks in Cognac

Birkenstock 1774

Birkenstock 1774’s namesake dates back to the brand’s founding year and illustrates the relationship between tradition and innovation that is an integral part of this exclusive line. These 90 percent cashmere socks come in a cognac and dark camel color with a set of double stripes below the cuff and also feature the label’s signature logo printed on the sole.

Rosie Sugden Cashmere Bed Socks, Spearmint

Rosie Suden

You’ll be rushing off to bed with these beautifully soft cashmere socks from Rosie Sugden, seen here in Fortnum & Mason’s signature mint green color. Made in a family-run mill on the Scottish Borders, you can be sure that your toes will be graced with only the finest cashmere.

John Lewis cashmere blend striped ankle socks, light blue

John Lewis

Adorned with Cornishwear-inspired and instantly recognizable blue and white stripes, this pair of John Lewis cashmere blend socks will give you the same radiant warmth as a cup of tea on a cold day.

Even though they’re only 8 percent cashmere, they’re sure to last through winter and beyond thanks to the firming viscose and elastane.