Phase 1: Buy Sustainably
Look for synthetics made from recycled materials, like REPREVE recycled yarns, to reduce reliance on virgin resources.
Choose socks made with Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) or ZQ-certified merino to ensure animal welfare and sustainable land management.
Brands that offer a lifetime guarantee encourage repair and replacement over disposal, significantly reducing waste over time.
Phase 2: Use for Longevity
Use a gentle cycle to reduce wear and tear on the delicate wool fibers.
This helps wash away sweat and skin cells from the inside and reduces pilling on the outside.
High heat can damage and shrink wool fibers. Air drying is the gentlest method.
Fabric softener coats wool fibers and can inhibit their natural moisture-wicking and thermoregulating properties.
Phase 3: Retire Responsibly
Utilize initiatives like Smartwool's "Second Cut™ Project" to recycle your old socks (any brand) into new products.
If a brand program isn't available, search for local textile recycling options to keep your old socks out of the landfill.
Give old socks a new life as cleaning rags, dog toys, or draft stoppers.