What Are The Best Shooting Socks?

It’s very easy to forget about your feet when shopping for field sports equipment but, in fact, footwear should perhaps be your first consideration, since you’ll be out and about traversing the moors in all sorts of weather conditions… and you’ll soon know about it if you’ve not invested in the appropriate pair of country boots - and the appropriate pair of shooting socks.

As good as waxed cotton jackets and well-worn breeks look (and they certainly do!), field sports gear isn’t just about aesthetics and traditional heritage. You’ve got to take function and comfort into account, as well.

What are shooting socks?

As the name might suggest, shooting socks are those used for traditional field sports. They’ve been a stalwart part of the shooting scene since the 19th century, made using thick wool to provide much-needed practical insulation against the cold and damp, without compromising on style at the same time.

Typical materials for these socks include:

- Merino wool (soft, warm, breathable, moisture-wicking)

- Acrylic (often blended with wool for durability and elasticity)

- Cashmere (for high-end products)

- Cotton (natural temperature regulation and good for those allergic to wool)

Also look out for key features like reinforced heels and toes to prevent friction, as well as padding in the foot to provide cushioning on long days out.

How do you wear shooting socks?

Typically, shooting socks are worn pulled up over the cuff of your breeks, with a garter worn around the leg just below the knee to hold the socks in place. 

The garter should be visible at the top of the sock, although you can always turn the sock top down over it if you want a more seamless look.

What colour shooting sock should I choose?

You can easily tailor your sock colours to suit the time of year or to pay homage to local traditions and clan heritages. Also pay attention to any formalities in place on specific shoot days so you can make sure you fit right in.

What you should aim for, however, is to blend in with the countryside you’re in so that you’re camouflaged to increase your chances of shooting success.

In August, for example, if you’re hunting grouse perhaps consider colours that marry with the moorland, including muted pinks, purples and greens.

And if you’re shooting during the autumn season (with partridge and pheasant both fair game), consider wearing the likes of burnt orange, moss green and mustard for a stylish yet practical outfit.

How to find hunting socks that fit

It’s essential that your new socks are snug enough without restricting circulation and blood flow. You should be able to press your finger between the big toe and the second toe and you shouldn’t feel any compression around the toes as a whole.

Make sure that the heel sits squarely on your own heel, with the diagonal seam running down from the cuff cutting your heel in half (or thereabouts). If the heel cup comes up too high, the sock is too big and if it’s not in the centre, it’s too small. You may also be able to find socks with left and right foot shaping for additional comfort.

Also make sure that the material isn’t too loose. If it is, you’ll find that it bunches up or slips down as you walk and you’ll end up with hot spots and blisters. And look for pairs that offer mid-foot and arch support to prevent fatigue during long shoots.

Try on different pairs with your breeks and boots on to double check that the full combination works as required.

Should you use garter ties with hunting socks?

Garter ties do serve a specifically decorative function, this is true, but they can also be used to help keep your socks in place and stop them from slipping down as you move… style and substance combined!

Just make sure that you position your garter ties just below the knee and tie them neatly in a bow at the side to get the look just right.

Are there different shooting socks for different terrains?

A plentiful supply of different socks for different occasions is a must if you’re to take field sports seriously.

For driven shoots where you’ll likely be standing still for long periods of time, go for thermal insulating socks with a soft merino lining and full calf coverage.

For walking and walked-up days, go for lightweight breathable socks with quick-drying fibres and reinforced soles.

For wetlands or cold weather, wear waterproof sock liners or invest in dual-layer socks to help you withstand extreme conditions.

And always make sure that you pack spare pairs, just to be on the safe side!

How do you look after shooting socks?

Taking care of your shooting socks is a must if they’re to serve you well over the years.

Different materials and fabric will require different levels of care, but aim to either hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle to maintain elasticity and fibre integrity.

Dry socks flat to prevent shrinkage and maintain cuff shape, and invest in various high-quality pairs of socks that you can rotate to extend the life cycle of your wardrobe.

What are the best brands of shooting socks?

Not sure what to invest in first? Might we suggest House of Cheviot, a Scottish brand set up back in 2002 in Hawick, a town famed for its textile heritage.

Only the finest materials are used, including cotton, cashmere and Merino wool, and all products are meticulously crafted in house, so you know you’re only ever going to get top-quality socks, each and every time.

Plus you’ll be in excellent company indeed, since distinguished figures like Rod Stewart, King Charles and The Hebridean Baker have all been spotted sporting a pair or two.

So check out our collection and see what you can find!