Getting cold feet?

Next time your feet get cold on a plane…or ski slope…or bare wood floors at home, pull on a pair of heated socks! Six options that will suit every preference.

As a tall person, I like the extra legroom offered by a seat in a plane’s emergency exit row. Trouble is, thanks to the door, it can get downright arctic there, especially if you’re in the window seat on a long flight. Sure, I wrap myself in my travel scarf, but my feet are still freezing…until I found the solution: heated socks.

How do the socks work? Battery-operated wiring is woven throughout the material; once turned on, the socks heat up quickly and evenly. Long battery life means feet stay toasty for hours, and there can be different heat settings to choose from.

Heated socks are not just for a plane. If you’re the type whose feet feel chilly on the ski slopes or even when curled up in your fave chair at home, you may want to try a pair.

There are dozens of options out there; I’ve tried a lot of them. From a remote-controlled pair to a moisture-wicking option, here are my top six picks (including a non-sock alternative):

Best Overall: Global Vasion Heated Socks ($33-$37)


Made from a soft and stretchy material, Global Vasion socks feature three different temperature settings and a pocket at the top to hold the rechargeable battery pack. The socks keep both feet and calves warm, and the cushioned toe and heel make them comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time.

Best Splurge: Snow Deer Heated Socks ($80)

Fast heat-up time, long battery life, and buttoned battery pocket—what’s not to like? Along with a soft and cozy lining, the socks have a durable elastic cuff that doesn’t slip down as you move around. Plus, unlike other options that are one-size-fits-all, Snow Deer socks come in four different sizes so you can find the perfect fit.

Longest Heat Time: PBox Heated Socks ($57)

PBox socks have a battery life of up to 18 hours, making them a great option for long ski days and overnight camping trips. There are four heating levels to choose from, ranging from 100 to a toasty 158 degrees Fahrenheit, and the socks are machine-washable. 

Best Remote-Controlled: Pristall Remote Controlled Heated Socks ($93)

Most heated socks have their controls on the battery pack, which is usually in a pocket at the top of the sock itself. This Pristall pair comes with a remote for each sock, so you can turn them on or off and change heat settings without having to pull up your pant leg and fiddle with the batteries.

Best Moisture-Wicking: Jomst Heated Socks ($60)

These Jomst heated socks are made from breathable and absorbent cotton-blend material so feet stay nice and dry even when you’re active (and sweaty). Along with a padded toe and heel for added comfort, the socks have three heating settings and fit men’s shoe sizes 6-14.

Best Sockless Alternative (Heated Insoles): HotHands Insole Foot Warmers ($13)

If you want to keep your feet warm but aren’t ready to spring for a pair of heated socks, check out these heated insoles by HotHands. (The company’s hand warmers have been my go-to while skiing for years.) The air-activated insoles attach to the bottom of regular socks to provide an even distribution of heat to the soles of your feet. The single-use insoles can provide up to nine hours of warmth and have odor absorbing capabilities, so feet stay stink-free.

Twist’s Take: Next time your feet get cold on a plane, ski slope, or even home, pull on a pair of heated socks.