Shopping·5 min read

I Am Convinced These Stretchy Socks Are the Most Comfortable Pair out There

wide open socks review
Image: theSkimm | Photo: Wide Open
February 22, 2024

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Welcome to Skimm Tested, where we put products to the test and then provide honest feedback. (Check out all of our tried-and-tested faves here.)

The assignment…

To see if Wide Open socks really have enough stretch. They claim to not squeeze your ankles and calves, so I put them to the test. Get 10% off with code SKIMM10.

What I wore…

review of wide open socks with stretch
Wide Open

Straight A’s in…

  • Stretch. These are the most comfortable socks I own, zero exaggeration. They don’t squeeze my calves or ankles and by the evening, I can slip them off without annoying indentations. A lot of my other socks are tight at the cuff, which makes me aware of them. 

  • Padding. I love the cushion in these socks – you’ll feel it in the toe box and heel. It makes them more comfortable if you’re a no-slippers kind of person when inside your home. The lightweight option doesn’t have cushioning, but that doesn’t make them any less stretchy.  

  • Aesthetics. I love the muted, subtle colors of these socks. There are neutral options, so black and gray, but also colors available if that’s your preference.

  • Warmth. These socks are made from merino wool, so they're warm. I've worn them all winter and cannot complain of chilly toes.

Room for growth…

  • Pilling. I’ve washed these socks numerous times and while there’s been no shrinkage, there has been minor pilling. I own a pill remover, so it’s not a hard problem to solve, but worth mentioning. 

  • Price. A single pair that cost $20+ is on the pricier end of the spectrum. But you’re paying for quality and comfort that I haven’t experienced with other brands I’ve owned.

wide open socks review
Wide Open

Works best for…

  • Anyone who hates the feeling of socks that squeeze and hug. Or anyone who hates taking socks off at the end of the day and having an indentation.

  • Someone who experiences swelling while flying. Compression socks are highly recommended, but I could see these working as an alternative for increased comfort. 

  • Pregnant women who are experiencing edema.

Gets extra credit for…

A lifetime guarantee. If you wear out a pair of Wide Open socks, you can send them back and get a replacement free of charge.

How I did my homework…

I wore my Wide Open socks for over two months. I’ve washed them numerous times and have worn them on frigid winter days in New York, and can confidently say they’re my most comfortable pairs. I’m genuinely sad when I have no clean pairs available so I’ll be buying more after this review. If you're looking for a warm pair to lounge in, these are a great option.

Footnotes…

  • Wide open socks start at $20 

  • Get 10% off with code SKIMM10

  • You can buy pairs with or without cushion

  • Socks are also available in four sizes, two weights, and three heights

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