What To Look For
When shopping for battery heated socks, you should consider how you intend to use the socks. Will you be using them when hiking and camping or are you using them for a particular type of sport? For instance, someone who plans to use them for skiing may want a longer sock so that it sits above the ski boot. If you use the socks for fishing, you may prefer to have socks that have a battery pouch you can clip elsewhere so it won't get wet. You may also want to consider what type of batteries the socks take. For instance, a D-cell battery will be far more uncomfortable to walk around with than a lithium battery.
Common Pitfalls
Socks with wires and battery packs require greater care than ordinary socks. You need to be careful not to dislodge any of the wires. You also need to be careful to follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing and drying the socks so you don't pull the wires or stretch the material that holds the wires. Most socks that are battery heated should be gently hand-washed and laid flat to dry.
Where To Buy
You can buy battery heated socks either at a sporting goods store or online. Shops such as REI and Dick's Sporting Goods are likely to sell battery heated socks. Cabela's is another excellent option for either online or in-store purchases; it has its own brand of battery heated socks. Buying in a shop gives you the opportunity to try the socks on to see if they heat sufficiently for your needs and whether they'll be comfortable. You can also buy such socks at any online sporting goods store or Amazon.com, which has an excellent return policy if you decide you don't like the socks.
Cost
The average price of a pair of battery heated socks is typically between $20 and $30. Don't forget to consider the cost of the batteries. Most brands require D-cell batteries, and it's a good idea to take along spare batteries on your trip.
Article Written By Shiromi Nassreen
Shiromi Nassreen has been writing professionally since 2005. She specializes in travel and outdoor topics, and her articles have appeared in various print and online publications, including "DISfunkshion Magazine" and Matador Travel. Nassreen holds a Bachelor of Arts in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama.