Kentwool Socks
Today we’re talking about one of my favorite products in golf life. Of course, I’m talking about Kentwool socks. I know I’ve brought them up in a handful of places on this site before, but I think this might be the first time I’ve written a review of their standard Classic socks. Though born out of a realized need on a golf course, Kentwool’s socks are great for everyday use as well as comforting your feet over a round of golf no matter the conditions. Let me tell you why I love them and have converted to only wearing Kentwool socks for the past five years.
Design
The signature design element of Kentwool’s Classic sock is the use of Merino wool. Kentwool calls Merino “Mother Nature’s smart fiber” because of four main reasons. First, it’s very soft and comfortable on your skin…oh, and it’s hypoallergenic. Second, it will absorb moisture (think of it as almost moisture wicking) without getting heavy or irritating your skin. Third, Merino is durable and will last longer periods of time. (I find my Kentwools tend to last about 18 months under regular use in the rotation.) And lastly, but most importantly, Merino is impressively breathable and will keep you warm when it needs to and breathe when the temperatures heat up. I will vouch for this as they are my preferred sock all year round.
There is also a moderate amount of cushioning which works alongside the Merino wool to reduce friction on your feet. What this translates into is more comfort, but also a major reduction in blisters. In fact, blister reduction/prevention is quite literally the original driving factor of the Kentwool sock design. In my experience, they objectively work in terms of blister prevention as long as you have the right size sock and the right size shoe. If the sock doesn’t cover your Achilles and your shoe is above the sock line…that’s on you, not on Kentwool!
Comfort & Fit
Comfort is the primary reason I switched to Kentwool brand. While my drawer consists mainly of the Classic design in this review, it’s split down the middle between the ankle and low profiles. Both are incredibly comfortable on your feet from the soft Merino wool and cushioning. Like I mentioned before, the Merino wool really does a good job of keeping your feet warm or cool depending on the conditions. I can understand where at first glance you might think the wool would be WAY too hot in the summer, I assure you it is not. It’s fantastic.
I also understand some may think the Kentwool classic design is a little on the thicker side, but I personally haven’t found it to be bothersome. It will ultimately come down to personal preference. That said, the “current generation” of this design seems a little thinner to me and as comfortable as ever. In terms of sizing, the Kentwool Classics are offered in medium, large, and extra large for men. For women, they’re offered in medium and large. All sizing is based on your shoe size.
*If they shrink at all, they are very easy to stretch back out. Remember, they’re made of mostly wool.
Performance
Comfort is a major portion of actual “performance” when it comes to socks. I think I’ve made it pretty clear so far in this review that I find Kentwool socks to be extremely comfortable in all conditions. They breathe extremely well and don’t stink after 18 holes! I learned via Kentwool that Merino wool naturally reduces odor. Now, I can’t speak for everyone as I know some feet can get pretty funky, but I’ve noticed the socks to be impressively odor resistant after a long day on the links.
Kentwool’s claims of blister prevention are the real deal. Since putting these socks in play five years ago, I haven’t gotten a single blister. Friction, especially with the addition of moisture, are the main causes of blisters. The combination of materials and fit really do an excellent job of reducing friction on your foot and keeping blisters away. This has made Kentwool very popular on Tour, especially among caddies.
One last performance characteristic worth pointing out is ground response. Though plush cushioning is great on your feet, too much could lead to poor feedback. Being able to have a good feel for the ground beneath your feet is key to maintaining stability and making a good swing. Kentwool has just enough cushioning for lasting comfort, but not so much that you lose ground response and can keep a good base.
Final Thoughts – Kentwool Socks
Honestly, Kentwool socks are the best. After wearing them for the first time five years ago, I literally threw out every pair of socks I owned and put an order in. I switched exclusively to Kentwool and it’s been that way across the board ever since. Kentwool also makes dress socks, lightweight styles, and other useful models. I’ll be honest, I’ve tried other brands since converting. Just to see if maybe I just drank the KW Kool-Aid a bit too much. But guess what? Nothing came close and has only made me go further “Team Kentwool”. At the end of the day, they’re the most comfortable and protective on my feet no matter what use I wear them for.
One last note: Kentwool offers their flagship sock in a wide range of colors including the basics, but for Fall/Winter 2020, they are offering limited edition colors such as the two pictured in this review. Head to Kentwool’s site to see more.
