American company DeFeet is best known, probably, for its Aerator summer socks, but it does a pretty mean line in winter socks too - the Woolie Boolie is made from every discerning rider's favourite material: Merino.

Or at least, a Merino blend with a bit of nylon, Lycra and maybe even elastic thrown in for good measure. It's all a bit unclear: DeFeet does not specify on its website, and the UK stockists differ in their claims: 64% or 72% Merino? Difficult to say. I suppose the other bits are important to help the sock keep its shape (which it does very well), and the Merino for all the super-material qualities we are told it possesses: warmth, sweat wicking and anti-bacterial (and hence anti-pong) properties. A certain other purveyor of high-quality Merino goods also has a similar blend in its winter socks, so it sounds like both companies have hit on the right idea.

Unlike some winter socks, or hiking socks, say, there's no variation in the Woolie Boolie's thickness - no padded heels or toes. They're quite slim and seem to be knitted unusually - a little bit coarser than some, with the inner characterised by a sort of looped yarn, which gives texture, almost like a towelling material. It's very pleasant, and the Woolie Boolies are certainly warm, performing well in either winter boots or regular shoes and overshoes. In the coldest conditions - all-day rides back when the temperatures were staying below 5C - I wore a normal pair of socks underneath, and never had cause to complain. My circulation is pretty poor, so it's great to be able to ride for hours without a second thought about the extremities. Commuting, even in the icy cold, is a cinch, and they stay impressively stink-free.

I'd recommend Woolie Boolies without any hesitation. They're very good value, and I've taken to wearing them when in civvies, and even around the house. Some people have reported they shrink slightly when washed, but I didn't find this, on a cool wool cycle. My only gripe: they're fairly short in the cuff. 2.4" to be precise. However, there does seem to be a 6" option available, so that'd be your calves sorted too.

Verdict

A warm, good-value answer to the winter toe blues.