If you, or someone you know, haven't jumped onto the merino wool bandwagon, here's your chance to do it without breaking the bank. When it's hot outside, merino exhales heat (hence the name of these socks), keeping your feet cool. When it's cold, merino provides warmth. How? It's smarter than most of your friends. And the X-Hale's merino is fused with Isofil technical fibers, which help with moisture management and thermal control. ShockZone cushioning prevents hotspots, and super-light nylon mesh panels over the top of the foot allow for max ventilation. The women's X-Hale has a lower volume and instep, slimmer toe box and heel pocket, and denser underfoot padding. Through 2007, Bridgedale is donating a portion of the proceeds of the Women's X-Hale sock to the Breast Cancer Fund.
$14.95; www.garmontusa.com