I ruined my first pair of these because I didn't follow the instruction card. By not turning them inside-out before washing they became really matted. They also shrank in the drier and were impossible to pull on. I bought several more pairs a size larger (as others have recommended) and now dry them on the line. Since then I've had no problems. I wear them with boots every day year 'round and they keep my feet comfortably dry.
On the first day, the yarn thinned at the heels where the socks touch the back of the shoe. So much wool was lost that we thought it wore through to a hole, but not quite. We picked off the pills. I would expect this after months, not the first time out, especially for the price. Super disappointed, as we are new customers and have heard good things about LLB quality.
I was so excited to get these socks after looking at all of the fabulous reviews. I haven't had anything wool for a long time and thought maybe it was a different type of wool that didn't itch since no one seems to mention that in their review. However, they started itching as soon as I put them on. Bummer. So disappointed. The socks do seem to be made well and I loved the colors, just not a wool fan I guess. Going to exchange for the cotton ragg socks.
Great socks for the price. Keep my feet warm inside my home, and with insulated boots (also from L.L.Bean) kept them warm in 3 inches of snow with -5 wind chill at 4a.m. when I took my dog out for her walk before work. I would have given 5 stars, but the size guide said what I ordered fit a size 12 shoe (I wear a size 11 1/2 ) , but they are slightly small. Still going to order more just a size larger
