Lots of us started backpacking circa 1970 using “authentic” Norwegian-made 100% wool rag socks. They were thick enough to provide much needed padding before modern foot beds and today’s more comfortable boots but they were scratchy, tended to shrink even when hand washed and air dried, slipped down and bunched up uncomfortably and wore thin quickly in the heels. I've had some of these for several years with little or no visible wear and they hold their shape better than the Norwegians ever dreamed of.
LL Bean Ragg Socks long ago solved those issues: the wool is softer but yet wears well; they machine wash without shrinking (I always air dry); they fit smoothly and hold their shape. No, these aren’t state-of-the-art and sophisticated like the LL Bean Boot, Cresta or Compression socks I wear with “serious” hiking and mountain boots.
It’s better to think of them as “comfort food for your feet”: they feel good and look great in a nostalgic way they perfectly complements Bean Boots, moccasins, ranger shoes and chukkas.
Recently I sprang for the “Blue Multi” version which actually consists of a pair each of predominantly blue and a red socks. The added not-too-bright colors look terrific – better than the online photo IMO – and add fun color between the hem of jeans or khakis and various Bean shoes and low boots for the winter holidays and lodge/cabin endeavors.
Yet another “must have” for LL Bean traditional attire fanboys and fangirls!
I've been wearing and purchasing these socks for almost 20 years now. They have transitioned through different textures and thicknesses as well as price increases. Initially, I believe they came three to a package and one of them had to be a different color, type. I am 74 years old and all my socks are the same, charcoal, large, L.L. Bean merino wool socks. George G. RN, BS, (USN-USAF RET)
Great wool socks for a reasonable price. Keeps my feet warm at night, wish had gotten a small since does not fit under a shoe. But great bedtime socks.
Socks are warm and offer comfort even after long work days. Whats even better is the wool keeps you dry and smelling neutral even after long days. I just ordered them again!
