I have been wearing Rocky's for about the last 15 years. I think they make a great boot and it is very comfortable to wear...almost like tennis shoes. As far as socks, I saw a post on one of these boards recommending merino wool socks. I went and bought a couple of pairs and now I wonder where they have been all my life. I will never buy another type of sock for use in my boots. The are very warm and provide lots of extra cushion. I can't recommend them highly enough!!