- Norsewear continues to manufacture in Norsewood, keeping production 100% New Zealand–based while maintaining high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
- The Endurance socks are lightweight, breathable and ideal for motorcycle boots, with Merino, anti-blister cushioning and seamless construction.
- Designed for long days and high activity, the socks delivered excellent comfort and quickly became a day-to-day favourite beyond riding.
It’s not often we get sent socks to test at BRM, but when a package arrived from Norsewear, we were pretty keen to see what was inside. As one of New Zealand’s longest-running manufacturers of Merino performance socks, the brand has a reputation for quality — and now we can confirm they’ve got the chops to back it up.
If you’re unfamiliar with Norsewear, they’ve been producing NZ-made socks and woollen outdoor gear since 1963. Sir Ed Hillary wore them on his expeditions, and if they’re good enough for someone conquering Everest and Antarctica, they’re certainly good enough for a few motorcyclists.
There’s also a personal connection: Paul interviewed Norsewear owner Tim Dean, a passionate VMX (Vintage Motocross) rider, a few years ago. The company is based in Norsewood, a small settlement in southern Hawke’s Bay originally founded by Norwegian settlers in the 1870s. The Scandinavian influence continues today — even the brand’s founder was a Norwegian army captain who fell in love with New Zealand while here skiing.
What Makes Norsewear Socks Different?
In the early 2000s, most of New Zealand’s textile industry shifted offshore in favour of cheaper imports. Norsewear didn’t. They stayed in Norsewood, continued to manufacture locally and refused to outsource production of their socks, gloves or beanies. For consumers, that means traceable quality, ethical production, and gear designed specifically for New Zealand conditions.
And while making socks in New Zealand does cost more, the Norsewear Endurance range sits at a similar price to many premium department-store brands — but with far better construction and materials. The packaging even included a handwritten note explaining their “Tough Comfort” philosophy, which sums up the brand perfectly.
Keeping manufacturing in NZ benefits more than just customers: it supports skilled local workers, the Hawke’s Bay community and a lower-impact production process.
Moto Test: Norsewear Endurance Socks
Let’s get to the important bit: how do they perform inside a motorcycle boot?
In short: exceptionally well.
The Norsewear Endurance socks are made from a blend of Merino wool, nylon and elastane — their most advanced construction yet, developed over more than 60 years of sock-making. They’re designed as an ultralight endurance sock, which makes them ideal for motorcyclists, cyclists, trampers, runners or anyone needing breathable, moisture-wicking performance.
The “Endurance” name pays tribute to Ernest Shackleton’s legendary Antarctic expedition aboard the Endurance — a fitting reference for a sock designed to withstand long days and tough conditions.
Key Features
- Premium Merino wool for temperature regulation and moisture management
- Slim double welt and Y-heel construction to keep the sock firmly in place
- Cushioned sole with anti-blister protection for long-distance comfort
- Elastic instep support for stability inside motorcycle or hiking boots
- Seamless toe to prevent irritation (critical inside tight boots)
- Ventilation zones for airflow and quick drying
- Fully elasticated performance fit
The first thing I noticed was how unbulky they were. Thick socks can make riding boots feel tight and uncomfortable, especially on longer days. The Endurance socks feel light, but not flimsy, with the Merino doing a brilliant job of regulating temperature and reducing sweat.
They also dry quickly — handy when you’re washing socks overnight on a motorcycle trip.
But above all, the standout feature is comfort. They genuinely felt like I wasn’t wearing socks at all. Since testing them, they’ve become my go-to pair for everything: riding, cycling, walking and even everyday office wear.
Verdict: Are Norsewear Endurance Socks Worth It?
Absolutely.
If you want NZ-made Merino motorcycle socks that are breathable, durable, non-bulky and seriously comfortable, these are hard to beat. They outperform most imported “outdoor socks,” and buying them supports local manufacturing in Hawke’s Bay.
Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a thoughtful Christmas gift for a rider, commuter or outdoorsy type, the Norsewear Endurance range is well worth a look. They even offer ankle versions and a wide selection of technical socks for different uses.
Price: $34.95
👉 Order here: https://norsewear.co.nz/products/endurance-microcrew-black
