By Armando Hernandez
Thousands of thermal socks sold by Costco have been recalled in the United States after registering multiple cases of burns among users, according to consumer authorities.
The measure affects 32 Degrees brand socks, which, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), “may be dangerous during high-intensity use.”
The agency explained that factors such as “heat, friction, humidity and pressure can combine to create a risk of injury, including burns.” So far, more than a dozen incidents have been reported, including several cases of first- and second-degree burns.
The affected products were sold in both physical stores and online between August 2025 and March 2026. Given the risk, authorities have urged consumers to stop using them immediately and return them for a full refund.
The case highlights the risks associated with clothing designed to generate or retain body heat, especially during prolonged or high-intensity activities. According to product safety experts, This type of incident is usually linked to a build-up of heat under conditions of demanding use.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other occupational safety institutions, the use of thermal clothing is designed to prevent hypothermia and frostbite in cold environments, however, the risks associated with improper use of thermal clothing include heat stress and dehydration when worn in hot environments or performing intense physical work with it, which can cause an excessive increase in body temperature, dehydration and heat stress.
Besides, Tight or too tight thermal clothing can restrict blood circulation, which is counterproductive to keeping your extremities warm.
For this reason, the CPSC itself warns that consumers should be alert to signs such as irritation or feelings of excessive heat when wearing thermal garments, especially if they are designed with synthetic materials or high compression.
This is not the first time that textile or thermal products have been recalled due to safety risks. In recent years, recalls have also been ordered for electric blankets, heated clothing and batteries embedded in clothing due to overheating or fire hazards, underscoring the importance of strict controls on these types of items.
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