These socks are a wool blend -- they are a great 'for fun' gift that is also functional -- I've given them as gifts and was contacted later and told that whilst the recipient initially thought of them as kind of a gag gift they actually like wearing them, as well, due to their comfort.  So, two pluses in a single gift.  I gave one pair to each of three friends all of whom love cats, so it has social cache, as well.