Full Breakdown
Costco Recalls 32 Degrees Heated Socks After Burn Injuries
4/26/2026, 4:49:42 AM
Recall Announcement and Scope
On April 23, 2026, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued recall 26-435 for roughly 207,806 pairs of 32 Degrees Heated Socks sold exclusively at Costco, after reports of burn injuries.
Product Overview and Context
The black, rechargeable socks, marketed for winter use, provide up to eight hours of heat and were sold in medium, large and extra-large sizes for $30-$46 each. They were available at Costco stores and online from August 2025 through March 2026, imported by New York-based David Peyser Sportswear (operating as 32 Degrees) and manufactured in China.
Incident Data
The CPSC logged 14 heat-related incidents, 13 of which involved first- or second-degree burns; one source noted two deaths. Injuries occurred during high-intensity activities that combine heat, friction, moisture and pressure, such as skiing. All recalled units bear the “32° HEAT” label on the battery pack and packaging.
Official Statements & Responses
The CPSC recall notice instructs consumers to cease use of the socks and to return them to Costco for a full refund. Costco’s member letter repeats this instruction and confirms refunds will be processed through its warehouses or online portal. 32 Degrees issued a voluntary recall confirming exclusive Costco sales and cooperation with the CPSC, while both Costco and the manufacturer declined further comment.
Criticism & Consumer Concerns
Customer reviews on Costco’s site describe burns after using the socks at higher heat settings for extended periods. The recall follows recent safety actions against other Costco products, including a generator fire-risk recall, prompting criticism of the retailer’s product-safety oversight and of unclear usage guidelines.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on incident totals—some cite 13 reports, others 14—and only one mentions two fatalities. The precise cause of burns—battery, heating element, or prolonged heat—is not identified. Pair counts vary between “nearly 208,000” and the exact 207,806 units.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Consumers should immediately stop using the heated socks and return them to Costco for a full refund.” — U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall notice
- “When worn during high-intensity activities that generate a combination of heat, excessive friction, moisture, and pressure, the socks can pose an injury hazard, including burns,” — U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
- “Used socks 1 time in ski boots at level 2 was ok. 2nd time using socks turned up to level 3. After 2 hrs got a 2nd degree burn on my ball of my left foot,” — Costco customer review
- “The recalled socks are 32 Degrees Heated Socks, sold in three sizes (medium, large, extra large), all in the color black, priced from $30 to $46 per pair.” — 32 Degrees recall statement
Why It Matters
The episode underscores safety risks of battery-powered wearables in strenuous use and adds pressure on Costco to tighten product vetting, as repeated recalls may erode consumer trust and invite heightened regulatory scrutiny.
