DeFeet make the best socks and these are one of the best they make.
I also don't always want a 6" cuff and these fit the bill...Wish they still made 4" ones too!
Don't sleep on these, I think they may be some of the last 5" ones they make.
I bought these socks for a 2,500 mile bike tour this summer. I wanted something with a high merino wool content for odor and heat regulation, and these socks tick both those boxes. So far I've worn them to work and on training rides, and I'm very happy with them. My feet tend to get a bit sweaty, and that's been no problem with these socks.
The fit is very good for me. They do fit snugly above the ankles, though I don't mind that, and it's only noticeable when putting them on or taking them off.
I started out wearing Smartwool and while they are comfortable, they wore out quickly. I have worn some of my Defeet Woolerators hundreds of times and they take one heck of a beating. Of course, all the great things people say about wool are true and my long-time fight with athlete's foot was won by them as well.
I have several pair of DeFeet wool socks, some of which are several years old. I wear wool socks all year long, lighter weight in the summer and heavier in the winter. The comfort and durability of DeFeet socks makes them well worth the money.
The Wooleator sock has become my go to sock for both warm and cold weather riding. Its not a stretchy as a cotton sock but it drys faster and is warmer than the other socks I have.
I wear these socks nearly year round. I have worn Defeet wool socks for years and have always been happy with the performance. I will say, however, that wool socks typically don't last as long as nylon socks. The fibers will tear over time and create a hole.