Giving wool socks as gift

I just received a gift from an expatriate co-worker who had visited his home in Japan. I would like to return his gift by giving him hand knitted wool socks or slippers, which I have made. Is it appropriate gift to be given by a female to a male co-worker who is in higher position in the organization? He is good friend with my husband, so there should not be any thinking that the gift is inappropriate . The winters here in Finland are cold so hand knitted wool socks are traditional Christmas presents and are very useful.
I would appreciate advice in this matter since I do not want to cause any awkward situation.

Be careful of giving socks as a gift. It killed Dobby in the end...

If it's something that can be given with an explanation about that cultural background, that should be fine :) They would somewhat bulky ones for use at home, possibly with colorful patterns, right?

Socks are a good gift - we give them to our friends in Kyoto (possum/merino mix - very warm). Hand made (tezukuri) makes them special.