The purpose of this blog post is straightforward – to provide you with valuable information that can assist you in selecting the best liner socks for your upcoming hiking expedition.
Our comprehensive guide presents our top picks for hiking liner socks in 2023. We have assessed socks suitable for all budgets, environments, and travel preferences. Similar to our previous article on the finest summer socks, we have prepared a comparison table of the best liner socks for hiking. The table comprises concise and precise information on the primary features, benefits, and drawbacks of each pair. This way, you can effortlessly discover the perfect liners for yourself.
Typically, our favorite hiking liner socks comprise of a blend of synthetic fibers such as COOLMAX (polyester), polypropylene (olefin), nylon (polyamide), spandex, silk, and merino wool. We understand the importance of making an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right liner socks, so we have covered all the essential factors to consider, such as breathability and moisture-wicking, drying speed, design and construction, fit, comfort, cushioning, and cost.
Let’s get started!
Quick answer: BEST LINER SOCKS FOR HIKING FOR 2023
1. REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Liner Crew View on REI
2. Injinji Liner Crew Socks View on Amazon View on REI
3. Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Zero Cushion Liner View on Amazon View on Backcountry
4. REI Co-op Silk Liner Crew Socks View on REI
5. Fox River X-Static Ultra-Lightweight Crew Liner View on Amazon View on Fox River
6. Wigwam Coolmax Liner View on Amazon View on SPWH
7. Fox River Wick Dry Coolmax Ultra-Lightweight View on Amazon View on Fox River
8. Kenetrek Ultimate Liner Lightweight OTC Sock View on Amazon View on SPWH
9. Icebreaker Merino Hike Liner Crew View on Amazon View on Backcountry
10. Minus33 Mountain Heritage Boot Wool Liner View on Amazon
11. ArmaSkin Anti-Blister Long Liner Socks View on Amazon
12. Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking Liner View on Amazon
13. Helly Hansen Everyday Wool Socks View on Helly Hansen
14. Terramar Thermasilk Mid-Calf Liner View on Amazon
15. Realtree Liner Sock View on Amazon
Best overall hiking liner socks
#1 REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Liner Crew
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $ (come at around $10)
Materials: 50% COOLMAX EcoMade polyester, 49% nylon, 1% spandex
Notable features:
- EcoMade COOLMAX polyester for better moisture management; dries fast
- Contains recycled materials
- Smooth, flat-toe seams for a non-irritable experience
Pros:
- Built for a blister-free experience, these liner socks work well with thicker hiking socks for keeping your feet cool and dry
- Eco-friendly COOLMAX polyester – a modified polyester fabric engineered to meet the performance needs of the wearer
- Fit snug without restricting the circulation – a good fit is essential to avoid any bunching or blisters; comfortable
- Thin and lightweight – an excellent choice for hikers who prefer minimalist gear and aim to keep their backpacks as light as possible
Cons:
- These are liner socks – so no cushioning – and should not be worn alone, otherwise they can cause blisters
- Only two color options are available
Best for: Layering underneath thicker socks
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#2 Injinji Liner Crew Socks
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (the usual price is $12)
Materials: 75% COOLMAX EcoMade polyester, 21% nylon, 4% Lycra
Notable features:
- Ultrathin fabric
- COOLMAX EcoMade fabric blend made from recycled polyester, nylon, and elastane for effective moisture management
- Five-toe design
Pros:
- The unique form-fitting sock design minimizes skin-on-skin friction to keep your feet protected and comfortable throughout your hike and, of course, to help prevent blisters
- Multifunctional – equally good as a lightweight liner underneath a thicker sock in winter or as a standalone in summer
- Superior breathability; great moisture-wicking abilities to help keep your feet comfortable and dry, no matter what the conditions
- Soft and nice material that feels super comfortable even after hours of wear; +nice color options so that you can choose a pair that fits your personal style and preferences
Cons:
- Socks wear too fast when used alone and not as a part of sock layered system
- When the sock does not fit (rarely, but it can happen), the individual toes can cause more friction than a regular sock would do
- Will need boots with a wider toe box for the best fit possible
Best for: Comfort and blister prevention
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#3 Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Zero Cushion Liner Crew Socks
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (come at around $16)
Materials: 59% Merino wool, 30% recycled nylon, 8% nylon, 2% elastane, 1% polyester
Notable features:
- Elasticized arch brace for a secure fit to reduce the chances of slipping, bunching, and blisters
- Features recycled nylon
- Flat knit toe seam for additional comfort and an ultra-smooth, invisible feel
Pros:
- Do what a sock liner is expected to do effectively – keep the feet of the wearer dry to avoid the formation of hot spots and blisters
- Comfortable, no-itch feel without rubbing (like most sock designs by Smartwool): these liners provide the comfort and quality necessary for a successful and enjoyable hiking experience free from any unnecessary discomfort or irritation
- Add thickness and warmth as needed, and pair well with other more substantial socks allowing hikers to layer their socks for added comfort and protection in colder temperatures
- Versatile, lightweight, and can be used as a liner or as a standalone option, making them ideal for a range of activities, from work to play; available in a convenient 3-pack (at around $14 per pair), a great way to ensure you always have a clean pair on hand for your next hiking adventure
Cons:
- Designed to fit snugly against the skin, which may be uncomfortable for some hikers – we recommend trying on a few different sizes to find the right fit for your unique needs and preferences
- Lack some elasticity so you’d need to get the right size for your feet
- Thin and not particularly durable
Best for: Moisture management
Women’s Version: Unisex
Find the latest price:
Amazon | Moosejaw | Backcountry
#4 REI Co-op Silk Liner Crew Socks
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (usual price: $16.95)
Materials: 51% silk, 47% nylon, 2% Lycra
Notable features:
- A blend of spun silk, nylon, and Lycra
- Seamless toe for less bulk and more comfort
- Made in USA
Pros:
- Very comfortable and works great for blister-free backpacking
- Suitable for both hot/warm weather and very cold weather
- Nice, smooth material ensures that they feel great against the skin, even during extended hikes; the smooth texture also helps to minimize friction, reducing the risk of blisters and other foot-related issues
- Can be used as a standalone sock (a good solution for those who’d use them with snug boots or shoes)
Cons:
- Thin and fragile – may not withstand the wear and tear of prolonged use
- Snug fit so some may find the tops too tight
Best for: Added comfort
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#5 Fox River X-Static Ultra-Lightweight Crew Liner
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $ (the usual price is $14)
Materials: 67% polypropylene, 25% nylon, 5% X-Static nylon, 2% polyester, 1% spandex
Notable features:
- Made with X-Static or ionic+ for eliminating odor (this is essentially silver-coated nylon)
- Smooth, flat, comfortable toe seam for minimal friction
- USA Made
Pros:
- Provide a snug and comfortable fit that minimizes rubbing and discomfort, without adding any unnecessary bulk
- Excellent moisture-wicking, +do not retain odor (eliminate odor naturally) thanks to the silver fiber fabric with antibacterial properties
- Crafted with X-Static fabric, these liner socks provide a unique combination of thermal regulation and anti-static properties (prevent static electricity buildup)
- Thin, yet made with durable materials that allow them to withstand a lot of wear and tear
Cons:
- Work better as a classic liner and not that well when worn on their own
- Not the most breathable fabric for hot weather
Best for: Reducing the risk of blisters in a combination with thicker socks
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#6 Wigwam Coolmax Liner
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (come at around $11)
Materials: 62% COOLMAX polyester, 37% stretch nylon, 1% spandex
Notable features:
- COOLMAX polyester for better moisture management; dries fast
- Ultra-lightweight blend
- Made in USA
Pros:
- Will keep your feet cool and comfortable under heavy socks to avoid blisters
- Made from soft, wicking material – a good solution for warm feet without sweating
- Relatively thin, fit well, and are durable enough to be worn on their own; can fit easily into snug shoes
- Easy to clean and quick-drying, making them a convenient choice for hikers and backpackers who need to wash and dry their socks on the go
Cons:
- Not seamless, i.e. such constructions tend to be more prone to rubbing and discomfort
- Only come in white so won’t be that easy to recover their original color once you christen them through mud
Best for: Blister prevention either as a standalone or in a combo with thicker socks
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#7 Fox River Wick Dry Coolmax Ultra-Lightweight Crew Liner
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $ (the usual price is $10)
Materials: 93% COOLMAX polyester, 6% nylon, 1% spandex (men’s); 93% COOLMAX polyester, 6% nylon, 1% spandex (women’s)
Notable features:
- Smooth, flat-knit construction, plus a seamless toe
- High-performance COOLMAX polyester for better moisture management; dries fast
- Fox River’s exclusive Wick Dry technology for dry feet
Pros:
- Paired with thicker socks, these liner socks will keep your feet warmer in winter and cooler in summer
- Effective as sock liners – good at wicking away moisture, dry almost instantaneously preventing the formation of hot spots and blisters
- Great for fast-paced day hikes and other outdoor activities as they provide a comfortable and breathable layer under your primary hiking socks
- Soft and smooth COOLMAX polyester blend that feels silky to the touch
Cons:
- Decent quality but not among the most durable sock liners
- Typical liners that provide an extra level of protection – can’t be used by themselves
- Tend to pill after some time
Best for: Managing moisture and reducing the risk of blisters
Women’s Version: Available -> Amazon | Fox River
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#8 Kenetrek Ultimate Liner Lightweight OTC Sock
Height: Over the calf
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (the usual price is $19.95)
Materials: 77% polypropylene, 17% nylon, 3% elastic, 3% lycra
Notable features:
- Alphasan technology – a natural, silver-based antimicrobial treatment
- All-synthetic yarn
- High-grade polypropylene wicks moisture
Pros:
- Versatile – go under a thick hiking sock but can also be worn alone
- Provide a great snug fit that’s perfect for layering and won’t slide or fall down
- Breathable material wicks all the moisture away and maintains all-day comfort even during long hikes
- Hold up well to repeated washings and wear, making them a good investment for long-term use
Cons:
- Not as good as merino wool liner in odor control
- The cost may be a bit high compared to other liner sock options
Best for: Versatility
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#9 Icebreaker Merino Hike Liner Crew
Height: Crew
Cushion: Ultralight
Price: $$$ (the usual price is $21)
Materials: 55% Merino wool, 43% nylon, 2% Lycra (men’s); 55% Merino wool, 43% nylon, 2% Lycra (women’s)
Notable features:
- A designated ventilation zone on the top of the foot provides airflow for fresh and dry feet
- Ultralight double-up merino cushioning in the heel and metatarsal bones
- Achilles and instep support keep the sock in place and provide stability respectively
Pros:
- Great breathability, will keep your feet at the perfect temperature and prevent excess sweating
- Excellent sock liners, these increase the warmth of a single pair of socks; what’s more, they are suitable for year-round hiking
- Resist and prevent odors from building up, keeping your feet feeling fresh and clean even after extended use
- Soft and very comfortable to wear on and off the trail (+have reinforced stress areas in the heel and toe for added durability)
Cons:
- May not last long – ultralight, thin, delicate fabric that may rip easily if not careful
- Fit a little tight and restrictive around the ankle
- Pricey for the expected useful life
Best for: Added comfort during year-round hiking
Women’s Version: Available -> Amazon | Moosejaw
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Amazon | Moosejaw | Backcountry
#10 Minus33 Mountain Heritage Boot Wool Liner
Height: Boot height (mid-calf)
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (usual price: $16.49)
Materials: 61% Merino wool, 20% stretch nylon, 18% nylon, 1% spandex
Notable features:
- Extra durability on the heel and toe
- Venting mesh structure on the top of the sock
- Elastic on the arch, ankle, and welt opening to keep the sock in place
Pros:
- Available in different height options, ranging from no-show to over-the-calf, to suit different preferences and needs
- Lightweight (around 50g per pair) but provide excellent thermal insulation thanks to the high wool content – your feet will stay warmer longer in winter and cold
- Have a tight weave providing an extra layer of warmth and comfort – can be paired with thicker socks for even more warmth or worn on their own in higher temperatures
- All-round liner sock that’s very well-made, breathes well
Cons:
- The socks have a light knit and are thin, making them less sturdy
- Forget about easy care with so much merino wool in the sock; it is important to follow the label instructions for proper care and maintenance
Best for: Extra insulation in cold weather conditions
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#11 ArmaSkin Anti-Blister Long Liner Socks
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $$$ (the usual price is $39.99)
Materials: Si fusion fabric (which basically is Synthetic material with Silicon (Si) fusion polymer coating)
Notable features:
- The inner surface of the socks is treated with a macroporous, semi-adhesive, hydrophobic silicone polymer coating that’s bacteriostatic (i.e. has antimicrobial properties)
- Smooth outer surface
- Right foot and Left foot profiles
Pros:
- Fits tight (like a wet suit) so the sock stays in place and does not move around for a really blister-free experience (always use the ArmaSkin socks as directed!)
- Made well and features hi-tech fabric and functional elements
- Fairly durable construction as these are engineered for extreme endurance, making them a reliable choice for long and demanding outdoor activities
- Versatile and suitable for a range of activities including all-day hiking, backpacking, running, skiing, and other adventure sports
Cons:
- Expensive – $40 per pair is pricey even for a pair of thick hiking socks
- Since these sock liners lack a seamless toe, they may cause some trouble if your toenails are not trimmed, so make sure to clip your toenails before using them
- Definitely need to read the instructions on how to use the ArmaSkin liner properly
Best for: Blister-free experience during long hikes but only if you use them as directed
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#12 Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking Liner Socks
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (usual price: $21.95 for 2 pairs)
Materials: 58% Merino wool, 39% polyamide, 3% elastane
Notable features:
- Ethically sourced merino wool
- An arch brace ensures a tight fit to prevent sliding
- OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certificate (world’s renowned label for textiles free from harmful chemicals and substances)
Pros:
- Top-notch liner made from a nice blend of merino, nylon, and spandex; flat seams
- Offer a comfortable and odor-free experience, whether worn as a liner in colder conditions or as a standalone sock in warmer temperatures
- Great thermo-regulating properties thanks to the high merino wool content (one of the liners with the highest merino content on the market, yet no-itch feel)
- Danish Endurance offers these liner socks in four color options that are aesthetically pleasing, and none of them are white
Cons:
- Do not have the typical snug fit of a hiking sock liner, yet no sliding around for a blister-free experience
- To prevent shrinkage after washing, avoid using a dryer, and do not dry these socks under direct sunlight
- Thicker than other liner options (can be either an advantage or a drawback) – more durable, may not be as suitable to use as an inner sock
Best for: Odor-free experience
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#13 Helly Hansen Everyday Wool Socks
Height: Crew
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (the usual price is $25 for 2 pairs)
Materials: 51% Merino wool, 47% polyamide, 2% elastane
Notable features:
- 50% traceable merino wool ensuring transparency and ethical practices
- Integrated knitted HH logo on the side of the ankle
- Flat seams provide a comfortable fit and prevent irritation
Pros:
- In spite of their name, these are classic wool liner socks that can be used both for everyday as well as outdoor adventures
- Streamlined construction, good quality of the material – a blend of three fibers including 50% of the merino wool used in the product can be traced back to the source
- Not too thick but warm enough for a sock liner; fit well under a pair of thicker socks for extra insulation in cold conditions
- The wool/nylon blend is soft and comfortable with no itching
Cons:
- The fit is snug, so keep this in mind when selecting the appropriate size for your feet
- Not built for endurance and long days on the trail
- Can be a bit slippery inside the shoe
Best for: Day hikes and everyday use
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#14 Terramar Thermasilk Mid Calf Liner
Height: Boot height (mid-calf)
Cushion: No
Price: $$ (come at around $16)
Materials: 80% Spun silk, 20% stretch nylon
Notable features:
- Terramar’s own ClimaSense thermoregulation technology for enhanced comfort
- Ribbed welt for a comfortable and secure fit to ensure that they stay in place inside the shoe and do not bunch or slide around
- Ultrasoft silky feel
Pros:
- Thanks to the ClimaSense technology, these provide excellent thermoregulation, have odor-retention properties as well as fast-wicking and quick-drying properties
- Wick moisture away effectively, providing good moisture management that helps keep your feet dry and comfortable
- Despite their thinness, these socks provide ample warmth and are effective in keeping your feet cozy
- These are good quality liner socks, and they also have a longer version available called the Terramar Thermasilk OTC Liner
Cons:
- You may find them too tight to wear (too tight in the calf), especially during long walks
- The sizing can be a bit confusing, so it’s important to carefully consult the sizing chart to ensure you get the correct fit
Best for: Thermoregulation
Women’s Version: Unisex
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#15 Realtree Liner Sock
Height: Boot height (mid-calf)
Cushion: No
Price: $ (the usual price is $12.99 for 2 pairs)
Materials: 98% Polypropylene, 2% spandex
Notable features:
- Arch support for a better fit
- Flat toe seam for superior comfort
- Breathable and moisture-wicking fabric
Pros:
- Nice polypropylene blend that’s light, breathable, and moisture-wicking; what’s more, the material is quick to dry
- The compression-like fit is nice as it keeps the socks up without slipping or bunching, which helps prevent blisters
- Lightweight comfort on and off the trail
- The liner is warm and comfortable, and it pairs nicely with more substantial socks
Cons:
- Run small and tight
- The tight fit may be uncomfortable, particularly for those not accustomed to it
- These liners are slightly thicker than many other hiking liner socks, which may make them more challenging to pair with thicker socks
Best for: Moisture management, whether worn on their own or paired with other thicker socks
Women’s Version: Unisex
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Table 1: Best liner socks for hiking – comparison table
PRODUCT | DESCRIPTION | PROS | CONS |
---|---|---|---|
REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Liner Crew | #1 Best overall liner hiking sock
| |
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Injinji Liner Crew Socks | #2
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Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Zero Cushion Liner | #3
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REI Co-op Silk Liner Crew Socks | #4
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Fox River X-Static Ultra-Lightweight Crew Liner | #5
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Wigwam Coolmax Liner | #6
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Fox River Wick Dry Coolmax Ultra-Lightweight Crew Liner | #7
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Kenetrek Ultimate Liner Lightweight OTC Sock | #8
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Icebreaker Merino Hike Liner Crew | #9
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Minus33 Mountain Heritage Boot Wool Liner | #10
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ArmaSkin Anti-Blister Long Liner Socks | #11
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Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking Liner Socks | #12
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Helly Hansen Everyday Wool Socks | #13
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Terramar Thermasilk Mid Calf Liner | #14
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Realtree Liner Sock | #15
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Choosing the best hiking socks for hot weather – what to consider
Liner socks are thin, lightweight socks that are designed to be worn underneath your thicker outer hiking socks. Like liner gloves, they are typically crafted from a moisture-wicking material that helps to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters. Liner socks are also designed to fit snugly and comfortably, without adding unnecessary bulk or weight to your feet.
Liner socks serve several purposes for hikers and backpackers. First, they can help to prevent blisters by reducing friction between your feet and your hiking boots. Second, they can help to regulate temperature and moisture by wicking away sweat and other moisture from your feet. Third, they can add an extra layer of insulation in colder weather. Fourth, they can extend the life of your outer hiking socks by reducing wear and tear on them. Finally, they can provide an added layer of hygiene by keeping your feet clean and free of odor.
When choosing liner socks, it’s important to consider factors such as material, fit, price, and durability. Look for liners made from moisture-wicking materials such as wool or synthetic blends, and make sure they fit comfortably without being too tight or too loose. Additionally, consider the durability of the liner socks, especially if you plan to wear them frequently. Some liner socks are designed to last longer than others, and it may be worth investing in a higher-quality pair if you plan to use them regularly.
Let’s now delve deeper into the key factors that require the most consideration:
Materials
We’ve discussed all the materials used for making hiking socks, summer as well as winter socks in our previous posts about hiking socks. You can find them all in our ‘Footwear for Backpacking‘ section. There aren’t any considerable differences regarding materials used for liner socks for hiking. Thus, this section will be a bit shorter than usual highlighting only the essentials you need to know about this topic. To learn more about the various wool and polyester blends, feel free to check out our Wool vs Polyester article.
Here’s a crash course in materials for hiking liner socks:
- Merino wool
Merino is a natural fiber, one of the animal (protein) fibers. Softer and more comfortable to wear than regular wool, it has all the pros of the latter minimizing some of the weaknesses. Advantages and disadvantages of merino wool for hiking liner socks:
- Naturally moisture-wicking, making it ideal for liner socks as it can help keep feet dry and comfortable during high-intensity activities.
- Insulates well, making merino a preferred material that helps retain body heat for longer.
- Odor-resistant, which can be a great advantage for hikers who are out for extended periods of time without access to laundry facilities.
- Soft, comfortable, and doesn’t itch, making it a great option for people with sensitive skin.
- Merino wool is more expensive than synthetic alternatives.
- Merino wool is not as durable as synthetic such as nylon and polyester and can wear out faster, especially in high-wear areas like the heel and toe. Thus it is often blended with synthetic fibers. Wool/nylon blends are a classic choice for socks, and this applies to liner socks as well.
- Some people may be allergic to wool, including merino wool, which can make it an unsuitable choice for them.
- Silk
There are two types of silk fiber – natural and synthetic. Silk is a luxurious natural fiber produced by silkworms and is highly prized for its softness, smoothness, and breathability. It is also naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating, making it a popular material for hiking liner socks for both winter and summer. Synthetic silk, on the other hand, is typically made from polyester or nylon fibers that are processed to create a fabric with a silk-like feel. While synthetic silk can mimic the softness and smoothness of real silk, it may not have the same natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Synthetic silk may be more durable and easier to care for than real silk.
- Polyester
Polyester liner socks, including modified polyesters such as COOLMAX (or COOLMAX EcoMade produced using materials that have been completely recycled), Thermolite, and THOR•WICK COOL offer excellent moisture-wicking properties and quick drying times, making them a great choice for high-intensity activities. Moreover, they are typically more affordable than merino wool liners, although this may not always be the case. However, polyester doesn’t have the natural antimicrobial properties of merino wool, and it may retain odors much easier than natural fibers. Additionally, polyester may not offer the same level of insulation as merino wool, which can be a disadvantage in cold weather. If you’re interested in learning more about the characteristics and properties of polyester, we have an article that compares polyester and cotton, which you may find helpful.
- Nylon
Nylon is a synthetic material that is often blended with other fabrics for use in hiking liner socks. Its advantages include durability, quick-drying properties, good elastic recovery (liners on our list such as Wigwam Coolmax Liner utilizing stretch nylon have no more than 1% of spandex), and resistance to abrasion. Nylon socks can be less breathable and may not provide as much insulation as other materials. They also have a tendency to retain odors, which can be a concern for hikers on long trips.
- Polypropylene
Polypropylene, also known as olefin, is a synthetic material used in hiking liner socks primarily for its excellent moisture-wicking properties. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, cost-effective, and resistant to stains, odors, and chemicals. However, it may not be as durable as other materials, and some find it less comfortable than natural fibers.
- Elastane
Elastane or spandex is a synthetic fiber commonly used in the textile and clothing industries, with many trade names such as Lycra, Numa, Dorlastan, and Spandelle. This fiber is generally used in hiking liner socks to add stretchiness and improve fit. It has excellent elasticity and can provide a snug fit without being too tight. However, spandex can be less durable than other materials and may lose its stretch over time. In high-quality liners for hiking, spandex content is typically between 1% and 4% – quantity enough to provide just the right amount of recoverable stretch.
Fit, cushioning & comfort
From the designs featured on our list of the best liner socks, it’s clear that they rarely come with any cushioning. In the rare instances that they do, it’s usually only minimal, such as in the heel and sole, just like the Icebreaker Merino Hike Liner Crew.
The fit of hiking liner socks is crucial to their effectiveness in preventing blisters and providing comfort on the trail. A proper fit should be snug but not too tight, with no bunching or slipping. The fit of liners is largely determined by the knitting machine and fabric density as well as features that are used to cause less pressure in key areas of the foot. One such feature is the seamless toe. When choosing hiking liners, it is important to pay attention to the sizing chart and to consider the specific shape of your foot, as well as any potential stretching or shrinking that may occur with use and washing.
Similarly to hot-weather socks, liners for hiking should provide enhanced temperature management and thermoregulation. Moisture-wicking properties (or breathability) of a liner sock are essential for keeping feet dry, reducing the risk of blisters, and regulating temperature during physical activity. Moisture management properties play a significant role in transferring moisture away from the foot’s skin and transporting it to the outer layer of the sock and from there to the next sock layer.
Liner socks should dry out fast because moisture is a major contributor to the formation of blisters. When socks become wet from sweat or other sources of moisture, they can wrinkle and bunch up, creating friction against the skin. This can lead to hot spots and blisters. Liners that dry quickly are less likely to wrinkle or bunch up, which in turn reduces the likelihood of blisters forming. Additionally, keeping the feet dry can also help prevent other foot-related issues such as fungal infections.
The drying speed of the liner sock depends on factors such as the fabric type and thickness. Polypropylene and polyester typically have lightning-fast drying properties, making them a popular choice for hiking liner socks. Liners made from all-synthetic blends with these fibers can dry quickly, especially if they are thin. Liner socks that use a blend of merino wool and synthetic fibers usually take longer to dry compared to those made from synthetic materials alone.
Price
As with other styles of hiking socks, the prices of different models can vary considerably. The price tags of the liner socks in our review vary from less than $10 to $40 with an average price of around $15.5 (at $16 both our #3 Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Zero Cushion Liner and #14 Terramar Thermasilk cost mere 50 cents above the average). It’s worth mentioning that more than half of all models here cost $14 or below. When removing the two outliers (the cheapest and the most expensive socks – #15 Realtree Liner Sock and #11 ArmaSkin Anti-Blister Long Liner respectively), all the other 13 designs on our list cost between $10 and $21 with six models between $10 and $12.5 and four models coming at $16 to $17.
Price differences between liner socks depend on several factors, such as the material used, the manufacturing process, the brand name, and the specific features offered, such as moisture-wicking properties. Generally, synthetic materials are less expensive than natural materials, and liners with additional features and higher-quality construction will also typically have a higher price point.
Durability
Durability is an important factor to consider when choosing hiking liner socks, as they are subject to a lot of wear and tear during use. The durability of liner socks can vary depending on the materials used, the quality of construction, frequency and intensity of use, and how well they are cared for. Liner socks made from synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and propylene are typically more durable than those made from natural materials like merino wool or silk, which can be more delicate. For instance, the Fox River X-Static Crew Liner is a heavy-duty construction made from synthetic materials that offer great durability, while the REI Co-op Silk Liner Crew is a typical example of liner socks made from natural materials that are more fragile. Proper care, such as washing and drying according to the manufacturer’s instructions, can also help to prolong the lifespan of your sock liners.
Typically, durability varies depending on the brand and model of the liner sock. Some liner socks are designed to last longer than others, and it may be worth investing in a higher-quality pair if you plan to use them regularly.
Conclusion
The decision to wear liner socks on a hiking or backpacking trip can vary depending on personal preference, necessity, or even as a must, depending on the nature and conditions of the trip.
After researching and comparing various hiking liner socks, it’s clear that the perfect choice depends on the individual’s personal preferences and needs. However, a high-quality liner sock should fit snugly, regulate foot temperature, and be moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and fairly durable. And, of course, budget-friendly (if possible). Synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and polypropylene generally offer more durability and quick-drying properties, while natural materials like merino wool and silk offer softness and breathability. With so many options available, finding the right pair of liner socks is a crucial step in enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of blisters on any hiking or backpacking adventure.
Feel free to leave a comment in the section below and let us know your favorite liner sock for hiking and why. We would love to hear your thoughts and opinions.
* We classified the prices in $-$$$ scale in the following manner:
- usual price is between 0 and $10 -> $
- price is between $10.01 and $20 -> $$
- usual price is above $20 -> $$$
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