Best Hiking Socks of 2023 (Buying Guide)

The main aim of this blog post is simple: giving you the most valuable information there is to help you choose the best hiking socks for your next travel adventure. In this in-depth guide, we highlighted our top hiking socks for 2023. We reviewed socks for summer and winter, for all budgets, seasons, and styles of travel. We also assembled a sock comparison table to help you get a quick review of the most important characteristics, pros, and cons of each pair of socks on our list. You can find it just below the last item on our list which is #20 Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew.

Wondering what to expect from the different types and models of hiking socks available on the market? Don’t fret. The rest of this article will provide all the information you need on hiking socks, covering key materials and their attributes, sock design and build, as well as the functions and advantages of trekking socks. After you read this article, you’d know not only more about socks but you’d also know how to combine the right socks with the right boots.

Let’s jump in.

Quick answer: BEST HIKING SOCKS FOR 2023

1. Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight                          View on Amazon              View on REI

2. Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Crew                                     View on Amazon              View on REI

3. Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full Cushion                                      View on Amazon              View on REI

4. Darn Tough Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight     View on Amazon              View on REI

5. Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking                               View on Amazon

6. Darn Tough Hiker Quarter Midweight                                  View on Amazon              View on REI

7. Balega Silver No Show Tab                                                            View on Amazon              View on REI

8. Sockwell Ascend II OTC                                                                  View on Amazon

9. Fox River Military Fatigue Fighter Lightweight OTC    View on Amazon              View on Fox River

10. Sealskinz Waterproof Cold Weather Knee                     View on Amazon              View on Backcountry

20. Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew                                 View on Amazon

Best overall hiking socks

#1 Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion

Height: Micro crew

Cushion: Medium

Price: $$* (the usual price is $25)

Materials: 61% Merino wool, 36% nylon, 3% Lycra (men’s); 59% merino wool, 39% nylon, 2% Lycra (women’s)

Notable features:

• Built to be cool in the summer and warm in the winter
• Soft terry loops cushioning underfoot and targeted protection over the ankle and Achilles
• Guaranteed for life

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Height: Crew

Cushion: Light

Price: $$ (come at around $24)

Materials: 56% Merino wool, 31% recycled nylon, 11% nylon, 2% elastane (men’s); 56% Merino wool, 31% recycled nylon, 11% nylon, 2% elastane (women’s)

Notable features:

• Mesh body-mapped ventilation zones provide excellent ventilation and moisture management
• 4 Degree elite fit system provides a performance fit
• Construction method: Indestructawool technology for exceptional durability and comfort

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Height: Boot height (sits mid-calf)

Cushion: Heavy

Price: $$$ (come at around $28)

Materials: 66% Merino wool, 32% nylon, 2% Lycra (men’s); 69% merino wool, 27% nylon, 4% Lycra (women’s)

Notable features:

• Performance fit: knitting techniques for the finest fitting performance without slipping, bunching or blisters
• Full cushioning
• True Seamless technology: undetectable seam fusion for an ultra-smooth, invisible feel

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Height: Micro crew

Cushion: Medium

Price: $$ (the usual price is $24)

Materials: 37% Nylon, 34% Coolmax polyester, 28% acrylic, 2% Lycra, 1% Other (men’s); 39% nylon, 34% Coolmax polyester, 19% acrylic, 5% polyester, 3% Lycra (women’s)

Notable features:

• With Coolmax for better moisture management in warm environments and conditions
• Undetectable toe seam for a smooth and seamless feel on and off the trail
• Reinforced footbed and Achilles cushion and performance fit for durability and comfort

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Height: Crew

Cushion: Medium

Price: $ (can be found for as little as $15.95)

Materials: 30% Merino wool, 36% nylon, 33% acrylic, 1% elastane

Notable features:

• Targeted ventilation zones provide constant airflow for fresh and dry feet
• Temperature-controlled technology to prevent cold feet
• Thick cushioning to save the feet from hotspots and blisters

Women’s Version: Unisex

Height: Quarter crew

Cushion: Medium

Price: $$ (come at around $21)

Materials: 61% Merino wool, 37% nylon, 2% Lycra (men’s); 60% Merino wool, 38% nylon, 2% Lycra (women’s)

Notable features:

• Performance trail fit cuts down on slipping
• Undetectable seam fusion
• All-weather performance and “put it on, forget it’s on” feel

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Height: No-show

Cushion: Medium

Price: $ (come at around $20)

Materials: 75% polyester, 23% nylon, 2% elastane

Notable features:

• Encapsulated silver ions with antibacterial properties
• Compression sock arch support bands
• Seamless, reinforced toe and extra-deep heel

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Height: Knee length

Cushion: Medium

Price: $$$ (come at $29.99)

Materials: 41% Merino wool, 39% nylon, 14% alpaca, 6% spandex (men’s); 41% Merino wool, 39% nylon, 14% alpaca, 6% spandex (women’s)

Notable features:

• 15-20mmHg graduated compression is moderate-zoned compression that promotes circulation reducing foot fatigue
• Arch support and seamless toe closure
• Breathing panels

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Height: Over the Calf height

Cushion: Lightweight

Price: $ (the usual price is $17)

Materials: 60% Polyester, 35% nylon, 5% spandex

Notable features:

• 8-15 mmHg graduated compression
• URfit System provides long-lasting arch support
• Vented panels ensure dry and cool feet

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Height: Knee-length

Cushion:

Price: $$$ (come at around $60)

Materials: Inner Layer: 35% Merino wool, 35% acrylic, 23% polyester, 3.5% nylon, 3.5% elastane; Middle Layer: 100% Hydrophilic membrane; Outer Layer: 90% Nylon, 10% elastane

Notable features:

• Waterproof breathable membrane with Hydrostatic Head of >20,000mm
• Durable nylon blend exterior with 4-way stretch
• Extra layer of terry-loop knitting for added warmth

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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

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Height: Micro crew

Cushion: Light

Price: $$ (come at around $24)

Materials: 54% Merino wool, 43% nylon, 3% Lycra (men’s); 54% Merino wool, 43% nylon, 3% Lycra (women’s)

Notable features:

• Fast Action Wicking
• Lifetime warranty
• True Seamless – undetectable seam fusion for an ultra-smooth, invisible feel

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Height: Crew

Cushion: Light

Price: $$ (usual price: $17.95)

Materials: 79% RWS merino wool, 20% nylon, 1% Lycra

Notable features:

• Ultrasoft RSE (Responsible Wool Standard) merino wool with anti-microbial abilities provides long-lasting and itch-free comfort
• Reinforced heel, toe, footbeds, and Achilles provide durability
• Made in USA

Women’s Version: Unisex

Height: Crew

Cushion: Light

Price: $$ (the usual price is around $25)

Materials: 51% Merino wool, 46 % nylon, 3% Lycra (men’s); 51% Merino wool, 46 % nylon, 3% Lycra (women’s)

Notable features:

• High-density cushioning at critical performance areas throughout the sock
• Seamless toe closure reduces wear and tear and provides a blister-free experience
• Super-fine US Merino wool; reinforced construction

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Height: Crew

Cushion: Medium

Price: $$ (usual price: $19.95)

Materials: 81% RWS merino wool, 18% nylon, 1% Lycra

Notable features:

• Cushioning with reinforcement at heels, toes, footbeds, and Achilles
• Seamless toes prevent chafing
• Ultrasoft RSE merino wool, certified under the Responsible Wool Standard

Women’s Version: Unisex

Height: Crew

Cushion: Medium

Price: $$ (the usual price is $26)

Materials: 56% Merino вool, 31% recycled nylon, 11% nylon, 2% еlastane

Notable features:

• Full cushioning absorbs impact for a more comfortable experience
• Improved body-mapped mesh zones for added breathability
• Flat knit toe seam prevents irritation and discomfort

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Height: Ankle

Cushion: Medium

Price: $ (come at around $16)

Materials: 58% nylon, 39% Coolmax EcoMade polyester, 3% Lycra

Notable features:

• Anatomical five-toe design prevents skin-on-skin friction for a blister-free experience
• Extra cushioning on the footbed
• Mesh top part for maximum breathability and ventilation

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Height: Crew

Cushion: Light

Price: $ (the usual price is $22)

Materials: 61% Merino wool, 37% nylon, 2% Lycra (men’s); 61% Merino wool, 37% nylon, 2% Lycra (women’s)

Notable features:

• Designated breathing zone
• Anatomical toe box for unique left and right fit
• Seamless toe closure and function junction for less bulk

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Height: Crew

Cushion: Light

Price: $ (the usual price is $17)

Materials: Inner layer: 70% Recycled polyester, 26% nylon, 4% Lycra; outer layer: 71% Recycled polyester, 24% nylon, 5% Lycra

Notable features:

• Recycled polyester fibers for effective moisture management and increased durability
• Mesh panel ensures better air circulation and extra ventilation for cool and dry feet
• Stabilizer Zones in arches to prevent the sock from slipping

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Height: Micro/mini crew

Cushion: Ultralight

Price: $$ (come at around $20)

Materials: 92% Nylon 8% spandex

Notable features:

• Targeted Compression and anatomical design improve fit and comfort; adds support
• Seamless toe called ‘The Perfect Toe’ for enhanced comfort
• Minimal cushion provides a lighter, cooler feel

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Choosing the best hiking socks – what to consider

Outdoor socks are often overlooked because they may appear to be a standard item. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth as the materials used, the thickness, and the way they’re constructed all play a significant role in determining their effectiveness. Designed to provide significant functional and protective benefits for the active person, hiking socks are an essential component of footwear for every backpacker – from the absolute beginner to the very experienced outdoorsman.

Materials

The majority of trekking socks are crafted from synthetic materials like polyester, merino wool, or blends that combine wool and various synthetic fibers like nylon for added durability or spandex for optimum elastic fit.

Wool

Wool, a natural, sustainable, and biodegradable fiber, is often utilized to create socks and other clothing that can adapt to varying weather conditions and environments. Furthermore, wool possesses several additional positive attributes that make it ideal for use in trekking socks.

Generally, wool socks cushion your feet, keep them warm in winter and cool in summer, wick away sweat, and retain warmth when wet. Wool fiber is hygroscopic. Interestingly, its core is hydrophilic, whereas the surface of the fiver is hydrophobic. The wool fiber contains natural grease called lanolin that protects sheep from wind, cold, and water. Sometimes it is removed but when the lanolin isn’t removed, the woolen garment is water-repellent and offers excellent protection from the elements. Wool is a good insulator and also keeps its shape when damp, which reduces the danger of your wool socks causing blisters. One of the typical characteristics of wool is that it feels warm when wet – wool can absorb up to 35 percent of its own weight in moisture and still feel dry and warm. In footwear without lining, wool socks can keep your skin dry and comfortable because of their highly effective moisture-wicking abilities.

Wool has a natural ability to breathe, which makes it suitable for high-intensity pursuits such as hiking and backpacking. It is also antimicrobial and odor resistant, with the added bonus of eliminating the need for constant laundering. All you need to do is air your wool hiking socks to remove much of the build-up of odor. Wool is a relatively durable, reliable, and quality material that typically has a long lifespan and retains its appearance for many years. However, it’s not particularly resistant to abrasion so nylon is often added as reinforcement at the heel and toe.

Wool is classified according to its thickness, which varies between 24.5 microns for fine wool to more than 35.5 microns for coarse crossbred. Coarse wool has a rough texture, while fine wool is smooth and comfortable against the skin.

Merino wool

Specialized wool yarns known as merino wool possess many of the traits of synthetic fibers. Compared to traditional wool, merino wool has longer, softer, and finer fibers, resulting in increased comfort, a softer feel, and better moisture management. Furthermore, merino wool is lightweight and won’t cause itching, unlike regular wool socks and clothing which have a tendency to irritate the skin. Merino has superior water vapor permeability, dries fast, insulates very well, and can also retain its shape longer than other wool. Similar to other wool varieties, merino wool can absorb up to one-third of its dry weight in moisture, but its fiber construction makes it so you don’t feel wet. The fiber features a hydrophilic interior that draws in and absorbs moisture from the body, and a hydrophobic exterior. Additionally, this type of wool offers excellent insulation, even when wet, and boasts natural antimicrobial properties, preventing odor retention.

Because of all these qualities, merino wool is widely used for base layers, underwear, and socks designed for activewear and sportswear. Merino wool is often blended with other fibers (mainly synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, spandex, polypropylene, and acrylic) for increased durability, elasticity, and better thermoregulation. For example, some of the best merino wool hiking socks such as the Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full Cushion are not made of pure merino but of a nice blend of merino, nylon, and Lycra. Note that Lycra, spandex, and elastane are all interchangeable names for the same material.

Although merino wool has many benefits, it also has a significant drawback: its high cost. Considered by many the ultimate in wool luxury, it’s often blended with other expensive fibers such as silk, cashmere, and alpaca.

Care for wool

Proper care for wool garments is not hard. Typically, the best way to clean wool socks is with a low-temperature and short wash cycle. Note that wool properties can often change due to improper care and maintenance practices so always read clothing labels and follow the care instructions recommended by the manufacturer. It’s best to avoid washing woolen items with other clothing to prevent the transfer of dyes, cross-staining, and pilling of the woolen items. Use mild detergent and avoid bleaches since they damage the wool fiber.

To preserve their color and prevent shrinkage, wool socks (and wool garments in general) should not be dried in direct sunlight or in a dryer. Hanging wool clothing after washing should also be avoided as it can easily lose its size and shape. Moreover, if you want your woolen items to retain their original shape after washing and drying, allow about 24 hours before wearing them again. After cleaning, store all your wool clothes in a dry and clean storage space.

Synthetics

Synthetic fibers have been engineered to have some important physical properties for athletic performance: water resistance, wicking, hydrophobicity, thermal insulation, wind resistance, anti-microbial resistance, durability, maintenance of shape when wet, quick-drying, reduced weight, cushion and resiliency, and reduced coefficient of friction.

Polyester and acrylic

Acrylic and polyester are among the most popular synthetic fibers used for sports socks. Synthetic socks, made from acrylic, polyester, polypropylene, and nylon are supposed to wick moisture faster than wool and dry more quickly. Acrylic and polyester have several advantages over cotton fibers: they’re hydrophobic, have superior wicking properties, and dry faster. In contrast to wool, synthetics feel damp when only a small amount of moisture is present. While both acrylic and polyester remain soft with multiple machine washings, resist wrinkles and stains, and retain their shape with moisture exposure, COOLMAX and other polyester fibers have a 15% faster drying time compared to acrylic fibers. For summer hiking or in hot weather, COOLMAX socks are a better choice than acrylic socks. Acrylic fibers typically provide poor insulation, and on hot surfaces, acrylic socks can transfer heat.

COOLMAX, Hollofil, Dacron, Capilene, Thermolite, etc. are often used for manufacturing quality hiking socks. Many people become confused because they think that the aforementioned materials are different fibers. However, these are not different fibers but rather fancy-sounding brand names of modified polyester fiber. Polyester and its blends are preferred for sportswear and performance clothing mainly because of their strength, hydrophobicity, low absorbency (means also resistance to staining), and the ability to retain size and shape. Acrylic is a common substitute for wool. It is resilient, durable, wicks moisture, absorbs little water, dries quickly, and is a low-maintenance fiber. Acrylic can often be found in blends with wool and other natural fibers.

Nylon

Polyamide also known as nylon is one of the most widely used fibers for performance outerwear and technical fabrics. Nylon is widely acknowledged as the first commercially successful synthetic polymer. In Germany, a type of nylon (Nylon 6 or Perlon) was decreed as a military material and as such it was used as reinforcement for German military socks. Nylon fibers are light and fine, yet durable and resistant to abrasion. They are also easy to wash, quick-drying, and maintain their shape well, which is why they are commonly used in the manufacture of socks, particularly for reinforcing hiking and outdoor socks.

Drawbacks to synthetics

The major disadvantage of synthetic fabrics is that they can develop odors quickly and retain them after multiple wearings. Additionally, their low absorbency means that they don’t clean as easily as wool or cotton in cold water. Cleaning synthetic socks and garments can also be more challenging as materials like nylon and polyester have an inherent resistance to chemicals.

Care for synthetics

Excessive cleaning and washing too often can wear out clothing sooner so consider reusing a garment again before washing if it looks clean and there is no bad odor. The care for synthetics is relatively easy. Generally, any commercial laundry detergent works well with most synthetic fibers. For optimal results, it’s best to wash delicate items with warm water and mild detergent. Always refer to the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, just as you would with wool.

Cotton

Cotton is a truly trans-seasonal natural fiber used for producing a variety of textiles. It is comfortable to wear when dry but absorbs a lot of moisture, loses its insulating qualities when wet, and is slow to dry. This makes cotton and cotton clothing unreliable for cool-to-cold and windy conditions. However, cotton is breathable, provides sun protection, and in hot weather, it cools well, which makes it suitable for hot days.

Avoid cotton in sports socks; it soaks up sweat, sticks to the feet, feels cold and clammy, and takes a long time to dry. Wet cotton socks are prone to wrinkling and losing their shape, causing discomfort and even blisters. Additionally, prolonged exposure to wetness softens the skin and creates hot spots, leading to blisters. Prolonged wearing of wet socks also increases the risk of developing immersion foot (trench foot), a serious condition. See our post about heat and cold-related illnesses and injuries for more information on this condition, its main symptoms, prevention, and proper treatment.

Whatever the material, sweat-soaked socks should be changed for dry ones or your feet will be more likely to blister. Especially in hot weather, you need to change your hiking socks once or twice a day.

Care for cotton

Cotton clothes can generally be easily machine washed and dried. Check the care instructions and follow them for best results. Separate light and dark cotton clothes to avoid the leaching of dyes. Lighter colors can be washed in warmer water with regular detergent while dark colors can be washed in cool water. Excessive drying should be shunned to avoid wrinkles along with shrinkage. Hanging cotton shirts and pants after washing is recommended in order to prevent wrinkling.

Hiking sock design and construction

A crew-length sock is a traditional hiking sock used all year round by many backpackers. The upper of the crew sock ends just below the calf muscle. The mini-crew (or micro crew) design ends just above the malleoli of the ankle and is a popular choice primarily for summer hiking. Quarter socks sit even lover than mini-crew designs. No-show socks such as the Balega Silver No Show Tab are often preferred by ultralighters who want to minimize bulk. Of course, boot-height (sit mid-calf) and knee-length (over-the-calf) socks are also popular among outdoorsmen. The image below shows three of the most popular designs of hiking socks. Keep in mind that the difference between the height of a boot sock and a micro crew sock is way bigger than what you see in the picture. In reality, the height of the micro crew sock in the middle reaches just below the Darn Tough logo on the boot sock to the left.

Densely knitted socks cushion better and feel more comfortable against the skin. Because of this and for maximum protection for the foot, many models of expensive socks use more fabric and tightly woven knit patterns.

Ribbed legs with alternating thin and thick sections and elastic fibers in the leg or at the top of the sock keep the legs from sagging and slipping down. Traditional hiking socks are shaped at the heel (have a standard heel gore) for a good fit with no loose fabric as Y-Gore provides the best fit and conformity for the heel. Tube socks do not provide adequate fit since they have loose material around the heel that can slip and bunch up under your foot.

Outdoor socks may feature varying material densities at specific points for enhanced cushioning and warmth. For example, the foot area may have a cushioned sole and instep. Some also have elasticized sections for support and improved fit.

The toe area of the sock has a seam that should be flat and smooth; it may be almost imperceptible in finer-quality hosiery. There are also seamless socks designed for reducing pressure over the toes.

For cold weather, terry loops on the inside, especially underfoot, are warmer and more comfortable than flat knits. For warm weather, a flat knit over the foot and rib knit on the legs is cooler.

Choosing the right fit for your hiking socks is crucial. Note that sock sizes typically cater to three or four shoe sizes, and they usually stretch with time. So if you’re uncertain between two sizes, it’s usually best to opt for the smaller one.

When putting on backpacking socks, make sure that they fit properly. How do you know if a pair of socks fit properly? As a rule, the heel pocket should be in the right place and there should be no loose fabric anywhere. For optimal results, wear your hiking socks while fitting your footwear, as they should fit both your feet and shoes.

Functions and benefits of outdoor socks

One of the primary differentiating features of hiking socks, compared to casual socks, is the utilization of high-tech fibers and yarns designed to provide better comfort and protection for the feet.

Moisture Management

In general, cotton fibers and most wool fibers are considered hydrophilic, while synthetic fibers are hydrophobic. Moisture can accumulate in the shoe from three different sources: the foot itself, the legs and trunk of the hiker, and the outside environment.

Sweat production from the feet during intense physical activity is estimated to be around 2-2.5 liters per day. The rest of the body can produce over one liter of sweat per hour during exercise. To minimize foot moisture during exercise, a sock must effectively wick moisture away and transport it to the shoe upper for evaporation.

Cotton fibers are hydrophilic and can absorb three times as much moisture as synthetic fibers. Moreover, cotton socks retain moisture and their drying time is much longer compared to synthetic socks. In a sedentary activity, cotton socks may be preferable to synthetic socks, given the low moisture output of the feet, and the better absorptive capacity of these hydrophilic fibers. But during hiking or other physical activities, any type of sock will struggle to manage the moisture, making moisture-wicking socks necessary. These socks facilitate the transfer of moisture from the foot to the shoe for evaporation into the environment. When wet, acrylic fibers swell 5%, wool fibers swell 35%, and cotton fibers swell 45%. Generally, swelling of fibers limits moisture transport and is related to a loss of shape and conformability to the foot.

Waterproof socks

Wet feet should not be a problem when wearing hiking footwear for short periods. Generally, lightweight hiking shoes and boots without waterproof breathable linings dry quickly when the air is dry. However, prolonged wet weather can cause footwear to stay damp for days, leading to softer skin and potential blisters or sore spots. Waterproof hiking shoes and boots are suitable for cold conditions, however, in warm weather, these can be very hot and sweaty.

Some backpackers prefer wearing waterproof breathable socks. Typical 3-layer constructions such as the best waterproof sock of this year – Sealskinz Waterproof Cold Weather Knee consist of a knit exterior, waterproof breathable membrane, and moisture-wicking inner with antibacterial abilities. Waterproof breathable socks offer superior protection compared to waterproof boots when crossing streams and puddles. This is due to their higher height, with some reaching just below the knee. These socks perform well in cold and wet conditions, particularly those with knee-length designs. This promotes blood circulation and keeps your feet warm. Note that the comfort range when wearing too-tight socks is too limited because they may restrict circulation. Seamless constructions reduce friction and the chances of developing hot spots and blisters.

One of the main drawbacks of waterproof socks is their slow-drying nature when wet. Additionally, many models lack toughness and durability.

Waterproof breathable socks do well in wet environments and conditions. This kind of socks is suitable for multi-day hiking trips, mountaineering expeditions, running and cycling in the rain as well as kayaking and other outdoor activities and sports.

Clinical benefits of outdoor socks

Being the closest layer of protection against the foot, socks have the potential to protect the skin and the deeper tissues from injury.

In walking and running, the primary stresses on the feet are impact, plantar pressure, friction, and shear. Impact forces result from gravity and inertia as the body propels forward. Plantar pressures are the result of an impact, bone deformity, and biomechanical issues. Friction and shear occur when the foot strikes the ground tangential to the supportive surface and when the foot pushes off in propulsion. When external movement exceeds the frictional force at the skin interface, shear occurs where layers of skin begin to move upon each other. Initially, shear forces cause exfoliation of the stratum corneum on the skin surface but continued shearing forces can cause a cleft to develop, resulting in a blister.

Modern specialized outdoor socks can significantly reduce impact shock and plantar pressures on the foot. In addition, modern socks might reduce the development of friction blisters. Friction blisters are among the most common skin injuries. They can also result in infection and disability, which has made blister prevention particularly important to powerful institutions and organizations such as the U.S. Armed Forces.

Studies show that double-layer synthetic sock systems are more effective in the prevention of blisters as the use of a polyester (COOLMAX) liner combined with a heavily padded wool-polypropylene outer sock works out best for reducing the formation of blisters. Additionally, the fiber composition of the sock (it seems that synthetic fibers work best) may reduce the friction force on the skin surface. Studies have shown that wearing appropriate outdoor socks decreases moisture levels on the feet during activity, reducing the risk of friction blisters and other skin injuries such as calluses, corns, and toenail trauma.

Layering socks

Double-layering your socks can provide cushioning, decrease friction from boots, wick away moisture, and offer insulation in cold conditions, when the right socks and proper wear are chosen. Conversely, improper wear or poor sock selection can negatively impact your hike by causing discomfort, hot spots, and blisters.

The conventional three-season backpacking sock system consists of two pairs. Here are some basic rules that will help you with proper layering.

• The inner layer (a thin liner sock is worn next to the skin) should be made of hydrophobic material. The aim is to manage moisture – it wicks moisture away from your foot and transports it to the outer sock. A lightweight synthetic sock with wicking properties such as the best liner hiking sock on our list, REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Liner Crew, does the job well.
• The outer layer (between the liner sock and the shoe) should be made of hydrophobic fabric (synthetics), wool or a wool-nylon-spandex blend. The purpose of this layer is to provide insulation, cushioning, and abrasion resistance whereas passing the moisture from your foot outward.
• A third layer for additional insulation can be added in extremely cold conditions. You can also add a vapor barrier sock. You have two options – to add it between the inner and the outer sock or over both layers. In harsh cold and wet conditions, adding a waterproof sock as the third layer to decrease the amount of water absorbed by the foot can be advantageous.

No matter how many layers of hiking socks you wear, it is important to change socks after heavy sweating and to always carry extra socks on multi-day trips. Have at least two sets of inner and outer socks (one set to wear and one to dry after washing it). In good weather conditions, wearing only a liner sock has some advantages too: they dry faster; absorb less moisture, and are cooler in three-season conditions.

What to look for when looking for the best winter hiking socks

In cold weather, it is important that the whole foot-sock-footwear system works together. Thus choosing proper footwear is a must (see our article on hiking boots to learn more about different types of hiking footwear and their features). Your socks play a crucial role in the system. Consider using thick socks or double-layering to achieve extra warmth and comfort. In cold weather, layering outdoor socks can be extremely beneficial as adding multiple layers of material increases the air insulation between the sock layers (using two pairs results in a higher level of insulation).

The best hiking socks for winter should:

• Provide good insulation for better thermal comfort.
• Offer excellent moisture management to keep the feet and footwear dry and comfortable.
• Be made of wool or wool/nylon blend for more durability and additional abrasion resistance. Thermolite and Hollofil have been developed especially for cold conditions. Designed to trap air, in a way similar to the way wool does it, they provide better insulation for the feet of the user.

Additionally, proper foot and shoe care is critical for you to maintain healthy feet during prolonged cold exposure.

What to look for when looking for the best summer hiking socks

We’ll start by answering an interesting question: Are wool socks suitable for hot weather? The short answer is: it depends. The thickness of the wool is the most important consideration. Thick wool socks will keep your feet warm but thin wool socks will actually keep them cool especially when combined with breathable shoes and possibly good hiking shorts.

The best hiking socks for summer should be:

• Moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and breathable constructions as these will keep your feet cool and dry.
• Thin and soft for more comfort, yet durable and abrasion-resistant.
• Made of synthetics such as polyester (COOLMAX), nylon, and other synthetic materials made to perform in hot conditions or an all-synthetic blend. Thin and lightweight merino wool socks as well as merino/nylon blends can be an even better choice.
• With antimicrobial abilities to prevent the growth of fungus and odor-causing bacteria. Wool has natural antibacterial abilities while synthetic socks should have odor-resistant treatment.

Conclusion

When selecting socks for backpacking, keep in mind that specialized hiking socks can affect the fit of your shoes. If the socks are heavily cushioned, you may need to go up one full shoe size to accommodate the extra space required for your feet. It is recommended to measure your feet while wearing the outdoor socks that will be used during your hiking trip.

A precise fit can be challenging when socks come in sizes that span over a wide range (more than three shoe sizes). That’s why premium sports socks are usually offered in narrow size ranges. Keep in mind that sock sizes are not equivalent to shoe sizes.

For those who suffer from persistent blistering, it is advised to opt for a sock system with double layers or added cushioning. If skin injury is not a major concern, the fiber type should be prioritized over the design style when choosing socks.

The market for socks is overflowing with products claiming consumer benefits like blister prevention, anti-microbial protection, and insulation. Such claims, alas, are rarely scientifically substantiated. However, based on the best available scientific evidence, remember that:

• Cotton fibers are not recommended for construction and use in outdoor socks because of poor performance when exposed to moisture. However, some wool-synthetic-cotton and synthetic-cotton blends can work pretty well on the trail.
• Synthetic fibers have several advantages over cotton: they’re better at wicking moisture and also dry faster; they’re more durable and can maintain their shape when wet.
• Wool fiber socks, particularly merino socks, have many positive characteristics of synthetic fibers. Merino wool hiking socks are superior to cotton socks in cold environments and have adequate wicking capacity to keep the feet drying.
• Padded socks are a better option than thin, unpadded socks as they provide protection to the skin surface from friction and shear, and significantly reduce plantar pressure and impact shock, thus reducing the risk of foot injury.
• A double-layer sock system using a synthetic fiber liner sock has been found to be more effective in reducing the occurrence of blisters compared to single-layer sock systems.

When searching for the best hiking socks, remember to look for ones that provide cushioning for your feet, minimize friction from your shoes, effectively manage moisture, and keep your feet at the right temperature.

What’s your favorite choice for hiking socks? What do you look for when choosing socks and why? Drop us a line in the comments section below. Your remarks and opinions will be welcomed.