11 Best Hiking Socks 2023: Socks to Keep You Comfortable on the Trail

Condé Nast Traveler


Hello World

Whether you’re going on a mellow road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway or trekking the entirety of the John Muir Trail, one thing’s for certain: you’re going to need an awesome pair of hiking socks. Though top brands might seem pricey at first glance, it’s important to remember that hiking socks are your first (and best) defense against blisters on the trail. Natural fibers, like Alpaca and Merino wool, are great at odor-prevention, insulation, and wicking away sweat. Synthetic materials, on the other hand, are likely to be a bit more durable and affordable.The long and the short of it is that having the right hiking socks makes a big difference.

When picking out a pair of hiking socks, pay attention to both length and cushioning. Adventurers who prefer to trek in trail runners or low-cut hiking shoes can shed some extra fabric with a no-show or quarter-crew design, while high-top hiking boot wearers should choose a longer “crew” sock height. As for cushioning, the aggressiveness of the terrain, outside temperature, and length of the hike matter most; more cushioning means more comfort on tough trails, but also more warmth.

I’ve hiked on all seven continents and in every national park in the US, including remote treks in Iceland, Nepal, Antarctica, and Ecuador. I even did a 23-day stint on the John Muir Trail, with only one blister to speak of. It goes without saying that over the years, I’ve seen my fair share of sore toes and unnecessary chafing. I hope you never know that pain, so I’ve hand-picked a few of my favorite hiking socks to keep you cozy and blister-free, no matter the conditions.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.


Shop the best hiking socks:


FAQ:

Should I wear thin or thick socks hiking?

It’s crucial to first think about the type of terrain you’ll be encountering. Most quality hiking socks are made with a blend of Merino wool, nylon, and elastane or spandex. Thicker, heavily cushioned designs are warmer, sure, but they also provide impact absorption on rough, rocky terrain (like granite slabs in Yosemite) and add an extra barrier of protection between your precious skin and high-ankle boots. Thinner socks (especially Merino wool ones) wick moisture like a dream but provide better ventilation in hot, muggy climates.

What length sock is best for hiking?

This one all depends on bugs and what style hiking shoe you prefer. Hiking in a warm, sunny, tick-and-mosquito-free zone? Low-profile ankle socks will keep you comfortable and cool. Venturing out in chilly shoulder season (spring or fall) weather? Grab those full crew-length babies from your drawer. It’s also generally a good idea to wear longer, crew-length socks if you know you’ll be wearing a high-top boot for ankle stability.

What is the best material for winter hiking socks?

Merino wool all the way. And, yes, we’re going to talk your ear off about this point. Not only is wool a naturally antimicrobial, odor-controlling fiber, it’s also excellent at staying warm, even when wet. That means you’ll stay safe, dry, and blister-free even after slogging up a long, snowy uphill trek. Look for products labeled with the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) seal of approval to ensure that your purchase protects the welfare of these remarkable animals.


Best overall

Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew cushion socks

It’s hard to argue with Darn Tough’s unconditional lifetime guarantee on its uber-comfortable Merino wool socks, which is why the brand has become a no-brainer for serious backpackers on the Pacific Crest and Appalachian Trails. With high-density cushioning to minimize sore spots on longer hikes and superior sweat-wicking, their micro crew cushion is a must-have for day hikes and overnighters alike.

Best budget pick

REI Merino Wool hiking quarter socks

It’s tough to find a sturdy Merino hiking sock for under $20, but REI Co-op has really delivered with these lightweight hiking quarter socks, which provide much-needed padding on the heels, toes, footbeds, and achilles for extra-long trail days. We also love these socks’ stretchy arch support that helps you stay comfortable, whether you’re ascending Half Dome or trekking a section of the Appalachian Trail. REI is also a Certified Climate Neutral brand, so you can feel good knowing that your purchase helps protect the wildernesses you’re likely to hike through.

Best blister protection

Injinji Trail midweight crew socks

Injinji Trail midweight crew socks

Sure, they might look a bit silly and downright unconventional at first glance, but Injinji’s unique performance toe socks are designed to minimize friction on rugged terrain and hot days, sparing you those dreaded, hike-ending blisters you’ve probably had nightmares about. The crew length provides in-boot comfort while sealing out debris, and the mesh tops make sure your feet stay cool on longer runs and scorching summer afternoons.

Best odor protection

Paka Inca socks

Not only does Paka work with over 100 Quechua weavers to preserve Inca traditions, the company views all-natural alpaca wool as a novel technology–one that’s lighter, softer, and more moisture-wicking than its Merino counterparts. Often called the “fiber of the gods,” alpaca fabrics are three times lighter than sheep’s wool and supremely good at sweat-wicking, which means they’re virtually impossible to stink up. Your tentmates and hiking partners will thank you.

Best moisture-managing sock

Smartwool Hike light cushion mid crew socks

Smartwool Hike light cushion mid crew socks

Smartwool is a brand that’s become synonymous with high-quality, odor-controlling, moisture-managing outdoor apparel, and the light cushion mid crew is just one arrow in the brand’s quiver of functional hiking socks. Not only are these babies nearly impossible to get a blister in, they’re also padded where you need it most—the entire bottom of the foot—with ventilating mesh zones up top for temperature regulation and avoiding sweaty feet on the trail.

Best ankle sock

Paka Trail 1/4 crew socks

These socks are a new addition to the market, and they’re already one of my all-time favorites. Not only do socks made with alpaca fibers absorb less moisture than their Merino wool counterparts, but they’re also much harder to stink up, which is great for travel or multi-day backpacking trips. Plus, Paka has pulled out all the stops with this design and included arch support, breathable mesh up top, and targeted toe and heel cushioning for all-day comfort. The brand’s soft, neutral tones also mean that you can go from the trail to town with ease.

Best thermoregulating sock

Darn Tough Light Hiker Quarter Lightweight hiking sock

There are many reasons why these socks have been a bestseller in the hiking community for years—they’re made with Merino wool, are perfectly cushioned, and won’t overheat your feet on hot summer treks. Thermo-mapped mesh panels help to ventilate your tootsies, and you know we love that they come with the Darn Tough Lifetime Guarantee.

Best non-wool option

Darn Tough CoolMax micro crew socks

Darn Tough CoolMax micro crew socks

Vegans, rejoice—Darn Tough has perfected the art of the recycled polyester/nylon-blend hiking sock. Engineered with CoolMax technology, which is designed to pull sweat away from the skin and toward the surface of the fabric where it can evaporate quickly, this micro crew is cozy, comfy, and padded in all the right places for all-day wear.

Best for recovery

Sockwell Pulse Firm compression socks

Sockwell Pulse Firm compression socks

Any good coach will tell you that recovery is a crucial part of training, and compression socks have been scientifically proven to benefit muscle function and soreness during the post-exercise rest period. Sockwell’s four zones of firm, graduated compression wrap up the leg, from foot to calf, and work together to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve post-hike fatigue and pain. Plus, the company uses a blend of soft rayon and environmentally-sourced Merino wool to provide perfect, next-to-skin comfort and durability.

Best for warm-weather adventures

Swiftwick FLite XT Trail Five socks

Looking for a sock that’s so perfectly fitted to your foot that you’ll forget you’re even wearing it on the trail? Swiftwick has you covered. Their all-new FLite XT Trail sock is designed with the rugged, warm-weather phenom in mind; hikers who don’t balk at a steep set of rock stairs or trail runners who go hard in adverse conditions. With bespoke AnkleLock technology to protect against heel rubbing and grippy fabric in the heel and forefoot to prevent in-shoe sliding, this is a truly excellent sock for your wildest adventures.

Best for cold-weather adventures

Smartwool Classic Mountaineer maximum cushion crew socks

Smartwool Classic Mountaineer maximum cushion crew socks

If you’re planning to tackle a trek in sub-freezing or snowy conditions, you’ll want well-cushioned Merino on your feet, to maximize comfort and stay warm even in damp or frigid weather. Luckily, Smartwool’s mountaineering-focused crew socks deliver in all the right categories, boasting the brand’s thickest design, an elasticized arch brace for a no-slip fit, and ethically-sourced ZQ wool.



Source link