The 14 Best Socks For Hiking – Rock the Trails With These Badass Socks!
Wear the right socks, and give yourself the best chance to enjoy your hiking journey. In this guide, I cover everything you need to know about selecting the best socks for hiking and why they are super important for happy feet.
(Disclosure: Hiya, superstar! Certain links to products and/or services are affiliate links, and I may earn a commission for any purchases that you make. This will not be at any cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)
Table of Contents
- 1 Top 3 Choices
- 2 Table of Contents:
- 3 Intro to Finding the Best Socks for Hiking
- 4 Differences Between Socks for Men and Women
- 5 Different Types of Socks by Length and Fabric
- 6 What Makes a Hiking Sock, a Hiking Sock?
- 7 How to Choose Hiking Socks?
- 8 How Do Your Socks Interact with Boots?
- 9 A Word on Sock Liners
- 10 What Makes a Sock Anti-Blister?
- 11 What Are Heated Socks and How Do They Work?
- 12 The 14 Best Socks for Hiking You Can Find on Amazon
- 13 1. Danish Endurance Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks
- 14 2. Merino Wool Hiking Darn Tough Socks
- 15 3. Physix Gear Compression Socks for Men & Women
- 16 4. Randy Sun Fully Waterproof Socks Hiking – Unisex
- 17 5. Snow Deer Upgraded Rechargeable Electric Heating Socks for Hiking
- 18 6. Randy Sun 100% Waterproof Hiking Socks for Men and Women
- 19 7. Alvada 80% Merino Wool Hiking Socks for Men & Women
- 20 8. Samsox 2-Pair Merino Wool Hiking Socks for Men and Women
- 21 9. People Socks Merino Wool Socks for Hiking 4-Pairs
- 22 10. Paplus Ankle Compression Socks for Men and Women – 2/4/6 pairs
- 23 11. Icebreaker Merino Women’s Hiking Socks
- 24 12. Icebreaker Merino Men’s Hiking Socks
- 25 13. Injinji Liner Crew Toesocks Best Liner Socks for Hiking
- 26 14. Balega Blister Resist Quarter Socks for Men and Women
- 27 Choosing The Best Socks For Hiking – Wrapping Up!
Top 3 Choices
Best for water wesistance! Enjoy hiking even in wet weather: Randy Sun Fully Waterproof Socks Hiking – Unisex
Best for extra comfort and top quality merino and design : Icebreaker Merino Women’s Hiking Socks
Best for affordable blist resistant socks: Balega Blister Resist Quarter Socks for Men and Women
Jump to the Roundup of the Best Hiking Socks!
Table of Contents:
-
5. Snow Deer Upgraded Rechargeable Electric Heating Socks for Hiking
-
10. Paplus Ankle Compression Socks for Men and Women – 2/4/6 pairs
Jump to the Roundup of the Best Hiking Socks!
Intro to Finding the Best Socks for Hiking
Whether planning a short hike or kicking off a multi-day hiking adventure, footwear should be a major consideration. One important element here is socks, alongside obviously your hiking shoes or boots.
Aiming to get the best socks for hiking is a game-changer. It saves you from the misery of sweat, blisters, and hotspots crappy socks give you. Hike socks also cushion your feet well, making it comfortable to walk longer distances without burdening your feet.
Another plus point is they avoid smelly feet by providing adequate breathability. You need them to guard your feet during tough adventures!
As an avid hiker, let me iterate that there should be no compromises when selecting hiking socks. Grab the cheapest pair, and you will find your toes poking out in no time. Wear a flimsy one, and your feet might be invaded by a hiker’s worst enemy: blisters. It can easily downplay your outdoor experience.
So, anyone who tells you socks are overrated for hiking is either lying or hasn’t gone on a proper hike! In this guide, I have covered key aspects of selecting the best ones for you.
I have also provided my handpicked selection of the top Amazon hiking socks for women and men! Enjoy reading!
Differences Between Socks for Men and Women
It might seem ridiculous that even socks are divided by gender. However, besides brands marketing pink, vividly patterned, fancy-looking socks for women and mute-colored, plain-looking socks for men, other factors also set them apart.
Size
One factor is size. Women’s hiking socks typically cater to smaller feet, whereas bigger sizes are available in the men’s range. Socks for women are usually available from 9 to 11 sizes — fitting shoe sizes of US 5-10/EU 36-41/UK 4-7.5.
Men’s socks are available from size 10 to 13 — fitting shoe sizes of US 10.5-13/EU 42-46/UK 8-12.5.
You can also find unisex socks sized 14 and above. The length from the heel to the toes is longer in men’s socks, due to the average size differences.
Thickness
Generally, the men’s range offers thick hiking socks. The reason might be that as men are usually sturdier, they exert more pressure on their soles — hey! This is just my theory! Ok?
The welt of the socks usually has a thickness of 2-3 inches to cushion men’s calf better.
However, women’s socks are said to be lightweight and more comfortable. The thickness of the welt is around 1.5-2 inches.
Can men use women’s socks and vice-versa?
Ultimately, the best hiking socks are ones that you feel comfortable in, regardless of their color or design. It’s all about the fit.
So, men can wear women’s socks, and women can wear men’s socks as well. For example, if you are a lady with larger feet, don’t hesitate to get a pair of men’s socks. If you are a man who found a sweet pair of socks that also fits you well in the women’s hiking socks section, go ahead! You can also find unisex socks catering to everyone.
In my case, I’m a 37 and Diego a 41. I still sometimes use his socks when hanging out at home, but otherwise, I avoid them because the ankles fit way too high. All that extra fabric would put pressure on my hiking boots, hurting my skin due to unnecessary rubbing! You get the point.
Jump to the Roundup of the Best Hiking Socks!
This is me showing off my beautiful Icebreaker, the best socks for hiking
Different Types of Socks by Length and Fabric
By length
No-show socks
If you want socks to be invisible or remain below the shoe length, these hiking socks are ideal. While they don’t offer much protection and are not designed for strenuous activities, they can be worn for light hikes. No-show socks are usually paired with trail-running or low-cut shoes.
Ankle socks
As the name implies, these come just up to the ankle and offer a bit more coverage than no-show socks. They are also worn with low-cut shoes and will be a bit visible above the shoe. Socks that go just an inch or two above the ankle are known as quarter socks. They are ideal for short hikes and summer trips.
Crew socks
If there is a winner among the best socks for hiking by length, it would probably be crew socks, because of the optimal height. They have a mid-calf height.
Crew socks can be worn during any season, provide good protection when walking through bushes and in rough terrains, and are not annoying. They prevent your boots or shoes from rubbing against your skin. However, during warmer days, they can make your legs sweat a bit.
Knee-high/over the calf socks
Usually worn with high boots or mountaineering shoes, knee-high socks offer the optimum protection in harsh weather or terrain conditions. They will keep your feet very warm when hiking during the winter season and protect your legs from abrasion caused by rough boots. They are also perfect when you hike through a thick forest.
By fabric
Wool
Are wool socks best for hiking? Yes! Wool, especially merino wool, is the most popular fabric used to manufacture hiking socks due to its excellent properties.
Wool hiking socks are extremely comfortable, making long-distance hikes enjoyable. They are excellent at moisture-wicking, regulating temperature, and providing ample cushioning for the feet.
As wool is also a highly breathable material and has anti-bacterial properties, it won’t stink easily. They are also durable. However, wool socks for hiking don’t come cheap — and it’s obvious why!
Polyester
A synthetic material that’s often combined with wool, polyester hiking socks offer excellent durability and insulation. Polyester is also good at wicking moisture and is quicker-drying than wool itself.
However, they are more prone to stinking than wool hiking socks. So it’s best not to smell them after taking them off LOL.
My recommendation is to go for a pair that has a mix of wool and synthetic materials.
Nylon
Nylon is another synthetic material, albeit used less frequently than polyester. Usually, it is added with other fabrics to enhance the properties of hiking socks and improve the fit, making your feet less vulnerable to abrasion.
Bamboo
Bamboo hiking socks are also rising in popularity because they are comfortable, breathable, moisture-wicking, and durable. They are also a sustainable and environmentally-friendly choice. However, compared to synthetic and wool hiking socks, I haven’t found a lot of options for bamboo socks yet.
Cotton
Cotton socks are known for comfort. They feel amazing until your feet drip with sweat. So, cotton socks are a big NO for hiking due to their poor moisture-wicking ability. It can cause abrasion if worn for long periods and become heavier when wet. Cotton is also a poor insulator.
Silk
Silk is primarily used for liners because it is excellent at insulation. Silk also wicks moisture well. But, it is not durable and isn’t the best choice for hikes.
The best socks for hiking come with a combination of materials, bringing their strength together and downplaying their weaknesses. For example, a combination of merino wool and polyester would enhance both breathability and durability. It also makes merino wool hiking socks more affordable!
Jump to the Roundup of the Best Hiking Socks!
What Makes a Hiking Sock, a Hiking Sock?
Yes. There are differences between hiking socks and regular socks.
Cushioning
The primary feature of the best socks for hiking is that they come with extra cushioning in the toe and heel area of your feet.
These two areas are the main pressure points when you walk. Without adequate support, they would make your feet throb in no time. While providing added durability, this feature also makes your feet feel comfortable when you engage in strenuous walks and climbs in off-road paths. In many hiking socks, the areas with a thicker pile of thread/wool are visibly shown in a separate color.
Moisture-wicking
The best walking socks come in moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool to keep your feet dry. This way, your feet won’t sweat and invite blisters. Those with experience suffering from blisters would know how awful these are. So, if you have any idea of wearing a pair of cotton socks for the upcoming hike, ditch the thought right now! Cotton is excellent at absorbing moisture, and it will chafe your skin in humid weather, causing blisters.
Insulation
The best hiking socks provide insulation by preventing excessive heat or cold from affecting your feet! As these vary in thickness, it’s best to consider the weather conditions of the terrain before you choose one.
If you will be hiking in snow or cold weather, go for thick hiking socks.
In warm weather, thin hiking socks will be ideal for breathability. Also, remember that the insulation property depends on the material of the hiking socks as well.
Good fit
If socks are too tight, it will affect the blood circulation in your feet, and if they are too loose, the fabric will rub against your skin and cause blisters. A good pair of hiking socks offers a flexible and snug fit, making them cozy and comfortable to wear!
Odor-resistance
The moisture-wicking ability of hiking socks also prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria. You won’t have to deal with smelly feet unless you wear them continuously without washing them.
How to Choose Hiking Socks?
By gender
Ideally, it’s best to look for hiking socks designed for your gender, especially if you fit the average stature. As mentioned above, some factors differentiate men’s and women’s hiking socks from each other. So, make your choice considering them. Take a look at my recommendations to purchase the best hiking socks for men or women!
By the type of hike
You can’t wear the same pair of hiking socks you wore for a light hike, for a multi-day adventure, or rough terrain hikes. So, consider the duration, length, elevation gain, and nature of the hike before deciding what to buy. Extra cushioning near the toe and heel areas are mandatory for hikes that involve a lot of climbing. Also, if you have to hike past bushes and rock areas, socks with a higher length are ideal.
By season
More often, the terrain conditions will be affected by seasonal changes and weather.
For winter hikes, you need to clad the thickest hiking socks to keep your feet warm. It also means that you need knee-high socks for extra protection.
During warm weather, it’s better to select hike socks with medium-light cushioning with adequate breathability.
The best socks for hiking often come with labels denoting if they are ideal for 1-season, 2-season, 3-season, or 4-season hikes.
How Do Your Socks Interact with Boots?
The optimum function of hiking boots relies on good hiking socks. Ideally, the best socks for hiking boots should be higher than the boot, thick, and cushioned well — especially in heel and toe areas. Your socks act as a barrier and shock absorber between the skin and boots when you walk. Without a pair of good socks, the boots will rub against your skin, which can be terribly painful.
Hiking socks should offer a snug fit, safeguarding your feet from the materials your boots are made of. Thick socks also keep the boot in place, so less chance for abrasion.
A Word on Sock Liners
Some recommend wearing sock liners, while some say they are not necessary. What’s the deal here?
Well, sock liners are a thin type of sock worn beneath the main pair of socks for added protection. They come in wool, silk, polyester, or nylon materials. Sock liners reduce friction and wick moisture to prevent your feet from blisters.
So, are they really necessary when your main pair of socks does pretty much the same job? Well, it depends.
If you have sensitive skin and are prone to blisters, you need every sort of protection possible, and sock liners can help you with that.
It’s the same case if you need extra cushioning. Most hikers wear sock liners for long-distance, multi-day, or cold-season hikes when they need maximum protection or warmth.
Pairing these with your best winter hiking socks can keep your feet snug. On the other hand, they aren’t required for light hikes unless you don’t mind the bulk as they help you tread better.
Jump to the Roundup of the Best Hiking Socks!
What Makes a Sock Anti-Blister?
Blisters are a common problem hikers suffer from, which is why I have emphasized the importance of avoiding them by investing in high-quality socks.
If you haven’t heard before, they are a skin condition of fluid-filled pockets on the surface layer of your skin. They are painful and can make your hiking experience a dreadful one. Blisters happen due to heat or moisture and can be worsened with friction on your feet.
I’ve had blisters that looked like a cherry! Indeed, a common blister can become a blood blister. This happens when the blood vessels become damaged and leak blood into it. Blood blisters are also common and should be treated just like any other blister.
Anti-blister socks have two main properties. One, they are excellent at moisture-wicking with their quick drying ability and keep your feet as warm and dry as possible. Second, they are abrasion-resistant, meaning they don’t rub against your skin and irritate it. If your socks are damp with sweat, they will chafe your skin.
Anti-blister socks come in wool, polyester, rayon, spandex, or a combination of these materials. Just to be clear, cotton socks are not anti-blister because they don’t have the above-mentioned properties.
What Are Heated Socks and How Do They Work?
If sock liners and wool socks don’t do their job of keeping your feet warm, heated socks are an option you should consider. Heated socks, as the name implies, are socks that keep your feet very warm during winter. There is a battery-powered heating system in these socks to provide the required warmth to your feet in freezing temperatures.
They are USB cable compatible, meaning you can charge them with your portable power bank. If you find a good pair that works well and is comfortable to wear, they could easily become your best winter hiking socks in no time!
The 14 Best Socks for Hiking You Can Find on Amazon
Okay! Before we dive in, just know I decided to write this article after investing in proper Icebreaker socks for doing the Milford Track in New Zealand this past May. I can’t even tell you how different the whole experience was.
I have said this in other articles, but my hiking boots are not very breathable. So! I always end up feeling uncomfortable and like I’m stepping on chewing gum — eeeek! But not this time.
My motto is that if you are well equipped for hiking, you will get into it much more and gain the confidence to keep going faster. This doesn’t mean you should wait to have everything to get going or spend tons of money! NOPE! Invest little by little, and you will feel the difference.
1. Danish Endurance Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks
Best for: Best hiking socks to prevent blisters
Amazon Rating: 4.5 (17,147 reviews)
Length: Crew
Material: Merino wool
Season: All-season
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Very breathable and comfortable
-
They regulate temperature well to keep your feet cozy and warm
-
Excellent at moisture-wicking
-
Ideal for multiple outdoor activities
-
Good fit
Cons:
-
Quite expensive
-
Not very durable
-
Might not be the best winter hiking socks
Other considerations: I came across many reviews that highlighted how these socks contain a small percentage of merino wool despite being advertised otherwise. Still, these hiking socks do a good job of providing warmth. They also come in a wide range of colors: light grey, black, forest green, oak brown, navy, and red.
2. Merino Wool Hiking Darn Tough Socks
Best for: Best men’s hiking socks that can be worn every day!
Amazon rating: 4.8 (5436 reviews)
Length: Crew
Material: 63% merino wool, 35% nylon, and 2% lycra spandex
Season: All-season
Gender: Men
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
They are actually darn tough and last a long time!
-
Very versatile and can be worn for casual occasions as well
-
Comfortable and lightweight hiking socks
-
Really good at moisture-wicking.
-
The anti-microbial properties prevent smelly feet!
-
Holds up great in all seasons
Cons:
-
Complaints regarding faulty products
Other considerations: Darn Tough is one of the best men’s socks brands in the market but beware of replicas. These socks also come with an unconditional lifetime guarantee, so you can request a refund or compensation in case of faulty products. These hike socks come in many color combinations such as olive, black, oatmeal, denim, lime, onyx, charcoal, and chocolate.
3. Physix Gear Compression Socks for Men & Women
Best for: Budget-friendly, all-rounder compression socks for hiking
Amazon rating: 4.5 (66,052 reviews)
Length: Knee-high
Material: 70% nylon and 30% spandex
Season: All-season
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Extremely comfortable to wear, which is a biggie when it comes to selecting good compression socks!
-
Durable and long-lasting
-
Ideal for high-performance activities
-
These don’t lose their compression after a few washes
-
Best value for money
-
Offers a snug and non-slip fit. Another major plus!
-
Moisture-wicking
-
Stylish in design
Cons:
-
Slipping these on can be quite difficult
-
Can be a bit tight. There were some complaints about the elastic band of the socks leaving deep marks on the skin.
-
Issues related to sizing. Some have found them either too loose or too tight
-
The color may fade over time
-
Not machine washable
Other considerations: Compression socks are renowned to relieve conditions like plantar fasciitis, varicose, and muscle fatigue. These are perhaps the best compression socks for swelling and shin splints available at an affordable price. They are also identified as one of the best compression socks for nurses. They come in a range of color combinations and three sizes.
4. Randy Sun Fully Waterproof Socks Hiking – Unisex
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for the best waterproof socks for hiking
Amazon rating: 4.5 (2212 reviews)
Length: Crew (Mid-calf)
Material: 61% high waterproof nylon, 32% polyester, and 7% elastane
Season: All-season, especially during winter and rainy seasons
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Great water resistance. They keep your feet super dry, as testified by many users!
-
Breathable and comfortable to wear
-
Ideal for a range of outdoor activities in rainy or cold weather
-
Inexpensive waterproof socks for hiking
-
Lightweight
-
Many colors and design options
Cons:
-
Sizing issues, primarily because it’s unisex
-
Seams can come loose with regular wear
Other considerations: Besides hiking, you can also wear them when engaging in water sports and winter sports. There’s a waterproof membrane beneath the outer layer to prevent water/moisture from seeping in. There are over 20 colors to choose from, ranging from bright to muted shades.
5. Snow Deer Upgraded Rechargeable Electric Heating Socks for Hiking
Best for: Anyone looking for affordable heated socks with temperature regulation!
Amazon Rating: 4.2 (1128 reviews)
Length: Knee-high
Material: 75% polyester ,15% elastane, and 10% nylon
Season: Winter
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Affordable in comparison to other heated socks in the market
-
Rechargeable
-
3-heat setting to adjust the warmth to fit your needs
-
Very comfortable to wear with adequate cushioning
Cons:
-
Only lasts up to 6 hours (lowest heat setting)
-
Not the highest quality hiking socks in the market
-
Negative reviews relate to size issues.
Other considerations: Usually, heated socks are pricey. These heated socks offer the best value, considering the price point. They are available in black and grey colors, making them an ideal choice for both men and women.
As a person that suffers from cold feet, I reckon these socks are also great to wear at the end of your day. When hiking, your body temperature is high, so you may not need extra warm socks. However, once you wind down, you may start feeling cold, so these socks would keep you warm, cozy, and ready to go to bed.
6. Randy Sun 100% Waterproof Hiking Socks for Men and Women
Best for: Best cold weather hiking socks that are also very attractive!
Amazon rating: 4.5 (603 reviews)
Length: Crew
Material: 17% high waterproof nylon, 79% polyester, and 4% elastane
Season: All-season, especially winter and rain
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Does a solid job in keeping your feet dry!
-
Colorful and gorgeous patterns
-
Breathable
-
Cushioned well and very comfortable to wear, unlike other waterproof socks
Cons:
-
Pricier than the previous model
-
Some complaints about the waterproof quality — could be faulty products.
Other considerations:Well, perhaps the best thing about these waterproof socks for hiking is that they come in attractive designs to choose from!
Use them when you cross rivers or creeks during hikes or engage in water/winter sports. In case you are worried about the low content of waterproof nylon, know it’s the waterproof membrane beneath the outer layer that does the job.
7. Alvada 80% Merino Wool Hiking Socks for Men & Women
Best for: An affordable pair of merino wool socks for anyone!
Amazon rating: 4.7 (12,391 reviews)
Length: Crew
Material: 80% merino wool, 15% polyester, 4% nylon, and 1% spandex
Season: All-season
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Very soft and comfortable to wear as these hiking socks are cushioned well
-
Odour-resistant, so your neighbors won’t run away when you return home after hikes
-
Very good thermal regulation
-
Moisture-wicking
-
High Merino wool content, so you can enjoy all its good properties
-
Affordable
-
Doesn’t itch, unlike other wool socks
Cons:
-
Issues related to fit. For average-sized ladies, it’s best to go for the next small size.
-
Not very durable
Other considerations: If you are looking for some crazy comfortable socks to keep your feet warm and happy during colder months, I recommend these.
They are also perfect for hiking and skiing adventures in winter. Some users have noted that they last longer if you care for them properly.
8. Samsox 2-Pair Merino Wool Hiking Socks for Men and Women
Best for: Merino wool socks with extra padding for extra comfort
Amazon rating: 4.6 (550 reviews)
Length: ¾ crew
Material: 68% merino wool, 30% nylon, and 2% lycra spandex
Season: All-season
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Extremely comfortable. There’s padding on top of the socks as well!
-
Good at moisture-wicking
-
Durable
-
Cheap as you get two pairs!
-
Ideal for everyday use
Cons:
-
May not hold great in cold weather conditions
-
Sizes run small
Other considerations: If you are looking for warm weather hiking socks, these would be a good choice. Just remember to pay attention to the size chart, so you buy the right one based on gender.
9. People Socks Merino Wool Socks for Hiking 4-Pairs
Best for: Anyone looking for the best walking socks at a cheap price
Amazon rating: 4.6 (191 reviews)
Length: Crew
Material: 71% merino wool, 21% nylon, 7% polyester, and 1% spandex
Season: All-season
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
High quality and durable
-
Breathable
-
Thick hiking socks that keep your feet warm in cold weather
-
Good heat regulation
-
Very cheap! You get 4 pairs for the price.
-
Odour-resistant
Cons:
-
Size issues. Some users have noticed size differences under the same size category.
Other considerations: If you are hunting for merino wool socks, make sure you pick one with high merino wool content as this one. These could be the best walking socks on our list as many users have affirmed them staying strong and intact after prolonged use. They are available in charcoal black, solid black, navy, and brown.
10. Paplus Ankle Compression Socks for Men and Women – 2/4/6 pairs
Best for: Anyone looking for a good pair of compression socks for travel and hiking
Amazon rating: 4.4 (34,308 reviews)
Length: Ankle
Material: Premium nylon and spandex
Season: Summer
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Very good arch support
-
Durable
-
Breathable and comfortable
-
Trendy and attractive design
-
They don’t bunch or slip when running
-
One of the best compression socks for shin splints and swelling
-
Good value for money
-
The moisture-wicking fabric keeps your feet dry
Cons:
-
Not machine washable
-
Lack of size options (only two sizes are available)
Other considerations:If you prefer your compression socks to be less prominent when worn, these ankle-length ones are a great choice. They are also one of the best lightweight hiking socks that don’t irritate you when worn. These ankle socks come in black, light grey, dark grey, blue, navy, pink, and white colors.
11. Icebreaker Merino Women’s Hiking Socks
Best for: Ladies looking for the best summer hiking socks out there!
Amazon rating: 4.7 (109 reviews)
Note: These are not available at the moment. So the link points to a similar Icebreaker option.
Length: Crew
Material: 70% merino wool, 27% nylon, and 3% elastane
Season: Summer
Gender: Women
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
A game changer! Keeps your feet dry, warm, and super comfortable all day.
-
Good fit
-
Very breathable due to the high percentage of merino wool in it
Cons:
-
Doesn’t offer a lot of padding for the feet. Might not be ideal for extreme weather.
-
Not the most durable socks
-
If you are tall, you might find the sock length too short for you
-
Quite expensive
Other considerations: If you are looking for a pair of lightweight hiking socks that provide adequate cushioning, these socks from Icebreaker are a great choice. They come in four color combinations. Also noteworthy is that Icebreaker socks come with a lifetime guarantee!
12. Icebreaker Merino Men’s Hiking Socks
Best for: A great pair of lightweight hiking socks for men
Amazon rating: 4.6 (185 reviews)
Length: Crew
Material: 59% Merino Wool, 38% Nylon, 3% LYCRA
Season: All-season
Gender: Men
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Good quality hike socks
-
Quick-drying and moisture-wicking
-
Odour-resistant
-
Durable and long-lasting
-
Comfortable
Cons:
-
Quite thin and therefore might not be suitable for hikes in heavy snow
-
Expensive
Other considerations: While great for hikes in summer, these socks can also work well during winter when worn with sock liners. Many users have pointed out these being the best walking socks for everyday wear.
13. Injinji Liner Crew Toesocks Best Liner Socks for Hiking
Best for: A comfortable pair of liner socks for hiking
Amazon rating: 4.6 (2242 reviews)
Length: Crew
Material: 75% coolmax / 21% nylon / 4% lycra
Season: All-season
Gender: Men
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Great at wicking moisture to keep your feet dry. Many users have praised these for helping them stay free of blisters during hikes.
-
Very breathable and comfortable to wear
-
Affordable
-
Ergonomic toe-design for improved movement
-
Good friction
Cons:
-
Not very durable
Other considerations: Although designed for men, these liner socks hiking are also ideal for ladies as long as you go with the size chart during selection. Some might find the anatomic toe design a bit weird and quite difficult to put on quickly. But once in place, they are super comfortable.
14. Balega Blister Resist Quarter Socks for Men and Women
Best for: Folks looking for the best walking socks to prevent blisters at a low price
Amazon rating: 4.7 (3476 reviews)
Length: Quarter
Material: 32% nylon, 32% drynamix, 30% mohair, 4% microfibre, and 2% elastane
Season: All-season
Gender: Unisex
Why is this one of the best socks for hiking?
-
Specially designed to protect your feet from blisters
-
Extra cushioning at heel and toe areas for extra comfort
-
Very soft and offers a snug fit
-
Reasonably priced
-
Great at moisture-wicking
Cons:
-
Not very durable
Other considerations: Looking for the best socks for long-distance walking or hiking? Then, this might be the ideal choice. However, an important thing to remember is these anti-blister walking socks won’t magically prevent blisters. You still need to take precautions. But, their design and fit, as many users have commented, reduces or eliminates the chance of blisters!
They come in black, cobalt, mink/grey, blue, orange, and wildberry colors
Choosing The Best Socks For Hiking – Wrapping Up!
If you are still on the fence, think about how a great pair of hiking socks can serve your hiking purposes.
If you are getting blisters, feel like you are slipping inside your boots, or have extra fabric rubbing against your skin, your posture when walking will be affected. And when this happens, you start compensating with other parts of your body to try and avoid the pain. And that’s not good! The whole idea of hiking is to enjoy connecting with nature and yourself. Even though pain can be a way to do this for some, it is not the most sustainable one.
Do you have any other questions? If so, just drop a comment below, and I’ll get back to you!
In the meantime, keep putting together your hiking gear with these outdoor guides:
If you enjoyed this article on the best socks for hiking, save it on your Pinterest Board!
Hey u! I’m Martina, from Argentina. I’ve been combining travel and life overseas since 2013 in a quest for living alongside with creativity, joy and personal growth.
