A mountain enthusiast who has worn through over 100 pairs of hiking socks recommends this season's socks and how to choose them wisely [Complete Guide]
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
Socks are the "unsung heroes" that determine whether you can spend the day comfortably or not
Socks worn when hiking are key players, playing a variety of roles in protecting the feet, including keeping warm, absorbing shock, absorbing and diffusing sweat, and protecting the skin. In fact, changing socks can often solve issues such as the comfort of boots, how easily they get sweaty, and blisters. In fact, socks are such an important item that it can be said that "socks can make or break the quality of your shoes," so choosing the perfect socks for you is just as important as choosing your shoes
So, in this article, I've personally worn out over 100 pairs of hiking and trail running socks, spanning dozens of different styles, over the course of my 20-plus years of mountaineering experience. I've thoroughly reviewed this season's popular, classic, and new models, and selected the best models to suit your purpose and preferences. In the second half of the article, I've also compiled some helpful tips for choosing the best hiking socks for you. I hope this helps you find the perfect pair for you from the mountain of options hanging in stores
table of contents
- This season's best outdoor socks
- Best Hiking (Overall): DARN TOUGH Hiker Boot Sock Midweight Full Cushion / SmartWool Mountaineer Extra Cushion Crew / FITS Medium Rugged Crew / Point6 37.5 Hiking Essential Medium Crew
- Best Fastpacking: RXL Wild Wool Socks (3rd place, Thickness: Thick, Length: Long)
- Best Thin Lightweight Category: Features ELITE LIGHT CUSHION MINI CREW
- Best Split Toe: injinji Outdoor Midweight Crew Nude Wool / YAMAtune Outdoor Medium Arch Crew 2-Toe
- Best Shoe Slip Prevention: WRIGHTSOCK ADVENTURE
- Best Dry (Quick-Drying): RXL Socks WILD PAPER Washi Socks (Round)
- Best Compression: YAMAtune Outdoor Medium Arch Crew / SockWell STAMPEDE CREW
- Best Value: HALISON Merino Support Pile Trekking
- How to Choose: 5 Points to Choose the Perfect Mountain Climbing and Outdoor Socks for You
- Point 1: Material – Versatile wool blend or quick-drying synthetic?
- Point 2: Thickness of the fabric – Ensuring the necessary cushioning and warmth
- Point 3: Length – Crew length is the standard
- Point 4: Fit – A big factor in comfort –
- Point 5: Durability - There are various models, from those that wear out in one season to those that last forever
- summary
This season's best outdoor socks
Best Hiking (Overall): DARN TOUGH Hiker Boot Sock Midweight Full Cushion / SmartWool Mountaineer Extra Cushion Crew / FITS Medium Rugged Crew / Point6 37.5 Hiking Essential Medium Crew
DARN TOUGH Hiker Boot Socks, Midweight, Full Cushion
Favorite points
- Comfortable against the skin
- Lifetime guaranteed durability
Not so good points
- Cushioning and arch support are average
- Slightly prone to sweating
SmartWool Mountaineer Extra Cushion Crew
Favorite points
- Good fit and support
- Comfortable against the skin
Not so good points
- Pilling occurs slightly easily
FITS Medium Rugged Crew
Favorite points
- Excellent fit and feel for ultimate comfort
Not so good points
- (Relatively) less durable
Point6 37.5 Hiking Essential Medium Crew
Favorite points
- Optimized fit and support
- High sweat management thanks to 37.5 technology
Not so good points
- The comfort of wool is slightly weaker
Best Fastpacking : RXL Wild Wool Socks (3rd place, Thickness: Thick, Length: Long)
Favorite points
- A three-dimensional fit that conforms to the shape of your feet and provides moderate stretch
- High durability made from merino wool and Cordura® nylon
Not so good points
- Although it is the thickest model in the series, the cushioning is average (relatively speaking)
Best Thin Lightweight Category: Features ELITE LIGHT CUSHION MINI CREW
Favorite points
- Moderate support
- Comfortable to wear for a synthetic material
Not so good points
- The feel is rougher than wool
Best Split Toe: injinji Outdoor Midweight Crew Nude Wool / YAMAtune Outdoor Medium Arch Crew 2-Toe
injinji Outdoor Midweight Crew Nude Wool
Favorite points
- High-quality wool for a comfortable feel and high functionality
- The fingers are spaced apart so they don't get stuffy and it's easy to step in all the way to your fingertips
Not so good points
- Difficult to put on and take off
YAMAtune Outdoor Medium Arch Crew 2toe
Favorite points
- Strong fit provides excellent support for the arch, ankle, and heel
- Easy to step in right down to your fingertips
Not so good points
- Slightly low durability against abrasion and washing
Best Shoe Slip Prevention: WRIGHTSOCK ADVENTURE
Favorite points
- Unique double structure prevents blisters and dries quickly
Not so good points
- Cushioning is low
- When you take it off or wash it, it inevitably gets a little twisted and is difficult to handle
Best Dry (Quick-Drying): RXL Socks WILD PAPER Washi Socks (Round)
Favorite points
- Excellent dryness, so you won't feel uncomfortable even when wet
- Lightweight and quick-drying
Not so good points
- The fabric is slippery
- Rough texture
Best Compression: YAMAtune Outdoor Medium Arch Crew / SockWell STAMPEDE CREW
YAMAtune Outdoor Medium Arch Crew
Favorite points
- Strong fit provides excellent support for the arch, ankle, and heel
- Compression on the calves reduces swelling
Not so good points
- The compression is strong, so wearing it at night or for long periods of time may be uncomfortable (for some people)
SockWell STAMPEDE CREW
Favorite points
- Graduated compression for a comfortable and functional fit
- Merino wool and alpaca fibers for a soft feel
- Sophisticated design
Not so good points
- The cushioning and breathability are so-so, so it's not suitable for heavy use
Best Value: HALISON Merino Support Pile Trekking
Favorite points
- Pile lining provides a comfortable feel and moderate cushioning
- Excellent breathability thanks to the mesh knit instep
Not so good points
- The fit is loose
- Scratch resistance
How to Choose: 5 Points to Choose the Perfect Mountain Climbing and Outdoor Socks for You
Point 1: Material – Versatile wool blend or quick-drying synthetic?
One of the most important factors that determines the performance of socks, from comfort to functionality, such as feel, heat retention, and resistance to sweating, is the choice of material
For example, the 100% cotton socks we wear every day are durable and comfortable, but they tend to get sweaty and take a long time to dry. Our feet are home to approximately 250,000 sweat glands called eccrine glands, making them one of the most sweaty parts of the human body. Therefore, socks with poor sweat management capabilities are pointless. Cotton also loses its insulating properties once it gets wet, which can even be life-threatening
As you can see, each material has different characteristics, and each manufacturer continues to develop a wide variety of models by choosing the most suitable material for the use or purpose, sometimes blending them together
The main focus shifts from synthetic fibers to merino wool
Until recently, hiking socks made of synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon were the norm. These are quick-drying and more durable than cotton. Furthermore, subtle differences were created by blending synthetic fibers with different advantages, such as spandex, which has greater elasticity, acrylic, which is similar to wool, and polypropylene, which dries faster
Merino wool hiking socks were then introduced. Merino wool comes from a type of sheep that inhabits harsh mountainous regions like New Zealand. Its fibers are not itchy like older wools, and are extremely warm, comfortable, and durable. They retain their warmth even when wet, and have moderate breathability, moisture absorption, and excellent temperature regulation, making them ideal for alleviating extreme heat and cold, whether in the coldest winter or midsummer. They also have natural deodorizing properties, meaning they don't develop bad odors even after days of continuous wear. Naturally, they quickly became extremely popular, and outdoor manufacturers everywhere began developing socks incorporating merino wool
Nowadays, socks containing merino wool are not uncommon, and most hiking socks are made from a blend of wool and synthetic fibers. However, performance can vary greatly depending on the quality of the yarn itself, the blend ratio with synthetic fibers, and the knitting method, so be careful not to jump to the conclusion that just because they're made of merino wool, they're OK
Regardless, if you're choosing socks for cold weather, it's definitely better to choose a model with a high merino wool content, but if you're hiking in warm or extremely hot weather, or know you'll be sweating a lot, a more quick-drying, breathable synthetic-based blend will be cheaper and more effective
Point 2: Thickness of the fabric – Ensuring the necessary cushioning and warmth
Socks made from thick fabric provide the ultimate in cushioning and warmth. Also, if there's more space than necessary between your foot and shoe, filling it with socks of the right thickness can minimize slippage. However, they also have the side effect of being heavy and bulky, prone to sweating, and in some cases, overheating. There's still no universal sock that's suitable for all activities, all year round
For this reason, most sock brands offer multiple models of hiking socks divided into thickness categories, allowing users to select the weight that suits the situation and their preferences.When purchasing, it is basic to choose the thickness according to the season and purpose, but if that doesn't fit the shoes you will actually be walking in, we recommend prioritizing a thickness that fits more snugly
Please note that not all socks are the same thickness, and some models have extra thickness in necessary areas such as the toe or heel. Below we will introduce the differences in trends depending on the weight
| material | Light or ultra-lightweight (thin) | Midweight (medium thickness) | Heavy or extra heavyweight (thick) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat retention | △ | ◯ | ◎ |
| Cushioning | △ | ◯ | ◎ |
| weight | ◎ | ◯ | △ |
| Breathable and quick-drying | ◎ | ◯ | △ |
| Fit and ease of slipping | ◎ | ◯ | △ |
| Suitable season | Warm to hot season | From early spring to early winter | Winter |
| Suitable activities |
|
|
|
Point 3: Length – Crew length is the standard
Just like thickness, socks come in a variety of lengths, and you can choose based on personal preference and the type of shoes you wear. The names, length regulations, and classification methods vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, but they can be broadly divided into four types: no-show (ankle), ankle (above the ankle), crew (half the calf), and boot (full calf)
Longer socks go well with high-top trekking boots and provide better protection for the shins, but they can be uncomfortable when hiking in low mountains in the summer
Conversely, short socks are great for day hikes in low-top hiking shoes on hot summer days. However, they're not long enough for mid-top or high-top boots, which can lead to blisters. Also, short socks can be a risk for injury if you're hiking through tall grass or woodlands in shorts
The length of your socks should be at least as high as your shoes, and unless you are on a well-maintained, wide trail, we recommend wearing socks that are as high as possible. Crew-length socks are generally the safest option, and choosing this size will cover any situation
Are liners effective?
Back in the days when bulky, heavy leather hiking boots were the norm, many people would wear double socks. The purpose of wearing double socks was often to prevent blisters. The outer socks absorbed the friction from the shoes, while the inner liner socks stayed in place, keeping the skin of the feet safe
This logic is still valid today. However, trekking boots have evolved to be much lighter and more flexible than in the past, and there are many comfortable socks available that fit perfectly on their own, so there is no need to be so concerned about "getting blisters easily if you don't wear multiple layers." For this reason, there is no need to actively consider wearing multiple layers these days
Rather, the risk of socks slipping around inside your shoes due to poorly layered socks is more serious. If you are walking or running lightly, it is best to stick to a simple style of just one sock
Of course, you may still suffer from blisters. In such cases, layering socks is a viable solution. Therefore, liner socks should be considered as a last resort for those who suffer from blisters or uncomfortable friction, after trying moisture-wicking wool socks or synthetic socks that fit well and dry quickly. In this case, it works best to pair liner socks with thin, tight socks that are moisture-wicking and quick-drying
Point 4: Fit – A big factor in comfort –
Of course, good socks need to be made of good materials, but it's also important that they fit your feet well
They have a comfortable feel, inconspicuous seams, are neither too tight nor too loose, and fit well enough to stay in place even when you move your toes, push hard, or land on your heels. The inside of your shoes is extremely humid when you're out and about, and your softened skin is vulnerable to friction and damage, so socks that fit properly can significantly reduce the risk of blisters and discomfort while hiking
It's not just expert sewing techniques that make socks fit well. For example, hiking socks (see photo below, left) feature ergonomic patterning tailored to the shape of each foot. Looking at the toes, you can see that there are asymmetrical curves along the length of each toe. Additionally, cutting that captures the three-dimensional shape of the foot reduces stress during movement and improves the fit throughout the entire activity
Since everyone's feet are different, you won't know if a pair of socks is perfect until you actually put your feet in and try them out. However, these kinds of ingenious features will definitely increase your chances of finding socks that fit you perfectly
By the way, sock sizes generally come in broad ranges such as S, M, L, and XL, so depending on the sock, your foot size may fall on the borderline and you may be confused. However, in my experience, if the socks are loosely knitted (thick type), you will be less likely to make a mistake if you choose the smaller size, and if the socks are tightly knitted, you will be less likely to make a mistake if you choose the larger size
Split-toe socks (two-finger and five-finger)
What is so good about five-finger socks, which have a certain fanatic following? The main benefits are said to be as follows:
- It also absorbs sweat between your toes to prevent stuffiness
- Since your fingers do not rub against each other, you are less likely to get blisters
- Being able to move your fingers freely makes it easier to transfer the force of your fingers to the ground
The third effect was one I never expected, and the feeling of having your bare feet firmly planted on the ground can be strangely addictive. Of course, the sensations may vary from person to person, but if you're currently struggling with any of the above issues, it's definitely worth trying as a solution
Women's socks
In recent years, many separate models for men and women have been sold. The main differences are coloring and size range, but other than that, in most cases, there are no major differences in "performance" between the two. However, when it comes to fit, there are very subtle differences, such as women's socks being slightly narrower in the forefoot and heel, while men's socks are wider. In other words, if you are a woman who knows that your feet are significantly wider, a men's model may fit you better, while conversely, a man with a narrower heel may find that women's socks fit better
Supportive Effect and Compression Socks
In the world of tights and underwear, compression models that are said to support joint movement and reduce muscle fatigue have been common for quite some time, and in the world of socks, some ambitious brands are now developing socks with this same compression effect
Compression socks offer additional benefits in addition to improving fit, such as controlling blood flow to the calves to reduce swelling, supporting the arch of the foot to prevent collapse, and reducing fatigue and dispersing shock during long walks. Ever since I discovered this, I've become an indispensable part of my travels when I expect a challenging route. However, compared to regular socks, the tightness can be quite noticeable, so it's important to keep in mind that they can actually be stressful on a leisurely trip
Of course, this is just my personal opinion, but the compression function is not recommended for everyone, but it is worth trying for those who are aiming for high performance or planning to engage in long-term activities
Point 5: Durability - There are various models, from those that wear out in one season to those that last forever
While hiking socks are generally designed to be resistant to abrasions and snags, they will still undergo some wear and tear if used extensively for hiking or running. Furthermore, depending on the material, washing and drying can also damage the fibers
The fabric, which was abundant immediately after purchase, will wear down due to repeated strong friction, and in some cases will become tattered within a season. Even the terry cloth that gives you the ultimate comfort can become tragically frayed with a little carelessness (see photo below)
Resistance to scratches and wear not only varies greatly depending on the brand, but even within the same manufacturer, it can change depending on the year, making it difficult to judge at a glance. However, it's important not to get too caught up in comfort
However, you should expect some wear and tear on your socks. It's wise to rotate multiple pairs of hiking socks whenever possible, so they can last at least a few years
Socks Guarantee
In order to clearly communicate to consumers the durability of socks, which is difficult to judge by appearance alone, some manufacturers, such as the North American sock specialist brand Darn Tough, offer guarantees against product damage
Darn Tough's "Lifetime Warranty" covers not only manufacturing defects but also allows for free replacement at any time if the product develops a hole through normal use. Following Darn Tough's lead, several other brands in North America, such as Features and Farm to Feet, have also begun offering quality guarantees. Other manufacturers offer limited-term warranties, such as Smartwool's two-year warranty (service in the home country) and REI Co-op's one-year warranty. Of course, such quality guarantees are not a final decision-making factor, but they can be a great source of peace of mind when purchasing an expensive model. It's a good idea to keep them in the back of your mind
summary
Socks are a trivial item that you might think of as "just ◯◯" in everyday life, but when hiking, they are an important piece of equipment that requires careful consideration. Everyone's feet and boots are different, and in that sense, choosing socks can be complicated because it's difficult to come up with a single answer that's easy to recommend for everyone, especially when you consider the activity and season. In those cases, we hope you'll remember the points mentioned in this guide and use it as a reference when choosing your own socks
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