Socks for mountain climbing are important items, providing skin protection, heat retention, shock absorption, sweat absorption, and breathability. Since socks are worn for long periods of time in the mountains, the functionality of the socks, such as shock absorption, comfort, and breathability, becomes even more important. Heat retention is especially important in winter. Having cold feet while hiking is unbearable. Workman carries several socks, so I tried out some that I thought would be suitable for mountain climbing (especially hiking)
- Merino wool short socks, merino wool mid-length socks
- WARMHOLD Round Toe 2-Pair Set
- Rounded Toe, 4-Pair Set
- Round-toe trekking socks, 2 pairs
table of contents
- 17115・17116 Merino wool short socks, Merino wool mid-length socks (Outdoor Recommended Rating ★★★★☆) 580 yen
- 17117 WARMHOLD Round Toe 2-Pair Set (Outdoor Recommended Rating ★★☆☆☆) 499 yen
- 17210 Round Toe 4-Pair Set (Outdoor Recommended Rating ★★★☆☆) 580 yen
- 17110 Trekking Socks, Round Toe, 2 Pairs (Outdoor Recommended Rating: ★★★★☆) 499 yen
17115・17116 Merino wool short socks, Merino wool mid-length socks (Outdoor Recommended Rating ★★★★☆) 580 yen
Breathability ◎ Shock absorption ◎ Comfort ◎ Washability △ Heat retention ◯
Medium type. Merino wool has a smooth feel
The only difference between short and mid-length styles is the length, but the basics are the same
Both the short and mid-length socks are made with merino wool, so they feel smooth and comfortable against the skin. They offer excellent heat retention and sweat absorption, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Neither the short nor mid-length socks slip down. They're breathable and have good shock absorption. They seem to pair well with shoes for hiking, trail running, and other activities. One thing I'm concerned about is their susceptibility to washing. They tend to pill quite a bit, so don't expect them to be very durable. They also tend to develop holes easily. It's probably best to put them in a laundry net when washing. As winter socks, they'd be better if they were a little thicker and longer. They're excellent socks for everyday use year-round
In winter, we recommend the medium size. It has excellent heat retention but doesn't get stuffy
The shorts are just short enough to rest on the Achilles tendon, and in winter the ankle area is a little unreliable
17117 WARMHOLD Round Toe 2-Pair Set (Outdoor Recommended Rating ★★☆☆☆) 499 yen
Breathability ◯ Shock absorption ◯ Comfort △ Washing durability ◯ Heat retention △
The length is long, and while it's nice that it doesn't slip down, it doesn't provide enough warmth
When I tried them on, they felt smooth and gentle against the skin. They are a little thick, so I have to be careful when pairing them with shoes. They have a soft grip, so they feel like they slip a little inside the shoes. They provide as much warmth as I expected around the heels and ankles, but despite their thickness, they don't provide as much warmth around the toes. I sometimes feel cold even when walking around town (sob). Furthermore, they don't pill much even after washing, so I think they'll last a long time
The comfort is not quite as smooth as merino wool, but it is still smooth
17210 Round Toe 4-Pair Set (Outdoor Recommended Rating ★★★☆☆) 580 yen
Breathability◎ Shock absorption◯ Comfort◯ Washability◎ Heat retention◯
Capsaicin winter socks. Elastic thread is used in the center of the calf and instep to prevent slippage
These cold-weather socks are treated with capsaicin, a compound derived from chili peppers that has a warming effect. Rubber thread is used in the calf and center of the instep, and although they feel a little rough against the skin, they fit well and cause little chafing. They leave a clear mark on the calf. They're thin yet have good heat retention, likely due to the warming effect of capsaicin. Thanks to this effect, they're comfortable and don't get too stuffy. They don't lose their shape or pill even after washing. Considering the price, they seem like a great product to use
It's quite warm for a thin material. Perhaps it's the warming effect of the chili pepper-derived ingredients..
The elastic around the calves might be a little too tight..
17110 Trekking Socks, Round Toe, 2 Pairs (Outdoor Recommended Rating: ★★★★☆) 499 yen
Breathability◎ Shock absorption◎ Comfort◯ Washability◎ Heat retention◯
They're durable, warm, and stay in place, making them perfect for winter hiking
These are moisture-absorbing, heat-generating socks made with fibers that generate heat by absorbing moisture. To improve durability, they use tightly twisted yarn to prevent fraying. Perhaps because of this, they are resistant to washing and do not pill or lose their shape. The terry cloth lining is comfortable against the skin. They are warm and don't get stuffy when worn, and are also resistant to friction that occurs inside shoes. It's no wonder they're called trekking socks. I was surprised to see them costing just 499 yen for two pairs
Although it's thick, it's warm and doesn't get stuffy. It also helps to reduce the impact of landing
summary
Among clothing items, socks are perhaps most commonly classified as consumables. Comfortable, hole-proof, and durable, they're a must-have. However, for activities like mountain climbing, where you're using your feet, functionality, like breathability and shock absorption, are also important factors to consider when choosing socks. As mentioned above, Workman offers socks that meet most of these criteria. Regardless of the design, it's probably a good idea to add at least one pair to your sock collection. Merino wool is certainly comfortable, but it's prone to tearing and a bit pricey (around 1,000 yen). At Workman, you can get them for less than half the price, which is a big plus. Their trekking socks are also recommended. At 499 yen for two pairs, their quality is undeniably excellent value for money
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