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
Best budget pick
Best blister protection
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
Best moisture-managing sock
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
Best thermoregulating sock
Best non-wool option
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
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
Best for cold-weather adventures
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.
