In the end, with the quality of hiking socks improving so significantly, liner socks are becoming less and less common for hiking and backpacking. Materials: 61% merino wool, 37% nylon, 2% spandexCushioning: Light/mediumWhat we like: Cool, light, and very durablea great match for long distances.What we dont: The lower cut means less protection. First and foremost is the added effort that it takes to put on these socks, as each toe needs to be worked into the appropriate slot. Materials: 46% merino wool, 51% nylon, 3% elastaneCushioning: UltralightWhat we like: Light and breathable design is great for summer hiking.What we dont: Minimal cushioning impacts comfort as the miles add up. Materials: Inner layer: 70% polyester, 26% nylon, 4% Lycra; Outer layer: 71% polyester, 24% nylon, 5% LycraCushioning: LightWhat we like: Great protection from blisters.What we dont: Not very cushioned. Crew Socks Smartwool used to be synonymous with hiking socks, but over the past few years Darn Tough has taken the lead. Even lower than quarter-length are no-show socks. Competitively priced at $19, you get a great, snug fit, superb breathability, and a very comfortable feel. Why? But this is telling: In all the miles we've racked up with our Micro Crews (some are 7+ years old and counting), we havent put a hole in one sock. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. Made with a unique double-layer construction, the Coolmesh works to absorb friction from your shoe or boot to limit potential trouble spots. Smartwool still cant match Darn Tough's lifetime guarantee (although two years is pretty good), but we think the updates to the new Performance collection are positive and give them a leg up in some areas, including fit and plushness.See the Men's Performance Hike Light See the Women's Performance Hike Light. In fact, Wrightsock believes in their designs so much that they offer a blister-free guarantee. A refund wont matter much if youve been suffering on the trail, but we do appreciate the confidence. Quarter Socks Compression is a bit of a buzz word among outdoor athletes these days, praised for its ability to help with muscle recovery and reduce overall fatigue. and not the strands themselves as described above. All that said, there are some inherent drawbacks to the Wrightsocks two-layer construction. And in use, weve suffered no discomfort, and the separation has left our toes dry even after long and sunny days on the trail (although the Midweight sock here runs warmer than their Original Weight models). As with all heavyweight socks, youll want to take your boots into consideration before buying to ensure you have enough room. Unfortunately, Coolmax socks undeniably hold stink far more than merino models, which is a big downside for multi-day backpacking trips. They also wear well around the house and under your favorite pair of shoes, provided theres enough room. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we know a thing or two about rain. Durability is brand specific and weve seen changes throughout the years even among the same manufacturers. The Damascus lineup also includes no-show, quarter-height, and medium-cushioned crew socks that share similar overall designs and features.See the Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight. But if the performance characteristics appeal to you, the Flite XT Trail is an undeniably quality option and one of the most intentionally built designs here.See the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Two. Materials: 56% merino wool, 42% nylon, 2% elastaneCushioning: HeavyWhat we like: Durable, cozy, and cheaper than the Darn Tough Hiker Full-Boot Cushion above.What we dont: Less merino than the Darn Tough and runs very hot in summer temperatures. Many companies sell both mens- and womens-specific socks, but in most cases, there are no major performance differences between the two. Hikers and backpackers fall on both ends of the spectrum: some prefer the unparalleled breathability of non-waterproof footwear, while others Cozying into your sleeping bag at the end of a long day on the trail is one of the simple pleasures of backpacking. Chances are that if you like Smartwools lightweight hiking designs, the Classic Hike Extra Cushion Crew will make you happy as well. Enter Darn Toughs Quarter Cushion, which is consistently one of the most popular and top-rated designs on the PCT. Wrightsock has come up with an interesting solution for those with tender feet that are prone to blistering. For these occasions, Darn Tough makes a synthetic sock with Coolmax polyester (the same material used in the budget REI option above), a highly porous fabric that is made specifically to keep your feet cool. Before going this route, its better to pick up a quality pair of moisture-wicking wool or synthetic socks (rather than cotton) and nail down a well-fitting shoe or boot. Made with fabric constructed from recycled plastic bottles, these socks provide a soft next-to-skin experience without the usual environmental burden of polyester (REI has been strong of late on the sustainability front). In the end, heres our take: If blisters and hotspots are a major issue for you, it may be worth giving the Injinji a shot. From months of daily drizzle to heavy downpour in the mountains, were acutely aware of the benefits of a quality waterproof and breathable shell. Sock manufactures offer a variety of thicknesses designed for everything from summer hiking to mountaineering. Hiking boots are critical to your comfort and performance on the trail, but this no longer means a stiff and burly model that will weigh you down. As we alluded to above, most people will find socks like the Darn Tough Hiker Full-Boot Cushion and Smartwool Classic Hike Extra Cushion way too hot for most summer outings. The density varies by sock as welljust because the REI Merino Wool Ultralight Crew socks are 72 percent merino doesnt mean they are the highest-quality option. For a slightly thicker alternative with more modern and fun styling, check out REIs New Route Crew Socks.See the REI Merino Wool Ultralight Crew. The long-time leader in this department is Darn Tough: Their lifetime, unconditional guarantee means you can get a replacement pair sent for reasons ranging from complaints about comfort to a hole developing in the heel. Essentially, instead of a standard sock, Injinji uses a five-toe design that claims to reduce the possibility of blisters and hotspots. If youre sold on the benefits of merino but are looking to save, the REI Merino Wool Ultralight Crew hiking socks are just the ticket. The former indicates that sheep were treated humanely and in accordance with strict animal welfare and environmental standards (on our list above, REIs Merino Wool Ultralight uses RWS-certified wool). Merino is known for its natural antimicrobial properties, whereas polyester socks hold stink in a serious way (this alone has us firmly in the merino camp). Materials: 77% Coolmax EcoMade, 22% nylon, 1% spandexCushioning: LightWhat we like: Around $5-$10 cheaper than the merino competition.What we dont: Holds onto stink more than wool. With these hiking socks, you get all of the comfort, moisture-wicking ability, and odor protection of crew-height socks, but in a trimmed-down form. There are a dizzying number of hiking socks on the market, but Swiftwicks new Flite XT Trail collection stands out as one of the most feature-packed and purpose-built options on our list. Specifically, we like the socks thick panels of padding over the forefoot, which reduce friction between your foot and boot to keep you comfortable on longer objectives. Materials: 32% merino wool, 32% stretch nylon, 31% rayon, 5% spandexCushioning: LightWhat we like: Very snug and secure fit.What we dont: Knee-high design isnt for everyone; fairly pricey for the amount of wool. Our nitpicks with the Micro Crew are that the cushioning underfoot can make the sock a little warmer on hot days than thinner models like the Smartwool Performance Hike Light below, and the tough construction means losing a tiny bit of plushness. Further, the design in general is a bit of a throwback with drab colorways and a looser (rather than performance-focused) fit. Crew is the most common hiking sock height, which extends 6 to 8 inches above the heel and at a least a couple of inches above just about any pair of hiking boots. Hiking socks have gotten fairly expensive in recent years, which has made their warranties a noteworthy part of the buying process. In this category, Sockwells Circulator is a great pick for those looking for a supportive, calf-hugging design that adds an extra dose of security on the trail. And REI recently tacked on an RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) certification, which ensures that sheep were treated humanely during production. What are the downsides of choosing an ultralight hiking sock like the Smartwool? Most of our favorites are made with merino wool, which has become the standard-bearer in socks and performance outdoor apparel in general. Over-the-Calf Socks Finally, youll often find shorter or more limited policies from budget-oriented brands. For the purposes of this section, we are evaluating overall sock thickness (ultralight, lightweight, midweight, etc.) In choosing the right backpacking tent, you have a wide range of options from minimalist ultralight shelters to inexpensive and heavier entry-level models. Key changes include the use of sustainable materials (the Hike Light here uses 31% recycled nylon), increased cushioning (especially under the arch), and Smartwool also updated the mesh zones and overall fit. Materials: 63% merino wool, 35% nylon, 2% spandexCushioning: LightWhat we like: Excellent fit, breathability, and cushioning for performance use. Additionally, the moisture-wicking inner layer keeps your feet dry, providing yet another barrier against blisters (one editor described the feeling as similar to wearing a snug, skin-tight baselayer underneath a cozy midlayer). Further, its important to ensure that the collar of your shoe falls below the top of the sock, as any gaps can cause uncomfortable rubbing. Slotting in just below their max-cushioned Mountaineer Classic, these burly socks are one of only two heavyweight models on our list (joining the Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full-Cushion above). Materials: 51% merino wool, 46% nylon, 3% LycraCushioning: LightWhat we like: High-quality design that is sourced and made in the U.S.What we dont: Less merino and pricier than the Smartwool Performance Hike Light above. In the end, if youre anticipating a long-term investment for hiking and backpacking, its probably worth going the merino route. Merino Wool It's true, they aren't tall enough for all hiking boots, but they're a great pairing with ankle-height hiking shoes or trail runners (and importantly, they offer considerably more coverage and protection than no-show designs like the Balega above). This style also crosses over well to wear with running shoes. We think you can go either way here in terms of line or machine drying, but keep in mind that you may get slightly more pilling and shrinkage in the dryer.Back to Our Top Hiking Sock Picks Back to Our Hiking Sock Comparison Table. But for more technical pursuits that require your feet to work hard, youd be hard-pressed to find a more well-rounded option, and it doesnt hurt that the Pursuit Four is priced nicely at $20 (true compression models typically cost much more). In the end, while we wouldnt base our final decision solely on the guarantee, its something to have in mind. Further, all Farm to Feet socks are backed by the companys generous lifetime guarantee that rivals Darn Toughs well-known warranty. You cant overvalue a great pair of hiking socks: They keep your feet comfortable and dry while helping to prevent blisters and hotspots. If youre regularly putting in the miles and want to try something a little different, give the Sockwell Circulator a look.See the Men's Sockwell Circulator Socks See the Women's Sockwell Circulator Socks. In terms of construction, theyre made from 56% merino wool (10% less than the Darn Tough) and have the same traditional look and feel as the brands popular Classic Hike Light Crew but with a noticeable boost in warmth and cushion. Stacked up against the Micro Crew above, the model here boasts thicker cushioning with more merino (66% vs. 61% for the Micro Crew), giving it a nice boost in coziness and insulation for activities like summer-time mountaineering and winter hiking and snowshoeing. All that said, if youve exhausted all other options and want to give them a try, a liner sock could be a viable way to boost padding and protection between your foot and shoe. Darn Tough socks arent the softest but we have had no issues to date with holes with either their Micro Crew or Quarter Cushion, which is frankly pretty amazing. Cotton, on the other hand, is heavier, absorbs moisture, and doesn't dry when wet. There also are a handful of up-and-comers like Stance that are a slight step down in overall comfort but have more attractive styling that many hikers appreciate. Quarter (1/4) height hiking socks cover the heel and ankle but dont extend up the leg as far as crew socks. These socks are a nice option for hot-weather hikers, and like our favorite merino models, they are snug-fitting, well cushioned, and do not stretch with use. And well admit that we were skeptical too before trying them out, but weve come to appreciate some of the performance benefits. And its taken some time to get used to the feeling of having each toe separated in our hiking shoes, although the slight awkwardness did fade after a short time. Liner socks are also notably thin, which translates to a shorter lifespan than your regular socks and more care required. With a seamless toe area for minimizing bulk and preventing blisters, strategic padding in high-wear areas, and a snug performance fit, the Damascus is purpose-built to handle trail life. But what sets Farm to Feet apart is that their products are 100% sourced and made in the United States, including American-raised sheep providing the merino wool. We feel that this is the optimal height for hiking: Crew socks dont make you excessively hot and offer some added lower leg protection from brush and rocks. Both socks run too warm for most sub-alpine summer outings, but if your itinerary includes logging considerable mileage above treeline, the Hiker Boot Full-Cushion is a proven option that should last many seasons.See the Men's Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full-Cushion See the Women's Hiker Boot Full-Cushion. Finally, the Flite XT Trail is on the less breathableend and has led to sweaty feet in temperatures above around 60 degrees while hiking and running (theyre best suited for active use in cooler weather). In general, we strongly prefer merino wool over polyester. We tested the low-top shoe version through everything from early winter conditions in the Pacific A great pair of hiking pants provides comfort, freedom of movement, the versatility to perform well in a range of environments, and durability over the long haul. What we dont: Lacking in plushness and everyday appeal. Finally, for those looking for synthetic material that is kind to the environment, check out Coolmax EcoMade (seen in the REI Co-op Coolmax EcoMade Lightweight), a polyester made from recycled plastic bottles. They wick moisture well too, making them a great choice for hot-weather adventures when you still want decent cushioning and support. And some of the Coolmax models like the Darn Tough Coolmax Micro Crew provide excellent breathability for adventuring in hot conditions. This isnt a bad thingDarn Tough socks can really take a beating (hence the name). Finally, weve noticed that the socks are prone to pilling on the upper portion, and they lack the crossover appeal of many of the more modern options above. The Performance Hike Light has Indestructawool in the heel and toe, and we must say it has proven to be durable over the past few years without a noticeable change in comfort. That said, its important to note that even merino wool hiking socks arent 100 percent merino: Youll notice in our picks above that the percentage of merino is between around 30 and 80 percent, with the rest being a blend of nylon and spandex. Further, the Circulator comes up to just below the knees, which helps with coverage and protection when venturing off-trail but isnt everyones cup of tea. Alternatively, socks like the Wrightsock Coolmesh II above have two-part designs that essentially blend the two components together, and Wigwams Arbor NXT Crew takes a similar approach by knitting an inner lining into the design. As we've found, no sock is totally perfect. With cozy seamless construction, high-quality merino wool, and a lifetime warranty to back it up, Darn Tough socks simply are the best. That said, polyester does have a couple of redeeming qualities. Compared to REIs Coolmax sock above, Darn Toughs version is better-made and offers a much closer fit (the downside is a jump in price). Technically billed as trail running socks, Swiftwicks Pursuit Four is an excellent all-around performance pick. That said, the socks contain relatively little merino, which weve found translates to a drop in plushness and comfort compared to many of the picks here. But uses and budgets vary, and the ideal We get this question a lot: Do your hiking shoes or boots need to be waterproof, or can you do without? Right off the bat, well note that Injinji socks are a far cry from the more traditional designs above, and the polarizing looks will be enough to deter many hikers. And for an even cheaper option thats similar to the Smartwool, check out the popular REI Co-op Merino Wool Expedition($21). Weve also begun to see more companies utilizing recycled materials, including Smartwools recently updated Performance line that uses recycled nylon and socks made with CoolMax EcoMade, which is a polyester made from recycled plastic bottles. If you have a few pairs in the rotation, you can expect most hiking socks to last at least a couple of seasons if not more. For winter hiking and mountaineering, the major brands make midweight and heavyweight options that provide much more warmth than the lightweight versions, like Darn Toughs heavyweight Hiker Boot Full-Cushion and Smartwools Classic Hike Extra Cushion Crew. But for those who dont mind the obvious sacrifices in protection and coverage, the Hidden Comfort is undeniably well made, good-looking, and super soft, which is a great combination for hiking (and did we mention no sock tans?). Comparing the two, the Smartwool is thicker, more durable, and has a better overall fit (the REI is a little too loose for our tastes). But if you have tough feet and can avoid blisters, these socks will help keep your feet cool even during the hot summer months. Finally, this series also includes thinner, ultralight quarter socks ($12), as well as higher-riding crew options ($14-$16).See the REI Coolmax EcoMade Lightweight. And as with the Performance Hike Light Cushion Crew below, Smartwool added Indestructawool to these socks for a boost in durability. In fact, its one of the only non-merino socks that youll find us recommending for serious performance use. The momentum in hiking footwear is moving away from bulky boots toward lightweight shoes and even trail runners that are faster and more comfortable. However, merino wool hiking socksalong with their polyester counterpartsare one of the few items that we often throw in the dryer with our regular clothes. You can expect to pay a bit more for dedicated compression modelsand theyre certainly not for everyonebut some may find the potential benefits worth the investment. They still wont last forever, but the Run Zero Cushion is a nice option for summer when you dont need serious padding and thickness. Paired with a low-profile hiking shoe or trail runner (there isnt enough clearance for ankle-height boots), the minimalist design offers sufficient cushion between your foot and shoe while minimizing bulk. If you want to try them out, make sure to pair your liner and sock accordingly: You should use a merino liner with a merino sock or a synthetic liner with a synthetic sock. But if you want a light hiker for the summer months that will keep your feet cool and ward off hot spots and blisters, the Wrightsock has a lot of appeal. After countless miles on the trail, our observations on hiking sock comfort are as follows: Darn Tough makes the best overall hiking socks taking into account comfort and durability, but they have a slightly thicker and denser feel than Smartwool. If not, traditional hiking socks perform great and require less work.See the Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew. In normal temperatures your feet will sweat, and despite merinos impressive ability to wick moisture, you will get unwanted dampness. For more information, see our hiking sock comparison table and buying advice. Materials: 56% merino wool, 42% nylon, 2% elastaneCushioning: LightWhat we like: Performance fit and now made with recycled materials.What we dont: Can't match Darn Tough's lifetime guarantee. Womens socks often differ in color and are offered in smaller sizes in general, but otherwise sport the same overall design and fit as their mens or unisex counterparts. But for easy-going activities, the REI is a fine choice.See the Smartwool Classic Hike Extra Cushion. And if you like the design but prefer more coverage, Wrightsock makes the Coolmesh in a crew-height version for $17 (both models strike us as a decent value).See the Wrightsock Coolmesh II Quarter See the Women's Coolmesh II Lo Quarter.

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