Halfway through a tough 25-mile hike, regret hit me like a ton of bricks for not choosing better shoes. Even a seasoned hiker can be reminded: good hiking socks truly make or break the trek.
Not all socks are created equal. Look for features like a seamless toe box, moisture-wicking capabilities, a snug fit, and high-quality materials such as Merino wool.
Brands like Darn Tough and Farm to Feet Damascus provide these qualities. Trust me, they can be the difference between a comfortable climb and dealing with sweaty feet and blisters.
I’ve been on countless hikes, testing everything from synthetic to heavyweight Merino wool socks alongside my team. We’ve seen firsthand how the right pair of socks can significantly enhance your hiking experience.
Let’s jump right in and discover the best hiking socks of 2025.
The Verdict – Our Nr. #1 Recommendation
Despite a minor toe cap tightness initially, these hiking crew socks adapted wonderfully to my foot shape over multiple uses, making them a go-to for any hiking scenario.
The entire team’s first choice for the best hiking socks, and also my personal favorite, the Darn Tough Micro Crew, was exemplary for numerous reasons.
Of all the sock blends tested, its 43% Merino wool offered high moisture-wicking properties, keeping my feet comfortably dry.
Most strikingly, their durability was unparalleled, even after enduring demanding summer hikes and arduous mountain biking.
Surviving multiple demanding treks while keeping my feet comfy, Darn Tough simply lived up to its name, proving to be the best socks for hiking in 2024.
To determine the best 11 hiking socks, we evaluated 19 different pairs throughout various locations in the United States and Europe. Each pair was tested across a range of terrains, including flat, rocky, muddy, and gravel paths. We assessed their material quality under different conditions: their breathability in warm weather, their warmth in cold conditions, and their durability across diverse landscapes. Our team conducted extensive multi-day tests, which were further supplemented by insights from independent experts, focusing on aspects like comfort, compression level, and sock height. We also considered how each pair was cared for and its sustainability. After analyzing the average scores for these criteria, we included external feedback and warranty policies in our final recommendations.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew
#2ND BEST CHOICE
Smartwool Performance Hike Light
#3RD BEST CHOICE
Darn Tough Boot Cushion Socks
Our Top Recommended Hiking Socks
1) Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew
Best Overall Hiking Socks
It takes advantage of Darn Tough’s signature performance hike light cushion, enabling a seamless design that reduces blistering.
The moment I tried the Darn Tough Hiker, I knew they were outstanding hiking socks. Their blend with 43% Merino wool fits my feet perfectly and pairs well with any hiking boots or trail runners I choose.
The mid-calf height of the Darn Tough sock is ideal for chilly conditions and winter treks.
Though they aren’t designed for everyday wear, during my tests the Darn Tough Hiker socks kept my feet dry and cool. Their excellent moisture-wicking abilities make a big difference.
Even on long backpacking trips, they stayed comfortable. This sets them apart from other synthetic sock options.
The Darn Tough Hiker offered enough warmth that I didn’t need heavy socks or extra layers inside my sleeping bag.
Features
- Material: 54% Nylon, 43% Merino Wool, 3% Lycra Spandex
- Height: Micro Crew Sock
- Cushioning: Soft terry loops underfoot plus protection around the ankles and Achilles
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CONS
2) Smartwool Performance Hike Light
It masters the unique balance of providing valuable warmth without compromising on lightweight design, a feature essential for cold-weather hikes.
I found another favorite during my tests: the Smartwool Performance Hike Light. This cushioned sock, crafted from a unique blend of Merino wool, nylon, and elastane, really impressed me.
The crew-length design of the Smartwool socks is perfect for most hiking boots, effectively keeping out debris and unwanted critters.
The Smartwool’s Indestructawool technology not only enhances the socks’ durability but also maintains their comfort and softness. The extraordinary cushioning they provide is a blessing, especially after long hikes or during extended trail runs.
However, despite their effective moisture-wicking capabilities during intense trail running, I noticed my feet stayed a bit less dry compared to when I wore my Darn Tough socks.
But, compared to the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew socks, Smartwool’s cushion socks offer a more generous toe area, a feature I and others with wider feet greatly appreciate.
Features
- Material: 58% Merino wool, 11% Nylon, 31% Recycled Nylon, 2% Elastane
- Height: Crew Socks
- Cushioning: Indestructawool technology for extended comfort and durability
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3) Darn Tough Boot Cushion
Best Merino Wool Hiking Socks
Featuring the classic boot length, the height was ideal for most of my hiking shoes and boots, and the cushioning was an optimal blend of firm support and luxurious comfort.
During my numerous hiking escapades, the Darn Tough full cushion socks have consistently been my go-to choice for the most challenging trails.
Made primarily of 61% Merino wool, 36% nylon, and a touch of 3% Lycra spandex, these Darn Tough socks expertly combine breathability with a robustness that outperforms other options in my collection.
The unique performance hike light cushioning technology of the Darn Tough socks ensures they fit snugly, keeping my feet comfortable in hot summer conditions and during intense mountain biking sessions.
Admittedly, they’re not without their flaws. Initially, the toe area of these socks felt somewhat restrictive, but as I continued my hike, they molded to the shape of my feet, resolving this minor discomfort.
While these are heavyweight socks in terms of durability, the weight does not reflect in the sock’s feel on the foot—a mark of excellent design.
Features
- Material: 61% Merino Wool, 36% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex
- Height: Boot Socks
- Cushioning: Soft terry loops underfoot and protection over Achilles and the ankle
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CONS
4) Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight
Best Lightweight Hiking Socks
These moderate-compression socks sit at crew height, providing great protection against trail obstacles without being overly warm in hot weather.
The Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight truly lives up to its name. During a challenging uphill hike last month in Arizona, their lightness really benefited my feet.
Made from a blend of 51% Merino wool, 46% nylon, and 3% Lycra Spandex, they strike a perfect balance between a snug fit, flexibility, and moisture-wicking properties, all crucial for comfort on outdoor adventures.
Their cushioning is ideally balanced, offering enough padding for comfort and blister prevention without feeling bulky in my shoes. They outperform many other medium-cushioned socks in this regard.
The Farm to Feet cushion crew socks display durable perfection. While testing, they resisted signs of wear due to their tightly knit structure. However, the Damascus could benefit from a deeper heel pocket to stay put during prolonged usage.
Despite this, the toe area is spacious compared to most crew hiking socks, lending to their overall appeal.
Features
- Material: 51% Merino Wool, 46% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex
- Height: Crew Socks
- Cushioning: Medium high-density cushion
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5) Bridgedale WoolFusion Trekker
At crew height, the socks provided ample coverage without being obtrusive, suitable for both shoulder season hiking and warmer days.
Sporting a unique blend of 44% Merino wool, 38% nylon, 17% endurofil, and 1% elastane, the Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker Socks offered a novel experience in my hiking escapades.
These men’s and women’s hiking socks used the proprietary WoolFusion technology that mismatches wool and synthetic fibers to provide a balance of durability and thermals, setting them apart from plain cotton socks or simple wool socks.
The cushioning, importantly, struck a compromise between the thickness of midweight socks and the minimalism of ultralight socks – offering more padding to my feet without compromising breathability.
During testing, I was impressed by the socks’ odor control; despite strenuous hikes, they remained relatively fresh due to their unique material blend.
Furthermore, a distinctive feature is the smooth toe compartment, which was particularly comfortable for long hikes and minimized potential blistering. However, the sizing tends to run small, although the sock’s stretchiness fights this by forming a good pair for most feet.
Features
- Material: 44% Merino Wool, 38% Nylon, 17% Endurofil, 1% Elastane
- Height: Crew length socks
- Cushioning: Medium
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CONS
6) Swiftwick Flite XT Trail
With a composition of nylon, Merino wool, olefin, polyester, and Spandex, this crew hiking sock offers an excellent blend of durability and flexibility.
The Swiftwick Flite XT Trail is a new addition to my hiking sock rotation and has proven its mettle after several hiking voyages. The material wicks moisture, keeping my feet dry even throughout the lengthiest hikes.
These crew-height, moderate-compression socks provided suitable coverage for different hiking footwear while the medium cushioning found a pleasant middle ground between too bulky and too thin, offering ample cushioning to avoid hot spots without sacrificing breathability.
Swiftwick uses proprietary AnkleLock technology, securing the sock for blister-prone feet and providing comfort in rough terrains.
Despite the excellent design, it has a slight learning curve for those accustomed to more traditional hiking sock design. For one, the toe area felt snug, a unique sensation given their configuration as toe socks.
Nevertheless, this promotes better foot functionality and reduces chaffing during long walks.
Features
- Material: 38% Nylon, 24% Merino wool, 22% Olefin, 13% Polyester, 3% Spandex
- Height: Crew Socks
- Cushioning: Medium, with AnkleLock support
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7) REI Co-op Merino Hiking Crew
Best Socks for Breathability
The Merino wool mix quickly absorbed sweat, leaving my feet cool and dry even on hot days.
The REI Co-op Merino Hiking Crew, composed of Merino wool, nylon, and Spandex, was an intriguing experience. On my weekend hike, this model evolved into one of my favorite backpacking socks due to their excellent moisture-wicking properties.
Set at crew height, these wool socks offered a perfect balance between protection and breathability. The cushioning was a reliable companion for my heavy pack, providing beautiful plush padding on challenging terrains.
Remarkably, these durable socks retained their shape even after enduring some rough trails.
Yet, as every coin has two sides, the wool socks were a bit warm for summer hikes due to their thick cushioning.
However, they would be ideal for colder weather or winter camping. Also, though the socks perform well overall, the narrower feet could cause discomfort for those with broader feet. Just give it a chance – their deep heel pocket could partially alleviate this issue.
Features
- Material: 79% Merino Wool, 20% Nylon, 1% Spandex
- Height: Crew Socks
- Cushioning: Thick
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CONS
8) Wrightsock Coolmesh II Quarter
The Wrightsock Coolmesh II Quarter socks instantly stood out during my trial due to their unique feature: a patented two-layer design.
This design effectively combats friction and prevents blisters, making these some of the best synthetic socks I tested on the trails.
These hiking socks also contain a mix of polyester, nylon, and lycra, which feel extremely comfortable against the skin.
Testing them on a warm day, I was pleasantly surprised to experience their superior moisture management. Meanwhile, they provided moderate arch support, but for my feet, they could have used a bit more cushioning for lengthy hikes.
However, while hiker-boot full-cushion might not be a forte for these socks, they did show good lightweight construction.
This aspect caught my attention as it promotes better foot agility and a semblance of natural foot motion, although it might feel too minimal for hikers requiring extra cushion.
Features
- Material: Inner layer: 70% recycled polyester, 26% nylon, 4% LYCRA spandex; Outer layer: 71% recycled polyester, 24% nylon, 5% LYCRA spandex
- Height: Ankle
- Cushioning: Light
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9) Balega Hidden Comfort Socks
Boasting an anatomical fit, the Balega Hidden Comfort Socks wrapped up my foot in a snug, no-slip fit like an experienced hiker would lace their boots.
The top part of the sock snugly fit the high-density cushioning, adding extra padding where it’s needed most, and the performance-fit design meant they stayed put just right. There was no slipping down or gathering in my shoes.
But, the Balega socks are made with a thinner Drynamix material, so they’re more about keeping your feet cool than warm. I really liked this during hot weather, but I did feel the difference when it got colder.
And like most hiking socks, these Balega socks will show signs of wear over time, but machine washing didn’t harm them at all. However, when drying them, I found air drying is much better than tumble drying for making them last longer.
Features
- Material: 75% Drynamix® recycled polyester, 20% nylon, 5% elastane
- Height: No-show
- Cushioning: High-density
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CONS
10) Injinji Trail Midweight Mini Crew
Best Socks for Summer Hiking
More than just a midweight sock, these ankle socks possess a double-layer construction with an inner layer providing a soft feel and a durable outer layer enduring demanding hikes.
The Injinji Trail Midweight Mini Crew is another one of my top picks from the socks I’ve tested. It’s made from 39% CoolMax polyester, 58% nylon, and 3% Lycra, and has a unique design with separate compartments for each toe, taking comfort to a new level.
This toe-separating design isn’t just about comfort; it actually helps improve your foot posture and reduces the chance of blisters by cutting down on friction between your toes.
It’s a really breathable sock too, with mesh areas that let air in and help wick away moisture, so even on hot days, your feet stay cool and dry.
The main issue with the Injinji is how it fits on narrow feet. If your feet are on the wider side, you might find the toe compartments a bit snug. But the Lycra in the socks gives them some stretch, making them more adaptable.
Furthermore, adjusting to the unique ‘glove for feet’ design may take a little time for conventional sock users.
Features
- Material: 39% COOLMAX® Polyester, 58% Nylon, 3% Lycra®
- Height: Ankle Socks
- Cushioning: Medium
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CONS
11) Feetures Elite (Max Cushion No Show Tab)
Best Budget Socks
Designed with a nylon, polyester, and Spandex mix, they offer an ideal balance of flexibility, excellent breathability, and heat regulation.
The Feetures Elite medium-compression socks joined my roster of hiking essentials, providing a unique blend of quality, performance, and comfort.
Not only I’ve been wearing these on a few hikes with hiking boots, but also with my hiking sandals.
The Feetures Elite incorporates a no-show tab height and minimal cushioning, catering to hiking enthusiasts who prefer a closer shoe fit with low-cut shoes and those who prefer warm weather and light hikes.
These liner socks offered me a distinctly snug fit, thanks largely to the targeted compression zone located in the sock’s arch, helping improve blood flow and reduce foot fatigue, an absolute boon for longer hikes.
Feetures Elite no show socks were noticeably thinner than others, like the Darn Tough quarter cushion, but they didn’t wear thin on comfort or blister protection.
These no show socks might not be everyone’s first choice for colder climates due to their synthetic construction, and those inclined towards medium or high cushioning might not appreciate the minimal padding.
Still, the ventilated top ensures superior breathability, a critical provision during a hot day’s hike.
Features
- Material: 74% Polyester; 21% Nylon; 5% Spandex
- Height: No Show Socks
- Cushioning: Minimal/None
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Hiking Socks Buyer’s Guide
In selecting our top 9 socks for hiking, we considered ten critical elements to ensure we’re presenting the best in the market. Here is our list:
1. Material
Merino wool hiking socks are a game-changer, providing excellent temperature control and moisture-wicking capabilities, but let’s not overlook synthetic fibers, known for their quick-drying properties.
The material choice in socks really makes a difference.
There is this study in the International Design Journal that highlighted how socks made from synthetic materials have better abrasion resistance than those made from cotton.
To give you a couple of examples, the Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion, with its mix of Merino wool and synthetic fibers, really stood out in our tests.
And then there’s the Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker Socks, which use a special blend of materials, including Endurofil for added strength.
2. Compression
Socks that squeeze a bit increase blood flow in your feet, making them less tired. This matters a lot for long hikes or when you carry heavy stuff because it helps your feet handle the pressure better.
Good hiking socks with enough squeezes can make your hikes much better.
Out of the 9 pairs we tried, Feetures Elite was the best. These are medium squeeze socks—they fit snugly but won’t crush your feet.
3. Activity
Choosing the right socks also depends on the activities you’re planning to do.
Different socks offer different levels of comfort, breathability, and cushioning, tailored to various activities like day hikes, long treks, or other outdoor pursuits.
In this category, the Darn Tough Micro Crew full cushion socks are our top pick. They strike a perfect balance for a wide range of activities.
For more demanding activities, the Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker Socks stand out with their excellent odor control and durability.
And if you need extra padding and blister protection, the Injinji liner crew socks are a great choice.
4. Warranties
Warranties are a big deal – they show how much a company believes in the durability of its product. Plus, they’ve got your back if the socks give out too soon.
Darn Tough hiking socks are top-notch in this area. They come with an unbeatable lifetime warranty. Basically, if their socks ever let you down for any reason, they’ll replace them, no questions asked.
The Injinji Trail Midweight Mini Crew socks also have a solid warranty. It really shows how confident they are in how long their socks will last.
5. Care
Someone once said, ‘Look after your socks, and they’ll look after your feet.’ They couldn’t have been more right.
The way you wash and dry your socks really impacts how long they last.
Most manufacturers suggest washing them gently in a machine and letting them air dry to keep their shape and stop the nylon from stretching out.
Socks with antimicrobial properties make caring for them even easier.
That’s why socks like the Darn Tough Micro Crew cushion and the Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker, both known for their easy-care features, really shine in this aspect.
6. Height
No matter if you’re in shorts or wearing boots, the height of your socks is key to a good hiking experience.
Many hikers, including myself, prefer crew sock height. It’s a great mix of protection and comfort.
A 2019 study found that mid to high-length socks are better at preventing blisters.
In this area, the Light Hiker Micro Crew and REI Merino Hiking Crew socks, both with mid-calf coverage, really stood out.
Both these pairs offer plenty of coverage, which is crucial for keeping your feet comfortable and free from blisters.
7. Comfort
Comfort in socks depends on a few key things: the padding, how they fit, their breathability, and the type of fabric used.
Having enough padding, especially around high-pressure areas like the heel and ball of the foot, means your feet are cushioned and protected from blisters.
A sock that fits well won’t crease up, which helps avoid uncomfortable pressure spots against your shoe.
Breathable socks are great for wicking away moisture and keeping your feet cool, especially when it’s hot out.
Both the Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight and our second favorite, the Smartwool Performance Hike Light cushion socks, are excellent examples of breathable, lightweight designs that are ideal for warmer weather.
8. Warmth
Warmth in socks is crucial – it’s about getting the right mix of insulation and breathability.
If they’re too warm, your feet sweat; too cold, and your feet might freeze.
Merino wool hiking socks are highly valued for their ability to regulate foot temperature.
This thermal control is perfect for both hot summers and cold winters.
In this aspect, the Smartwool Performance Hike Light and the Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight really stand out.
The blend of Merino wool in these socks ensures your feet stay cool in the heat and warm when it’s cold.
Their excellent breathability also makes them a top choice for a range of weather conditions.
9. Durability
Durability is all about how well the fabric holds up under stress and frequent use.
Two of the toughest socks we found are the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail and the Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker Socks.
What makes them stand out is their blend of Merino wool, nylon, and other materials. This mix makes them super resilient against wear and tear, and they also stay odor-free and comfortable over many uses.
For avid hikers and backpackers, this durability often makes them worth the extra cost.
A little insider tip: the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail has become a favorite for Christina on our team.
She’s been relying on them for years now, and they’ve never let her down.
10. Sustainability
Eco-friendly production is all about using recycled materials or sustainable methods, which really helps the environment.
One thing that really stands out in our sock selection is the use of Merino wool.
Merino wool is great because it’s renewable, and using it supports responsible animal care.
The REI Merino Hiking Crew socks deserve a special shoutout here.
Composed of Merino wool and nylon, its production respects the environment by effectively using sustainable resources.
Benefits of Using Hiking Socks
Hiking is a rewarding physical activity, but it would be less enjoyable without the right pair of socks. Here are four reasons why I always wear my favorite socks for trekking:
Enhanced Comfort and Fit
Trail running socks from brands like Darn Tough snugly fit your feet, avoiding that annoying rubbing and friction that can cause discomfort.
Take their seamless design, for example, it really keeps your toes safe and free from blister troubles.
Plus, they often have extra cushioning in the heel and toe areas. This is a lifesaver on steep trails, absorbing shock and making the hike easier on your feet.
Superior Moisture Management
Hiking socks are usually made with synthetic materials, like recycled nylon, for their top-notch moisture-wicking abilities.
When I’m out hiking in the mountains or on a day hike off the beaten path, these socks are great at keeping my feet dry and comfy, no matter the weather.
Improved Foot Health
Some of the best socks I’ve tried come with antibacterial properties, which is awesome for keeping foot odor at bay, even after a long day of hiking.
Socks with double layers or medium cushioning are also great for preventing blisters and soothing tired feet, a real plus for anyone serious about backpacking.
Temperature Regulation
Socks made for trekking, especially those with Merino wool, are really good at regulating foot temperatures.
They keep your feet warm in cold weather and have a light feel in warmer conditions, which was a nice surprise when I first switched from regular socks.
Merino Wool vs. Polyester Hiking Socks
Our team has tested lots of Merino wool and polyester socks on our hikes, and we’ve found that each type has its own advantages.
Merino wool, from Merino sheep, is softer and more breathable than many synthetic materials. It’s great for keeping your feet at the right temperature, something we really appreciated on some cold, high-altitude treks.
However, Merino wool can be more expensive and sometimes not as tough as synthetic options. We’ve noticed that polyester socks dry quickly, which is great for hikes where your feet might get wet, reducing the chance of blisters.
They’re good at wicking away sweat too, but they’re not always as comfortable as wool. They tend to last longer, but the recycled plastic fibers might feel rougher on your skin.
Our conclusion? There’s no perfect material for every situation. If you’re going on a short, wet hike, polyester might be better; for longer hikes in changing temperatures, Merino wool is usually the better choice.
FAQs
Merino wool socks are good for summer since they’re breathable and wick away moisture. They’re really good at regulating body temperature, keeping you cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cold, so they’re perfect for any season.
When it comes to hiking and trekking socks, they don’t always have to be thick. It’s really up to you and how intense your hike will be. Thicker socks are cushy and great for long hikes, while thinner ones are more breathable, and better for less demanding activities.
Spending more on hiking socks can pay off. They’re made to last, fit better, and often come with features like breathability, moisture-wicking, and temperature control. But if you’re just doing light hiking, a regular pair of hiking socks should do the trick.
Yes, hiking socks are necessary. They cushion your feet, stop blisters, wick moisture, and regulate temperature. Regular socks might leave you with damp, uncomfortable feet, or worse, an injury during hard activities.
Wearing two pairs of hiking socks is not recommended. It can cause rubbing and lead to blisters. One pair of good, well-fitting hiking socks is usually enough.
Hiking and trekking socks are different from regular socks because they wick moisture, regulate heat, and cushion your feet. The best hiking socks are designed to prevent blisters and keep you comfortable during tough activities, something regular socks just don’t do.
