In the middle of a grueling 25-mile hike, I found myself wishing I’d focused more on my footwear choice. It was an unwelcome reminder for an experienced hiker like myself: quality hiking socks make or break the journey.
Not all socks are created equal. A seamless toe box, moisture-wicking abilities, precise fit, quality materials like Merino wool, and durable design, as found in Darn Tough’s socks or the Farm to Feet Damascus series, can mean the difference between reaching the peak comfortably or dealing with sweaty feet, blisters, or worse.
Through countless hikes and trials involving the industry’s top contenders, from synthetic socks to heavyweight Merino wool socks, my team and I explored how top socks can dramatically enhance outdoor gear.
So if you’re like me and decided you will never let a pair of bad socks stay in the way of good hiking, this guide is for you. Let’s dive in and see which are the best hiking socks of 2023.
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 Darn Tough Hiker instantly struck me as a stand-out hiking sock. Crafted from 43% Merino wool, it offers a good fit that adapts perfectly to my feet, regardless of the hiking boots or trail runners I’m wearing.
In terms of height, the hiking sock rises to a desirable mid-calf length, ideal for cold weather and winter hiking.
While not designed for everyday use, while testing these Darn Tough Hiker socks, I felt that my feet stayed dry and cool thanks to the socks’ excellent moisture-wicking qualities.
They retained comfort even after long backpacking trips, which distinguished them from other synthetic sock varieties.
Despite being praised as a lightweight sock, the Darn Tough Hiker provided enough warmth that I did not feel the need for heavy socks or multiple 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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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.
Another hiking sock that climbed to the top of my testing list, the Smartwool Performance Hike Light is a cushioned sock woven from a unique blend of Merino wool, nylon, and elastane.
The Smartwool socks also rise to crew length, a suitable height in most hiking boots to prevent debris or unwanted critters from reaching your feet.
Smartwool’s ingenious Indestructawool technology extends the socks’ lifespan without compromising on comfort or softness. This unrivaled underfoot cushion provides exceptional solace after enduring long hikes or during extended periods of trail running.
However, while these cushion crew socks wick moisture effectively after particularly intense trail running adventures, I did find my feet feeling less dry than when sporting my Darn Tough socks.
In contrast to the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew socks, though, these cushion socks from Smartwool have a wider toe compartment, a feature appreciated by those of us with broader feet.
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 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.
Tested out on several hiking adventures, the Darn Tough full cushion socks have become a favored certainty on my most engaging trails.
Composed primarily of Merino wool (61%), nylon (36%), and a hint of Lycra spandex (3%), these Darn Tough socks balanced breathability with a durable construction that outlasted other socks on my roster.
The Darn Tough’s unique performance hike light cushioning technology ensures a cozy fit, contributing to the sock’s ability to keep my feet comfortable throughout hot summer weather and rigorous mountain biking trips.
However, nothing is perfect. The toe compartment sometimes felt a little tight, but as I got on with my hiking adventure, the hiking sock adapted to my foot’s shape, eliminating this issue.
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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4) Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight
Best Lightweight Socks
These moderate-compression socks sit at crew height, providing great protection against trail obstacles without being overly warm in hot weather.
True to its name, the Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight offers a lightness that served my feet well during a strenuous uphill trek last month in Arizona.
Composed of a combination of 51% Merino wool, 46% nylon, and 3% Lycra Spandex, they provide a secure fit while maintaining the flexibility and wicking fabric properties essential for comfort during outdoor adventures.
Their cushioning hits a sweet spot between space for comfort and blister prevention, yet light enough to avoid bulky sensation in the shoe. They particularly exceed many medium-cushioned socks.
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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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 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 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 hiking socks due to their excellent moisture-wicking properties.
Set at crew height, they 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 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 excellently 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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8) 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 top pick from my tested socks. Made from 39% CoolMax polyester, 58% nylon, and 3% Lycra, the sock redefines comfort with an innovative design of individual toe compartments.
This design not only promotes better foot posture but also reduces blister formation by minimizing toe-to-toe friction.
As a breathable sock, it flaunts ventilated mesh zones, which promote air circulation and moisture-wicking abilities, keeping hot feet cool and dry.
The Injinji’s major drawback is its fit for narrow feet. Those with wider feet might find the toe compartments restrictive. Yet, Injinji counters this with Lycra material, lending stretchability and adaptability.
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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9) 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.
And as a bonus
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
From Merino wool hiking socks, which offer temperature regulation and moisture-wicking abilities to synthetic fibers that dry quickly, materials are pivotal.
A study by the International Design Journal found that socks made from synthetic material showed better abrasion resistance compared to cotton socks.
As examples, our standout performers in the materials category were the Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion, which boasts a Merino wool and synthetics mix, and the Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker Socks, which utilize a unique blend of materials including Endurofil for strength.
2. Compression
Compression in socks can improve blood circulation in your feet and help minimize foot fatigue. It’s particularly beneficial for long-distance hikers or if you’re wearing heavy backpacks, as your feet tend to get tired faster.
A good hiking sock with efficient compression can make all the difference. One standout from our top 9 products in terms of adequate compression is the Feetures Elite. As medium compression socks, they ensure a snug fit without cutting off circulation.
3. Activity
The right sock choice relies also on what activities you’ll be participating in.
Depending on the socks you choose, you will get varying levels of comfort, breathability, and cushioning underfoot suited for different activities – be it day hikes, long-distance hiking, or other outdoor activities.
The Darn Tough Micro Crew full cushion socks are our best hiking socks in this section, offering a balance for all sorts of activities.
For intense activities, the Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker Socks offer remarkable odor control and durability, and Injinji liner crew socks work great for extra padding and blister protection.
4. Warranties
Warranties reflect a company’s confidence in its product’s durability. They protect your investment if the socks wear out prematurely.
Any of the Darn Tough hiking socks excel in this category, offering an uncompromised lifetime warranty – if their socks fail for any reason, they offer a no-questions-asked replacement pair.
Injinji Trail Midweight Mini Crew socks also provide efficient warranty service, reflecting their faith in their products’ durability.
5. Care
Whoever said, “Care for your socks and they’ll take care of your feet,” definitely knew their stuff.
From washing techniques to drying practices, how you care for your socks affects their lifespan.
Gentle machine washing and air drying, commonly recommended by manufacturers, help retain sock structure and prevent nylon from stretching.
Naturally, antimicrobial socks further ease the maintenance burden.
Therefore, socks like the Darn Tough Micro Crew cushion and Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker Socks, both boasting easy care credentials, outperformed in this field.
6. Height
Whether you’re wearing shorts or putting on seasoned hiker’s boots, sock height can play a crucial role in your hiking experience.
As observed, crew sock height is often favored by many hikers as it provides a great balance between security and comfort.
A research study from 2019 stated that mid to high-length socks have shown better blister resistance.
Standouts in this category were the classic crew socks from Light Hiker Micro Crew and REI Merino Hiking Crew with mid-calf coverage.
Both these pairs provide ample coverage, helping to keep your feet happy and blister-free.
7. Comfort
Comfort hinges upon several features, including padding, fitting, breathability, and the nature of the fabric.
Adequate padding, particularly in high-impact areas like the heel and ball, cushions the foot, avoiding blisters.
A well-fitted sock also prevents creasing, lowering the risk of pressurized aches against the shoe.
Moreover, breathable socks dispel moisture and aid in maintaining a cool foot temperature, which is crucial on a hot day.
Both Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight and our runner-up, the Smartwool Performance Hike Light cushion socks, possessed highly breathable, lightweight models perfectly suited for warm weather.
8. Warmth
Warmth is another critical factor. It’s all about balancing insulation with breathability.
Too hot, and your feet will sweat; too cold, and you might catch a chill.
The Merino wool content in socks is especially prized for its ability to maintain foot temperature.
This thermal regulation works wonders in both summer and winter conditions.
The standout performers here are the Smartwool Performance Hike Light and the Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight.
The Merino wool mix in these socks keeps your feet airy even on a hot day but can also keep them cozy when the temperature drops.
It also offers superb breathability, making them our go-to pair in a variety of weather conditions.
9. Durability
Durability speaks to the fabric’s potential for maintaining its integrity under pressure and repeated use.
Great examples of the most durable socks from our list would be the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail and the Bridgedale Women’s WoolFusion Trekker Socks.
These share a common trait: their unique blend of Merino wool, nylon, and additional materials make them highly resistant to wear and tear and odor and maintain their fit and comfort across multiple uses.
This quality alone can justify a higher price tag and also proves popular for experienced hikers and backpackers.
As a little insider’s secret, the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail has become the go-to hiking sock for Christina, one of our team members, who has been relying on them extensively for the past few years.
10. Sustainability
Eco-conscious manufacturing processes notably involve the use of recycled materials or sustainable sourcing methods, contributing positively to environmental welfare.
Among our selections, the use of Merino wool stands out.
This wool is a renewable resource, and its use promotes mindful animal husbandry.
Among all the socks on our list, the REI Merino Hiking Crew deserves a mention 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
A great pair of trail running socks, such as those made by Darn Tough, fits snugly, preventing unnecessary rubbing and friction that leads to discomfort.
For example, their seamless construction ensures your toes are secure and protected from blisters.
Furthermore, they often feature targeted or heavy cushioning in the heel and toe regions to absorb friction, providing extra cushioning and making steep trails more tolerable.
Superior Moisture Management
Socks specially designed for hiking often utilize synthetic materials like recycled nylon for their enhanced moisture-wicking abilities.
tWhen I’m hiking through the mountains or going off trail for day hiking, these socks keep my feet dry and comfortable in various conditions.
Improved Foot Health
Among the best socks I’ve experienced, some boast antibacterial properties, ensuring my feet stay odor-resistant even after a long day’s trek.
Double-layer socks and those with a medium cushion can also help avoid blisters and soothe achy feet, making them a must-have for serious backpackers.
Temperature Regulation
Trekking socks, especially those constructed with Merino wool, regulate foot temperatures effectively.
They keep feet warm in cooler climates and allow for a lightweight feel in warmer conditions, which was a pleasant surprise when I first switched from a standard sock.
Merino Wool vs. Polyester Hiking Socks
On our team‘s countless hikes, we’ve tested a fair share of both Merino wool and polyester socks and learned that each has its strengths.
Hailing from the Merino sheep, Merino wool is softer and naturally more breathable than many synthetics. It regulates foot temperature effectively – a trait we’ve gratefully noted on some high-altitude treks during which our feet remained comfortably warm despite freezing air.
On the flip side, this wool can be pricier and occasionally less durable than its synthetic counterparts. We’ve observed that polyester socks tend to be quick-drying, reducing blister risk on waterlogged hikes.
They, too, wick away sweat but often lose in the comfort department. While they generally endure longer, the recycled plastic fibers could be harsher on your skin.
Our verdict? No one-material-fits-all. Consider your hiking plans: if it’s a short, wet adventure, polyester might fare better; for longer hikes in fluctuating temperatures, we’d reach for the Merino.
Our nr. #1 Pick
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 hiking socks of 2023.
FAQs
Merino socks are generally suitable for summer as the material is breathable and moisture-wicking. They regulate body temperature well, cooling when it’s hot and warming when it’s cold, making them suitable for all seasons.
Hiking and trekking socks don’t necessarily need to be thick. Thickness depends on personal preference and hiking intensity. Thick socks offer cushioning for extensive hikes, thin ones provide better breathability for lighter activities.
Expensive hiking socks can be worth the investment due to their durable material, better fit, and advanced features like breathability, moisture-wicking, and thermoregulation abilities. However, for light hiking, you can generally get through with a regular pair of hiking socks.
Yes, hiking socks are necessary. They provide cushioning, prevent blisters, wick away moisture, and help regulate foot temperature during hikes. Using regular socks could lead to discomfort, damp feet, or even injury during strenuous activities.
Wearing two pairs of socks while hiking isn’t typically recommended, as it may cause friction and lead to blisters. A single pair of well-fitted, quality socks should be enough.
Hiking and trekking socks differ from regular socks through their moisture-wicking, heat regulation, and cushioning capacity. The best hiking socks are designed to prevent blisters and provide comfort during strenuous activities which regular socks typically don’t afford.
