What Are Hiking Socks?

Blisters, foot pain and general discomfort can quickly ruin a pleasant stroll through the country, and can prove disastrous on longer, strenuous hiking trips. Though it may seem like an afterthought, wearing the right socks on your hike can prevent many of these problems and ensure that your feet remain well-cushioned and comfortable on your adventure.

  1. The Basics of Hiking Socks

    • Compared to typical cotton socks, hiking socks are generally thicker all around, with even heavier padding at the heel, toes and ball of the foot. This keeps your feet warmer in cool temperatures, protects them from excessive rubbing against the hard material of your hiking boot, and the increased surface area also provides more stability when you're walking on uneven surfaces. Hiking socks are also often made to be wicking, meaning they draw moisture away from the body. Many hiking socks also contain a small amount of nylon or similar fabric, which increases their durability and keeps the sock from bunching up inside your boot.

    Sock Materials

    • Wool has long been the standard hiking sock material due to its thickness and warmth, retaining heat even after wading through puddles or getting caught in the rain. Because wool can irritate the skin, thin sock liners made of silk are often worn underneath the wool sock. Today, however, many hiking socks are made from a blend of wool (real or synthetic), synthetic insulating and wicking materials and cotton, often eliminating the need for sock liners on short hikes.

    Sock Thickness

    • Hiking socks also come in different thicknesses, and the type you'll need will vary depending on the type of hike you are planning. Short day hikes in warm weather typically call for lightweight hiking socks. These focus on wicking moisture and providing padding rather than warmth. Colder temperatures will require midweight hiking socks, which offer more padding and insulation and usually need a sock liner for maximum comfort, depending on the sock material. For the most extreme hiking conditions, look for mountaineering socks,which are very thick and padded and almost always require sock liners.

    Getting the Right Fit

    • When you purchase hiking socks, take care to get the correct size. You'll want them to fit snugly, with as little sock movement as possible. Some hiking socks are made gender-specific, and even specific to the left and right feet. Remember that thicker socks will fit differently inside of your hiking boots, so trying on your socks and shoes together will help to ensure the best fit.