Socks are an important part of your hiking attire but often receive less attention compared to boots and shoes. Like hiking shoes or boots, a comfortable pair of socks is the difference between an enjoyable trek or one full of blisters and discomfort. So, ditch your everyday cotton socks the next time you go hiking and instead opt for a pair of hiking socks. Your feet will thank you. Hiking socks are designed to keep your feet dry, sweat-free, warm, and comfortable during your hike. Hiking socks prioritize comfort, warmth, and breathability which helps keep your feet happy during and after a day on the trails. They are usually high-ankle or mid-calf in length and are best paired with hiking shoes or boots. And like boots and shoes, there are so many different styles, patterns, and colours to choose from. Let’s explore the world of hiking socks.

So many Types of Socks to Choose from

There are so many different types of socks to choose from. It’s difficult to know which pair will work best for you. It can be overwhelming picking out a pair of socks in stores or online. Here are some things to consider the next time you are shopping for a new pair of hiking socks.

• Height of the sock. Generally, you want to pick a pair of socks that are at least as tall as your shoe or boot to help prevent rubbing and blistering. For example, if you prefer wearing boots as I do, pick a pair of crew socks that come up to your calf. If you are more of a hiking shoe kind of person, trainer socks that come up to your ankle would do just fine.

• Thin, thick, and in between. There are ultra-thin socks (liner socks), super thick socks (double-layer), and many options in between. Thicker socks offer more protection and warmth, whereas thinner socks are cooler and lighter. Different thicknesses serve different purposes. If you are hiking in the cold winter months, go for a thick pair of socks for extra warmth. While in the warmer summer months, go with a thinner pair that will keep your feet cool as you enjoy the outdoors.

• The material really matters. You want socks that breathe and don’t lose shape easily. Go with natural fibres like wool or synthetic materials designed to wick away sweat keeping your feet dry and fresh. While cotton socks are comfortable and warm, they are not breathable. They will leave your feet sweaty, uncomfortable, and stinky after a long hike. Also, cotton socks do not hold up as well as in the washing machine compared to wool and synthetic socks. Cotton socks tend to lose their shape more quickly. So say no to cotton socks for hiking.

• Fits like a glove, except it’s on your feet. Have you ever picked up a pair of socks and noticed that the sock sizes are different than your shoe size? Well, I did. After some digging, I found out that, unlike shoes, socks are determined by the length of feet measured from heel to toe. So, you will need to know your sock size to find a pair that fits well. What exactly is a good fit you might ask. For starters, the sock should be snug but not too tight that it constricts blood flow to your feet. It also should stay in place and not slip up or down as you walk. If your sock does this, it is a sign that it is too loose. Another sign the socks are too big is if they bunch up. Wearing socks that don’t fit well will cause the sock to rub against your foot as you walk which can lead to painful blisters. Avoid at all costs.

• Cushions for added protection. You will generally find hiking socks with cushions around the heel and toes. The cushions are designed to provide a bit of extra protection against your foot rubbing against your boot or shoe. The cushions also help absorb some of the impacts from walking around.

• Quality matters. Like most things, you get what you pay for. Hiking socks are generally more expensive than your everyday socks. However, that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to find a good pair of hiking socks. You can find a pair of really good hiking socks for about $14. I suggest shopping at specialty outdoor stores like MEC, Decathlon, or Sail. They usually carry reputable brands that produce good quality products. If you are shopping in-store, ask the salesperson what socks they would recommend for the type of hiking you will be doing and would complement your boots or shoes. The people who work at outdoor stores are pretty knowledgeable and keen to help.

• Try a few brands then stock up on ones that you like. It took me a while to find hiking socks that I loved to wear. My go-to socks are the J.B. Field’s Super-Wool Hiker GX. It’s $12.95 a pair at MEC. They are probably in the middle in terms of thickness. I find them super comfortable. I wear these all year round. Another sock I love is the Darn Tough Midweight Hiker Boot Sock. I was lucky enough to get them as a gift. At just under $35 a pair, they are on the pricier side. However, they are light and comfortable. It doesn’t even feel like you have socks on. But you know they’re there because your feet are warm and toasty. Once you find socks you like, pick up a few pairs.

You rely on your feet to get you from point A to point B. Hiking socks will help make your adventures more enjoyable. Happy trails everyone!