The right walking socks depend on a number of factors, with season being a major one. If you're someone that goes out for treks in cooler and warmer months, you really ought to have the correct socks for each occasion. If you've tried doing a summer hike in thick winter socks, you'll know that's no fun, and the reverse is true too.
The same logic applies to walking boots. You wouldn't use winter boots for fast summer day hikes or lightweight summer boots to tackle the CMD Arête in winter.
We've put this guide together to help you not only know what to look for in walking socks but also to recommend our top-rated pairs.
Our shortlist:
Darn Tough VanGrizzle Boot Midweight Hiking Sock -Best in Test
1000 Mile Approach Repreve Double Layer Sock - Best Value
Icebreaker Merino Multisport Light Micro Sock - Best walking socks for summer
Bridgedale Explorer Heavyweight Merino Comfort Boot Sock - Best walking socks for winter and long treks
Lorpen T3 Light Hiker Eco Shorty - Best walking socks for year-round use
Geckowear Calf Length Classic All Action Waterproof Sock - Best walking socks for very wet days
The above walking socks all excel in different conditions, but they all have a couple of commonalities. One is that they're all very well made; the other is they're all very comfortable and don't invite blisters.
The best walking socks in detail
Best in Test
www.alpinetrek.co.uk
Description
Heralding from Vermont in the U.S. of A., Darn Tough has some real fans of its socks on the Trail
Pros
- Great name, great graphics
- All-day comfort
- Versatile
Cons
- No recycled material used
Best Value
shop.ordnancesurvey.co.uk
Description
Can you even call yourself a proper hiker if you've never had blisters? Truth be told, modern
Pros
- Includes recycled material
- Blister prevention
- Great value
Cons
- Darn Tough VanGrizzle is more versatile
Best walking socks for summer
www.icebreaker.com
Description
If these don't look like your regular hiking socks, it's because they're not. To be clear, these
Pros
- Naturally odour-resistant
- Highly breathable
- Still features zoned construction
Cons
- Not suitable for use with boots
Best walking socks for winter and long treks
shop.ordnancesurvey.co.uk
Description
Bridgedale is the undisputed king of UK hiking socks. Made just outside of Belfast (we've seen the
Pros
- Warm
- Breathable
- High level of comfort
Cons
- Darn Tough VanGrizzle has higher merino content
Best walking socks for year-round use
www.countryside.co.uk
Description
For those that like hiking almost year-round, this is such a good walking sock. It's made with a
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Highly breathable
- Low and crew heights available
Cons
- Not suitable for mid-winter
Best walking socks for very wet days
geckowear.co.uk
Description
If geckos wore socks, we're not sure they'd look like this. Luckily, these are for human feet,
Pros
- Waterproof
- Retains breathability
- Ideal for harsh winter conditions
Cons
- Quite specialist
Why use special walking socks for hiking?
There are three main reasons. Firstly, for hiking in colder conditions, an everyday cotton sock will not keep your feet warm. In fact, it'll do the opposite. It'll sap heat from your feet and they'll get very cold. Merino and some synthetic materials can keep your feet warm even when the material itself gets damp.
Secondly, proper walking socks often feature carefully placed padding and other comfort features like flat seams. Additions like these help prevent blisters and keep your feet comfortable mile after mile.
Finally, walking socks are far more durable than their everyday counterparts. Types of construction like Nuyarn not only boost performance but durability too.
What to look for in walking socks
Fabric: Walking socks need to offer total comfort to the wearer but also be able to cope with many miles of trekking without disintegrating. In other words, they need to be soft, wicking and tough. Most sock brands achieve this by using combinations of natural fibres like wool (but not cotton – it holds onto moisture) and synthetic material such as nylon. They vary the mix depending on the specific intended use of the sock.
Fit: If the socks are too big, they can ruck and wrinkle and potentially cause blisters. Too small, and they can restrict circulation, leading to cold feet. Consider whether or not you intend to wear liner socks when choosing your size. Some socks are sold in shoe size ranges, while others will be sized as small, medium or large.
Cushioning: The ball of the foot, the heel and the Achilles are key pressure points on the foot. Cushioning in these areas, combined with light elastic compression, provides extra padding and support for long days on your feet.
Liners: Liner socks are worn under your main walking socks. They tend to be thin, highly wicking, and as seam-free as possible. This 2-layer system reduces friction between the foot and the boot to prevent blisters. Some socks have an integral liner built in, avoiding the need for a separate pair.
Seams: Seams can be points of friction leading to discomfort. The best walking socks are seamless or have flat seams to minimise rubbing and hot spots.
Height: Socks designed for use with walking boots tend to be around calf height to prevent rubbing between your shins and the boots' ankle cuffs. Ankle-height socks are suitable for use with hiking shoes or mid-height boots. Meanwhile, knee-high socks provide more warmth and insulation to your lower leg. Some also provide compression to improve circulation around your calf muscles.
Keep a fresh pair for the destination: There's nothing better than peeling off manky socks from an eight-hour hike and pulling on a fresh pair once you've reached the camping ground.