Hiking socks get a beating on any hike (let alone a thru-hike). They endure rocks, dirt, sweat, grit and other debris. They must be durable enough to withstand several wash cycles.

The best hiking socks are made from materials that wick moisture, dry quickly and don’t retain odors. They also fit snugly against the foot and prevent bunching and slipping.

Comfort

The right socks are key to comfort on the trail. They help keep feet dry, wick away sweat, and prevent friction that leads to blisters. They also protect feet from abrasion, dirt, and debris. Hiking socks can be worn all day, and they need to withstand a lot of abuse from rocks, grit, dust, and other elements that hikers encounter on the trail.

Typically, hiking socks are constructed from a blend of natural and synthetic fibers. Most feature merino wool, which is soft and dries fast, and nylon, which adds durability. The blend also includes a small percentage of spandex or elastane for fit and elasticity. Some hiking socks are designed for women or men, while others are unisex.

The size and length of the sock is important as well. For example, trail runners and sneakers work well with no-show or ankle-cut socks. However, boots require a longer sock height, such as a crew sock.

The thickness of the sock is also a factor. Lightweight socks feature minimal cushioning and are best for warm-weather hiking in light conditions. Medium-weight socks provide more cushioning for long days on the trail, and thick, heavyweight socks offer full padding that’s good for cold weather hiking. The right amount of cushioning can significantly reduce foot fatigue and soreness on rocky trails.

Fit

Hiking socks can take a beating, especially on long backpacking trips. A well-fitting hiking sock is crucial to preventing blisters, which can make or break an adventure. A good fit means that the sock doesn’t slip around or bunch up inside your shoe or boot, and it’s also snug but not tight. A tight sock can cause painful hot spots or blisters, and it’s also less effective at keeping your feet dry and regulating temperature.

The sock material is another important consideration. You should avoid cotton socks, which hold moisture and are slow to dry; they can also cause hot spots and blisters. Instead, look for a synthetic or wool/synthetic blend that offers the best combination of breathability, durability and performance. Many performance socks have some percentage of spandex, which helps them keep their shape and cling to your foot for a comfortable fit.

The length of your socks is another important factor, with options including ankle, mid-calf and knee-high. A calf-high sock works best with boots, while an ankle or no-show style fits better with trail runners and sneakers.

Seamless Construction

A seamless sock is designed to cover all parts of the foot your boot touches. This eliminates any potential areas of rubbing, greatly reducing the risk of blisters. The best hiking socks are seamless, and they’re often made of high-quality materials that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

The best hiking socks are constructed with materials that are designed to wick moisture and enhance ventilation. For example, merino wool can be very effective at wicking sweat and regulating temperature, while Coolmax cotton (used in the driMOTION sock) enables water vapor to escape easily. In addition to this, some sock fabrics include compression materials that help keep the socks in place, and they can be particularly effective on long hikes or backpacking trips.

In the end, it all comes down to personal preference. Many people like a blend of merino wool and synthetic materials, which offer the ideal balance of wicking, comfort, and durability. All-synthetic socks are also a great option, as they’re typically lighter and less expensive than merino wool socks. The key is to determine where you’re going hiking, what environmental conditions you’ll face, and what level of cushioning you prefer. For example, adventurers who prefer to hike in trail runners might opt for a low-profile sock, while those who wear boots might need a higher cuff to keep their socks from riding up.

Durability

The best hiking socks are designed to be durable. Hiking socks are put through a lot of abuse, especially on long hikes and thru-hikes. They need to be able to withstand rocks, dirt, grit, sweat, rain, and snow without falling apart or leaking. Hiking socks should be able to wick moisture away from the foot to keep it dry and prevent blisters, as well as resist abrasions and provide protection from chafing, hot spots, and rubbing.

Depending on where you plan to hike, your best hiking socks will vary in thickness. Lightweight hiking socks are best for summer, while midweight and heavyweight options offer warmth and insulation for winter hiking and backpacking.

The material your hiking socks are made of is also important. You want to avoid cotton socks, as they hold onto moisture, don’t dry quickly, and can lead to odor. Choose a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric, such as nylon, polyester, Coolmax, or spandex. Many hiking socks also include a percentage of wool, which is moisture-wicking, breathable, and anti-odor.

Look for socks with seamless construction, as these will minimize the number of seams that rub against your toes and can cause friction or blisters. Many hiking socks have built-in arch support, which can add comfort and stability to your feet as you hike. The elasticity of the material can also help prevent your socks from bunching up as you move throughout the day.