There are a variety of features you’ll want to look for when choosing the perfect pair of hiking socks. While many features are optional and based on personal preference, there are also many key ones that make a reliable, long-lasting sock.

One very important aspect is the type of material they’re created from. You probably already know by now, that merino wool is one of the best options on the market and that cotton is a material you’ll want to stay away from. What you may not know is that there are a variety of other materials that wick away moisture and also provide warmth and comfort. Some of these materials are silk, spandex, polyester, and nylon.

You won’t find many hiking socks made from only one material; nowadays they’re usually created using a combination of multiple fabrics. Most importantly, keep in mind that synthetic materials are generally more durable than natural materials.

Going hand in hand with material types is the weight or thickness of the materials. Again, this can be a matter of your personal preference, but the weight of the sock can also change the features and physical feel.

Thin ones are good for warm weather and allow for more space in your shoes. While they don’t provide as much protection, they still can work well for low-cut shoes. Thick hiking socks are better for keeping your feet warm, providing cushioning, support and protecting your skin from rubbing against your shoes.

While all socks have a specific blend of materials they’re made of. Rarely is a design made 100% from one type of material; different types of combinations are used to enhance the benefits of each material and help reduce their negative effects.

Wool: Most of the designs in our guide have a certain amount of Merino wool in them. The reason why is simple: wool is a natural material that is soft to the skin and that has exceptional moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties.

You can wear wool socks all year round because they keep your feet warm in the winter, but also keep them cool in the summer. Wool is also recyclable and biodegradable, making it a friendly choice for our environment.

Polyester: Unlike wool, polyester is a synthetic fiber. It is a type of material that is incredibly durable and colorfast (with the ability to retain color for longer periods) and that doesn’t lose shape over time. Polyester can also be moisture-wicking if you opt for the more advanced Coolmax polyester type.

Downsides to this material are that it is not biodegradable and is thus not safe for our planet. Furthermore, it isn’t the softest of options, and if on its own, polyester is not too comfortable.

Nylon: To add to the durability of a design, nylon is used in a relatively small percentage (less than 50%). This is also a synthetic material and has great wear and tear resistance and general resilience. It is added to socks to help them preserve their shape for longer and to give them strength against repeated wash cycles.

Spandex/Lycra/Elastane: Finally, there is rarely a sock without a tiny percentage of spandex or elastane in it. (Usually less than 5%.) Lycra, spandex or elastane are highly elastic fibers, and they help the design fit better. These allow the sock to move naturally along with your foot, and prevent it from losing its form too quickly.

While knowing the details of different material types is certainly useful, you don’t have to burden yourself with memorizing all of these. What is important is that you make a decision based on what you feel is right for you. Consider what you require from your socks, where and when you will be wearing them, and whether or not you’re environmentally conscious.

Overall, the types of thickness and materials that are the best depend on the type of weather and climate of your environment. No matter what kind of climate you’re in, always go for an option created with materials that will keep your feet dry.

With any piece of clothing, the fit is quite important. If the fit isn’t right then you can’t be comfortable, can’t look good, and in the case of socks for hiking and walking, you also can’t perform to the best of your abilities. Before you make your purchase, it is advisable that you ensure the fit of the design you’re looking at suits you.

Most models are going to rise above the ankle. Boots are usually made from tough materials and with thick ankle cushions; while these features are great for durability, they can also be tough on the skin, so it’s important to have protective hiking socks that cover the area of contact.

While low-top footwear covers just the bare minimum, if you want to avoid getting blisters and feel comfortable, you’ll want a crew cut length sock or higher. These will provide you with the highest level of protection against friction and irritation. Longer hiking socks are good for layering and can be worn with boots that cover the ankle.

Another good reason to wear crew cut or longer models is to protect your legs from the environment you’re in. Whether it’s itchy grass, ticks, poisonous plants or a variety of other pests, longer socks will protect your skin from being harmed by your surroundings. Sometimes we’re moving too fast to see the hazards or the pests biting you are too small to notice at first glance, like a mosquito. Overall, it’s better to over-prepare than to under prepare.

Knee-high hiking socks are another length option. These types are better suited for colder, icy weather. They can fully protect your calves and shins from any raw, outside contact. Usually made from a flexible ribbed top material, they not only stay up better, but they can also work as a lower grade compression sock. Compression socks should only be worn during physical activities and can help increase blood flow to the heart.

To make sure the fit is right for you, definitely check the brand’s size chart beforehand. Additionally, choose a design with stretchy materials in it, such as spandex or elastane we’ve mentioned in our Materials section. This will allow for the sock to accommodate your foot regardless of its shape and width.

When it comes to fit, we have to mention the height of the sock as well. This is especially important if you’re wearing hiking boots.

This is a feature that, no matter where you go or what type of sock you choose to wear, is a must-have for long-term reliability.

Hiking socks need to be replaced as soon as they begin to show damage, so when spending a decent amount of money on a proper pair, you’re going to want to make sure they hold up to the task.

Durability is found in all aspects of the sock, from the fabric to stitching. Padding and cushioning in the pressure areas of the sock can also add to durability. The heel and ball of your foot are constantly in contact with your shoes, and because of this, it is an area that tends to wear easily. Extra cushioning in these areas allows the material to last longer and avoid wear or tears.

To build their reputation and prove their quality, some brands will offer a money-back or a lifetime guarantee. If you’ve never purchased a specialized pair of hiking socks before, this is a great feature to take advantage of. Not only does it make the brand more trustworthy, but it also allows the user to find the perfect sock without continuously investing money in ones that don’t work for the hike.

Durability is one of the most important features in any sock, but especially in hiking socks. It's a rough, strenuous activity that can put a heavy amount of pressure on your feet, so having durable and reliable socks is of the highest importance. A durable sock can also be better for your health too. The better your feet stay protected, the less chance you have of getting an exercise-related injury.

While most people think about support and comfort having to do mainly with the footwear, there’s ultimately no point in paying a high price for a quality shoe if you’re going to pair it with thin cotton socks that have holes in them. The type of sock you choose to wear is just as important as the shoe, and it aids in the ultimate comfort of your hike.

Comfort can be found in various forms in the sock. The first, most obvious one would be the material. Cotton is too thin and will make your feet cold and sweaty, while regular wool may be too hot or itchy. We’ve mentioned above what types of materials are best for moisture control, warm/cold weather and air circulation. There are always going to be a variety of fabric options to meet your specific needs.

Another important aspect of comfort is alleviating pressure in the areas of the foot that support the most weight. Many models, but more specifically thick ones, are built with extra padding or cushion around the ball and heel areas of the sock. Less friction and pressure against your feet will allow them to feel better and perform for longer periods of time.

Along with comfort, comes support. Support can be found in the extra cushioning provided in various models, but it is also disguised as an elastic ribbed brand located across the arch of the foot. This is a great feature for those who need extra arch support but is also good for providing a form-fitting, flexible fit.

Support and comfort can both be found in the thickness of the sock. Thick hiking socks can prevent friction and your shoes from rubbing against your ankles. With a variety of ways to create a relaxing, beneficial feel, you’ll be able to find the perfect pair for your tastes.

Lastly, the shock-absorbing properties of a sock are also crucial to longterm comfort. When you’re on the trail for extended periods of time, sometimes even hours, your feet are bound to get sore and tired. To prevent this, it is advisable that your hiking footwear has some sort of support and cushioning in it, but this is also true for your socks.

In order to help you feel more comfortable, and to provide you with shock absorption that will keep your joints safe from injury, there are different levels of cushioning in socks for walking and hiking. Here, we will outline them all:

Light: Light cushioning is reserved for day hiking and light activity, as well as for walking through cities and on roads. It is a thin layer of cushioning that provides a modicum of shock absorption but is not meant for demanding or longer treks. Light cushioning is perfect for warm weather.

Medium: Medium or midweight cushioning is the type you can wear all year round and both on the road and on the trail. It is even suitable for running. This type of cushioning will absorb impact from your heel strikes and disperse it through the sock instead of letting it travel up to your ankles and knees. This way, you will be able to stay on your feet for longer.

Heavy: Heavy cushioning is reserved for long, challenging treks on unpredictable terrain. Unfavorable weather is also the weather of choice for this, because heavy cushioning can keep you warm when the temperatures drop. It has maximum shock absorption and if you’re going on a prolonged expedition, this is definitely the type of cushioning you need to bring with your gear.

When we talk about weather resistance, we usually speak of cold, rain and snow resistance. These are important in winter days, and you definitely can’t wear socks for hiking and walking without a decent level of insulation to them.

However, we also have to take into account that summer and warm weather days are some of the best times to go outside and enjoy the fresh air. Your socks should also be able to keep you cool in these situations and prevent your feet from sweating and overheating.

Considering the location and weather is very important. First, you don’t want to be thrown off by unsuspected climates in the middle of the hike. Second, you’re going to want to find a sock that will perform well according to your specific needs.

Icy, windy weather is extremely different from warm tropical temperatures, and they each require different types of socks. It’s obvious you’ll need warmer ones for cold weather and thinner ones for warmer weather; there are many features that provide these options and you’ll want to make sure to choose the right ones.

As we’ve mentioned before, merino wool is a top choice for cold weather as it keeps your feet warm but also provides moisture-wicking to keep your feet cool and dry. Thick, long socks are also better because you can layer with them and they provide more of a full coverage against the harsh cold.

Of course, those features won’t do any good in hotter climates. You need a thinner material that can adapt to moderate to hot temperatures and still provide a moisture-wicking feature. Choosing thinner wool hiking socks, with some synthetic materials added for more moisture-wicking and a lightweight feel, is your best bet during the hot months.

No matter where you choose to hike, you can always find a sock that fits the climate and your personal needs. Warm, cool, thin, thick; it’s all here. Now the only thing you need to do is figure out where you’re going, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect companion sock.