As a travel journalist with a passion for the outdoors, my job has taken me to some of the most extreme trails in the world, including the Hajar Mountains near Dubai and just outside Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. In both instances, I prioritized high-quality hiking gear, particularly footwear and socks.  

“Proper gear is essential for maintaining comfort and performance—after all, cold, wet, or uncomfortable feet can quickly derail any hike because you are only focused on your painful feet,” says Chien-Hao (Lupo) Wang, a hiking guide from Taiwan with more than a decade of professional guiding experience. 

Wang focuses on a balance between comfort and functionality, when stocking up on hiking socks. “Choose ones depending on different factors, such as hiking environment, temperature, shoes, backpack weight, and trail length,” he says. 

I couldn’t agree more. For Hajar’s arid landscape, I wore lightweight Mission Workshop Pro hiking socks that could better handle the heat. For Chilean Patagonia, the Grip6 Wool socks worked wonders for the blustery cold. 

Most hikers may find that the best hiking socks are the Injinji Liner+Hiker socks (women’s; men’s). These provide both comfort and functionality, making it our top overall choice for everyday hikers. The liner is lightweight, while the exterior includes extra cushioning and arch support, helping to protect feet on uneven terrain. Here are all our favorite hiking socks.  

A good pair of hiking socks should keep feet comfortable, dry, and blister-free. Look for ones that are made of breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics.

“This helps regulate both your foot temperature and the surrounding moisture, which in turn helps prevent chafing while hiking and backpacking,” says Mary Beth Skylis, a freelance journalist and long-distance backpacker who has hiked the Appalachian Trail and Colorado Trail in the United States and parts of the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal.

Additionally, having the appropriate amount of cushioning and the right length will help keep your feet protected against the elements.  

Here are a few of my favorites based on my years of hiking as well as feedback from Wang, Skylis, and other professional hikers.  

Why we like it: If you’re serious about staying comfortable on the trail, this combo is worth a try. It’s like getting two socks for the price of one. Like most Injinji socks, this pair has a glove-like five-toe design—a game changer for avid long-distance hikers like myself. 

Separating the toes not only reduces friction, helping to prevent blisters, but it also means toes are able to spread out, distributing weight more evenly across your feet. That makes for a much more comfortable trek.   

The hiker part pulls on over the liner and looks more like a traditional hiking sock, with extra cushioning and arch support. It’s a winning combination that I found particularly effective during sharp descents, when most of your weight falls to the front of your foot. 

Keep in mind: The liner’s glove-like design can make it a bit tricky to put on, especially if you're in a hurry. It takes some patience to get each toe in. 

Product details: Sock thickness: Light cushioning | Material: Liner made with moisture wicking and breathable “CoolMax,” nylon, and Lycra; Hiker socks made with wool, acrylic, nylon, and Lycra | Length: Crew  

Why we like it: Smartwool’s Hike Classic Edition Crew Socks are made with merino wool, which means they are soft, moisture wicking, and naturally odor resistant—perfect for keeping feet dry and fresh. 

The crew length gives great coverage, protecting ankles from dirt and debris. The cushioned sole absorbs impact, helping to reduce fatigue during long hikes. We also love that they have a flat-knit toe seam that minimizes friction and irritation. 

“These socks balance comfort with seamless [construction] and functionality with the woolen fabric,” says Wang. “My favorite is the crew height with light or medium cushion as it reflects the terrain I find most in Taiwan.” 

Keep in mind: The socks are available in standard sizes—small, medium, and large. If your shoe size falls between two sizes, they may feel slightly too big or too small, depending on your choice.   

Product details: Sock thickness: Medium with full sock cushioning | Material: Merino wool, recycled nylon, and elastic | Length: Crew   

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Why we like it: These hiking socks have a patented design that helps prevent slipping or bunching—a much-appreciated quality that helps prevent the cumbersome task of adjusting socks mid-hike. The high-quality merino wool helps keep feet dry, while the high crew cuff fits snug around the ankle and keeps debris out.  

I have wide feet and found that the free-range toe box was plenty roomy for my toes. The extra cushioning in the heel, toe, and arch were life savers on a recent hike in the Indian Himalayas, where the trail was virtually non-existent. 

The tapered compression in these socks can also stimulate blood flow that can prevent cramping on longer or more strenuous hikes, according to the company. 

Keep in mind: While the full contact design of these socks is great for preventing slipping and bunching, it might take some getting used to if you’re not accustomed to tight socks.  

Product details: Sock thickness: Medium with cushioning in the heel, toe, and arch | Material: Merino wool, nylon, and polyester | Length: Crew 

Why we like it: The Grip6 merino wool crew socks are soft with a touch of elastic for a snug fit. It has a seamless design to eliminate friction, with cushioning in the heel and toe for an extra layer of comfort on long hiking days. Plus, they’re made to stay up with each step.  

What impressed me most about these socks is that, despite being woolen, they are machine washable (on a cold cycle) and the shape easily bounces back, thanks to the nylon and elastic blend. 

They come in packs of one, three, and eight, so you can stock up for your next hiking adventure. But if you want to try them out before you go, the brand offers a 60-day guarantee.    

Keep in mind: These snug-fitting woolen socks may be too warm for hiking in hot or humid climates. 

Product details: Sock thickness: High with selective sock cushioning | Material: Merino wool, nylon, and elastic | Length: Crew 

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Why we like it: These Injinji socks feature the brand’s signature five-toe design, which reduces friction helping to prevent those dreaded blisters. This style also encourages a more natural stride with better balance and movement on the trail. 

These socks are crafted from a blend of merino wool and acrylic fibers, with added features like cushioning on the heel and the ball of the foot, seamless construction, and arch support to keep your feet comfortable for hours of trekking. Plus, the over-the-calf length offers full coverage, protecting legs from the chill.  

Keep in mind: The knee-high length may feel constricting, especially if you are wearing additional base layers.  

Product details: Sock thickness: Medium with extra cushioning on the footbed | Material: Nylon, recycled polyester fibers, and Lycra | Length: Knee high 

Why we like it: These socks are made with a 100-percent waterproof membrane and breathable fabric that’s lightweight and windproof. They’re made to wick away sweat, helping to keep feet warm and dry. They have a smooth toe seam, a deep heel cup that wraps around the heel for a secure fit, a lightly cushioned sole, and a non-slip ribbed top that helps keep the sock in place inside (and outside) your shoe. Plus, they are machine washable (on low heat) making them easy to maintain. 

Keep in mind: The top of these socks are not waterproof, so it’s best to avoid deep puddles and streams. 

Product details: Sock thickness: Medium with sock cushioning | Material: Waterproof nylon, polyester, and elastic | Length: Crew   

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Why we like it: These are one of my favorite pairs of compression socks. They’re perfect not only for long hikes, but also for long-haul flights. Compression hiking socks apply gentle pressure to improve blood flow in your feet and legs, which can help speed recovery after a tough day on the trail.  

Comrad Timberwool compression socks have 15-25 millimeters of mercury—in other words, they provide gradual compression, which can feel a bit more comfortable than others. These socks are crafted with a blend of merino wool and stretchy fibers, so they are moisture-wicking, odor resistant, and temperature regulating. The seamless toe design prevents irritation, while the cushioned footbed adds extra comfort.  

Another option for compression socks is Dr. Scholl’s athletic and work compression over the calf socks. These have mild compression and are made of a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex. They also come in a pack of one or three, so avid hikers can stock up. 

Keep in mind: If you are not used to compression socks, these may feel a bit tight or difficult to put on. Additionally, the wool blend can feel a bit too warm in hotter climates.  

Product details: Sock thickness: Medium | Material: Nylon, lyocell (semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp), merino wool, and elastic | Length: Calf 

Why we like it: These socks are made in Italy with antibacterial yarns and a breathable open rib-knit construction designed to keep feet cool, dry, and comfortable all day. Although they’re meant for cycling, I found the compression and fit ideal for long, strenuous hikes.  

The Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew is another great lightweight option. We like the thin cushioned footbed and seamless construction made to prevent bunching or snagging when you step in or out of hiking boots. The merino wool blend wicks away moisture, dries quickly, and provides all-weather performance. 

“Darn Tough socks have been a staple product for me ever since the Appalachian Trail. They lasted more than 800 miles before showing signs of wear and tear,” says Skylis. “The company also has a phenomenal lifetime guarantee, allowing you to exchange your socks when/if they start to deteriorate.” 

Keep in mind: Mission Workshop socks are only available via their website.    

Product details: Sock thickness: Light | Material: Polyamide and elastic | Length: Crew 

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In examining hiking socks for this list, I prioritized comfort, durability, and performance across various terrain. Materials, overall construction, length, as well as fit were key qualities.

I also relied on real-world testing across the globe (including my own personal experience) and real customer reviews. Another important factor was product after-care.

Skylis says that wool socks require different care than standard cotton socks. As such, it’s important to look at the manufacturer’s guidelines before tossing hiking socks in the wash for soap and temperature specifications.    

• Third-party reviews: These are important because they offer unbiased, real-world insight that reflect how the socks perform in practical situations. 

• Materials: The fabric and quality impacts comfort, performance, and foot health during hikes.  

• Overall construction: This determines how the socks work for the duration of the trail, no matter the mileage. 

• Brand reputation: Reputable brands have a track record of producing products that get the job done because they invest in real-world testing, high-quality materials, and years of production experience. 

• Practicality: The materials dictate the type of care hiking socks need to keep performing optimally without shrinkage or fit issues.  

When buying hiking socks, consider the terrain, weather, and duration of your hike. Always try on socks with the hiking shoes or boots you plan to wear. Make sure your feet feel comfortable and supported—not too tight nor too loose.  

“I typically bring three pairs of socks. I rotate out to a second pair around lunch every day to let the first dry out completely and give my feet a chance to rest too,” says Abbey Gibb, an Intrepid Travel guide and avid hiker, who has completed both Croatia’s Via Adriatica Trail and North America’s Pacific Crest Trail.  

If you’re backpacking, Gibb recommends stuffing your hiking socks at the bottom of your sleeping bag. That way, your body heat will naturally dry them out by morning. “It's like laying on a fresh pile of warm towels at home, but in the backcountry and for your feet” she says. 

Here are more tips to keep in mind when buying socks for hiking: 

Material 

Skylis almost exclusively wears woolen socks year-round because they wick moisture, dry quickly, and are antimicrobial. “This means they help to prevent bacteria from growing so your feet won't smell as bad as they would in a pair of cotton or synthetic socks that retains moisture longer,” she says.  

Cushioning  

There are different types of cushioning when it comes to hiking socks. Wang breaks down how he chooses socks based on hike duration, temperature, and mileage:  

• 1-2 days / easy trails / 5-25 miles / 68-95 degrees Fahrenheit: Light cushion 

• 2-4 days / moderately difficult trails / 10-65 miles / 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit: Full cushion 

• 2-7 days / long distance trails / 60-150 miles or wintertime at any distance / 15-40 degrees Fahrenheit: Wool five toes inner sock / full cushion  

Length 

Many travelers opt for crew-length hiking socks for better protection from dirt, debris, and boot friction. Longer socks are great for added warmth in cold weather or providing extra coverage for the knees. 

Fit 

Make sure hiking socks fit snugly without bunching or slipping. Socks that are too loose or tight can cause blisters or discomfort. 

Extras 

Additional features to look for when buying hiking socks include reinforced heels and toes for enhanced durability, seamless designs to minimize irritation, and arch support for improved comfort and fit. 

What socks should you wear when hiking? 

When selecting hiking socks, opt for merino wool or synthetic blends instead of cotton. Cotton retains moisture and takes longer to dry. Choose the appropriate cushioning for your hike—lightweight for warm days, midweight for most conditions, and heavyweight for cold weather or heavy packs. Crew-length socks protect ankles from dirt and debris, while reinforced heels and seamless toes offer support and comfort. 

Why are hiking socks different? 

Hiking socks are designed to keep feet comfortable and protected on the trail. The materials, construction, and added features all play a role in enhancing comfort, absorbing shock, and reducing foot fatigue. 

Are thick or thin socks better for hiking? 

Thick socks are ideal for cold weather, long hikes, or when carrying a heavy pack, as they provide extra cushioning and warmth. On the other hand, thin socks are perfect for hot weather or lightweight hiking shoes, offering breathability and less bulk. If you’re unsure which to choose, try layering liner socks with thicker ones for better moisture-wicking and blister prevention. Ultimately, it’s all about finding what feels most comfortable with your hiking boots.