The humble sock can make a big difference to the enjoyment of a day out, whether it’s a big hill day, multi-day backpack or gentle dog walk. Here we’ve taken a look at a range of hiking socks, all tested in a range of conditions in the Scottish Highlands.
Ideally a sock should provide day-long comfort with good cushioning and support, fitting well to prevent slippage and blisters, keeping the foot warm but not overly sweaty and stinky, it should be durable and easy to care for. In addition there are environmental and ethical considerations in how and where they are made and also what conditions you are planning to use them in. Many outdoors folk are rightly thinking about reducing waste, looking for a sock that will last a long time but that can then be recycled. Some companies now offer a take-back service for worn out socks with the materials being recycled into new socks.
Socks are usually made of a mix of wool (often merino; this is the softest and smells less but can be less hardwearing), nylon (providing the shape and durability) and elastane (for stretch at the cuffs and other areas). A higher wool content will often provide more comfort and stay fluffier for longer between washes, but a higher synthetic content will dry faster and allows more technical features such as compression ribbing or venting areas. Look for non-mulseing merino (there’s also a Responsible Wool Standard makers can sign up to) or a high percentage of recycled materials or sustainable manufacturing methods. There’s a vast range of thickness, length on leg and weight depending on whether they are to be worn with walking boots or trail shoes, winter or summer etc.
Socks should fit well and not stretch or shrink over time. Proper care is essential. Most manufacturers recommend removing loose debris, turning each sock inside out and never washing at more than 30 degrees with minimal wash powder, no conditioner, only a slow spin and drying flat. Merino wool’s odour-reducing qualities mean they can be washed less often which helps them last longer. For the best comfort, look for socks with flat toe seams that are well back from the toe and a double y-shaped seam (or even a triple-Y) at the heel. If you have specific foot issues like a bunion or tender achilles you may want socks that provide cushioning in these areas.
Teko
Based in the UK but manufacturing their socks in Italy, Teko have been dedicated to producing the highest quality socks for walking, running, skiing and biking for 21 years. They have strong environmental credentials; all their merino wool is non-mulesed and is transported from Patagonia to Europe by sea, and Bluesign approved processes are used to make them shrink resistant – no chlorine or bleach is used. In addition, Teko use polyester from recycled fishing nets and ECONYL® regenerated nylon, as well as all-compostable packaging.
Bottom – EcoHIKING 3.0 Merino Wool hiking socks
Price: £24.95.
Materials: 67% Merino Wool, 31% Polyamide-Nylon, 2% elastic
Sizes: Unisex, Small 2-4.5, Medium 5-7.5, Large 8-10.5, X-Large 11-13.5
These socks have a high merino content giving an immediate luxurious feel. The more durable nylon frame is on the outside of the sock, so what you feel against your foot is pure wool – the ultimate in comfort. The 3.0 refers to the level of cushioning – medium in this case, though the full range goes from 1.0 for the lightest summer socks up to 5.0 for winter or mountaineering expedition socks (£32.95). Whichever level you choose, they are very effective at wicking moisture away from your skin, and can go for a good few days hiking between washes. They have a double-Y seam at the heel and a seamless toe-box, whilst the variations in weave aim to avoid any crumpling. We’ve reviewed similar Teko socks from previous years and they are still going strong in regular use. The price is reasonable for the high quality, but there are sometimes great offers for packs of 3 pairs on the Teko website.
Top – EcoHIKING 3.0 Exodus Merino Synergy hiking socks
Price: £23.95
Materials: 33% Merino Wool, 33% Polyester, 32% Polyamide, 2% Elastic
Sizes: Unisex, Small 2-4.5, Medium 5-7.5, Large 8-10.5, X-Large 11-13.5
At the same weight and cushioning as the socks above, these Merino Synergy versions of the socks have the nylon frame within the sock rather than on the outside. Whilst they don’t feel quite as lovely on your feet as their fluffy-inside cousins above, the benefits of the fabric mix with recycled polyester are in increased durability – they do dry a bit faster too which is important on a multi-day trip. The Merino Synergy socks are available in the same five cushioning levels, and I’ve found the breathability to be similarly good.
Darn Tough
Made in America, Darn Tough have built a solid reputation for long lasting, quality walking socks. Their marketing includes the promise of a lifetime guarantee – whilst probably few claim against it, Darn Tough will replace worn out socks – complete the form on the Darn Tough website including proof that the old socks have been destroyed and you’ll receive credit for a new pair. Offering a bewildering range of colourful designs, their socks are divided into lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight hike socks with 3 levels of cushioning and up to 5 different heights – there’s also some with added Coolmax for hotter conditions and they’re available as women’s and men’s to add to the choice.
Top – Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock
RRP: £28
Materials: 51% nylon 46% merino wool 3% lycra spandex
Sizes: Women’s S (4.5-7), M (7.5-9.5), L (10-11.5) Men’s M (8-9.5), L(10-12), XL (12.5-14.5)
The micro crew is a shorter length sock that is still high enough for summer boots as well as trail shoes. This lightweight version has Darn Tough’s mid level of cushioning which makes it a great all rounder for two to three season use. It’s well made, maintains its shape and cushioning over time and has minimal seams. Light compression at the arch and thinner material on the top and leg add to breathability and it seems to withstand multiple wears between washing without getting stinky. Given the mix of materials I’ve no reason to doubt this sock will last a long time.
Bottom – Number 2 Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock
RRP: £29
Materials: 63% merino wool, 35% nylon, 2% lycra spandex
Sizes: Women’s S (4.5-7), M (7.5-9.5), L (10-11.5) Men’s M (8-9.5), L(10-12), XL (12.5-14.5)
This version is made from slightly thicker material and has a higher merino wool content but with the same level of cushioning and leg length. This will suit shorter boots or trail shoes when a warmer sock is required. The cushioning is in the right places and comes up high enough to cover the achilles. There is more ribbing on the leg than the lightweight version and the sock stays in place well and is comfortable and performs well. A good option for year round use including multi-days with a heavy pack. Paul has previously worn a hole in a similar pair of Darn Tough’s but this is mainly down to very heavy use on a weirdly shaped foot – figuring that he’d had good value, he didn’t invoke the lifetime guarantee but we do know of people who have successfully had replacement socks under this deal.
Stox
Stox produce a wide range of sports socks with graded compression with the aim of increasing endurance and recovery. Their seamless socks are made in Italy and due to the compression you need to check you have the correct size for your calf as well as shoe size – there’s a handy measuring guide on Stox’s website.
Merino Hiking Ankle Socks
RRP: £29.99
Materials: 59% polyamide, 34% merino wool, 7% elastane
Sizes: Women’s W1 (4 – 5.5, with calf size of 11.8″ – 13.5″), W2 (5.5 – 7, with a calf size of 13.5″ – 15.5″), W3 (7 – 9.5, with a calf size of 15.5″ – 17.5″) Men’s M1 (7 – 10, with a calf size of 12.5″ – 15.0″), M2 (9.5 – 12.5, with a calf size of 15.0″ – 17.5″) M3 (11.5 – 14, with a calf size of 17.5″ – 19.7″)
The idea behind these socks is that the graduated compression stimulates blood circulation increasing how far you can walk without getting tired, reducing swelling and allowing faster recovery. Whilst some scientific studies do back the use of compression (particularly for knee-high socks), the measurable improvements are generally small. The main thing to note if buying these socks is to check your calf size and make sure they are put on carefully so that the compression is evenly distributed.
These are noticeably tighter socks with a lot more compression than the others on test. However whilst they are tight to put on, they still felt comfortable even for long days. This model has compression at the arch and ankle which is supposed to make your ankle more stable on rough terrain. This is pretty hard to assess, I wore them with different trail shoes and had no problems but did find them quite warm despite the merino content. There is extra thickness under the foot and at the toe and up over the achilles but these are still at the minimal cushioning end. Thankfully the cuff is not too tight and has a comfy liner band. Clearly labelled left and right as the fit is different. However they do seem fairly indestructible and I’d expect them to last a long time. Quick drying, these would be a good option for multi-days in trail shoes if you get on with the fit and level of padding. Those prone to blisters might find that close-fitting socks make a difference.
Smartwool
Made in the USA, Smartwool has been at the forefront of merino-wool based technical walking socks since 1994. The company pioneered a recycling scheme for worn out socks (via a pre-paid envelope on their website or at certain retailers for specific dates) but this is currently on hold in the UK although Smartwool say they reviewing it and hoping to be able to bring back an expanded scheme.
Top – Hike Classic Edition Light Cushion Second Cut Ankle
RRP: £19
Materials: 39% merino wool, 31% unknown/mixed fibre (recycled), 29% nylon, 1% elastane
Sizes: M (5 – 7.5) L (8 – 10.5) XL (11 – 13.5). Also available in a crew length at £22.
Second Cut refers to Smartwool’s use of recycled wool fibres in this eco version of their original sock. The shorter ankle length is great for walking with trail shoes and hotter weather. Don’t be fooled by the light-cushion description, this sock has deep fluffy cushioning from the toe to the heel and high enough to cover most people’s achilles. Lighter material allows breathing across the top with a supportive stretchy mesh area providing extra venting and support across the top of the ankle. Arch ribbing provides additional support and prevents the sock slipping. Whilst it features Smartwool’s trademark almost seamless design with very minimal seams at the sides of the toe and heel, due to the thickness of the cushioning they can be felt but only noticeable in very close fitting footwear. Odour control is good, personally I found this a fairly warm sock but reliable for day after day use without washing and the cushioning has held up well. With proper care I’d expect these to last well.
Bottom – Hike Targeted Cushion Crew
RRP: £23
Materials: 54% merino wool, 43% nylon, 3% elastane
Sizes: Unisex S (2-4.5) M (5 – 7.5) L (8 – 10.5) XL (11 – 13.5). Also available in an ankle length version
These very comfortable light cushioned socks breathe well and are good for multi-day trips without getting too smelly or losing padding. The almost seamless design is excellent with only a tiny noticeable seam at the toe and a good amount of cushioning at the toe and heel extending to cover the achilles. Minimal material on the top of the foot allows it to breathe while ribbing provides support at the arch and up the calf. Less bulky than a full cushion sock, these are a good option with trail shoes and for three season hikes. In our experience Smartwool socks with this level of cushioning are long-lasting as long as they are looked after carefully – low temp washes and minimal spin. More expensive than some but in our opinion still good value.
Falke
Well-established German company Falke manufactures a large range of walking and running socks alongside sports clothing and underwear. 90% of their products are produced in Europe from 100% non-mulseing wool. There are 4 thicknesses of sock in Falke’s trekking range, also available in different lengths.
Top – TK2 Explore Trekking
RRP: £28; ankle length version available at £25.
Materials: 43% polypropylene, 22% polyamide, 19% acrylic, 16% wool
Sizes: Women’s 2.5-3.5, 4 -5, 5.5 – 6.5, 7 -8; Men’s 5.5 – 7, 8-8.5, 9-10, 11-12.5
These are towards the lightweight end, described by Falke as offering comfort in easy terrain, but this also makes them ideal trail shoes. There is much more padding on the underfoot section with a thinner weave on top of the foot and around the ankle, which helps keep bulk to a minimum and increases breathability. Falke say they have a three-layer construction to help with wicking, and I’ve found they kept my feet dry even in fairly warm conditions. The high proportion of synthetics suggests they will be hard wearing, though there is some noticeable pilling of the fabric at the heel after several days and washes. Falke also sell a ‘cool’ version of the TK2 that contains no wool.
Bottom – TK Stabilizing
RRP: £30.
Materials: 39% polypropylene, 28% wool, 26% polyamide, 7% elastane
Sizes: Women’s 2.5-3.5, 4 -5, 5.5 – 6.5, 7 -8; Men’s 5.5 – 7, 8-8.5, 9-10, 11-12.5
Despite the slightly different mix of fabrics these feel very similar to the TK2s in weight and fit. The main difference is that they have a thicker reinforced section of fabric compressing around the ankle area, which is intended to improve stability and enable a quick reaction to twists. There is less compression than the Stox models, and I’ve been unable to feel much difference from it in wear, but if you do have problems with weak ankles then it might be worth trying this version over the standard TK2.
Keela
Scottish brand Keela has been designing outdoor gear from it’s base in Fife since 1989 and sells a range of 5 different walking socks including for kids.
Top – Primaloft Expedition Sock
RRP: £24.95
Materials: 28% PrimaLoft Silver yarn, 28% merino wool, 29% Isofil polypropylene, 5% Cordura polyester, 8% nylon, 2% elastane
Sizes: S (3-6)M (6-9)L (9-12)
Keela’s heavyweight socks are designed for cold days and we’ve found them reliably cosy and comfortable in big boots in (what we’ve had of) a Scottish winter. There is a high amount of cushioning over the whole sock with some channels in the looping on the top of the foot to add a degree of ventilation. A good amount of stretch makes them feel supportive and comfortable and they stayed in place well and the elasticated cuff stayed in place at mid calf. The cushioning bounces back well after washing and they seem resistant to rubbing and piling (there is added Cordura at the heel and toe which should make them hard wearing). My feet tend to get very sweaty but these socks haven’t been overly damp, wicking well in the cold conditions they are designed for. The addition of Primaloft silver helps to keep the sock relatively odour free as well as increasing warmth. The toe seam is slightly bulkier due to the heavy cushioning but it’s positioned well and I can’t say I felt it at all during wear. The finishing on the inside could be neater, there are some longish threads but this hasn’t caused a problem when washing inside out. Made in Italy, whilst not the cheapest I’d expect to get a lot of hard wear from these; a good, durable option for long days or multi-day hikes in cold weather.
Bottom – Insect Shield Hiker Sock
RRP: £19.95
Materials: 70% viscose bamboo, 25% polyester, 3% rubber, 2% spandex
Sizes: M (7-9), L (9-12), XL (12+)
These super soft bamboo-based socks are treated with permethrin, an insect repellent that has been proven to work against midges, mosquitoes, ticks, ants and flies. Insect Shield, who manufacture this sock in China, say the treatment should last for 70 washes. Permethrin is registered safe to use as an insecticide on clothing in the UK and it has long been favoured by some long distance hikers who use it to treat tents and clothes. These socks were tested over the winter when ticks and midges are not a problem in Scotland but given the prevalence of Lyme disease and the increase in both ticks and midges in recent years, using socks with this treatment would be worth considering if you’re prone to being bitten on the legs.
The socks themselves are extremely comfortable, stretchy without very much compression and very minimal seams. Pulled up, they come a good way up the calf and the small cuff does not dig in. The cushioning on the bottom and heel is decent for a medium weight sock. They have kept my feet sweat-free, have no odour and have stayed very soft, but being made primarily from bamboo I’d expect them to wear out a bit faster than a wool-based equivalent. No small size currently available but there is a kids version in a twin pack for £24.95 with a funky insect design.
Highlander
Highland Outdoor are a Scottish company that has focussed on producing good value outdoor gear since 1985. Having previously had good experience with their heavyweight merino wool blend hiking sock (a lightweight version is also available) we thought we’d take a look at their cotton-blend trekking sock.
Combed Cotton High Performance Sock
RRP: £12.99
Materials: 70% combed cotton, 15% polyamide, 6% Cordura polyester, 7% polypropylene, 2% elastane
Sizes: Unisex S (3-6) M (6-9) L (9-12)
These are crew length, fairly technically designed socks with a high level of compression support at the arch and stretch at the ankle flex. A decent amount of looped cushioning springs back reliably after wear and washing. Cordura at the heel and toes should add durability and there’s been no sign of wear so far although the finishing on the inside could be neater, with some loose threads, but I’d still expect these to last a long time. There’s added ventilation at the top and ankle but this is still a reasonably warm sock. The fit is comfortable due to high stretch and almost invisible seams at the heel and very minimal seam at the toe. The wide elasticated cuff means they stay in place on the leg. Using cotton helps keep the cost of these socks down and gives these socks a super-soft feel – but it does mean they are more prone to hold moisture in sweaty conditions, and cotton does not retain warmth when it becomes wet. Made in Portugal, these are good for shorter walks or if your feet don’t run overly hot.
Findra
Stylish designs and quality materials have made this Scottish Borders company’s merino base-layers popular with wild swimmers, mountain bikers and walkers. Although Finda recently decided to concentrate on female clothing, their walking socks are suitable for both men and women.
Merino Wool Walking Sock
RRP: £24
Materials: 75% merino wool, 25% nylon
Sizes: Unisex 3.5-5.5, 6-8.5, 9-11
A heavyweight, super soft, warm sock, whose big loops, high wool content and thickness make ideal for colder days. Whilst there is no Y-gore at the heel and the toe seam is a little bulkier than the Teko or Smartwool equivalent, the socks have kept their shape after repeated wear and washing. Odour control and wicking were reasonable even on long days. The compression ribbing at the ankle and cuff is comfortable and helps keep the sock in place. I found the sizing to be on the large size so if in doubt size down rather than up. The merino is ethically sourced, non-mulesed and the socks are made in the UK. This is a warm hug of a sock for cool days, offering instant comfort after cold swims, or the perfect backup dry sock for evenings in tents and bothies on multi-day hikes.
1000 Mile
1000 Mile specialise in 2 layer socks aimed at reducing rubbing and blisters – the company provides a money-back guarantee if you suffer blisters within a year of purchase or the socks wear out within 1000 miles. They are made in Turkey.
Bottom – Fusion Walk Repreve Sock 2033
RRP: £18.50
Materials: Outer layer: 36% Repreve nylon, 21% cotton, 12% acrylic, 11% wool, 18% polyamide, 2% elastane. Inner layer: 99% Repreve nylon, 1% elastane
Sizes: Men’s M (6-8.5) L (9-11) XL (12-14) UK Women’s S (3-5.5) M (6-8.5)
Featuring 1000mile’s distinctive sewn-in liner, these double layer heavyweight socks are designed for longer cooler days. They are guaranteed against blisters for the first year (receipt needed). The difference with this particular model is that it contains 67% recycled yarns woven into 1000mile’s own Repreve material. The design is good with minimal toe seam and close fitting at the heel, despite there being no Y seam. Close ribbing around the foot and slightly looser ribbing on the calf and at the cuff keeps the sock securely in place. There is additional padding at the toe and heel which extends up to protect the achilles. These are warm, thick socks – best for cooler weather; the design is longer in the leg than most. With fairly low wool content these can become smellier faster than some others; they require regular washing but seem robust. The only downside is that they needs careful reshaping after a wash, or the two layers can get out of place. If you are looking for a warm, tough sock, usually wear liners or are prone to blisters these are good to try. This range is also available in a non-Repreve version for £18.
Top – Trail 21 Single Layer Sock
RRP: £14.50 for twin pack
Materials: 53% polyamide, 24% merino wool blend, 22% acrylic, 1% elastane
Sizes: Womens S (3-5.5) M (6-8.5) Mens M (6-8.5) L (9-11.5) XL (12-14)
Designed for off-road running, we’ve found these durable socks to be equally at home in trail shoes for long and short hikes. Turn them inside out and you can immediately see the areas of looped padding providing good cushioning at the toe and heel (which extends up to cover the achilles), with the rest made up of thinner, cooler material with compression ribbing at the arch and cuff. Perhaps too hot for really warm weather, these have been perfect for shorter, warmer winter walks and long runs without becoming overly sweaty. Quick drying and forgiving of rougher care (although they do need regular washing to keep the smell down and loops fluffy), these are great socks for the very reasonable price.