If you love hiking but hate the pain or discomfort blisters bring, then this article is for you. Here is a list of the best hiking socks to prevent blisters in your next hike.
I must admit that I’m not a regular hiker, which makes me all the more prone to blisters and chafing. Blisters on your feet effectively ruin your day and make walking very uncomfortable. This is why I bought a number of different types of anti-blister socks for hiking, to see what works best for me.
Choosing the right sock while backpacking or hiking is important if you want to minimize blistering and foot pain. Hiking socks are different from what we normally wear at home all day.
Darn Tough Hiking Socks
Blisters are no fun. Big toe? Smelly. Plantar fasciitis? Ouchies. Blisters can happen when you’re new to backpacking and camping, but if you’re careful and make use of the right socks and preventative measures, you can still go on long distance hikes and your feet will stay blister free.
With so many options to choose from and more brands popping up all the time, it is no surprise that many people get overwhelmed. That being said, we at Outdoors Intel will not leave you hanging. We took the liberty of testing out a host of hiking socks for you to see how they hold up on a hike.
Blisters suck and no one likes them. blisters on your feet come with the territory when you are hiking long distances, doing long distance backpacking or any activity that requires constant movement of your feet. Blisters will occur again if you simply stop wearing socks to avoid them, but the next time they will be worse than before. Blisters and chafe can also happen in other areas of your body, like on your knees or arms and legs. Chafe is caused by friction from rubbing different fabrics against each other like loose shorts and sweaty thighs…or a cotton skirt rubbing against your thighs all day at work.
Best Hiking Socks To Prevent Blisters
When you are hiking for long hours on different terrains, there can be a risk of blisters. Blisters can occur, at times, without any symptoms and that’s why it is important to have the best hiking socks to prevent blisters. Choosing the right footwear before starting a hiking trip will ensure you become a pro in no time.
If you love to hike, then preventing blisters is an essential part of any trip. Whether you’re setting out on a day-long adventure or spending the whole weekend hacking your way through the wilderness, your feet will thank you if you protect them by wearing hiking socks.
List of the Best Socks for Hiking to Avoid Blisters
Hiking socks are specifically designed to keep your feet comfortable and safe. They should be breathable, have cushioning on the heel and sole, and have a snug fit around the arch. When hiking, it’s important to stay focused on the good vibes of nature while protecting yourself against altitude sickness, blisters, and chafing from socks that don’t fit properly. Here is a list of the best hiking socks for men that are comfortable, durable and worth investing in.
Patagonia Lightweight Merino Performance Crew Socks – Editor’s Choice
Patagonia Lightweight Merino Performance Crew Socks are designed to offer comfort and durability for those who enjoy the great outdoors. The socks are made of a wool/nylon/spandex blend that is certified to the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). This ensures that the animals that supplied the wool are well-cared for and that their grazing does not damage the land. The virgin wool is also extremely breathable and has excellent stretch and recovery. This makes Patagonia Lightweight Merino Performance Crew Socks not only environmentally conscious, but also perfect for hiking, camping, or any other outdoor activity.
Specifications
- 59% RWS-certified merino wool – 39% nylon – 2% Lycra
- Engineered for comfort on and off trail
- Moisture wicking & quick drying
- Breathable for all day comfort
- Low-Calf-Height Crew Socks
- Added Arch Support
- Soft, Comfortable Footbed
- Made in the USA
Woolx Everyday Crew Sock
The Woolx Everyday Crew Sock is a great sock for hiking – even though they are called the Everyday Sock, they are anything but. They have one of the highest merino wool contents of all of the socks on this list, meaning that they have better moisture and temperature regulation. There is also added arch support and they specially designed fit to prevent blisters. The Woolx Everyday Crew Sock is a great sock for anyone who wants a sock that will last many miles and prevent blisters along the way.
Specifications
- 65% Merino Wool – 33% Nylon – 2% Lycra
- Moisture wicking & quick drying
- Breathable for all day comfort
- Antimicrobial – Destroys odors
- Year round performance
- Built tough for extra durability
- Ultra smooth seamless toe
- Performance fit for no blisters
- Low-Calf-Height Crew Socks
- Merino wool plush cushioning
- Added arch support
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion socks are made of custom-count, shrink-treated merino wool that enhances comfort and durability for outdoor activities. Merino wool wicks away moisture and breathes to regulate temperature for outstanding comfort in a variety of conditions. Mid-level cushion density under foot provides reinforcement at the heels and toes and elastic support around the arch. Ring-toe construction hides seams and enhances comfort. Darn Tough’s commitment to quality means these socks come with a lifetime guarantee – if they’re not the most comfortable, durable socks you’ve ever owned, return them for another pair, no questions asked.
Specifications
- 61% RWS merino wool – 36% nylon – 3% Lycra
- Moisture wicking & quick drying
- Breathable for all day comfort
- Antimicrobial – Destroys odors
- Low-Calf-Height Crew Socks
- Reinforced Heel and Toe
- Added arch support
- Medium Cushioning
- Ring Toe Construction virtually eliminates annoying seams
- Made in USA
REI Co-op Merino Wool Lightweight Hiking Crew Socks
REI Co-op Merino Wool Lightweight Hiking Crew Socks are designed for those who need a little extra cushioning and support on the trail. These socks are made with wool certified to the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), which requires that sheep are treated in accordance with leading animal welfare standards. Seamless toes prevent chafing, while the stretch arch band provides effective support. The socks are also reinforced at the heels, toes, foot beds and Achilles for long-wearing comfort.
Specifications
- 79% RWS merino wool – 20% nylon – 1% Lycra
- Moisture wicking & quick drying
- Breathable for all day comfort
- Antimicrobial – Destroys odors
- Low-Calf-Height Crew Socks
- Reinforced heel, toe, footbeds, and Achilles
- Added arch support
- Medium Cushioning
- Seamless Toe prevents chafing and enhances comfort
- Made in USA
Smartwool Performance Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks
Smartwool Performance Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks are an essential piece of gear for any hiker, offering unparalleled comfort and support on the trail. These socks are virtually seamless in the toe area, preventing irritation and blisters. They also feature a 4 Degree Elite Fit System for a dialed, performance-oriented fit with flex zone at ankle joint. Additionally, Smartwool’s Indestructawool technology features a patent-pending construction method for exceptional durability and comfort, while mesh ventilation zones provide optimum moisture management and maximum breathability.
Specifications
- 56% Merino Wool – 11% Nylon – 31% Recycled Nylon – 2% Elastane
- Sock Height: Crew
- Indestructawool™ technology with extended durability zones
- 4 Degree™ elite fit system for a dialed-in, performance-oriented fit
- Additional body-mapped mesh zones for added breathability
- Virtually Seamless™ toe for enhanced comfort
- Comfort welt with ‘stay put’ fit
- Height 8″
