Updated 07/02/2026

The type of socks worn while hiking can have a big impact on the comfort of your feet. Learn what to look for and view a list of my favorite socks.

Fabric: Most hiking socks use merino wool or nylon mixed with spandex for stretch and fit. Natural fibers like wool and alpaca wick moisture well (preventing sweaty feet), don’t retain smells as much as synthetics, and provides good cushioning. Synthetic polyester or nylon socks are a good option for those who find natural fibers to be too itchy. They tend to be more durable and faster drying, but do have a tendancy to hold onto odor longer. Avoid cotton, which doesn’t wick moisture and stays wet longer.

Sizing: Make sure to get the right size – socks that are too small may lead to pressure points and cold feet, while socks that are too large can bunch up and cause blisters. Cushioning adds comfort but it also adds warmth. In cooler weather, the warmth may be needed, but it can lead to sweating in hot weather. My preference is always more cushioning due to the comfort that it provides.

Height: Choose the height for a sock based on the conditions and footwear they will be worn with. To prevent skin from rubbing on footwear, keep the height of the sock above all parts of the shoes or boots. Crew socks are the most popular option, providing coverage of your ankle and the lower portion of your calf. Mid crew or ankle socks are a good option when worn with hiking shoes and trail runners. My preference is crew socks for the coverage they provide.

My favorite socks

Merino wool socks

Farm to Feet American Trail Socks are made entirely in the USA using 100% American-sourced materials — including the merino wool used to make them. My favorite style is their American Trail 3/4 Crew line, which comes in a variety of fun designs and is made from a merino wool and nylon blend with targeted cushioning and a contoured fit that hugs the foot. After wearing them the past year on hikes and backpacking trips, I’ve found them to be well made and consistently comfortable – and I especially like the generous cushioning of these socks for long days on trail. Farm to Feet socks also feature a satisfaction guarantee for sock replacement.

Farm to Feet Damascus No Fly Zone Socks are treated with permethrin for protection against biting insects like mosquitoes and ticks, making them a good choice for hikes in higher-risk areas for these pesky insects. While I usually treat my own clothing with a permethrin spray, the Farm to Feet factory treatment lasts up to 70 washes — and makes it easier for me to keep track of which socks are already protected. Highly recommended for spring and summer hiking in the Pacific Northwest!

Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks are a top favorite among hikers for good reason. Made with high-quality merino wool, they’re soft, comfortable, and completely non-itchy, while offering moderate cushioning that’s ideal for long hikes. The socks feature a contoured fit that hugs the foot for all-day comfort and stays in place without slipping. Extremely durable, Darn Tough socks are built to last—even after years of heavy use, I’ve yet to get a hole in a pair. Backed by a lifetime warranty, these socks combine performance, longevity, and comfort, making them a reliable choice for serious hikers.

View at Darn Tough   View at REI

Toe socks for hiking

Injinji Trail Midweight Crew Socks are made from a durable synthetic blend that keeps my feet warm, dry, and comfortable on long hikes. The individual toe design can help prevent blisters on toes for those who are prone to them, while also encouraging natural toe movement and improving balance on uneven terrain. With midweight cushioning, a secure fit, and breathable construction, these socks are a reliable choice for hikers who want both comfort and performance. Injini also makes liner socks that are super popular with long distance hikers for preventing blisters on trail. I wear them when I’m hiking in the winter with a pair of wool socks over them.

View at Injinji   View at REI

Alpaca fiber socks

Happy Yak Alpaca Trek Socks are a cushy option for hikers who want maximum comfort and warmth on the trail. Made with a baby alpaca blend, they’re noticeably softer than wool and completely non-itchy, with thick cushioning throughout — especially underfoot, where I prefer it most. The fit strikes a nice balance: not overly tight, but secure enough that they don’t slide down. After wearing these socks for two weeks straight, they held their shape, stayed breathable, and resisted odor impressively — even after washing, the cushioning remained plush. The high-quality construction and warmth make them my favorite for hiking in cold conditions — the only drawback is the higher price, but for me, the performance easily justifies the cost.

Paka Trail Crew Socks are crafted from a blend of alpaca fiber and recycled nylon, offering a comfortable, warm, and breathable sock that’s perfect for long days on the trail. The fit is cozy without being tight, and the alpaca fiber ensures the socks stay soft and non-itchy against your skin. These socks also resist odors and dry much faster than traditional wool, thanks to alpaca’s natural moisture-wicking properties. Committed to sustainability, Paka ensures that every product is fully traceable to the Peruvian artisans who hand-knit them, combining high performance with ethical craftsmanship.

Odor-free socks

Silverlight Hiking Socks feature silver fibers woven into the fabric, which help keep the socks bacteria- and odor-free even on long hikes. They have a slightly stiffer feel than most socks, providing extra support underfoot, along with light compression for a snug but comfortable fit. Built to last, they provide reliable support and cushioning while staying odor-free.

Layering socks for cold weather

Wearing two layers of socks can reduce the risk of getting blisters since they eliminate the friction of the outer sock against your skin. They are also good for cold weather hiking, which is how I use them. I layer wool liner socks with wool hiking socks, making sure that they aren’t too tight since tight socks lead to cold feet. For the outer layer, I wear socks that are one size larger than I normally wear.

Wigwam Merino Hiker Socks: I wear these socks in one size up from my normal socks so I can layer these over liner socks.

REI Wool Liner Socks: These wool liner socks are thin yet warm and work well layered with socks worn over them.

Waterproof socks

Showers Pass Wool Waterproof Socks are constructed with a waterproof layer and a merino wool layer to keep your feet dry even when fully submerged in water. I use them in cold, wet conditions on trails with frequent stream crossings, on snowy trails, or when my shoes or boots are no longer fully waterproof. The waterproof layer gives them a stiffer feel than normal socks, but they remain comfortable on the trail.

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