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The best hiking socks for miles of adventure
A good pair of cushioned and sweat-wicking walking socks can make all the difference on your next trek
It’s easy to overlook what’s going on under your hiking boots, but a great pair of hiking socks can make a surprisingly big difference. They might not be the most exciting bit of kit, but get them right and they’ll keep your feet comfortable, supported and blister-free, mile after mile.
Unlike the best running socks (or even trail running socks, for that matter), hiking or trekking socks are designed specifically for walking — and there’s more than just length to consider. Hiking socks come in a variety of thicknesses, fabric types and styles (hello compression socks), which can make it tricky to know which pair to buy. Luckily, we’ve put a bunch to the test over multiday treks, day hikes and even dog walks to bring you our ultimate rundown.
The best hiking socks to shop now
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More picks from the RW team: The best hiking boots | The best hiking backpacks | Essential hiking gear
How to choose
Fabric
According to Lily Fearne, in-store expert at Cotswold Outdoor, walking socks tend to fall into one of two categories: wool or synthetic fibres.
‘Wool is a natural fibre that’s great for wicking away moisture and regulating the temperature of the foot,’ she says. ‘Synthetic fibres combine moisture wicking with a sock that doesn't budge!’
Fearne’s personal favourite hiking socks are the Smartwool Women's Hike Targeted Cushion Crew socks. ‘I love the temperature regulating properties that Merino wool naturally holds and appreciate a lightweight sock with a medium level of cushioning to support me on longer walks,’ she says. ‘They stop my feet getting too hot and stay in place even on a whole day of walking.’
Regardless of material, your socks should also help you by wicking away any moisture from the foot, thus preventing any blisters from forming.
Cushioning and thickness
A good walking sock will have varied levels of cushioning around the sole, ankle and toes – all designed to protect your feet against the miles, says Fearne. While hiking socks are typically thicker than running socks, brands offer a variety of thicknesses depending on the conditions in which you’re hiking.
Thinner hiking socks allow for greater breathability and are ideal for warmer conditions, while thicker socks will offer more cushioning and insulation in colder climates. Generally, thinner socks will be labelled as ‘Ultralight’ and ‘Light’, while thicker socks will be called ‘Midweight’ or 'Medium’ and ‘Heavyweight’. We’ve indicated this in our reviews below.
Sock height
Most hiking socks will be ‘crew’ length, since they extend above the calf, finishing a few inches above the top of your hiking boots. This offers some lower-leg protection from bushes, branches and rocks.
That said, quarter-height hiking socks may be preferable in the summer months, especially if you’re wearing mid-height hiking boots or lower walking shoes.
‘Choose a sock that finishes just above your walking shoe or boot to ensure it has space to do it's job properly,’ advises Fearne.
Fit
Finally, while you don’t want a sock to be super tight, having some good elastic built in will ensure your socks stay put while you walk, with no need to stop and adjust them. Like regular socks or running socks, hiking socks come in a variety of sizes, usually within narrow bands according to your shoe size. Where applicable, we’ve indicated if you should size up or size down in our reviews below.
How we select the best hiking socks
All the socks in this round-up have been personally tested by members of the RW team, past and present, with a mix of long-time favourites and newer releases making the cut. We’ve worn them on rugged trails and gentle footpaths, across a variety of conditions and terrains, including Scotland’s North Coast 500, Madeira’s volcanic ridges, the climbs of the Lake District and the undulating paths of the Jurassic Coast.
Each pair has been put through real-world use, from multiday hikes and hill scrambles to easy coastal walks and dog walks, with a focus on comfort, fit, breathability, durability, and how well they manage moisture and friction over time. We’ve also washed and rewashed them to assess how well they hold up after repeated use. The list below reflects only the socks we truly recommend — trust us, plenty didn’t make the final edit.
The best hiking socks, tested and reviewed
Pros
- Lifetime guarentee
- Great moisture management
Cons
- You prefer full cushioning
If you’re clocking up long miles in the countryside, the Darn Tough Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock is a top choice. Made from a durable merino wool blend, it balances cushioning and breathability impressively well — perfect for all-day adventures where moisture management is key. On test, the socks stayed dry and odour-free even on back-to-back hikes, and the seamless construction meant zero hotspots or rubbing. The midweight cushioning also offers reliable underfoot protection without feeling bulky in walking boots, though if you're used to wearing heavy-weight, full-cushioned hiking socks, these might not have quite enough cushioning for you in walking boots.
The micro crew height sits comfortably just above most boots, shielding ankles from grit, flora and fauna. And as a bonus, Darn Tough’s lifetime guarantee is as tough as the sock itself. If you get any problems with your socks, you can return them for a brand new pair – no receipt needed.
Prefer a higher cut? We also rated Darn Tough's Hiker Boot Midweight with Full Cushion.
| Height | Micro crew |
|---|---|
| Cushioning level | Midweight |
| Sizes | S, M, L |
| Material | 59% Merino Wool, 39% Nylon, 2% Lycra Spandex |
Pros
- Anatomically shaped to the left and right foot
- Versatile
Cons
- Fairly pricey
These trekking socks from Falke have a three-layer construction to keep feet dry and blister-free. Our tester wore them on multiple days during a month long trip of the North Coast 500 in Scotland and described them as 'really comfortable...they didn't rub and felt a bit like compression socks around the ankles'.
The medium cushioning isn't too thick or too thin, making them ideal for walking shoes. Our tester also reported that, unlike with some heavyweight walking socks, their feet didn't overheat. This could be down to the Merino wool blend which helps to keep the feet cool and dry, while naturally resisting odour-causing bacteria.
The socks are anatomically shaped to the left and right foot (handily labelled 'L' and 'R') and sizing is spread over four bands, which allows you to fine-tune your fit. All in all, a great midweight, all-purpose option.
| Height | Micro crew |
|---|---|
| Cushioning level | Medium cushioning |
| Sizes | Women's: UK 2.5-3.5, 4-5, 5.5-6.5, 7-8 Men's: UK 5.5-7, 8-8.5, 9-10 |
| Material | 40% Polypropylene, 28% Acrylic, 22% Wool, 9% Polyamide, 1% Elastane |
Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew Socks
Pros
- Plenty of cushioning
- Seamless toe construction and interior
- Snug but unrestrictive fit
Cons
- Run warm in the summer months
The Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew Sock lives up to its name — this is a timeless trail companion built for comfort and warmth. With full cushioning throughout, it provides a plush ride that’s especially welcome on rocky terrain or multiday hikes. The merino wool blend excels at thermoregulation, keeping feet warm in cooler conditions while still wicking sweat effectively.
On test, the fit was snug without being restrictive, while the seamless toe construction and interior offer enhanced comfort. The classic crew height pairs perfectly with hiking boots, offering protection from the ankle collar and external debris.
It’s worth noting that these socks run a little warmer than lighter models, so they may be overkill in the summer months. But for hikers who prefer a traditional feel underfoot with reliable performance, the Smartwool Classic Edition hits the sweet spot.
| Height | Crew |
|---|---|
| Cushioning level | Full cushion/heavyweight |
| Sizes | S (UK 2.-4.5), M (UK 5.7), L (UK 8-10.5), XL (UK 11-13.5), XXL (UK 14-16.5) |
| Material | 66% Merino Wool, 8% Nylon, 25% Recycled Nylon, 1% Elastane |
Pros
- Great balance of comfort and moisture management
- No slipping down or bunching
- Flat toe seam
We’ve been fans of Bridgedale’s Midweight Merino Performance Boot Socks for years, tackling the likes of Snowdon to Scafell, and they continue to impress. Built with the brand's ‘Fusion Technology’ — a blend of merino wool with synthetic fibres — they strike an ideal balance between insulation, moisture management and long-wear durability.
The midweight cushioning offers just the right amount of padding underfoot without overheating in warmer conditions. Even on long, demanding days, these socks stay dry, odour-free and securely in place with no bunching or slipping. Whether you’re hiking UK peaks or tackling rugged terrain abroad, the performance is consistently excellent.
If you do prefer more cushioning, we also love Bridgedale's heavyweight option.
| Height | Crew |
|---|---|
| Cushioning | Midweight |
| Sizes | M, L, XL |
| Materials | 38% Polyamide, 26% New Wool, 18% Wool (Merino), 17% Polyamide, 1% Elastane |
Pros
- Lots of nice colours/patterns
- A more sustainable option
- Soft and breathable
Cons
- You want heavier cushioning
A reliable all-rounder with some solid eco credentials, the Sealskinz Kimberley sock is a great pick for day hikes in a range of conditions. It’s made from bamboo, a renewable resource that regenerates without needing to be replanted — making it a lower-impact choice than conventional materials. The bamboo is processed into a soft, breathable yarn, and combined with nylon for added stretch and resilience.
On the trails, it performs well: the fit stays consistent even over long distances, with no sagging or bunching. The flat-toe seams are a highlight, helping to minimise rubbing and keeping blisters at bay. It’s not heavily cushioned, so it won’t be your first choice for winter hikes or those who want plush padding underfoot — but three-season hiking, it strikes a good balance between comfort and performance.
Add in the range of bright colour options, and you’ve got a sock that feels as good as it looks —and does right by the planet, too.
| Height | Mid crew |
|---|---|
| Cushioning | Midweight |
| Sizes | S (UK 3-5), M (6-8), L (9-11) |
| Material | 80% bamboo, 18% nylon, 2% elastane |
Pros
- Double-layer design prevents rubbing
- Comfortable
Cons
- A bit bulky
- Mid-calf length may be too long for some
If you’re prone to blisters, this sock is well worth a look. The 1000 Mile Fusion uses a clever double-layer design where the inner and outer fabrics move against each other, rather than your skin. The result? Far less friction and no rubbing. On test, it did exactly what it promised: long days on the trail and not a single blister. The heel section extends slightly higher to shield the Achilles, which is a thoughtful touch, especially with hiking boots.
It’s thicker than some of the more mid- or lightweight options out there, so you might notice the extra bulk if space is tight in your pack or your boots fit snugly. And while the mid-calf length offers good coverage, it might feel a bit long for some, especially in warmer weather. However, if comfort and protection are your priorities, especially over longer distances, this sock delivers.
| Length | Boot/mid-calf |
|---|---|
| Cushioning | Mid- to heavyweight |
| Sizes | S, M, L, XL |
| Material | Outer layer: 36% REPREVE® Nylon 6, 21%, cotton, 12% acrylic, 11% wool, 18% polyamide, 2% elastane Inner layer: 99% REPREVE ® Nylon 6, 1% elastane |
Pros
- Great toe and heel support
- Breathable
- High quality
Cons
- Not suitable for colder weather
Our second entry from Darn Tough proves the brand’s reputation is well earned, impressing even our fussiest tester. ‘They’re thin enough to wear as a single pair with hiking boots but have good toe and heel support,’ they said.
The Light Hiker Micro Crew has recently been updated, and the changes are all smart ones: mesh panels over the top of the foot improve breathability, a newly smoothed ribbed upper keeps the sock firmly in place without squeezing, and added cushioning over the Achilles gives welcome protection on long climbs. Despite these upgrades, the sock remains one of the lightest options in our tests —perfect for warm-weather hikes or fast-and-light days.
Like all Darn Tough socks, these are knit at the brand’s own mills in Vermont, with quality control that shows in every stitch. That said, the minimalist cushioning may feel too light for hikers who prefer a plusher underfoot experience, especially on rocky terrain. And while durable, the thin knit means it can show wear faster in high-friction areas if you’re logging serious miles.
Still, for summer adventures, they strike a solid balance of comfort, breathability and performance.
| Length | Micro crew |
|---|---|
| Cushioning | Lightweight |
| Sizes | S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Material | 54% Nylon 43% Merino Wool 3% Lycra Spandex |
Pros
- Added stability
- Keep feet dry and blister free
Cons
- Not the warmest or thickest
These are the socks you put on if you want to feel a bit more dialled in. The compression zone around the ankle gives a subtle but noticeable boost in stability — great for rocky paths or when your legs are starting to tire and footing gets a bit sketchy. It’s not restrictive, just reassuring. The medium cushioning is spot on, too: enough to soften the impact over long distances without making your boots feel tight.
The three-layer construction keeps things dry and blister-free (even after a long, sweaty climb), and the left/right-specific toe boxes are a small detail that makes a big difference — no bunching or weird pressure points. They’re not the warmest or thickest socks out there, so maybe not your go-to for winter hikes, but for long days with mixed terrain, they strike a really nice balance between comfort, agility and support.
| Length | Micro crew |
|---|---|
| Cushioning | Medium |
| Sizes | Women's: UK 2.5-3.5, 4-5, 5.5-6.5, 7-8 Men's: UK 5.5-7, 8-8.5, 9-10, 11-12.5 |
| Material | 39% Polypropylene, 28% Virgin Wool, 26% Polyamide, 7% Elastane |
FAQs
How much should you spend on a pair of hiking socks?
Walking socks generally start from around £11. Fearne says she ‘definitely recommends the investment as you’ll feel the difference with any walking sock’. Her favourites, the Smartwool Women's Hike Targeted Cushion Crew socks, come in at £23, ‘but the comfort they provide me — and the assurance of no blisters — is absolutely worth it’ she says.
How long should walking socks last?
With proper care (and keeping your toenails trimmed!) brands like Smartwool and Bridgedale can last you more than five years. To maximise their lifespan, it's important to follow the care instructions — usually washing at lower temperatures and air drying rather than tumble drying. As a rule of thumb, if the cushioning feels flat or you start to see thinning or holes, it’s time to retire them.
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