Walking Socks

Why you need proper hiking socks

A technical sock does just as much for comfort as the boot itself. Its job: wick away sweat to keep your feet dry, cushion pressure points and reduce the friction that causes blisters. Cotton holds onto moisture, so it's best avoided - merino wool or technical synthetic fibres are far more effective on long walks.

Merino or synthetic?

Merino wool regulates temperature (warm in winter, cool in summer), keeps odours at bay over several days and stays comfortable even when damp. Synthetic fabric wicks moisture and dries very quickly, comes at a lower price, and holds up well to wear. Many socks blend both fibres to get the best of each: merino for comfort, synthetic for durability and fast drying.

Height, cushioning and support

Sock height should match your footwear: a mid-height or tall sock protects the ankle and stops the collar of a boot or high-top shoe from rubbing. Reinforced cushioning at the heel and forefoot absorbs impact, while arch support helps prevent slipping inside the shoe. A well-fitted sock, free of wrinkles, is one of the best defences against blisters.

Gearing up properly

Pair your socks with the right hiking boots and pack a spare pair to keep your feet dry on the trail. To sort out the rest of your footwear, compare everything in our hiking and trekking boots collection.

Care

Wash your technical socks inside out, without fabric softener (which clogs the fibres), and leave them to air dry. Good care preserves their elasticity, cushioning and moisture-wicking properties, for comfortable long walks season after season.