Hiking is a great activity to spend outdoors and many people love hiking. However, you should equip yourself with the best hiking gear before going out. It is necessary and very much important for your self-safety. Well, a pair of socks are the most important gear for hiking. So, when you want to go long hiking, then you need to choose the best socks for long hikes.
Your safety is the first priority during hiking or any other outdoor activities. It is crucial to get protective gear while going for long hikes and socks are one of the most important. Yes, when you think about the line of defense against foot fatigue, pain, swelling, blisters, and sweat then, a pair of socks is the only option for you.
Without a pair of sweat and moisture-wicking socks, your hiking boots will not provide you with proper safety. That’s why you should choose the right socks for long hiking. Though some people don’t take it seriously because they think they have comfortable hiking shoes, they end up suffering many foot problems. Some people don’t understand that this happens because of low-quality socks.
You should prevent these possible foot problems before getting into them. A pair of merino wool or cotton sock which are blended with other synthetic and spandex materials will be the right choice for you. As you know, wool socks are able to keep your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Additionally, they can keep your feet moisture-free. We have discussed the best socks for long hikes in this article. You will surely get some valuable information to help you pick the best socks. You can try any pair of them while going long hiking.
If You Want a Quick List, Check Our Top 10 Suggestions Below
1. DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks
2. Time May Tell Men’s Merino Wool Hiking Cushion Socks
3. FEIDEER Outdoor Recreation Women’s Socks for Long Hikes
4. Darn Tough Men’s Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks
5. Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks Men’s Medium Cushioned Socks
6. Darn Tough Women’s Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Sock
7. Innotree Women’s Cushioned Hiking Crew Ankle Socks
8. Innotree Men’s Full Cushioned Hiking Quarter Crew Socks
9. Thorlos mens Lth Max Cushion Hiking Crew Socks
10. Thorlos womens Kxw Max Cushion Hiking Crew Socks
Contents
Best Socks for Long Hikes Reviews of 2023
1. DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks for Men, Women & Kids (Best socks for hiking long distances)
Mainly, DANISH ENDURANCE is a sports & outdoor brand. They are founded by two sports enthusiast brothers in Denmark. They develop top-quality products with Olympic Athletes. DANISH ENDURANCE 3 Pack Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks are our first choice for you.
Merino wool sock is the best for long hiking. That’s why we have chosen this sock for you. This hiking sock is ideal for men, women, and kids. The size chart is different for them. The manufacturer uses merino wool fiber with a blend of other fibers. It also comes with a mesh ventilation system which allows good airflow inside the sock. These are the best socks for hiking long distances.
Feature at a Glance
Materials
Well, the manufacturer creates a pair of socks for those people who love to do outdoor adventures such as hiking, trekking, walking, and traveling every day. That’s why they designed this sock with a blend of 30% Merino Wool, 36% Nylon, 33% Acrylic, and 1% Elastane materials. All of these are ideal materials for hiking socks. They have collected the merino wool in an animal-friendly way.
Moisture-wicking
This hiking sock features thermoregulating merino wool with a mesh ventilation design that ensures your feet stay fresh, dry, and comfortable in any weather. Well, merino wool fiber has the ability to keep your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter. That means your feet will not stay wet for a long time. The functions of these materials with a mesh ventilation channel will keep your feet dry, fresh, and comfortable for the day. They also prevent bad odors caused by bacteria.
Targeted Cushioning
DANISH ENDURANCE Hiking Socks are specially engineered for long hikers, long walkers, and other outdoor adventures. For that reason, the manufacturer created this sock with targeted cushioning which is able to reduce the risk of blisters and sore feet. Also, your feet will get a good cushion comfort while walking. They won’t make your feet fatigued or cause discomfort. The targeted cushioning helps to increase your performance.
Designed and Tested By Experts
If the socks are designed and tested by any socks and real hikers, then the products will be perfect. Well, DANISH ENDURANCE Hiking Socks are designed and tested by Everest mountaineer RasmusKragh who tests and ensure high-quality standards. So, you can rely on the expert decision.
- Perfect socks for long hikes
- Uses good quality merino wool
- Designed with targeted cushioning
- Soft and Comfortable
- Durable and Long lasting
- Moisture Wicking
- Great but inconsistent sizing
- The socks are too thin for hiking
2. Time May Tell Men’s Merino Wool Hiking Cushion Socks (Best socks for long-distance walks and trail running)
This is another best socks for long hikes that can help you reach your destination without fatigue. When you walk for a long time, then your feet will get the most impact and they may get pain. But if you wear a pair of socks that can offer comfort and protection without decreasing your performance, then you can hike a long way in a day. Ok, let’s introduce Time May Tell Men’s Merino Wool Hiking Cushion Socks. We have discussed the features of this sock below.
Feature at a Glance
Materials
Before choosing any sock, first we look at the materials. When you want a pair of socks for a long hike or other outdoor activities, then the socks materials are the most important factors to consider. Well, don’t worry, this men’s hiking sock is made with a blend of 80% merino wool, 14% Nylon, 5% Poly, 1% Spandex materials. The manufacturer uses a huge amount of merino wool on this sock which is great for any outdoor or sports activities. This hiking sock is also integrally sutured by a meticulous process which means there are no spare threads inside.
Soft and Comfortable
Merino wool is a natural fiber and it is collected from sheep in an animal-friendly way. They are naturally comfortable and soft. This merino wool fiber is also blended with nylon, polyester, and spandex fibers too. All of these combinations of fiber create this sock softer and more comfortable. They can be worn in any weather condition because merino wool will keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the winter.
Prevent Moisture Build-up
The Merino wool fiber is able to dry quickly without making your feet discomfort. It features strong warmth retention and you can wear this sock in the coldest weather. Also, you can wear them in the hot summer. They will keep away moisture and sweat from your feet effectively. This sock has an excellent power of moisture absorption. So, they will keep feet dry and don’t make any discomfort or irritation.
Supportive Sock
The manufacturer uses a maximum amount of merino wool with other synthetic fibers. Which offers a good elasticity. They will hold your feet comfortably and offer a good fit. These socks will also provide arch support and stability. Your skin will not be itching if you wear them for a long time. Time May Tell Men’s Merino Wool Hiking Cushion Socks are specially engineered to provide you with good support and comfort while you walk.
Cushioning Sock
This hiking sock is manufactured with thick yarn and construction. That’s why they provide good cushioning and padding on your feet. Even if you walk for a long distance, then these socks can keep your feet safe from any impact. It is not just a sock, it is a protective gear for your foot.
- Uses a maximum amount of Merino wool fiber
- Offer better breathability and comfort
- No spare threads inside
- Good elasticity
- Strong warmth retention
- Moisture absorption
- Professional hiking socks
- Enough for outdoor sports and activities
- Comfortable but are small
- Wear out quickly
3. FEIDEER Multi-pack Outdoor Recreation Socks, Women’s Hiking Walking Socks (Best hiking socks for women)
Now it’s time to find the best hiking socks for women. We have picked this FEIDEER Women’s Hiking Walking Sock is specifically for women. This outdoor recreation cushion crew sock is perfect for a long hike and walk. It is enough comfortable and breathable. As well as it offers a great fit on your feet. So ladies, don’t search a lot because now you have the perfect socks for your feet. Own these best socks for long hikes for your next outdoor adventure.
Feature at a Glance
Materials
Cotton and wool are the best materials for socks. Experts suggest you get those socks for any reason which are made with a blend of cotton or merino wool. Well, I like to give you the good news that this sock is made with a blend of high-quality cotton fiber. The manufacturer combines 78% cotton, 20% polyester, and 2% spandex fiber to make this sock. This women’s crew sock has the ability to keep your feet cool, comfortable, and moisture-free.
Moisture Wicking Sock
Do you have sweaty feet? When you start a long walk or running, then your feet can get sweat. You can’t stop them but you can prevent them by wearing a pair of sweat-wicking socks. Yes, this FEIDEER Women’s Hiking is specially crafted with cotton fiber with a blend of other synthetic fibers. As you know that cotton is able to wick the moisture effectively and dries quickly. So, after wearing these socks, you don’t need to worry about sweaty feet. This is because the sock is created with Exclusive Moisture Wicking Management technology with a breathable feature. So, your feet will stay cool and dry during the hike.
Fully Cushioned Sock
Without a cushioned sock, if you walk or run then your feet will get a high impact that causes fatigue and pain. That’s why you need a pair of socks for walking that offers great cushioning. This women’s crew sock is engineered with a full cushion which helps keep your feet comfortable and impact-free while walking on an uneven surface. The bottom of this sock is designed with a thick towel that is more comfortable and soft. This thick cushion is able to reduce foot friction and relieve foot fatigue effectively. After wearing this sock your feet will stay protected from shear and painful blisters too.
Excellent Fit and Flexibility
Well, this women’s cushion sock also features elasticized arch brace which provides good flexibility. That means this sock also prevents rotation during movement and provides a great & secure fit. These are another great feature of this sock. This is not enough, the elastic rubber cuffs are comfortably held on your leg and you won’t feel loose or tight fit. It helps to keep your feet secure and increases your performance. Finally, I also like to tell you that this sock is enough durable and comfortable.
- Breathable and moisture-wicking
- The elasticized arch brace provides good flexibility
- Fully Cushioned Sock
- Durable and comfortable
- Breathable and fast drying
- Reduce foot friction and relieve foot fatigue
- Effectively protecting your feet from shear and painful blisters
- Ideal for many outdoor activities
- They run small
- The socks are too tight
4. Darn Tough Men’s Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks Cushion (Best compression socks for long hikes)
Darn Tough is a popular socks manufacturer and they have goodwill in the market all over the world. Darn Tough men’s Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks are the best compression socks for long hikes on this list. This sock is specially designed for hiking boots. You can also use them with any type of shoes and boots. This micro crew cushion sock will give proper safety and comfort during hikes. It has a comfortable gripping design that holds the leg comfortably without making any irritation.
Feature at a Glance
Materials
If you read our informative part of this article then you may already understand that merino wool is the right material for socks. Well, this men’s cushion crew sock is made with a blend of 63% Merino Wool 35% Nylon 2% Lycra Spandex fiber. The merino wool will keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Additionally, the materials will be able to keep away moisture from your feet. so, your feet will stay cool, dry, and fresh. You can wear this sock in any weather condition.
Midweight with Cushion
If your intention is to find a pair of lightweight hiking socks, then this midweight cushion sock will be a warm and extremely comfortable choice for you. It will be perfect when conditions demand it. The sock is knitted with fine-gauge knitting technology which provides mid-level cushion density under your foot. In addition, it features true seamless technology which allows for an undetectable seam fusion and provides an ultra-smooth & invisible feel.
Micro Crew Height
Darn Tough hiking socks for men come with crew micro height. It is not too long like a traditional crew height long crew sock. It is shorter and more concise. This micro crew height sock sits just above the top of a standard hiking boot.
Moisture Wicking
Merino wool fiber can keep moisture away from the skin more than other materials. You can use these merino wool blend socks in any weather condition. The combination of merino wool, nylon, and spandex fiber will wick the moisture effectively and keeps your feet dry & fresh all day long. So, from today no more sweaty and stinky socks.
- Uses merino wool fiber
- Midweight with Cushion
- Extremely comfortable choice when conditions demand it
- Seamless technology with an ultra-smooth and invisible feel
- Comes with Micro Crew Height
- Fast action wicking pulls moisture away
- No more sweaty and stinky feet
- The socks are too thin
- Shrinks easily after the first washing
5. Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks Men’s Medium Cushioned Wool Performance Sock (Best socks for hiking boots)
Smartwool is the first outdoor accessories manufacturer company that makes performance Merino wool ski socks. They revolutionized the category and change the mind of outdoor enthusiasts with their invention. Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks are another great pick on this list of best socks for long hikes. We have chosen this sock for long hikers because it is made with 100% wool fiber and provides a medium cushion to the foot. It is the best socks for hiking boots.
Feature at a Glance
Fabrications
Smartwool created this sock with a blend of 63% Merino Wool, 35% Nylon, 2% Polyester, and 1% Elastane fibers. All of these fibers are known as moisture-wicking fibers. And they are able to keep your feet cool, dry, fresh, and comfortable during hiking. This SmartWool sock also allows for wearing in any weather conditions.
Cushion and Comfort
The manufacturer engineered this sock with a flat knit toe seam that provides less bulk. The construction of this sock with all good quality materials also offers medium cushioning on your feet. So, your feet will stay safe from any impact, friction, and painful blisters.
Moisture Wicking
Merino wool is temperature-regulated fiber and they are able to keep feet dry and fresh even if you have sweaty feet. After wearing merino wool blended socks, your feet will feel warm in the winter and cool in the summer. With this feature, the manufacturer also added a breathability feature. The combination of those features helps moisture management.
Supportive Sock
These SmartWool lightweight hiking socks are great for men. It will provide good support and stability on your feet which helps to prevent discomfort and increase performance. These socks will stay on your feet comfortably and won’t slip down while you walking.
- Uses 100% merino wool fiber
- Comfortable fit
- Durable and breathable
- Manages moisture and regulates temperature
- Provide light cushion
- Crew height socks perfect for hiking boots
- Thin Sock
- Too short to cover your ankles
What Kind of Socks Is Good for Hiking?
Hiking is the best outdoor activity and there are a lot of people who participate in this adventure every day. It can be for a day or it can be for a few days. Though most people like to go hiking for a few days. When you want to go for long hiking, then you must have enough time to spend there.
In the summer season, most people go desert hiking and some people love to go jungle hiking. Though there are a lot of people who also go long-distance hiking which is also called thru-hiking. Well, in this article we will specifically discuss long hiking and the best socks for long hikes.
If you are an experienced hiker, then you know that there are some important gears that you need during hiking such as hiking boots, hiking t-shirt, pants, a hat, a Sleeping Pad, Long Range Walkie Talkies, a Packable Travel Hiking Backpack, Survival Kit, Snake Gaiters, Binoculars, Trekking Poles, lighter, food and more.
But another important gear you might have missed is a pair of socks for long hikes. You may think that socks are not much important and you can wear any kind of socks. No, this is absolutely not. Of all of those gear, hiking socks are the most important gear for hiking.
You can ask me why? Yes, when you walk a long distance on a long hike with your hiking shoes, the surface will not be flat. You need to walk in the mud, hard surface, and rock, also you need to walk on the water. These surfaces will make your feet fatigued and pained. Whatever just forget it.
When you know your destination and walk a long time in a day then normally your feet will get fatigued which causes huge pain. As well as if your feet will get in contact with the mud and water then they will get wet. If the sock will not get dry quickly, then you will surely feel uncomfortable while walking.
Long Distance Walking Causes Friction
Long-distance walking can make friction and blisters on your feet. If your feet will get wet by water or moisture then, it will surely create blisters quickly on your feet. This will provide a bad effect on your performance and your enjoyment. Finally, you cannot hike well and then you will get back to your tent or home.
It is so heartbreaking. That’s why you must wear the best socks for long hikes. Basically, a hiking sock is constructed with a blend of merino wool/cotton, polyester/nylon, or spandex materials. This combination of materials will offer great functionality and security while long hiking.
Choose Quality Materials
That’s why you must choose the hiking sock that is made with a blend of those materials. Merino wool or Cotton and spandex fiber is a must for hiking socks. I personally suggest you choose the sock that is made with a blend of merino wool fiber. This is because merino wool is a natural fiber collected from sheep.
They have the ability to keep your feet warm in the winter and dry in the summer. Moreover, Merino wool fiber is also able to dry quickly and keep your feet cool, dry, fresh, and comfortable all day long. Another important factor to consider is the length of the sock.
The reason is, crew length hiking socks will keep your feet protected from friction, heat, water, dust, debris, and more. Also, crew-length hiking socks will offer more compression benefits on your foot that are more than ankle socks or no-show socks. They are also able to provide a perfect fit and able to increase your performance hence the best socks for long hikes.
Sufficient Padding
The best socks for long hikes should also offer padding and cushioning features. This is to ensure your feet stay protected from any impact. Well, cushioning and padding socks also prevent blisters. So, you will get enough comfort and be able to complete your long hike without making your feet fatigued and pained.
By the way, we have already published a lot of articles on this site about hiking. Thru-hiking is one of them. There you will get the best socks for thru-hiking. Also, we have talked about jungle hiking socks and desert hiking socks in two different articles. I hope it will be easier to choose the best socks for long hikes after reading this article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are thicker socks better for hiking?
A: If you want to enjoy your hiking adventure in the cold weather condition then, wear the best socks for long hikes that are thicker. But in the summer season, a pair of medium cushion socks with breathable and moisture-wicking features maybe be better for hiking.
Q: Should you wear long socks when hiking?
A: Well, you can wear long crew socks while jungle hiking or desert hiking because long socks will keep your feet safe from dust and debris. But you can also wear short crew socks which sit above the top of the hiking boots.
Q: Are thicker or thinner socks better for hiking?
A: Both thicker and thinner socks are better for hiking depending on the weather condition and shoes. If the weather is hot and you wear comfortable hiking shoes then thinner socks will be perfect. But in the coldest weather condition, you should need to wear thick hiking socks.
Q: What is the best pair of socks for hiking?
A: We have written this article with some of the best socks for long hikes. You can choose any of them from the list. Well, I personally suggest DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks for Men, Women & Kids.
Q: Are Smartwool socks good for hiking?
A: SmartWool is the first outdoor company to make performance Merino wool ski socks. They used 100% merino wool fiber in their sock which is very much effective during long hikes. Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks are great for hiking.
Q: How long do you wear your hiking socks?
A: Well, when you walk for long distances the hiking then makes sure that you have some extra pair of socks in your backpack. Because experts suggest changing your sock every 4-6 miles while continuing hiking or walking. But you can also keep going more than that if your feet will stay comfortable and dry.
Q: Why choose Darn Tough hiking socks?
A: Darn Tough hiking socks are a warm and extremely comfortable choice when conditions demand it. It features fine gauge knitting that provides mid-level cushion density under your foot. As well as it is engineered with true seamless technology which allows for an undetectable seam fusion and provides an ultra-smooth & invisible feel.
So, What Should You Buy?
Whatever, I hope you are not among those people who don’t give first priority to foot safety. And I wish you want a good protection line for your feet during hiking. For that reason, you are here to find some pairs of good-quality socks for long hiking. In this article, the socks expert discussed some of the best socks for long hikes.
DANISH ENDURANCE 3 Pack Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks are our recommendation for both men, women & kids. All of the socks on the list are from good brands and are able to provide you with the actual benefits which you really need while doing long hiking.
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