Womens Mountaineering Socks

Hiking socks are socks that provide cushioning and moisture-wicking properties for walking over greater distances, often in the mountainous or wilder terrain. Hiking socks should help keep your feet less sweaty and therefore prevent blisters too, and in colder weather keep them warm.

For walking, cushioning is an important factor in keeping feet comfortable and free from aches and pains. But cushioning comes with thicker (and therefore warmer) socks and so bear in mind the climate you will be walking in. Materials like wool, cotton or bamboo, blended with synthetic fibres, can create the right balance between warmth, breathability and moisture wicking for your chosen level of walking or hiking.

In cold weather, socks made from a blend of natural and synthetic materials work best, such as merino wool and polyamide, say. With a higher proportion of wool, you get good insulation and odour control, while the synthetic fibres are effective at moisture wicking and shape retention. Thicker, more heavyweight socks are usually warmer and more cushioning too, but ensure that they don’t make the fit of your boots too tight. When it comes to length, you could look at knee-high or calf-length socks for greater coverage.

In summer, we are looking for lighter weight and good moisture management or cooling properties in mountain socks for hiking. Look for thinner, lightweight socks made from synthetic fibres blended with natural fibres, and features such as breathable panels. You might need to try out different pairs to get the thickness right and strike the right balance between comfort and breathability. Sock length can be shorter, like crew or even trainer socks, depending on what footwear you wear (high or low cut).

Hiking is a strenuous activity, and even in colder weather, your feet will still sweat. So, when choosing hiking socks, wicking is definitely an important factor. Synthetic fibres tend to be most effective here, with thinner cushioning working better at transporting moisture away from the foot. But in colder weather you will want more cushioning and insulation. As always, finding the right balance is important, and factors such as climate and intensity/duration of hiking will help determine the right choice.

Some people prefer to double up with two pairs of socks. Using liner socks (thin synthetic socks) can be used to enhance the moisture wicking performance of thicker outer socks and therefore help prevent blisters. On longer, multi-day hikes liner socks are also practical, because they can be washed and dried more quickly than thicker hiking socks.

Hiking socks should be snug but not tight. Too tight and they will restrict circulation, but too loose and they will be more likely to crease and therefore rub, which will lead to blisters. When trying on hiking socks, check that the heel cup is in the right place and isn’t higher up on the leg, or too low down, leaving the heel more exposed instead of cushioned.