This Humble Pair of Socks Saved My Triple Crown Hike
If you don't pay attention to your hiking socks, you could find your trip going sideways. Just ask thru-hiker Sammy Potter.
Socks
Happiness is finding the perfect pair of socks. From thick winter socks to thin, sweat-wicking trail running socks, our gear experts field test the best socks on the market to help you find the ideal pair for any outdoor activity. Learn more about which fabrics are the most breathable, prevent blisters, combat smell and more.
Tragically, I’m a Toe Socks Guy Now
For years, our editor thought toe socks looked dumb and were useless on the trail. After spending a winter testing them out, he's ready to admit that he was wrong about at least one of those things.
Latest in Socks
How Four Hiking Sock Manufacturers Are Putting Your Feet First
These four offer different takes on a humble, yet essential, piece of gear.
Deal of the Week: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock
This long-lasting sock will carry you down the trail in comfort for years.
Royal Robbins Venture Crew
The most comfortable sock of 2021.
Swiftwick Pursuit Four Ultralight
The most breathable sock of 2021.
Bridgedale Trail Run Lightweight T2 Merino Sport
The sock with best protection of 2021.
Feetures Elite Max Cushion No Show Tab
The best sock for trail running of 2021.
Darn Tough Scout
The best overall sock of 2021.
Farm to Feet White Mountain Lounger
Best camp sock
Decathlon Forclaz MH520 High Sock
Best value sock
Rockay Razer
Best sock for trail running
Darn Tough Edge With Cushion
Most comfortable sock
Smartwool PhD Pro Ski Race
Best sock for big days
CEP 3.0
Best for trail running
Heat Holders Original
Warmest sleep sock
Lasting Trekking WHI
Best value
Le Bent Le Send
Best for ski touring
The 4 Best Socks of 2019
Happy feet make for a happy hiker. Pamper them with these four pairs.
Deal of the Week: Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Cushion
Step into savings with a deal on these indestructible socks.
The Best Hiking Socks for Backpackers
Treat your feet right with a high-quality pair of socks from this list.
The 4 Best Hiking Socks of 2018
They're the unsung heroes of your hikes. Keep your feet dry, comfortable, and blister-free with the best hiking socks of 2018.
Kora Upside Down Sock
Most comfortable
Swiftwick PURSUIT seven
Best wicking
Injinji Hiker + Liner
Best blister prevention
Ellsworth Hike/Pack
Comfiest
Swiftwick Pursuit Hike
Driest
CEP Ortho+ Plantar Fasciitis Sleeve
Pain relief
Balega Blister Resist Crew Socks
These hiking socks' slick fibers thwart blisters.
VIM & VIGR Women's Wool Compression Socks
The lightly cushioned VIM & VIGR Women's Wool Compression Socks wick well and compress to speed recovery.
Fox River PEAK Series Forester/Cypress
Made in Osage, Iowa, the midweight Forester (and women’s Cypress) pampers feet.
Wigwam Weather Warrior Sock Review
Calf-high socks perfect for all shoulder-season activities
Farm to Feet Adventure Sport Greensboro Low
Check out Kelly Bastone's author page.
Gear Hall of Fame: Socks
The BACKPACKER editors pick the pairs that have stood the test of time.
Pamper Your Feet
Boost comfort with these three sock, shoe, and insert options.
Fall/Winter Gear Guide 2012: Socks
Banish blisters with these cushioned models. Bonus: A gaiter and camp shoe for all your winter trips.
Gear Review: Dahlgren Multisport Compression Socks
Thin, graduated compression knee-highs that that keep the blood moving in your legs.
Gear Review: Darn Tough 1/4 Length Cushion Hiking Sock
High enough to keep debris out, but low enough that it won't cause overheating on warm days.
Gear Review: Fox River VVS LV Ski Sock
These socks have just the right amount of cushion and warmth.
Gear Review: SmartWool PhD Mountaineering Sock
A blend of nylon and merino makes these socks durable and fast-drying.
Gear Review: FITS Light Hiker Quarter
The unusually deep heel pocket in these socks contours to feet perfectly, and doesn't bunch.
Gear Review: Stoic Thrive
Stretchy poly fabric and and a gusseted crotch provide killer freedom of movement in these comfortable shorts.
Holiday Gift Guide 2011: Smartwool Mountaineering Extra Heavy Crew Socks
The perfect Merino sock for mountaineering or winter expeditions
Gear Review: Goodhew Lifestyle Outdoor Light & Medium Hiker Socks
These American-made socks have super support and wicking capabilities at a reasonable price.
Gear Review: Darn Tough Mountaineering Sock
These above-the-calf mountaineering socks offer extra warmth when you need it most.
Gear Review: Wigwam Trail Mix Fusion Socks
These Wigwam socks are great for skiing thanks to the blister protection offered by the polypro inner face.
Gear Review: Point 6 Active Medium Cushion Crew Socks
This midweight crew sock by Point 6 was a tester favorite.