Best Socks for Trekking

There’s a lot of preparation that goes into planning a big hiking trek, from food to logistics to weather and wildlife. But it’s important not to overlook one small — but crucial — detail on your gear list: socks.

Good footwear, including properly fitting socks of an appropriate thickness, will go a long way in making your feet happy on a long trek or backpacking trip. If they’re too big, you’ll get blisters; too small, and you’ll stretch them uncomfortably. Too bulky, and your feet will be hot; too light, and you’ll risk being uncomfortable at best and frostbitten at worst.

When selecting your socks, consider the conditions you’re likely to encounter. Are you hiking in a desert or glacier-covered mountainous region? And what type of boots are you wearing? If you have boots that cover your ankles, you’ll need crew socks that come a little higher than the tops of your shoes.

Some people love wool socks and swear by their antimicrobial, wicking properties; other people go for synthetic materials. This is best determined by trial and error and experience, so be willing to work out your sock choices well ahead of your trip.

You might also consider adding a pair or two of liner socks to your backpack. These are great for adding additional insulation on cold days, and can help wick moisture if you tend toward sweaty feet.