Best Hiking Socks 2021
Cathy B | April 28, 2021
Photo by Nathan Dumolo
If you’ve ever worn cotton socks on the trail, you know how bad things can get for your feet: Cotton socks hold moisture next to your skin, which can cause chafing and blisters galore. That’s why you need at least a few pairs of moisture-wicking wool or synthetic hiking socks in your pack.
The Cloudline socks Merino wool fabric makes this a great choice for an incredibly soft feel and durability. We love the color choices as well. This sock also holds up well to our stink test. Yes, we actually smelled them.
Additionally, this sock is just as good for women and men and provides superior comfort, durability, and moisture-wicking and technology for both women and men.
- softest merino wool hiking socks on the market 100%
- Lifetime Guarantee. Machine Washable. Manufactured in the USA 100%
- Color durability over time 95%
Our second favorite sock for moisture-wicking capabilities, warmth or cool depending on the time of year we use it, and durability. The fabric is extra tough yet with
The only con we found is some consumers found the fit to be a tad off for larger feet.
- 46% Merino Wool, 46% Nylon, 8% Lycra Spandex 98%
- Made in Vermont, USA. Unconditionally guaranteed for life 100%
- Performance Fit, true seamless, Fine Gauge Knitting 94%
Our second favorite sock for women has the same moisture wicking capabilities, warmth and durability found in the mens version. The fabric is extra tough but comfortable enough to wear around the campground or cabin at night.
- 46% Merino Wool, 46% Nylon, 8% Lycra Spandex 98%
- Made in Vermont, USA. Unconditionally guaranteed for life 100%
- Performance Fit, true seamless, Fine Gauge Knitting 94%
Great for the slopes too
Photo by Holly Mandarich
The socks we tested were also great for skiing and other outdoor activities. We found the properties mentioned above (superior moisture-wicking, comfort, breathability, warmth, and softness) to be useful on the slopes too. The socks hold up great and are an awesome alternative for winter sports although the Cloudline and Darn Tough ski socks are a better alternative for serious skiers these were great for an all-mountain alternative.
Hiking Sock
Fabric
Thickness
Our Score
CloudLine Merino Wool Crew Hiking & Trekking Socks – Medium Cushion – for Men & Women
63% Ultra soft merino wool, 33% Nylon, 4% Spandex
Medium cushion
99
Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Light Cushion Sock – Men’s
46% Merino Wool, 46% Nylon, 8% Lycra Spandex
Medium cushion
98
About Merino Wool
WHY MERINO? Merino wool comes from a species of sheep that produces very fine, soft wool. It is not coarse and itchy like other wool socks, but surprisingly soft, while still retaining all of the wool’s other amazing properties.
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