9 Best Summer Hiking Socks (2024), According To An Expert
Enjoy a good hiking experience while offering enough protection to your feet.
Raluca Oita is a fashion designer with an experience of over 8 years. She has a bachelor’s degree from Westminster University, London. After graduating, she started working as a fashion designer for various brands. It was during this time that she realized that there was a lack of high-quality sewing patterns available on the market, so she co-founded Georgette Patterns, a sewing patterns boutique, to bridge the gap between high fashion and dressmaking.
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Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
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Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
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If you enjoy going on regular hikes and treks, you must already be aware of the value of a decent pair of shoes as one of your camping essentials. However, just as you need decent shoes for your treks, you also need the best summer hiking socks mainly used for summer hikes. Summer hiking socks are essential because, with the rising temperatures, it’s more important than ever to choose socks that protect your feet without leaving them uncomfortable and sweaty. Hiking socks are made to provide improved cushioning support and traction, minimize friction and relieve pressure from long periods of walking. Raluca Oita, a fashion designer with a bachelor’s degree from Westminster University, London, says, “Not only are they a practical choice for outdoor activities, but they can also be incorporated into a stylish outfit for a unique and functional twist. Whether paired with boots, leggings, or sneakers, hiking socks add a touch of personality and functionality to any ensemble.” Here are some sock recommendations for you to check out!
In This Article
9 Best Long-Wearing Summer Hiking Socks For Women With Cushioning
1. Best Overall:Wild Stag Outdoor Hiking Sock Multi-Pack
These outdoor hiking socks by Wild Stag are suitable for activities like hiking, trekking, running, travel, and mountain biking. They keep your feet warm and dry while offering traction on irregular terrains. These statement footwear are built with high-density fibers and optimal cushioning that maximize foot comfort during trekking. These lightweight hiking socks prevent painful blisters, cuts, and scrapes and wick away moisture to keep your feet dry and odor-free.
Specifications
- Material: 65% Cotton, 25% Polyester, and 10% Spandex
- Style: Crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Super affordable
- Snug fit
- Soft fabric
- Lightweight
- Wicks away moisture
- Machine washable
- Durable
None
"I've used these socks for both work and summer hikes. The comfort they offer, along with their foot support and blister protection, is hard to understate. They remain soft and durable even after many washes."
Caution2. Best Value For Money:Innotree 5 Pack Mid Cushion Hiking Socks
If you are looking for high-quality socks that provide durability without breaking the bank, these by Innotree are for you. They are made with fine gauge knitting technology and are breathable, comfortable, and fast-drying. These quick-drying socks provide optimal compression and great elasticity and hold up securely on the calves. The ample cushioning towards the bottom of the foot delivers the right amount of arch and heel support while preventing blisters. According to several reviews on Amazon, you can wear these moisture-wicking socks for various summer and winter sports, including hiking, trekking, trail running, and camping.
Specifications
- Material: 50% Cotton, 45% Nylon, and 5% Lycra spandex
- Style: Micro crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Sturdy
- Quick-drying
- Machine washable
- Versatile
- Zero slide down
None
"These hiking socks are thick but they still feel comfortable and breathable. They can be comfortably worn even in summer. They hit the right notes with height and fit."
Quick Tip3. Best Durable:Darn Tough Women’s Hiker Socks
The Darn Tough Women’s Hiker Socks are a cult-favorite designed for long-lasting performance. They are made of blended material that is quick-drying, breathable, and odor-free. The mid-level cushioning provides optimal support on hikes, while the seamless toe maximizes comfort. These bestselling socks prevent slipping, bunching, and blisters, making them ideal for all weathers. The micro crew length is a play on the classic crew length that comes right above the top of your hiking boot.
Specifications
- Material: 59% Merino Wool, 39% Nylon, and 2% Lycra Spandex
- Style: Micro crew length
- Color Options: 7
- Superior arch support
- Quick-drying
- Optimal cushioning
- Sturdy
- Breathable
- Odor-free
- Durable
- Expensive
"These hiking socks are comfortable and breathable. The cushioned sole and perfect fit, going over my ankles, have kept my feet dry and protected during some intense hikes. They're not too thick, have no bothersome toe seam, and resist sliding in my boot, making every trail enjoyable."
Caution4. Best Crew Length Socks:SeoulStory7 Women’s Hiking Crew Socks
The Women’s Hiking Crew Socks by SeoulStory7 offer all-weather performance for all your outdoor adventures. These socks have mid-weight extra pile cushioning support in the heel to protect your foot from cuts, scrapes, and blisters. They feature a Y-heel tab that makes them easy to put on and take off, while the elastic ensures a secure hold on your calf. And, if you still wish to go through some unbiased customer reviews before making your purchase, then feel free to explore the product further on Amazon.
Specifications
- Material: 77% Cotton, 14% Spandex, 2% Polyester, and 7% Polyurethan
- Style: Crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Well-cushioned
- Snug fit
- Machine washable
- Vibrant colors
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Zero slide down
- Durable
None
"These socks were a perfect fit for me. These full-length crew socks could reach mid-calf, offered great arch support, and were comfortably cushioned. They felt slighlty rough at first, but they did soften after a wash."
Caution5. Best Odor-Free Technology:YUEDGE Women’s Hiking Socks
These women’s hiking socks by YUEDGE are made of the finest combed cotton fibers. Their cushioned foot and arch support ensure minimum friction and reduce the impact on your joints. The precision heel cup offers a snug and secure fit while relieving fatigue. The y-type ribbed arch and extra yarn in the heel maximize protection in high-impact areas, ensuring greater longevity of the socks. Many reviewers have also expressed their satisfaction with the product’s quality and comfort, so you can surely give these socks a try!
Specifications
- Material: 80% Combed cotton, 17% Polyamide, and 3% Spandex
- Style: Crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Durable
- Soft fabric
- High cushioned support
- Machine washable
- Vibrant colors
None
"These socks were great for a long hike and honestly, they exceeded my expectations. They kept my feet toasty, with a comfortable yet slight compressive feel. With just the right thickness, they never interfered with my shoes' comfort, but also served well as cozy house socks."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 2,131 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
6. Best Everyday Wear:FEIDEER Multi-Pack Outdoor Recreation Socks
If you are looking for multipurpose and breathable hiking socks that offer superior support on your hiking adventures, try these ones from FEIDEER. The breathable mesh fabric ensures better moisture-wicking to keep your feet dry all day. The cushioned toes and heels provide blister protection, shock absorption, and long-lasting wear while reducing joint impact and friction. The arch brace is elasticized to provide maximum flexibility to ensure a snug fit without feeling too stuffy. Moreover, the product also promises good sole durability and comfort, making it ideal for long, tiring hikes.
Specifications
- Material: 75% Cotton, 22% Polyester, and 3% Spandex
- Style: Crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Well-cushioned
- Excellent flexibility
- Durable
- Odor-free
- Great value for money
None
"These socks kept my feet comfortably dry in my hiking boots and blister-free, even across lengthy trails. Normal running socks have caused me blisters in the past, but these proved a great alternative."
7. Best Padding:SOLAX Merino Wool Hiking & Walking Socks
For all-day comfort and superior support, go for the SOLAX Merino Wool Hiking & Walking Socks. They are made of merino wool for optimum breathability and lycra fiber for excellent compression. They feature a cushioned sole for absorbing shock, reducing the impact on the joints, and offering stress-free hours of walking.
These trusted socks also come with arch braces that keep them in place and knitted toe seams that prevent blisters and aches. The ventilation mesh wicks away sweat, and the breathable top allows heat to escape, preventing overheating on long walks, hikes, or treks. The stretchable elastic offers ideal leg compression to ensure zero sliding down, while the nylon outer shell with padding delivers targeted protection. Reviewers have noticed that these socks are ideal for all seasons and outdoor activities.
Specifications
- Material: 72% Merino Wool, 16% Polyester, 10% Nylon, and 2% Lycra Spandex
- Style: Crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Odor-free
- Breathable
- Moisture-wicking
- Machine washable
- Zero slide down
- Versatile
- Itch-free
- Durable
None
"These socks were incredibly comfortable and breathable. Though they were a tad tight above my ankles, they managed to keep my feet dry and blister-free. They are high-quality and durable."
8. Best Cult Favorite:Danish Endurance Hiking Classic Socks
The full merino wool Danish Endurance Hiking Classic Socks ensure all-season comfort with their temperature control technology. They come with moisture-wicking, ventilation mesh that keeps away sweat and odor and offers excellent breathability. The socks feature a targeted cushioning and padding support to prevent foot pain and blisters while delivering optimum shock absorbance. These bestselling hiking socks provide superior comfort that makes them ideal for both professionals and amateur trekkers alike.
Specifications
- Material: Merino wool
- Style: Crew length
- Color Options: 4
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Anti-blister
- Versatile
- Durable
- Breathable
- High arch support
- Odor-free
None
"These hiking socks amazed me with their optimal thickness, warmth, and comfort. They are cushiony, moisture-wicking, and fit well. I loved the anti-slip top feature, that kept the socks from rolling down."
9. Best All Season Performance:Ronnox Wool Blend Trekking Crew Socks
The thick polyester and wool blend fabric of the Ronnox crew socks provide optimal insulation and exceptional breathability. Many reviews on online forums gleefully assert that the socks offer decent arch support. The padded heels and toes ensure that they stay securely on your feet and improve your overall performance. The socks come in a pack of three and are suitable for all-season comfort – they keep you warm in the winters and cool in the hot summers. The cool hiking socks’ midweight construction, toe seam, and seamless toe design make them durable.
Specifications
- Material: 70% Polyester, 15% Wool, 10% Acrylic, and 5% Spandex
- Style: Crew length
- Color Options: 3
- Anti-blister
- Prevents chafing
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Seamless toe design
- Well-cushioned
- Sturdy
- Long-lasting comfort
- Snug fit
- Zero slide down
None
"These socks are amazing. Not too thick, they kept my feet warm during my initial hike. I particularly enjoyed the bright colors. They were comfortable as well."
Whether you like long walks or frequent treks, it is important to be comfortable and prepare yourself for the roads. Hiking in summer brings a whole set of problems, such as the scorching sun and the sweat and odor associated with the conditions. So, it becomes important to invest in a good pair of trekking socks along with good walking or trekking shoes. Check out the guide below before selecting your next pair.
How To Select The Best Summer Hiking Socks
- Fabric: You can conduct a thorough fabric testing and look for hiking socks made of a durable material. The fabric should offer adequate breathability, warmth, and sweat-free comfort. Typically, merino wool is the most common fabric used for summer hiking socks as it has antimicrobial properties and doesn’t smell bad. Lightweight synthetic materials like nylon and polyester wick away moisture and are often blended with wool to provide durability and quick drying time.
- Length: Due to hotter temperatures, you need as few layers as possible on your feet to ensure they are cool and comfortable. So, low-cut or crew-style socks that run a few inches above your ankles are the ideal pick.
- Fit: An ideal sock must fit feet like a glove. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need one that is too tight for your foot. This may cause unnecessary pressure, itching, discomfort, and maybe even blisters. On the other hand, socks that are too loose may slide down, rub against your skin, and cause chafing. So, conduct a thorough fit assessment and go for socks that provide a snug yet comfortable fit and enough space to wiggle your toes.
- Durability: To get value for your money, you need socks that provide comfortable yet long-lasting wear. Go for sturdily built socks that are low maintenance, easily washable, and quick-drying.
The Bottom Line
Hiking is fun in any season, but it’s important to have the right hiking accessories and essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. One essential item to consider for foot care and foot health is a pair of long-wearing summer socks specifically designed for hiking. These socks are made with moisture-wicking fabric to keep your legs sweat-free, preventing blisters and discomfort caused by high temperatures. They provide support, aid traction, and help relieve pain during hiking. Available in various colors, these socks are not only functional but also odor-free, durable, and chafe-free. The SeoulStory7 Women’s Hiking Crew Socks are best for comfort and support during hikes, while the YUEDGE Women’s Hiking Socks are the ideal pick if you want odor-free socks. You can also go for the SOLAX Merino Wool Hiking & Walking Socks for their moisture-wicking and breathable material. The buying guide will help you select the ideal hiking socks that meet your needs. So, get ready to hit the trails with confidence, knowing that your feet are well-supported and protected with the best socks for hiking.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Baishali Bhattacharya, is a certified image consultant who writes research-based product reviews for StyleCraze. She understands the need for a good pair of long-wearing summer hiking socks while on a trek. The products listed in this article resulted from the author’s extensive research and in-depth analysis of the user feedback gathered from trusted online portals. These socks absorb sweat, offer improved traction and cushion support, and reduce friction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is merino wool good for summer hiking socks?
Merino wool is the best type of fabric for summer hiking socks because it provides warmth and is moisture-wicking and breathable.
For how long can we use these summer hiking socks?
A typical pair of summer hiking socks last anywhere from four to five seasons depending upon their maintenance and usage.
How do I keep my feet cool when hiking?
You can wear summer hiking socks to keep your feet cool while hiking.
Should you wear 2 pairs of socks when hiking?
Yes, you can wear 2 pairs of socks while hiking to prevent blisters, reduce friction, and even keep the sweat away.
Why do my feet burn when hiking?
While warm feet are completely natural when hiking, burning feet are not normal. If it is painful, you should seek medical help.
Are sock liners good for summer hiking?
Yes, sock liners are great for summer hiking. The lightweight wool material keeps sweat away and prevents blisters.
Is foot powder good for hiking?
Yes. If you want to avoid excess sweat, carry foot powder for hiking. Use it on dry feet after washing them thoroughly.
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