11 Best Winter Hiking Socks To Buy In 2024, Recommended By An Expert
Keep your feet comfy and cozy while you wrestle the wilderness during winters.
Michelle Wagman is a fashion industry entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience as a designer’s agent. She is also the editor-in-chief of FashionEdits, a fashion and lifestyle blog. She graduated from FIT with a degree in fashion merchandising and has worked with notable designers on 7th Avenue in NYC.
Read full bio of Michelle Wagman
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.
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
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.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
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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Setting out for treks and hikes is a fantastic way to explore nature, especially in winter. However, you need the right gear to have a comfortable and prolific time during your ventures. Instead of light winter wear that fails to keep the cold at bay, you should get a pair of the best winter hiking socks to stay warm and give your peak performance during these fun winter adventures. Hiking during the winters is undoubtedly a paradisiacal experience with picturesque views of the gigantic mountains and snow-covered trees. That being said, without the proper hiking gear, you will be unable to enjoy the experience. Neglecting socks while searching for the best pair of hiking boots is never a wise decision. The market is flooded with well-made, warm socks that will keep your feet protected as you cover snowy trails effortlessly. After conducting our own fashion analysis to keep up with the trends, we have listed below our top picks of winter hiking socks for you to choose from. Scroll down!
In This Article
11 Best Winter Hiking Socks To Buy In 2024 – Reviews & Buying Guide
Best Breathable:Danish Endurance Hiking Socks
With their full merino wool construction, the Danish Endurance Hiking Socks ensure an all-season comfort. The temperature control technology keeps your feet dry and fresh in summers and warm and cozy in winter. While the moisture-wicking ventilation mesh wicks away sweat and odor, offering excellent breathability.
This design features targeted cushioning and padded support that delivers ample shock absorbance and prevents foot pain and blisters. These hiking socks are one of the bestselling pairs on the market and provide superior comfort that makes them ideal for both professionals and amateur trekkers alike.
Specifications
- Material: Merino wool
- Type: Crew length
- Color Options: 4
- Moisture-wicking mesh fabric
- Ergonomic design
- Breathable
- Prevents blisters
- Versatile
- Durable
- High arch support
- Odor-free
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 23,076 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Best Cushioning:EnerWear-Coolmax Women's Hiking Trail Crew Socks
The Coolmax activewear outdoor socks by EnerWear are designed for all-season comfort and can be used for a number of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountaineering. Reviewers love these socks as they have a cushioned terry lining throughout the foot and a reinforced heel and toe for added comfort, support, and durability. These socks come with an elastic pull-on closure to prevent any sliding down during any adventure sports.
Specifications
- Material: 42% Wool, 34% Acrylic, 20% Polyester, 3% Nylon, and 1% Spandex
- Type: Crew length
- Color Options: 22
- Well-cushioned
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Odor-proof
- Soft fabric
- Highly stretchable
- Machine-washable
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Pro TipBest Affordable:Zando Outdoor Warm Wool Hiking Socks
The five pairs of assorted hiking socks by Zando are of high-quality blended fabric, which offers comfortable and breathable wear. As per reviews, people’s experience with these hiking socks has been worthwhile as they feature a vintage, trendy design that adds a touch of style to your collection and works with all outfits for occasions. These lightweight socks are highly stretchable and provide a snug fit ideal for all-season versatility and outdoor activities.
Specifications
- Material: Cashmere and Merino Wool
- Type: Crew length
- Color Options: 24
- Soft fabric
- Snug fit
- Provide optimal warmth
- Super affordable
- Stylish
- Available in multiple color options
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Best Temperature Control:DG Hill Merino Wool Socks
The crew-cut merino wool socks by DG Hill help you endure extreme temperatures. The durable fabric effectively regulates temperature, keeping you warm in the winters and cool during the summers. These tried and tested socks feature a brushed fleece lining for optimal warmth, added stretch, and enhanced durability.
The thick cushioning, padded arch support and reinforced toe and heel ensure optimal balance, compression, and longevity. The moisture-wicking fabric is ideal for long hours of hiking, trekking, and ski adventures as it prevents sweat and odor build-up.
Specifications
- Material: 80% Merino wool, 17% Nylon, 2% Spandex, and 1% Elastic
- Type: Crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Provide optimal warmth
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Stretchable
- Good compression
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Best Itch-Free:Cozia Thermal Wool Socks
The three pairs of woolen socks by Cozia are made of blended fabric with a soft-brushed fuzzy inner that prevents shoe bites, reduces fatigue, and inhibits abrasion. The thermal properties of its blended material regulate the temperature to trap heat and keep your feet warm. These socks have ample cushioning to protect the feet from sudden impact and also have optimal compression to enhance circulation. They offer non-rolling traction control for uninterrupted hiking.
These socks have a reinforced yarn on the heel and toe to enhance overall durability, along with mesh panels to ensure breathability. The moisture-wicking fabric allows you to wear the socks for longer hikes without worrying about sweat, odor, or itching. These thermo-regulating socks are crafted with anti-blister technology that protects your feet from discomfort and soreness. It has vents along the ankle for a lightweight and comfortable fit.
Specifications
- Material: 80% Merino Wool, 15% Polyester, 4% Nylon, and 1% Spandex
- Type: Crew length
- Color Options: 1
- Itch-free
- No bunching up
- Durable
- Prevents blisters
- Lightweight
- Stretchable
- Machine-washable
- No slip down
None
Best Durable:Darn Tough Women's Hike Sock
If you want a sturdy pair of socks that do not give in to wear and tear even with the toughest use, try the Darn Tough Women’s Hike Socks. These provide a warm and comfortable fit even in extreme hiking conditions. They feature a seamless construction on the toe for a smooth and ergonomic fit, mid-level cushioning for optimal density, and zero bunching up. This breathable pair also has mid-level cushion density to prevent feet aches even on long trails.
Specifications
- Material: 59% Merino Wool, 39% Nylon, and 2% Lycra Spandex
- Type: Micro crew length
- Color Options: 8
- Durable
- No piling
- Prevents blisters
- Machine-washable
- True to size
- Does not slide down
- Well-cushioned
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Sturdy
- Odor-resistant
- Great value for money
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Best Crew Length Socks:SeoulStory7 Women's Cushion Hiking Crew Socks
Get yourself these five pairs of women’s hiking crew socks by SeoulStory7 for all your outdoor activities. They come with a midweight thickness cushioning support under the heel that protects against cuts, scrapes, and blisters. The hiking-specific design of these trusted socks features a Y-heel tab that enables easy wearing and take off, while the elastic ensures a stay-up compression fit to hold the sock securely on your calf.
Specifications
- Material: 77% Cotton, 14% Spandex, 2% Polyester, and 7% Polyurethan
- Style: Crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Well-cushioned
- Snug fit
- Lightweight
- No slide down
- Vibrant colors
- Versatile
- Machine-washable
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Pro TipBest Stylish:Sandsuced Outdoor Wool Hiking Socks
For a soft, breathable pair of socks that will keep your feet warm, check out this set of five pairs of hiking socks by Sandsuced. They feature a stylish design with a reinforced toe and elastic cuff to provide durability and prevent the socks from falling down throughout the day. These are made of a superior quality fabric blend, which you can wear both outdoors and indoors. Don’t forget to conduct a fit assessment to determine the perfect pair for your feet.
Specifications
- Material: 55% Wool, 25% Cotton, 15% Polyester, and 5% Spandex
- Type: Crew length
- Color Options: 5
- Soft fabric
- Snug fit
- Provides optimal warmth
- Prevents sweat
- Highly stretchable
- Machine-washable
- Does not slide down
None
Best Versatile:Smartwool Women’s Hike Medium Wool Performance Socks
The Smartwool performance hiking socks are sturdy woolen socks that ensure impeccable performance in winters. These socks are lightly cushioned for comfort, which allows you to hike on the roughest terrain without having to deal with discomfort or blisters. They feature the brand’s Indestructawool technology to maximize comfort and longevity. Their body-mapped mesh panel allows air to pass through for improved breathability. Its 4 Degree Elite Fit System is developed for a highly stretchable and personalized fit along with a virtually seamless toe design for added comfort.
Specifications
- Material: 66% Merino wool, 33% Nylon, and 1% Elastane
- Type: Crew length
- Color Options: 3
- Prevents blisters
- Provide extra warmth
- Well-cushioned
- Snug fit
- Soft fabric
- Sturdy
- True to size
- Expensive
Best Value For Money:Merrell Women's Cushioned Performance Hiker Socks
The ankle-length Merrell Women’s Cushioned Performance Hiker Socks feature excellent arch support to maximize overall comfort. As per reviews, they also help reduce pressure and prevent foot fatigue due to long hikes. These socks come with a reinforced heel and toe design that provides durability and great value for your money.
Specifications
- Material: 59% Acrylic, 25% Wool, 15% Nylon, and 1% Lycra Spandex
- Type: Ankle length
- Color options: 3
- Snug fit
- Prevents sweat
- Does not slide down
- Excellent warmth
- Great value for money
- Durable
- Machine-washable
None
Best Sweat-Proof:Ortis Ladies' Outdoor Hiking Cushion Crew Socks
The premium quality Ladies’ Outdoor Hiking Cushion Crew Socks by Ortis are highly stretchable and keep your legs feeling relaxed. Their smooth seam toe and extra heavy cushion padding help prevent aches and painful blisters during outdoor activities and long hikes.
Loved by fashion stylists, the socks provide thermal insulation and are made of high-tech fibers that wick away moisture, sweat, and odor for a dry and breathable experience. Its non-binding stay up top uses an excellent elastic to ensure no slide down, improving stability and balance. Additionally, the reinforced heel and toe design guarantee longevity.
Specifications
- Material: Merino wool, Acrylic, Polyester, and Spandex
- Type: Crew length
- Color Options: 4
- Soft fabric
- Great value for money
- Well-cushioned
- Provides ample warmth
- Lightweight
None
A pair of good, warm socks are necessary in winter. The importance doubles during long hiking trails where you spend hours walking through long trails. Fashion stylist Michelle Wagman says, “Winter hiking socks are designed specifically for hiking in cold weather conditions. They are typically made from thick, insulating materials that help to keep your feet warm and dry, even in snowy or wet conditions.”
The Benefits Of Using Winter Hiking Socks
- They Keep Your Feet Dry: No matter the situation, having wet feet is an unpleasant experience. More so when you are out hiking on the trail. It enables moisture retention that can lead to blisters. Hiking socks are specially designed to provide moisture-management benefits, thereby keeping your foot feeling dry throughout. The fabric of some socks possesses antibacterial properties that are suitable for sweaty feet.
- Provide Cushioning: When you hike over rocky terrain, you may need some extra cushioning to prevent your feet from getting unstable towards the end. This extra cushion helps enhance your overall performance and maybe even prevent unwanted injuries.
- Impart Warmth: During winters, having warm feet is no less than bliss. Hiking socks, even the lightweight ones, are thick enough to keep your feet feeling warm by trapping heat without making them sweaty.
Hiking socks are extremely beneficial, and anyone who likes to venture out during the winters must invest in a good pair. Here is a quick buying guide to help you get the best pairs for your next adventure.
How To Select The Best Winter Hiking Socks
- Material: Socks made of synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, and elastane tend to provide moisture-wicking properties, however, they do tend to smell bad pretty quickly. However, fabric testing shows that a merino wool blend with synthetic fibers offers excellent breathability. These socks insulate even when wet. So, they are the ideal pick for a pair of optimal winter hiking socks. Also, look for quick-drying and temperature-regulating socks to keep your feet warm and comfortable.
- Size: An ideal sock must fit feet like a glove. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need one that is too tight for your feet. This may cause unnecessary pressure, itching, discomfort, and even blisters. On the other hand, if your socks are too loose, they may slide down, rub against your skin, and even cause chafing. So, go with socks that provide a snug yet comfortable fit, so much so, you can wiggle your toes while wearing them. Get socks with a four-way stretch to ensure a non-rolling snug fit.
- Durability: The best hiking socks are designed to withstand pressure and multiple washes without compromising their shape and performance.
- Height: This would ideally depend on the kind of sock length that you feel comfortable in or prefer in your daily life, whether it is crew cut, calf length, full length, or ankle cut. Crew length is the most common cut when it comes to winter hiking socks.
The Bottom Line
Before setting out for a hiking adventure during winters, you need to ensure that all the accessories you might need are in place. That includes getting your hands on the best pair of hiking socks to keep you warm during these fun adventures. Without the right pair of socks, you will not be able to enjoy the picturesque views of the gigantic mountains and snow-covered trees. The Danish Endurance Hiking Socks absorb shock and prevent foot blisters, while the Cozia Thermal Wool Socks enhance circulation and prevent shoe bites. But, if you want socks that hold up without any discomfort and cushion your heel, the SeoulStory7 Women’s Cushion Hiking Crew Socks are perfect for you. These socks also have a breathable and durable design, have moisture-wicking fabric, are highly stretchable, and are machine-washable. Consider the durability, material, size, and height of the best winter hiking socks.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Baishali Bhattacharya, is a certified image consultant who is passionate about fashion. She believes that feeling comfortable in what you wear is key to feeling confident in your body. According to her, neglecting socks while searching for hiking boots is never a wise decision. That’s why she has thoroughly gone through extensive reviews and feedback before shortlisting the best winter hiking socks. These are comfortable to wear with the right amount of stretch and breathability and provide excellent warmth too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you wear two pairs of socks when hiking?
Yes, wearing two pairs of socks can be beneficial while hiking. The inner socks reduce friction and wick away moisture while the outer socks protect your feet and keep them extra comfortable.
Do you need to wear wool socks for hiking?
Yes, wool socks regulate temperature and offer great cushioning. However, they are only great for hiking during winter. In summer, wool socks may suffocate your feet and make you extra sweaty.
Are expensive hiking socks worth it?
Yes, expensive hiking socks are worth the money. They are made with premium-quality fabrics that do not wear, tear, or cause irritation while you are hiking. These socks wick sweat and keep your feet comfortable.
What is the difference between regular socks and hiking socks?
Regular socks mostly keep your feet warm and comfortable. Hiking socks are designed in such a way that they wick away sweat, keep your feet dry, and are heavily cushioned, all without suffocating your skin.
What kind of socks are good for hiking?
Super fine merino-wool and nylon socks are noted to be good for hiking. Some also consider wearing lightweight cotton socks for low-impact hiking trails.
- Best Heavy Thick Wool Socks
- Best Knee-High Socks
- Best Women’s Cashmere Socks For Winter
- Best Shoes For Walking On Ice And Snow
Read full bio of Michelle Wagman
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Srijita De
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