WALKING SOCKS
BUYING GUIDE Not items that usually warrant much attention – unless they’re the cause of sore feet – but there are some key considerations when choosing walking socks.
1
WHICH WEIGHT?
Socks are normally classed as lightweight, midweight or heavyweight, offering different levels of warmth and cushioning for different seasons, conditions and activities. Wear lightweight socks for summer walks, midweight socks for outings from spring through to autumn, and heavyweight socks for winter – though if you suffer from cold feet, wear thicker socks.
2
PAIR YOUR SOCKS WITH YOUR BOOTS Your footwear and socks should work together to deliver walking comfort. Heavy-duty mountain boots are usually built to accommodate walking socks, whereas lightweight trail shoes may not be. It’s good practice to try on your socks with your mountain footwear before you buy them.
3
CHOOSE THE RIGHT LENGTH
The most popular style of hillwalking sock is mid-length, which usually sits just below the calf. This is sometimes called a crew length sock. Mountaineering socks often extend up to knee-length for extra warmth, while ankle socks are ideal for walking in hotter conditions.
4
MATERIALS MATTER Most hiking socks are made from a fabric blend, harnessing the qualities of different fibres. Polyester is soft, comfortable and provides wicking performance; nylon or polypropylene ensures good durability; and wool – especially merino wool – is temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking and very good at managing odour. You’ll also typically find some elastane (also called Lycra or spandex) in the blend to ensure a foot-hugging fit and keep your socks securely in place, which helps to prevent blisters.
5
STITCHING & SEAMS The best hiking socks have a seamless construction or low-profile seams, especially at the heel and toe, to minimise hot spots, irritation and rubbing – the first signs of blisters. Turn the sock inside out and inspect the stitching. Loose threads, untidy finishing or bulky seams are a warning sign.
6
WATERPROOF? Though most socks aren’t waterproof, they do exist if that’s what you’re looking for. These typically have a waterproof membrane sandwiched between a hard-wearing outer and a soft, warm liner.