Smartwool Compression Hiking Clothing

Select your sock height

• No-show: Minimal protection; best with low-cut footwear like trail-running or light hiking shoes
• Ankle: Covers your ankle bone; best for low- to mid-cut shoes and boots
• Crew: Extends above ankle; good for boots or shoes
• Knee-high: Provides warmth and protection against high-cut boots

Choose your preferred cushioning level

• None: Ultralight; ideal for hot weather or as sock liners
• Light: Thin cushioning; better for warm conditions
• Medium: Targeted cushioning in the heel and ball; ideal for moderate to cold conditions
• Heavy: Thickest and most cushioned; best for long trips, rugged terrain and cold

Select a fabric

• Choose moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials like wool, polyester or nylon
• Spandex adds stretch to prevent bunching
• Cotton isn't recommended as it absorbs moisture and dries slowly

Find your fit

• Choose based on your foot size, not shoe size.
• If you're between sizes, size down to avoid excess material that can bunch up and cause blisters.
• Socks should feel snug but not tight, and the sock's heel cup should naturally line up with your heel.

Fabrics

• Synthetic: moisture-wicking, quick drying, durable, but can hold on to odor
• Wool: moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, cooling in warm weather, can be less durable

Styles

• Bikini: less rear coverage, thinner waistband, higher-cut leg
• Briefs (women's): full-cut briefs offer more coverage in front and back; hipsters offer medium front coverage and back with higher rise

• Briefs (men's): close fit and good support, but less thigh coverage

• Boxer brief or boy shorts: snug fit, good coverage, longer cut extends down to the upper thigh
• Boxers: looser fit, added coverage can prevent chafing but prone to bunching
• Thongs: lightweight and quick-drying but provide the least coverage
• Sports bras: compression and support during high-output activities like hiking and running