Smartwool Merino Wool Hiking Clothing

How to Choose Hiking Socks

Select your sock height

• No-show: Little protection against skin-to-boot abrasion. Best with low-cut footwear like trail-running or light hiking shoes
• Ankle: Covers your ankle bone and offers some protection. Best for low- to mid-cut shoes and boots
• Crew: Extends a few inches above ankle bone and protects against boot abrasion. Good for boots or shoes
• Knee-high: Typically used for mountaineering, provide warmth and protection against high-cut boots

Choose your preferred cushioning level

• None: Ultralight, breathable socks designed for use in hot weather or as sock liners
• Light: Moisture-wicking and comfortable at the heel and ball of your foot; relatively thin and better for warm conditions
• Medium: Targeted cushion in the heel and ball of the foot for hiking and backpacking; warm enough for moderate to cold conditions
• Heavy: Thickest and most cushioned; best for long trips, tough terrain and cold

Select a fabric

• Choose a moisture-wicking and quick-drying material like wool, polyester or nylon.
• Spandex is often added for its elastic properties to prevent bunching or wrinkling.
• Cotton isn't recommended as it absorbs moisture, takes longer to dry and cools down quickly.

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