How to Choose Hiking Socks

Made for warm days on the trail, the rugged REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Lightweight hiking quarter socks are breathable and moisture-wicking to keep feet drier.
Made in USA.
View all REI Co-op Men's Hiking SocksBest Use | Hiking |
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Fabric | 77% COOLMAX EcoMade polyester/22% nylon/1% spandex |
Sock Height | Ankle |
Sock Cushioning | Light Cushioning |
Quick Drying | Yes |
Moisture Wicking | Yes |
Gender | Unisex |
Sustainability | Contains recycled materials From a Climate Label Certified brand |
S | M | L | XL | S/M | L/XL | |
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U.S. Men's | 5.5-8.5 | 9-12 | 12.5-14 | 5.5-8.5 | 9-14 | |
U.S. Women's | 4-6.5 | 7-9.5 | 10-12.5 | 4-9.5 | 10-12.5 |
For socks, please use shoe size.
From feedback to field testing, all of our gear is dialed-in by REI Co-op members. Their adventures informed every stitch and detail—making for better, longer-lasting gear.
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This is the second time I’ve bought these socks. I have raynauds and like to wear these around the house and while sleeping because they’re not tight- there is plenty of room and loose fibers to keep heat in. However, the inconsistency between pairs, and shape, even those purchased at the same time, is atrocious. I wouldn’t dream of wearing these with a shoe (regardless of inconsistencies). If that’s what you’re looking for, or if you care if they feel 2 sizes larger/smaller than your last pair, I’d look somewhere else (and not at the merino style, same issues). The two pair shown together were purchased at the same time. I have a third pair which is the same size, but falls between the two pair shown.
Thought I was buying the same sock I bought 4 years ago, but they have redesigned it to make it shorter than before -see photos. Used to be “just right” height for 3-season hiking, but now leaves my lower leg/ankle area too cold. Also, thinner than before. Not as cushy - not as supportive for all day activities. Older sock marked REI; newer one says “REI CO-OP”. Newer style seems to slide down on heel, perhaps because there is not as much yarn in ankle area on top to keep it up!
I bought these socks for a hiking trip in the Sierra Nevada mountains and I was very impressed by their performance. They are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, and they kept my feet dry and cool throughout the day. They also have a nice cushioning on the heels and toes, which prevented blisters and reduced fatigue. The socks are made from recycled materials, which is a bonus for the environment. They are durable and easy to wash, and they retain their shape and elasticity after multiple uses. I would highly recommend these socks to anyone looking for a high-quality pair of non-wool hiking socks. They are worth every penny!
I have worn these socks for everything from hiking to the STP to everyday use. They are amazingly durable, dry quickly when travelling, work well in hot and cold climates, and have never become uncomfortable. Other comments here list a number of criticisms. I have never encountered any of those shortcomings. I've tried socks made of other materials, including Merino wool, from Smartwool and other makers. Those socks have never been as good. These are just better. I just love these.
Poorly manufactured with threading almost immediately starting to fall apart right out of the package.
VERY comfortable! I wore them to hike the narrows at Zion.
I wear a women's size 9 and ordered the M. I've worn them hiking twice. I like the height and the idea of recycling materials to make them, but I don't feel like it resulted in a good quality product, unfortunately. They stretch out (and don't unstretch when washed) and aren't very cushiony. I don't think they will last very long. And I like a little more cushion on my achilles for hiking.
My husband loves these socks & he has tried several other companies.
Size was not as advertised. I wear a size 12 and bought the XL. The sock was supposed to fit up to size 14 but I couldn't even get it on my foot. It was way too short. Ended up giving them to my wife.
These socks are soft but bulky around the heel and toe. I ordered the size to match my shoe size. It was too large, so the bulk at the toe was not only uncomfortable, but made my boots tight. I ordered on-line with a sale price. It would have cost more to return and reorder, so I gave them to my husband.