How to Choose Hiking Socks

The REI Co-op Flash Merino Wool Lightweight quarter socks are our most popular summer-weight hiking socks for good reason—they're naturally breathable, sweat wicking, quick drying and odor resistant.
Made in USA.
View the REI Co-op Flash Product LineView all REI Co-op Men's Hiking SocksBest Use | Hiking |
---|---|
Fabric | 45% merino wool/44% nylon/8% polyester/3% spandex |
Sock Height | Ankle |
Sock Cushioning | Light Cushioning |
Quick Drying | Yes |
Moisture Wicking | Yes |
Gender | Unisex |
Sustainability | From a Climate Label Certified brand |
S | M | L | XL | S/M | L/XL | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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.
Adding a review will require a valid email for verification
I just purchased these over the weekend, and they arrived yesterday. They fit really well and are really comfortable. I love the cushioning in the right places and even though it is 85 today my feet are very comfortable. Will buy more for sure.
The socks have the targeted cushion that I was looking for, however, my confusion is with the sizing. I vary between a 11.5-12" shoe size but like a larger sock as I do not like a sock that is too tight. That is why I get an XL. Really wondering what someone with a size 13 or larger does as these are really snug around my foot and ankle before washing.
The term "lightweight" might be in the sole of the beholder. I'm sure they're file, but they're hot. And by this is that my feet are HOT in these socks. Similar socks from Icebreaker? Not HOT. I suspect this is mostly related to them being 45% Merino Wool and 55% synthetic fabrics. They should be called Merino Wool Blend socks.
I saw them on sale in a wooden barrel at my local REI, took a chance, and they became my favorite pair of warm socks this winter. I couldn’t find them in store again after that, and I also couldn’t find them online again until today. I like them more than SmartWool for warmth, but they are not as smooth as SmartWool. I’d pick the REI socks again over SmartWool because what’s the point of a wool sock that isn’t helping you feel warm? I’m sorry, I don’t remember what size I bought, but for socks I don’t mind S/M
So sad. Washed and worn only twice and toe seam of one sock is already coming undone, and my toe almost protrudes. Terrific socks otherwise. Great cushion and fits perfectly.
I’m in Arizona and it’s really hot out here! These are my first pair of merino wool socks and I love it! Will definitely go get more!
husband says they are too thick for summer- his feet got hot. great cushion. medium is true to size for men size 9
Lightweight, not thick, just enough wool content to keep feet warm, spandex to keep from slipping
I tried so many cheap socks from Walmart and other places but was disappointed because my feet would sweat and I’d have a lingering bad odor in my shoes and on my feet and I couldn’t use the same pare of socks for a few days. I found these and I love them! I can wear them for like 2-3days and they don’t smell from my sweaty feet and I love how they feel and support the feet. Best socks ever!