How to Choose Hiking Socks

With a lightweight merino-wool blend for warm-weather hikes, this 2-pack of REI Co-op Merino Wool Lightweight Hiking Crew Socks naturally resists odors, breathes well, wicks sweat and dries fast.
Made in USA.
View all REI Co-op Men's Hiking SocksBest Use | Hiking |
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Fabric | 79% merino wool/20% nylon/1% LYCRA spandex |
Sock Height | Crew |
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 | |
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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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I ordered a pair of large merino wool socks. When I received the package, I found that one pair was a large, but the other pair was clearly not a large. In fact, they were like 2-3 inches longer than the large pair (see photo). I was going to return them, but after realizing I was going to have to pay $8 bucks to return them by mail, I decided to keep the pair that fit and donate the other pair to a local thrift store.
I have occasionally bought seconds before. It was my understanding that seconds were supposed to be cosmetic defects only that would not affect the wearing of the item. I was surprised by the appearance of these socks, with a couple of narrow bands of elastic across the foot, giving the very ample fabric of the toe a bulbous look (I should have taken a picture). I ordered 2 pairs, and 3 of the 4 socks looked like this, kind of an hourglass look. I wear a 9.5 or 10, and so much fabric made my 9.5's too tight. No matter, I can wear some of my other shoes. After the second washing, the narrow elastic part shrunk more than the rest of the sock. As I discovered in the middle of a hike, the sock now had a permanent wrinkle under my forefoot and made my foot sore. When I got home, I binned those socks, which is where they should have gone the moment they were manufactured. What happened to you, REI? You used to be so good....
One of the socks had a hole in it. My wife was able to repair it but I expect seconds to have slight blemishes no holes.
The quality of these socks have gone down hill. When comparing the exact same socks from years ago to today these recent socks are not even close to the older quality. Shame on you REI - if you cheapen the socks then at least lower your prices for the lower quality socks you presently sold me.
I love these socks, can't stop buying them, the light and the mediums, so warm, soft and hard wearing. Great stuff.
Great find. I was fortunate to find a recent deal on some usual supply. Thank you.