How to Choose Hiking Socks

Give your hiking feet the comfort and cushioning they need with these REI Co-op socks. Lightweight merino wool provides a summer-weight feel. Nylon reinforcements create a durable exterior.
Made in USA.
View all REI Co-op Men's Hiking Socks| Best Use | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 72% merino wool/26% nylon/2% LYCRA® spandex |
| Sock Height | Ankle |
| Sock Cushioning | Light Cushioning |
| Quick Drying | Yes |
| Moisture Wicking | Yes |
| Gender | Unisex |
| Sustainability | From a Climate Label Certified brand |
Adding a review will require a valid email for verification
I wear mostly REI or darn tough Merino wool socks, these are knit so poorly, they bunch up under my feet. They don’t hug my feet like most of my other socks. I wore them once to work and they were so uncomfortable. My feet were falling asleep at my desk. The pressure from the bunched up fabric pushed up on my arch causing discomfort throughout the day. I feel socks are one of those things you shouldn’t think about while wearing them. I will return these and get a pair of darn tough
So by cutting the word "hiking" out of the description, REI now peddles these thin socks--hoping we won't notice the difference? I double-checked past orders, and what used to be billed as "Lightweight Quarter Hiking Socks" now deletes that critical word and a good half of the cushioning--but at the same cost as the full-cushioned models. My husband noticed the difference immediately. Unfortunately, he really likes the full-cushioned versions. Now I need to source socks somewhere else. Very disappointing.
Overall an excellent sock for warm weather hiking in low-cut shoes. Like other reviewers, I've detected a reduction in quality, e.g., the newer socks are definitely thinner though merino wool is listed as 72%. Since my shoe size is 12.5, I always buy the next larger size but these socks have always run smaller. All said, this sock is worth purchasing and have earned 4 Stars.
I've purchased these socks several years ago and really liked them. I've read other recent reviews about the decline in quality but decided to see for myself and unfortunately the socks purchased 9/2026 did not match the same soft feel and overall quality of my previous purchase. I won't be purchasing any more wool socks from REI :(
i swear by merino and quarter lengths... these fit the bill
Nice fit and comfy. I’ll be getting more.
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.

