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April 18, 2008
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What is the best type of sock to wear on a day hike?
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Hiking Socks (courtesy, Smartwool)
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What is the best type of sock to wear on a day hike? I am a naturally sweaty
person and often my socks get so wet that is causes blisters. Not pretty, I know,
but that’s the truth of it.
— Nick
London, England
Do you have a question of your own?
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 Just about everyone has to deal with sweaty feet in some fashion, but of
course some people have a worse case of wet feet than others.
In many cases, socks made with merino wool will solve much of the problem. That’s
because the wool fibers have tiny pockets on them that do an admirable job of
sopping up excess moisture. Several brands are available, but the more or less
pioneer here is the Smartwool company (smartwool.com). In the U.K., Cotswold
carries Smartwool socks such as the standard Hiking Sock (£13) or the heavier
Expedition Trekking Sock (£17). Heavier might be better—more fibers for more
absorption. Also, buy two pairs. It might be a good idea to change your socks at
the mid-point of your hike.
Wool socks can be worn alone, but in some cases a light liner sock can help wick
moisture away from your feet. Try some Bridgedale Coolmax Liners (£12 for a pair;
bridgedale.com). Then layer the wool socks over them.
Another perfectly reasonable thing to do is spray your feet with antiperspirant
prior to socking up for your hike. That works quite well, really. Plus your feet
won’t smell as bad at the end of the day!
The 2008 Winter
Outside Buyer’s Guide is now online. From snow sports to
trail-running to camping, get reviews of more than 300 new gear
must-haves.
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