Say Goodbye To Blisters Forever With These Super Comfy Hiking Socks

Fresh air, the crunch of gravel underfoot, and the sense of empowerment after slaying another hike in the beautiful outdoors. Nothing could ruin the pure bliss of this moment right? Actually, maybe a few things—like blisters and your sweat-soaked socks slipping down in your shoe.

If you haven’t already learned the hard way, the right hiking socks are essential to a good trek. They're a barrier between your hard-working feet and the rough terrain, keeping those toes nice and dry. There are three things you’ll want to think about when picking out a new pair: fabric, cushioning, and cuff height. After that, you'll want to keep in mind the intensity and length of the hikes you plan on going on as well as what the weather will be like. With all these factors in play, stocking your drawers with a few options isn’t a bad idea.

When it comes to fabric, a blend that includes merino wool is your best bet. It’s naturally antimicrobial, breathable, wicks away moisture, and is soft as heck. You’ll also find that a majority of hiking socks include materials like nylon for durability and elastane for stretchiness.

Next, let’s pad those toes! Quality hiking socks are designed with extra padding in the toe and heel. The level of cushioning affects how warm the sock will be, from light (perf for trail runs and two-mile loops) to heavy cushioning for winter and backpacking jaunts.

To help prevent the rubbing and chafing that leads to gnarly blisters, hiking socks should rest above your shoe or boot. An ankle-high pair is fine for a trail run or a mile or two, but anything longer or more strenuous calls for a high sock.

But with so many options, where to begin? See below for the 11 best hiking socks to keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable no matter what kind of trail you’re ready to conquer