The Best Hiking Socks to Prevent Blisters While You Hike

There’s almost nothing worse than knowing you have miles left to walk along a long trail and feeling your feet start to blister. Thankfully, with the correct pair of hiking socks, you can put those painful days of fighting blisters in the past.

The winner of this product review is the Darn Tough Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Sock. These socks are extra comfortable and come in seven stylish colors. Designed with a combo of merino wool, nylon, and lycra spandex, the socks are sure to stay secure, preventing slippage that leads to blisters. They also wick away sweat and are versatile enough for warm or cool days.

For a thorough comparison of hiking socks and their many features that makes them so useful, read our product round-up below. With this information, you can go out and find the best hiking socks to prevent blisters from ruining your hiking days ever again!

Product Reviews

Darn Tough Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks: Best Overall Socks

The Darn Tough Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks are the best choice in this product round-up, thanks to their ultimate comfort, excellent moisture wicking properties, high level of durability, expert cushioning, and tight fit that keeps the sock in place to prevent blistering.

These Darn Tough socks are true to their name, as they are quite durable and should last for years of hiking. They are constructed with “fine gauge knitting” with mid-weight yarns that keep rips at bay over time.

With a “micro” crew design, these socks are shorter than full crew height socks but still manage to be tall enough to protect your heels from blisters when wearing ankle boots. They may be too short for full length boots, however.

These socks are made of a combination of 6% merino wool, 36% nylon, and 3% lycra spandex. With their breathable construction and moisture wicking features, the Darn Tough socks are a great fit for warmer or cooler days.

Thanks to their merino wool construction, this will help to keep your feet from sweating. Additionally, the socks themselves will dry out very quickly in case they do become damp, which is another important feature for protection against blisters.

These no-shrink socks also feature a “performance fit” design that prevents the sock from slipping or bunching up, both of which help to keep those blisters at bay.

For added comfort, the socks have a “True Seamless” construction as well, so you won’t feel any seams rubbing against your toes as you walk. There is also extra cushioning underneath your feet, specifically at the heel and toe, as well as elasticity at the arch for added support.

Finally, Darn Tough has a lifetime guarantee on their hiking socks. This shows that Darn Tough is a company that stands behind their product.

Pros

• Various color options to choose from
• Moisture-wicking properties (protects from blisters), socks dry very quickly
• Breathable to prevent sweating and clamminess
• Good for warm or cooler days
• Tight performance fit that prevents slippage and blisters
• No seams (comfortable)
• Cushioned and supportive
• Very durable, rip-free
• Lifetime guarantee

Cons

• Maybe not tall enough for very tall boots
• Slightly expensive

Kirkland Signature Men’s Outdoor Merino Wool Trail Socks: Best Value

The Kirkland Signature Men’s Outdoor Merino Wool Trail Socks are the best value, as you get four pairs of crew height socks in a pack. They are available in blue and grey colors to match any outfit, and they promise comfort and durability.

Constructed of a 72% merino wool, 27% nylon, and 1% elastane blend, the Kirkland Signature trail socks are moisture-wicking and breathable. This makes them a great option for preventing your feet from sweating, while also being suitable for warm or cool temperatures.

These Kirkland socks are medium weight, meaning they are decently cushioned without being too heavy or thick. There is extra cushioning at the heel and at the toes, and they also offer plenty of arch support.

The merino wool design adds to the breathability. Also, they have a seamless design, so you won’t have to feel any pesky seams that irritate your toes.

Pros

• Excellent value
• Moisture-wicking to prevent sweating (blister prevention)
• Versatile for warm or cool temperatures
• Cushioned
• Seamless for comfort
• Arch support
• Breathable

Cons

• Can be hard to find in stock

Injinji 2.0 Outdoor Midweight Crew Nuwool Socks: Best Toe Sock Option

If you’re looking for a pair of toe socks, the Injinji 2.0 Outdoor Midweight Crew Nuwool Socks are the best option in this product round-up. Toe socks are designed to be the ultimate in blister prevention, as your toes will not be in contact with one another as you hike.

Toe socks not only prevent friction between your toes that leads to uncomfortable blistering, but they also help ensure that your toes can splay out as needed while you walk. This promotes a more natural gait and overall comfort. This helps you remain more sure-footed on difficult trails. Also, the extra fabric between your toes prevents sweat from accumulating between your digits.

The Injinji socks are designed with 43% NuWool merino wool, 43% acrylic, 12% nylon, and 2% lycra spandex. They are marketed as odor resistant and are built with added cushioning and arch support. There are also mesh designed areas at the top of the sock to keep your feet from sweating, which is another important blister prevention element.

These socks also feature a cuff at the top to keep dirt out. They are a perfect choice for nearly any weather, as they are breathable and durable.

Pros

• Prevent friction, blisters, and sweating between toes
• Arch support and cushion (performance-oriented)
• Odor resistant
• Wicks away sweat
• Versatile for any weather conditions
• Mesh at the top of socks for breathability
• Cuff to keep dirt out

Cons

• Slightly expensive
• Not as durable

Farm to Feet Damascus Midweight Crew Merino Wool Socks: Stretchiest Socks

The Farm to Feet Damascus Midweight Crew Merino Wool Socks are the best option if you’re looking for a stretchy pair of midweight, calf-height hiking socks. With the highest spandex content in this product round-up, these socks are made to be comfortable and fit your feet perfectly.

These socks are knitted with a special technique to create a completely flat, seam-free boe box, preventing areas that would normally cause friction and painful blisters. They are also highly breathable with multiple ventilation channels, making them a great choice for warm weather. They prevent your feet from sweating and absorb moisture well. The socks also dry quickly.

In addition to being breathable for warm weather, these socks are also suitable for colder weather thanks to their insulated design.

The Farm to Feet socks are machine washable and are constructed of 61% merino wool, 34% nylon, and 5% spandex. They are cushioned for added comfort with additional compression areas across the top of the foot. This also creates a much tighter fit for more support throughout the day. This will help your feet from feeling fatigued even after long hours of hiking.

Pros

• High spandex content for stretchiness
• Seamless, flat toe box prevents blisters
• Very ventilated, good for warm weather
• Prevents foot sweat, moisture-wicking, and dries quickly
• Cushioned and tight fit
• Compression areas
• Versatile and durable

Cons

• Somewhat expensive

Darn Tough T4050 Tactical Over The Calf Extra Cushion Sock: Best for Cold Weather

The Darn Tough T4050 Tactical Over The Calf Extra Cushion Sock is the ultimate choice if you are looking for a sock that will truly keep you warm. These are marketed as a heavyweight sock, which is designed to truly keep you warmer when you need it most. Not only are they heavyweight, but they are also tall with an over-calf design.

These Darn Tough socks are made out of 79% merino wool, 20% nylon, and 1% lycra spandex. They have a truly seamless, slip-free, bunch-free design to prevent blisters, as well as cushioned zones throughout the sock for added comfort.

There is reinforcement at the toe and heel for even more support, as well as elastic support across your arches to keep you comfortable all day. The fine-gauge knitting ensures durability as well, so you can rely on these socks for years of hiking adventures.

The merino wool in these socks wicks away moisture, so you won’t have to worry about your feet sweating, either. The merino wool is breathable and dries very quickly, so it is great for warmer temperatures as well. It is also odor-resistant.

Finally, just like other Darn Tough socks, these also have a lifetime guarantee.

Pros

• Tall socks with heavyweight design, good for colder temperatures
• Breathable to prevent feet from sweating
• Seamless, slip-free, bunch-free design to prevent blisters
• Cushioned zones throughout for added comfort
• Reinforced heel and toe (supportive), elastic arch support
• Durable
• Moisture-wicking to prevent blisters
• Odor-resistant
• Dries quickly
• Lifetime guarantee

Cons

• Slightly expensive

Smartwool Unisex Phd Outdoor Light Crew Socks: Best Budget Option

The Smartwool Unisex Phd Outdoor Light Crew socks are the best option if you’re trying to find comfortable, calf-height hiking socks on a limited budget. Although you can find them as low as $18, these socks do not skip out on the quality.

The Smartwool socks are available in eight fashionable color options. They are designed to be extra durable with the patented “Indestructawool” design of their material. Also, these socks are equipped with mesh zones for breathability and a seamless toe box area for added comfort and blister prevention. There is also an ankle band at the top to keep debris away.

The material composition of these socks is 56% wool, 41% nylon, and 3% elastane. With a “4 Degree Elite Fit System” design, these socks feature “flex zones” at the ankle joint as well as arch bands across the instep. This gives the socks a tight fit geared towards high performance and long hikes. There is also light cushioning for shock absorption throughout the sock body.

These Smartwool socks are designed with “Wool on Wool” technology via additional layers of wool focused at the heel and forefoot. This feature allows for improved shock absorption in these areas and adds to the socks’ durability over time. The “SmartWool” itself is moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and breathable for a comfortable, versatile fit.

Pros

• Good budget option
• Several color choices
• “Indestructawool” is durable
• Mesh zones add to the breathability
• No seams in the toes (prevents blisters)
• Flex zones and arch bands for added support
• Tight, performance fit
• Light cushioning and shock absorption for comfort and protecting your joints
• Wicks away moisture and resists odors

Cons

• No cuff at the top to prevent dirt from getting in

DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks: Another Great Value for the Price

The DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks also offer an excellent value for the price, as you get three pairs of crew length socks for only $26-30. These socks are fashionable and comfortable, offering plenty of ventilation and cushion.

Available in six different packs of various colors, these socks are stylish enough to wear with everyday outfits when you want to stay a little warmer. Merino wool is also excellent for moisture wicking and staying cool in warmer temperatures if that’s more your speed.

Unfortunately, it is unclear what materials (other than merino wool) these socks are designed with, so it is possible that they may not be as durable or flexible.

The DANISH ENDURANCE socks also feature ventilated mesh areas, perfect for breathability and preventing odor build-up. They are also equipped with cushioned sections along the sock that keep blisters away and help keep your ride bouncy. 

Pros

• Excellent value for the price
• Many color options
• Versatile, good for warm or cooler weather
• Moisture-wicking
• Cushioned for support and preventing blisters
• Breathable with mesh design

Cons

• Maybe less durable
• Not clear what other materials the socks are made out of

Buying Guide: What to Know Before Purchasing Hiking Socks

What you should know about the best hiking socks to prevent blisters

First, it’s important to know why blisters form in order to know how to prevent them. Blisters on your feet are caused by friction between your toes, friction between your feet and the shoe, ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on areas of your feet as you walk, or moisture within your socks (often caused by sweating).

One of the best ways to prevent blisters is to buy a pair of hiking socks from a reputable brand, such as Smartwool or Darn Tough, as we talked about above. These socks are tested and designed to be suited for hours of hiking and are constructed of the most comfortable, blister-preventing materials possible.

Many of these brands also give their socks a lifetime guarantee, so purchasing from them may even save you money in the long run.

As far as the design of hiking socks, it’s important that your socks are supportive and cushioned to protect your joints during long or difficult hiking sessions.

More: Hi-Tec Hiking Boots Review: Is it a Good Brand?

Hiking socks should have extra cushion at high-wear areas of contact, such as the ball of your feet as well as your heels and across the laces where friction may occur. There should also be added support along your arches. This will help support your foot throughout the long hiking day and keep your feet from feeling as tired.

Additionally, hiking socks should have a seamless design where the seams are hidden to prevent friction. This will be another important feature for blister prevention.

Also, hiking socks are constructed overall to be more durable. They are less likely to wear down and create holes over time. This will not only save you money but also ensure that holes don’t expand and allow friction to occur between your skin and the inside of the shoe.

Hiking socks are also designed so that they won’t bunch up inside your shoes, which would create blisters. To truly prevent your socks from bunching up, however, make sure that they aren’t too large. You want to make sure that your socks aren’t too small, either, because this will create added pressure on your feet which can cause blisters to form.

Also, remember that the longer you hike, the more your feet will swell throughout the day. For this reason, before purchasing, you may want to try on socks at the end of the day after you’ve been walking around. This can help ensure that you are buying them in the correct size.

When choosing your socks, also be aware of the climate in which you plan to hike. Midweight or medium-weight socks are designed to be more versatile and are suited for cooler or warmer weather. Heavyweight socks (like the Darn Tough T4050 Tactical Over The Calf Extra Cushion Sock above) are constructed of a thicker material meant for colder weather.

It’s also important to consider the height of your socks. For the ultimate protection against blisters, make sure that your sock rises above the top of your shoe. This will prevent the back of the shoe from rubbing painfully against your heel with each step.

Socks meant for colder hikes are typically the tallest, but there are also socks that hit at your calf that may be tall enough. Other options are crew socks, which are designed to be compatible with lower cut boots. Ankle socks are best for warmer hikes.

For added protection against blisters, you want to ensure that debris stays out of your shoes. You can attach a gaiter over the top of your shoe to keep any dust or sand out.

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What is the best sock material for blister prevention?

You want to avoid cotton socks when hiking, because cotton unfortunately holds onto moisture too heavily. This means that sweat will build up inside the sock, causing the sock to bunch up and create friction against your skin as you walk. Cotton socks also take forever to dry.

Most hiking socks will be designed with merino wool as the main fabric type. This is a soft material that is incredibly versatile, suited well for cooler or warmer temperatures.

Merino wool excels at wicking moisture away from your feet. Unlike cotton, merino wool does not hold onto moisture. Rather, it allows the water to evaporate through the sock and boot, where it will no longer pose a threat to your feet. Merino wool dries very quickly, which is of course the ultimate way to keep your feet dry.

Breathability is incredibly important with blister prevention, and merino wool is an excellent material for this. Breathable socks will help prevent your feet from overheating and getting sweaty, which is a major component of blister prevention.

In addition to merino wool, your hiking socks will likely contain some amount of nylon. Nylon is a more durable material and is generally used in the high-friction areas of the sock.

Finally, your hiking socks will probably contain elastane or spandex. This material helps the sock to be flexible and stretchy. It allows the sock to fit tightly over your foot.

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Should you wear liner socks when hiking to prevent blisters?

While it is not a necessity, liner socks can be an excellent way to ensure that blisters stay away.

Liner socks are very thin and add an extra boundary between your feet and the socks. They ensure that any moisture is wicked away immediately. Liner socks are designed to cover your whole foot and each toe individually to prevent friction even between your toes.

However, make sure that the liner sock does not have any seams that you can feel. The liner sock should fit very snugly without any bunching or creased areas.

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Tips to prevent sweating and deal with moisture to keep your feet dry

To be prepared to replace your socks in case they get sweaty or wet, make sure that you always bring at least one extra pair of hiking socks in your hiking bag.

Before you put on your socks, you can coat your feet in Gold Bond powder. This will help absorb moisture and prevent chafing. Another option is to put on antiperspirant for your feet.

When hiking, let your feet air out whenever you have a chance. If you stop for lunch, for example, it might be a great time to take off your shoes and socks so that your feet have time to breathe.

If you start to feel that your feet are getting sweaty, you should stop and take a break. Remove your shoes and socks to examine your feet. Look for any areas that appear red (these are hot spots). Let your feet cool down and become dry again.

To prevent a blister from getting worse once it’s started, you may want to put a bandage or tape on the area. Before starting your hike again, put on your spare pair of dry socks.

More: The Best Hiking Boots Under $50 On The Market

Conclusion

Blisters can ruin even the most exciting of hiking trips. Thankfully, your days of worrying about blisters can be over with the right pair of hiking socks.

The winner of this product round-up is the Darn Tough Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks. These comfortable socks are built to be durable, cushioned and supportive for all-day hikes, and versatile for cooler or warm weather. They are moisture-wicking, so you won’t have to fret about sweaty feet.

For the ultimate tactical option, check out the Darn Tough Tactical Over The Calf Extra Cushion Sock. These are the tallest socks in this review and are meant for colder hiking days while still providing plenty of breathabilities, moisture-wicking, and cushion.

If you’re looking for a toe sock, your best bet is the Injinji 2.0 Outdoor Midweight Crew Nuwool Socks. You won’t need a liner sock with these socks, because they are designed to protect each of your toes from friction and blistering.

In the end, hopefully, this product round-up was helpful in guiding you towards the best hiking socks to prevent blisters. Happy hiking!