The Best Hiking Socks of 2025

I’ve put the REI Co-op Merino Flash Socks ($20) through the wringer on Teton trails, and they’ve quickly become a favorite since the price is right and the quality is top-notch. From long days climbing to Amphitheater Lake to quick loops around Phelps Lake, they’ve nailed that balance of comfort, breathability, and durability.

On sweaty uphill pushes, especially on steeper sections like the switchbacks going to the top of the Jackson Hole Tram, these socks kept my feet cool and relatively dry. Even when my trail runners were soaked due to creek crossings, the merino dried surprisingly fast right on my feet. My feet can get sweaty, but I never felt clammy or uncomfortable in these.

I also noticed how well the cushioning worked on rockier routes like the Paintbrush-Cascade Loop. My feet stayed blister-free with no hot spots, even after 15-plus-mile days. The only minor issue I had was a little heel bunching on steep scrambles, so I’d recommend trying a couple of sizes if you fall between two.

Overall, these have become my three-season staple. They are breathable enough for hot afternoons and warm enough for those chilly early starts.

I’ve always been a fan of Smartwool’s lightweight ski socks, so I was curious how its summer hiking socks would stack up. The Smartwool Hike Light Crew socks ($25) quickly won me over. They’re soft, comfy, and breathe really well. Previously called the PhD Outdoor, Smartwool made some upgrades on this round that I definitely noticed.

The fit feels dialed in, with just enough cushioning in all the right places. I like that they’ve added more mesh zones for breathability and reinforced high-wear areas. After months of regular use, they still look and feel like new, which says a lot considering I’ve worn them for everything from hiking and trail running in the Tetons to backpacking through the Winds and even along the coastal trails of Point Reyes.

On the steep climb to Delta Lake, they stayed put with no bunching or blisters, and I really appreciated the cushioning under my heels and arches on the rocky trails. On sweltering hot days, I choose something lighter like the Balega Hidden Comfort Socks because the Smartools run warm. If you like more cushion, the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew is worth a look, but for most of my hikes, these have been a perfect balance of comfort and breathability.

The Balega Hidden Comfort ($16) is my top no-show sock for running and light hiking. It delivers a soft, cushioned feel without adding bulk, and the moisture-wicking performance holds up surprisingly well. Whether I’m logging miles on the trail or heading out for a casual hike, these socks keep my feet comfortable and blister-free across a range of conditions.

I originally bought them for running, but quickly realized how well they perform on the trail. I’ve worn them on mellow loops around Phelps Lake and quicker hikes up to Bradley Lake in Grand Teton, and they always stay soft, breathable, and comfortable from start to finish.

What stands out most is the plush underfoot cushioning. It provides just enough padding to take the sting out of rocky or uneven terrain without ever feeling thick or restrictive. They disappear inside my trail runners, stay put without bunching, and dry quickly after sweaty climbs or stream crossings. These aren’t warm socks, which makes them perfect for hot summer hikes when my feet need breathability more than insulation.

They work best with low-cut hiking shoes or trail runners, but not boots, so their use is somewhat limited. I also noticed they sag a bit on longer hikes, especially after multiple washes, which gets annoying by the end of a long day. I save them for easier outings, casual hikes, travel, and everyday use when comfort is the top priority.

If I’m planning a fast-paced hike or trail run, I always throw on the CEP Run Compression Socks ($19). I’ve run, hiked, and worked out in them, and they consistently deliver on comfort and performance.

The targeted compression helps improve circulation, reduce swelling, and ease foot fatigue, especially on longer days. I’ve even noticed they help with mild plantar fasciitis flare-ups. If you’ve never tried compression socks, these are a great way to start.

They wick moisture well, breathe better than I expected, and come in fun colors that make them enjoyable to wear. I use them both during hikes and afterward for recovery. While they aren’t as durable as thicker hiking socks and can be somewhat difficult to put on, they’ve significantly improved my speed and performance.

I turn to the Smartwool Mountaineer Classic Edition Crew Socks ($27) when I know I’ll be out in the cold for hours, especially on slower-paced hikes or winter trips. These are the thickest, warmest Smartwool socks I’ve used, and they deliver serious comfort in frigid conditions. I’ve worn them on snowy day hikes, hut trips, and winter camping, and they always keep my feet warm, even in sub-freezing temps.

The full cushioning is the main draw. My feet feel completely protected from pressure points, and the extra padding helps on rocky terrain or when I’m carrying a heavy pack. The merino wool handles moisture surprisingly well for such a thick sock, and I haven’t had issues with clammy feet or blistering, even after long days in winter boots. I’ve used these for long days of ice climbing in Ouray, epic winter training expeditions on Mount Elbert (Colorado’s highest peak), and for an actual summit of Denali, where I was in these socks (and a few other pairs) for 27 days. Even though I was stinky, exhausted, and hungry all the time, these socks exceeded my expectations.

That said, I don’t use them for everything. They’re too warm and bulky for shoulder-season hiking or any fast-paced days. I also have to size up slightly in some boots because of how thick they are. But, for cold adventures, these are the first socks I throw in my pack.

I like socks that can handle workouts but also look good for everyday wear, and the Feetures Elite Lite Cushion socks ($20) do both really well. With fun color options and an athletic look, they’ve quickly become one of my favorite all-around pairs.

The left and right foot-specific design gives a snug, supportive feel whether I’m running, biking, or hiking. They’re thin but surprisingly cushioned, and the seamless construction adds noticeable comfort. They wick moisture well in breathable shoes, but I’ve noticed my feet get damp in waterproof boots.

These aren’t my choice for hikes when I want extra padding, since they don’t have the cushion of a thicker hiking sock. But the fit is spot-on, they stay comfortable all day, and after months of regular use, they’ve held up really well. For $20, they’re a great option for active days on and off the trail.

I’ve worn the Icebreaker Merino Hike+ Light Crew Socks ($25) on everything from mellow hikes to multiday backpacking trips, and they’ve consistently delivered comfort and performance. The light cushioning feels just right for warm-weather hikes or when I want a little extra padding without bulk. The merino blend keeps my feet cool, dry, and stink-free even after hours on the trail. With targeted support zones and a snug fit, they stay in place and don’t bunch or slip inside my boots. Over time, they’ve proven to be impressively durable, even after repeated washes and heavy use.

That said, they’re not cheap, and on especially hot days, the wool can feel a bit warm. Hikers who prefer ultra-thin socks or want maximum breathability in peak summer heat may find these slightly overbuilt for their needs.

These socks are a great fit for hikers who want a light, comfortable, and breathable merino option that can withstand serious mileage.

The Darn Tough Quarter Cushion Socks ($22) have become a staple in my rotation for everything from hiking to running. They’re lightweight but still provide just enough cushion to stay comfortable mile after mile. The merino wool blend strikes a great balance between warmth and breathability, and they’ve never felt too hot or too thin, even on longer hikes.

I’ve put in hundreds of miles in these socks, from day hikes in the Tetons to quick trail runs, and they’ve always stayed snug without slipping or rubbing. They’re breathable enough for summer but still work well in cooler shoulder season hikes.

Compared to the Darn Tough Micro Crew Hiking Socks, these feel lighter, more breathable, and better suited for faster-paced days or lower-mileage hikes. The Micro Crews offer more cushioning and a taller cut, which I prefer for rocky or brushy trails. The Quarter Cushions, with their lower cut, feel faster and cooler but offer less protection from trail debris.

I also appreciate that all Darn Tough socks are made in the U.S. and backed by a lifetime guarantee. I reach for these when I want to move fast, stay cool, and keep my feet comfortable through every mile.

When I want something light and breathable, I choose the REI Merino Wool Lightweight Hiking Socks ($18). They have a cool, airy feel that works great for warm hikes and quick-paced days. The recycled polyester is soft against my skin, and the crew length keeps dirt and brush off my legs without overheating.

Even though they’re called ultralight, the extra reinforcement around the heel, toe, and footbed makes them feel a little sturdier, which I like for rocky trails. The seamless toe adds comfort, and they wick sweat quickly, keeping my feet dry through long miles.

They do feel slightly thicker in the reinforced zones, so they’re not as barebones as a pure super-light sock, but I don’t mind the tradeoff for the extra durability.

These are solid picks for fast-moving hikes when I want to stay cool but still have some protection.

I grab the Smartwool Classic Hike Extra Cushion Crew ($24) whenever I need maximum comfort on the trail. These are thick, warm, and heavily cushioned, making them perfect for cooler days, backpacking trips, or any hike with a heavy pack.

The extra cushioning reduces the sting from rocky trails and long downhill sections. My feet always feel supported, and the thick padding helps lessen soreness after long miles. The merino wool does a great job managing sweat and odor, keeping my feet dry and fresh even after full days on the trail.

Plus, they hold up well. After dozens of hikes and washes, they haven’t lost their shape or softness. I also appreciate the extra coverage from the crew height, which keeps my ankles protected from brush and trail debris.

They do feel bulky, though, so I skip these on warm days or when I wear snug-fitting shoes because the extra thickness can make everything feel cramped. They work best in cooler conditions when I’m carrying more weight and moving at a steady pace. When I want all-day comfort and extra cushioning, these are the socks I reach for first.

The Swiftwick Pursuit Quarter Crew socks ($21) are a solid choice when I need a lightweight, supportive sock designed for movement. The merino wool blend feels soft immediately and keeps my feet comfortable in changing conditions. I’ve worn these socks for everything from fast-paced day hikes to easier recovery walks, and they consistently deliver comfort.

What stands out most is the snug, secure fit. The light compression wraps around my foot and stays in place without slipping or bunching, even on steeper terrain. The cushioning is low-profile but effective, providing enough padding to soften rough ground without adding bulk.

These socks also excel at temperature regulation. I’ve remained comfortable on cool mornings and warm afternoons, and they breathe well without feeling swampy. After numerous miles, they have held up without noticeable wear. I appreciate the quarter crew height, which offers ankle coverage without the extra fabric of taller socks.

The only drawback is that they lack the plush feel some people prefer in a thicker hiking sock. If you like a looser fit, the snug compression might feel a bit too tight; however, for me, this was a plus.

For breathable, stay-put comfort on low-mileage hikes or quick trail outings, these socks have been a reliable choice for me.

The WRIGHTSOCK Double Layer Silver Escape Crew ($25) is one of my favorite options for longer hikes when I know I’ll be sweating a lot and can’t easily wash my gear. I’m definitely someone who notices sock odor after a long day, so I was really curious if the silver-lined fabric actually lived up to the odor-resistant hype.

I tested them on back-to-back big days in the Tetons, including a long climb up Death Canyon with a heavy pack and another push over Paintbrush Divide. By the end of the first day, my shoes and shirt were soaked, but my socks stayed surprisingly fresh. I let them dry overnight and wore them again the next day. It took until the third day and well over 25 miles before I noticed any smell, which is impressive.

They feel soft and cushioned like a classic wool hiking sock, but are much more breathable than I expected. My feet stayed comfortable during climbs and rocky descents, and I didn’t get any blisters. The double-layer design really reduces friction, which I noticed most on steep downhills.

I prefer these thicker socks for longer hikes with a pack, but if you prefer thin, minimal socks, these may feel too bulky. The Silver Escape is a great choice if you want something durable, breathable, and odor-resistant for big days or multiday trips.

I used to think toe socks looked a bit silly, but after trying the Injinji Liner Crew ($12), I completely changed my mind. These are some of the most comfortable socks I’ve worn, and their performance easily matches the comfort.

The biggest benefit is blister prevention. I get hot spots on longer hikes, especially around my oddly-shaped toes, but these completely eliminated that. By separating my toes, the fabric stops skin-on-skin rubbing, and I finished hikes without a single blister where I’d usually have issues.

The COOLMAX Ecomade polyester feels incredibly soft and dries quickly. Even on hot days in the Tetons, my feet remained cool and comfortable. During one hike, I slipped crossing a creek and soaked my shoes, but the liners dried surprisingly fast just from walking in the sun.

They take a bit longer to put on than regular socks, and they’re less durable. Since each toe is individually wrapped, there are more areas prone to wear. I’ve developed a few small holes after heavy use. Still, at $12 and knowing they are made with recycled materials, I have no issue replacing them once they wear out. For anyone prone to toe blisters, these are a game-changer.