Best Hiking Socks for the Camino de Santiago

I am obsessive about the socks I wear when hiking. These small bits of fabric can make or break a decent hike. In 2004 at the start of my first 30 day hike along the Camino, I discovered blisters, unlike blisters I have ever known.

A change of footwear from boots to lightweight hiking shoes and buying the best hiking socks I could afford at the time made all the difference for the next 27 days. Now I own socks for every different weather condition and season.

Think of it like this: you wouldn’t pull a regular pair of work boots out of the wardrobe for hiking a long-distance trail, would you? You need specifically designed hiking socks – here’s everything you need to know about the market’s 12 most popular offerings: 

Top 25 Hiking Socks Reviewed

1. Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion

Key Features:

• Darn Tough brand
• Men’s sock, all sizes
• Merino wool
• Excellent cushioning

This pair of socks, from the Darn Tough brand – still made where they always have been made, in Vermont, USA – is a very nice starting point, as it ticks all the boxes. Available in sizes from small to XX-large – so catering to most– the Micro Crew Light Cushion are quality ultralight socks at a price that reflects this fact.

Made from the finest Merino wool, which – you will remember – has certain antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that are important for this sort of footwear and long-term use, in a fine gauge, the Darn Tough Micro Crew socks are supremely comfortable, and are designed to fit perfectly, so no slipping or blistering.

The Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion ultralight socks also feature cushioning along the bottom of the foot for added comfort.

PROS:

• Comfortable & exceptionally durable
• Superb padding & breathability
• Backed by a lifetime warranty

CONS:

• Not as plush as some of the other socks on the list

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2. Darn Tough Vermont ¼ Merino

Key Features:

• Ankle socks
• Merino, nylon, Lycra mix
• High-density
• Performance fit

Another hiking sock from the Darn Tough range (this brand is one of the market leaders in hiking socks, so I will make no excuse for featuring their products more than once), the Vermont ¼ Merino is a short and lightweight hiking sock that will come up to the ankle.

Made from a combination of 61% Merino wool with 37% nylon and 2% lycra, they provide a high level of comfort and protection from bacteria. The knitting is high density for durability, and the socks are also designed for a performance fit and are very comfortable.

They come with the Darn Tough lifetime guarantee – an excellent added bonus.

PROS:

• Provide comfort and protection from bacteria
• High-density knit ensures unsurpassed durability
• Backed by a lifetime warranty

CONS:

• Could be more odor-resistant

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3. Icebreaker Hike+ Light Crew

Key Features

• Merino wool mix
• Small to XL
• Seamless toe
• Crew style

The Hike+ Light Crew Socks – that’s standard length above the ankle – come from Icebreaker, another US brand.

These socks are sculptured to fit and are made from a combination of Merino wool with nylon and spandex for a more comfortable fit. They are designed to be non-slip and an excellent fit, and are a quality item that I think comes at a very competitive and sensible price.

Available in four sizes from small to XL, the Icebreaker Hike Light crew socks also come in a bewildering choice of colors and patterns: there’s something for everyone. Fully cushioned on the foot, they also have a seamless toe closure for added comfort – something you will surely appreciate when camping in the wild. 

PROS:

• Secure (non-slip) but comfortable fit
• Fully cushioned on the foot
• A lot of color options

CONS:

• Not the most affordable socks out there

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4. Smartwool Performance Hike

Key Features:

• Merino, nylon, and elastane mix
• Elasticized arch brace 
• Mid-calf crew fit
• Flat-knit toe seam

Smartwool’s Performance Hike Socks are constructed with a blend of 62% merino wool, 24% recycled nylon, 12% nylon, and 2% elastane and provide ample cushioning and arch support for all-day comfort on the trail.

The merino wool wicks moisture and regulates temperature effectively across seasons, while the flat-knit toe seam prevents irritation. After multiple long hikes, I’ve appreciated the socks’ plush full-length cushioning and responsibly sourced, quick-drying fibers that keep feet comfortable mile after mile.

For sustainable warmth and blister-free hiking, these definitely deliver. 

Make sure to also read my in-depth comparison of Smartwool vs Icebreaker. 

PROS:

• Ample cushioning & arch support 
• Moisture-wicking Merino wool 
• Keep feet comfortable during long hikes 

CONS:

• Prone to pilling

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5. Injinji Trail Midweight Mini Crew 

 

Key Features:

• Lycra, Coolmax, and nylon combo 
• Patented five-toe design 
• Allow natural toe splay 
• Available in 20 colors 

I recently tested Injinji’s Trail Midweight Mini Crew Socks – although designed for trail running, they’re just as great for hiking.

Utilizing a patented five-toe construction, each digit is wrapped in sweat-wicking, quick-drying CoolMax EcoMade fabric, while the snug cuffs seal out debris across rugged terrain. These durable nylon toesocks provide arch support and targeted cushioning for comfort even over long distances.

After multiple hikes and training runs, I’ve appreciated how the socks prevented skin-on-skin friction and blisters by separating the toes. By allowing natural foot splay, the Injinjis enhanced my stability, while their mesh panels and moisture-managing fibers kept my feet drier across changing weather and trail conditions.

PROS:

• Prevents blisters and skin-on-skin friction 
• Features moisture-managing fibers
• Excellent cushioning & arch support 

CONS:

• Not the most durable socks – too thin 

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6. Randy Sun Compression Women’s 

 

Key Features:

• 15-20mmHg graduated compression socks
• Designed to promote blood circulation
• Comfortable & breathable 
• 100% quality guarantee

Randy Sun is well know for its waterproof socks. However, their Compression Women’s Socks are something else – constructed with durable, sweat-wicking nylon, these fashionable knee-highs utilize targeted gradient compression to boost blood flow and provide muscle support.

After hours of running, hiking, and travel, the lightweight socks effectively increased my better half’s circulation while also combating fatigue and swelling. She appreciated how the breathable, elastic fabric conformed comfortably to her calves with consistent graduated pressure.

For anyone prone to leg strain, swelling, or poor circulation, Randy Sun’s thoughtfully designed compression socks promote recovery across various exploits. The stylish patterns also add flair to any activity.

PROS:

• A pair of breathable & comfortable knee-highs 
• Great for folks with feet issues 
• Incredibly affordable 

CONS:

• A bit loose at the ankles

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7. Darn Tough 1/4 Cushion 

 

Key Features:

• Darn Tough brand
• Short design
• Cushioned
• Merino mix

My next choice takes us back to Darn Tough, the brand from Vermont with a lifetime guarantee. Their 1/4 Cushion Socks come with cushioning all around for added comfort and a better fit.

To be more precise, these are medium-weight socks with a performance fit – so non-slip – and are also truly seamless, so you have less chance of getting blisters.

The material is a Merino mix (61% Merino wool, 37% nylon, as well as some Lycra spandex) and they come in a full range of sizes from small to XX-large, and a choice of three different colors.

As usual, the quality shines through and the price reflects that.

PROS:

• Outstanding Darn Tough construction
• No blisters, no slipping, no bunching
• Breathable & moisture-wicking

CONS:

• Shrink substantially in the wash

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8. Darn Tough Coolmax Women’s 

 

Key Features:

• Highly porous Coolmax fabric…
• …as well as lycra, acrylic, and nylon
• Seamless construction
• Very comfortable 

The Darn Tough’s Coolmax Women’s Socks are crafted specifically for hiking. These mid-cushioned socks utilize lightweight, quick-drying Coolmax along with durable nylon for optimal temperature regulation and blister-free comfort across the trail.

The seamless construction and micro crew height fit perfectly inside my better half’s hiking boots while the ribbed knit ankle offered her a secure, non-restrictive feel mile after mile. Despite sweaty summer conditions, the breathable socks kept her feet cool and comfortable throughout several all-day treks.

Boasting Darn Tough’s lifetime guarantee against wear and tear, the Coolmax Micro Crew are ready to log endless miles in total comfort.

I highly recommend checking out my hiking shoes for women article, too. 

PROS:

• A well-made synthetic hiking sock
• Well-cushioned and snug-fitting
• They peek just above the top of hiking boots

CONS:

• Could be cheaper 

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9. Merrell Cushioned Midweight 4-Pair 

 

Key Features:

• Spandex (and other fiber) + polyester 
• Cushioned toe & heel 
• Odor resistant technology
• Machine-washable

The next pair of hiking socks on my list comes from one of the world’s most famous outerwear brands – Merrell. Their Cushioned Midweight 4-Pair Socks offer pretty much everything you need for a comfortable walk out in the country. 

First of all, these socks come equipped with Merrell’s proprietary moisture management technology whose job is to keep the wearer’s feet dry. Secondly, these socks are also odor-resistant – something that a lot of avid outdoor enthusiasts are bound to appreciate. 

I also really liked how durable these socks are, featuring a cushioned toe and hell. The model also fights fatigue with its arch band, and provides additional comfort with its smooth toe seam. 

The socks are available in several color combinations and stand as a great choice for folks looking for something branded yet affordable. 

PROS:

• A 4-pack of well-designed Merrell socks 
• Durable, supportive, and odor-resistant 
• Relatively affordable 

CONS:

• Could be a bit thicker 

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10. Smartwool Mountaineer Classic Edition

 

Key Features:

• Merino wool, elastane, nylon mix
• Heavy cushioning
• Moisture-wicking
• Made in the USA

The best thing about Smartwool’s Mountaineer Classic Edition Socks is that they’re crafted specifically for frigid adventures. Boasting 74% merino wool and ample padding, these toasty crew socks provided me with remarkable warmth while wicking effectively across a few winter pursuits of mine, from hiking to mountaineering.

Even soaked after stream crossings, my feet stayed surprisingly warm and dry thanks to the breathable Merino fibers. However, the thick cushioning proved stifling in even mild temperatures. So I strictly reserve these cozy cold-weather shields for subzero exploits when reliable insulation takes priority over packing compactly.

For keeping toes toasty through the bitterest conditions without overheating, the Mountaineers definitely deliver.

PROS:

• Crafted specifically for frigid adventures 
• Very thick & warm 
• Breathable & moisture-wicking 

CONS:

• The heavy cushioning can feel stifling 

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11. Farm to Feet Damascus Crew Lightweight

Key Features:

• Fast moisture absorption
• Snug, comfortable fit
• US-made
• Cushioning – light

Designed specifically for thru-hiking enthusiasts, the Farm to Feet Damascus Crew Lightweight Socks offer an excellent combination of cushioning and breathability for demanding backpacking trips.

With padding in its high-wear sections, a seamless toe area for blister prevention and bulk minimization, as well as a snug performance fit, this sock is made to easily handle long backcountry journeys.

Moreover, the model comes accompanied by the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. Another great thing is that these socks are made from American-raised sheep – it’s a US-made product and a mighty fine one at that.

Out of all the socks on today’s market, the closest competitor would be the PHD Outdoor Light Crew by Smartwool – those socks cost a bit less while also having more Merino wool in their construction.

Still, Farm to Feet Damascus is undoubtedly a worthwhile purchase due to its high-quality design and a superb warranty.

PROS:

• A high-quality trekking sock made in the US
• Accompanied by a lifetime warranty
• Snug performance fit

CONS:

• Less Merino than PHD Outdoor Light Crew by Smartwool

Check Latest Price

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12. Darn Tough Mountaineering OTC

Key Features:

• Heavy cushioning
• Quick-drying & moisture-wicking
• Tight, secure fit
• Guaranteed for life

Here we have yet another quality sock from Darn Tough. To appreciate the Darn Tough Mountaineering OTC Sock, you don’t actually need to be a mountaineer.

This is a genuinely well-made sock that can be used for a number of activities – mountain climbing, snowshoeing, or simple cold-weather trekking. What’s more, a lot of people use this sock for shoulder-season hiking due to its superb cushioning (don’t forget to account for this additional thickness when you’re sizing your boots).

This model runs up to just below the wearer’s knees. You won’t have to worry about slipping, though – the fit is as tight and secure as it can be.

Most hiking enthusiasts will find these to be too hot for warm-weather trekking, but they can certainly be of great help when it comes to blister prevention on long-distance backcountry adventures. In summary, these hiking socks best fit people who want additional warmth and thickness in their shoulder season and/or winter socks.

PROS:

• An extremely well-made knee-high sock
• Heavy cushioning ensures top-notch warmth
• Breathable & moisture-wicking

CONS:

• Not for summer hikes

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That was my roundup of the market’s 12 most popular hiking socks. To help you choose the right pair for your needs, let’s quickly recap some of the factors you need to consider when shopping for a product of this type: 

Best Hiking Socks Buying Guide

Sock Material

This is a very important consideration when choosing hiking socks. For many people, the material of choice is Merino wool, and this is largely because it insulates well and has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Some are a mix of Merino and nylon plus either Lycra or elastane for added protection and durability.

If you want to know more about hiking sock materials, check out my post on Coolmax vs Merino wool.

Thickness/ Insulation of Hiking Socks

You will find different thicknesses in my roundup, and, therefore, different levels of insulation. I advise you to check the manufacturer’s specifications carefully before making your choice.

Sock Height

There’s a distinction here between the ‘crew’ style – this is the standard length above the ankle height that we think of with socks – and the lower ankle high designs, which are suitable for shoes rather than boots.

The Comfort of Hiking Socks

Some factors are a personal choice, with this being one of them; I am talking about the overall fit of the hiking socks you choose, as some are more defined than others.

For the highest level of comfort, look for “performance fit” in the description, as this distinguishes socks that are designed to be fitted to as high a degree as possible. Also, check for cushioning and seamless construction for added comfort.

Hiking Socks Durability

You want to buy quality socks that will last a long time. Remember they are going to come in for some arduous and prolonged use.

Obviously, socks that are thicker and feature reinforced sections will last a lot longer than paper-thin models designed for fast-and-light hikes.

Hiking Sock Warranties

These products have gotten a lot pricier in recent years. That is precisely why the warranty is now a vital part of the buying process.

As you’ve probably noticed in my reviews, Darn Tough is the unsurpassed leader in this department, with its unconditional lifetime guarantee.

How to Care for Hiking Socks

Hiking socks, like all footwear, will need the regular care that normal socks get.

Still, you’ll want to check the manufacturer specs for details on how best to wash and care for your socks, although most products of this type are machine-washable.

My Choice

You’ve probably noticed how, while analyzing over 20 different pairs of socks in this roundup, I kept coming back to one brand – Darn Tough.

There are good reasons for this, and while the other products mentioned are all of decent quality, there is no doubt this is the brand that offers some of the best hiking socks on the market. They also offer a lifetime guarantee, which is practically unheard of in this day and age.

The only thing I will say about Darn Tough socks is that you will pay more for them than for any of the other brands featured here – indeed you can have some of these for bargain prices – but this is a product where the economies of scale come very much into the picture.

For long trail walking on potentially arduous terrain, you want the very best in comfort and fit that you can get – socks that are comfortable to wear for long periods, that can be washed and used over and over again, and that are durable and warm. You get all of that with any of the Darn Tough socks on my list, so my suggestion is that you take your pick from those.

If you plan on buying more gear and clothing for your next outdoor adventure, read my post on the best outdoor clothing brands.