Even among die-hard outdoor fans, socks are hardly a sexy topic. But good socks are essential for almost any type of adventure. This applies twice to hiking. With the fall season and cooler weather, it’s time to leave your everyday dress socks at home and shop for thicker medium-weight foot coverings. We have done the preparatory work for you to put together the best hiking socks for men in 2021.
Swiftwick Pursuit Hike Six socks
Merino wool is a miracle material. It is without a doubt the best material for hiking equipment. Case in point: Swiftwick’s Pursuit Hike Medium Weight socks. This latest version from Swiftwick combines merino wool (69%) with nylon, olefin and spandex for extra durability and quick moisture wicking. In addition, they are just stretchy enough to be comfortable on day hikes through to extended tours in the backcountry.
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks
As the name suggests, Darn Tough has a reputation among avid hikers for its rock-solid reliability. The brand fielded its flagship footwear on the Vermont Trail, one of the most challenging long-distance trails in the United States. The Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks are thick, well padded and stretchy in the right places.
Injinji Trail medium weight mini crew socks
Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew Socks are specially designed for running on uneven terrain. The unique design encloses individual toes for a versatile, protective fit that works in any shoe. The no-show height reaches just above the ankle, making them perfect for trail running. The medium cushioning provides sufficient warmth and protection both in autumn and in spring.
Sockwell Circulator compression stockings
More and more hikers are turning to compression stockings. Many believe they are superior to ordinary hiking socks, especially for summit socks and extended days on the trail. Sockwell’s Circulator Compression Socks are designed for increased blood flow, better lower leg support and faster recovery times at the end of the day.
Smartwool Run Mid Crew socks for cold weather
Smartwool has become synonymous with premium merino clothing, including some of the best men’s socks. The Run Cold Weather Mid Crew Socks are designed for hiking and running in late fall, even early winter. These merino wool socks dry quickly, don’t smell and last forever. We also appreciate Smartwool’s Virtual Seamless toe construction for added comfort and bladder protection.
Wrightsock Endurance Crew socks
Wrightstock has developed a unique solution for people with blistered feet. The two-layer socks feature an ultra-thin lining that prevents clumping, absorbs friction and wicks away moisture, and an outer layer with just the right amount of cushioning and protection for trail days in late summer and early fall.
Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight Crew Merino Wool Socks
The Damascus Lightweight Crew Merino Wool Socks from Farm to Feet are among the most versatile hiking socks for men. The merino wool construction ensures that you are comfortable on all days of the trail except the hottest days. The calf-high design goes equally well with hiking boots and ankle-high shoes. Plus, they’re comfortable, breathable, and quick-drying – all for around $ 20.
Thorlos hiking socks with medium padding
Thorlos Moderate Cushion Crew hiking socks are versatile enough for almost any outdoor adventure, from hiking to canyoning to trail running. The unique construction combines the comfort, durability and the quickly absorbing properties of PrimaLoft merino wool with the odor and fungus-inhibiting advantages of CuTEC copper yarns.
REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade medium-weight hiking socks with crew
REI Co-op makes some of the best mid-range outdoor gear. The Coolmax EcoMade Midweight Hiking Crew Socks are no exception as they are breathable, affordable, and well padded for year-round adventures. In addition, the environmentally friendly construction is based on yarn from recycled water bottles.
Balega hidden comfort socks
The Hidden Comfort Socks from Balega are among the best for autumn runners who value cushioning and performance more than warmth. These no-show socks feature a minimalist design with the perfect amount of protective padding in all the right places, including the tips of the toes. Seamless toes also ensure blister-free all-day comfort.
Wigwam hiking outdoor sock
The hiking outdoor socks from Wigwam are ideal for hiking in any weather. The synthetic materials offer extreme durability, dry quickly and are comfortable on almost any terrain. Where these hiking socks stand out, however, the mostly plastic fabrics are faster than their traditional natural alternatives in wet weather.
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