Best 10 Backpacking Socks Of 2024

It is very important to keep our feet very comfortable while hiking or backpacking. It is very easy to get blisters, wounds and foot injuries while hiking for lots of miles. One of the best ways to protect our feet is to get very comfortable backpacking socks. The extra cushioning, moisture wicking properties and anti blister properties of backpacking socks really help protect our feet while we are backpacking or hiking. I have listed some amazing backpacking socks down below that you should take a look at.

Best Backpacking Socks – Quick Chart

How To Choose A Pair Of Backpacking Socks

Types Of Outdoor Socks

Blister Resist Socks

Blister resist socks are often made for people that run or jog all the time. There is a high chance of blisters forming on some parts of the feet if people run every day or almost every day. Blister resist socks prevent this from happening. They prevent friction from happening while keeping the feet more comfortable.

Moisture Wicking Socks

There are a lot of socks with moisture wicking capabilities. They allow sweat to evaporate and wicks away moisture from the feet. This is great and will keep the feet rather dry. These socks also prevent odor from getting trapped. So if you have problems with odor, make sure to get moisture wicking socks.

Sock Liners

Sock liners are often used to prevent blisters as well. People will often wear the sock liner then wear socks on top of it. Sock liners prevent friction well and they conform to the feet’s shape which makes them very comfortable to wear.

Warm Socks

Warm socks are great at night whenever you are car camping or backpacking. Warm socks often heat up the toes and provide warmth during the night so that the feet are very comfortable. The feet often get cold at night whenever people are sleeping in the outdoors. Even if you are inside a sleeping bag or using a blanket, the feet tends to get cold at night. It is best to use warm socks to keep them very comfortable.

Types Of Material Used In A Lot Of Socks

Merino Wool

Merino wool has been the most popular choice for the material for hiking socks. Merino wool offers a lot of benefits like moisture wicking, blister resist, antimicrobial, breathable, comfort and more. This material is also very affordable which allows people to get a lot of socks for a very good price.

Acrylic

Acryllic is a great material that provides warmth. This is a wool-like polymer. Acrylic socks can maintain their elastic shape even after getting pulled or stretched. They also wick away sweat and moisture.

Cotton

Cotton is most likely the cheapest material for socks but they are not very good for hiking or backpacking. They absorb too much water and they tend to retain that water for a long period of time. This is not good and can cause blisters and odors to happen. Cotton is not very good for sports and for the outdoor.

Nylon

Nylon is very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. There are a lot of socks that incorporate nylon into the material. The socks will be a blend of a main material like wool then have some nylon mixed in for added support and durability.

Elastane, Spandex, or Lycra

These materials are known for their durability as well. They have extreme resistance to stretching and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. There are a lot of socks that incorporate a little bit of these materials into the final build.

Advantages Of Merino Wool

I tend to prefer merino wool for my backpacking socks. Here are a couple of reasons why.

Moisture Wicking

Merino wool is great at wicking away moisture. Sweat does not get trapped inside the socks but it is rather thrown away to the air in a form of evaporation. So if your feet sweat a lot or you are doing an activity that makes your feet sweat a lot then using merino wool socks will be good for you.

Blister Resist

Merino wool socks can prevent blisters from happening. This is great for us hikers that walk a lot of miles in different terrain. There is a high chance that hikers will get blisters on their feet if they use socks that are not very good. Merino wool prevents blisters from happening so that hikers can walk for lots of miles without any problems.

Insulation

Merino wool traps heat inside the socks which makes these socks great for the cold weather or during Fall and winter. You will want to keep your feet comfortable while hiking for a lot of miles. Sometimes, when it is very cold outside, you will want that extra insulation that merino socks offer.

Breathable

Merino wool socks are breathable. They allow air to move around the feet and this allows the sweat to evaporate. They allow air to move in and out of their membrane which keeps the feet very comfortable. This is a great way to remove sweat as well.

Lightweight

Merino wool socks are not very heavy compared to others. You are not going to be carrying a lot of weight just by putting them on while hiking or backpacking. This will allow the user to save energy and not carry useless weight as well.

Easy To Wash

Merino wool socks often do not need special instructions to wash them. I often just put mine in a washing machine. They are very easy to clean and can handle water well.

Antimicrobial

Merino wool socks are also antimicrobial. If you are having problems with odor, Athlete’s foot and other problems then getting merino wool socks would be ideal. They take away odor and have antimicrobial properties.

Backpacking Features To Consider

Comfort

Outdoor socks have to be comfortable unless you like blisters or injuries. A comfortable foot is a happy foot. We need to make our feet as happy as possible. You are going to be walking for lots of miles. Having comfortable socks can definitely help. Comfortable socks provide lots of support and injury protection as well.

Protection

The protection of the sock matters. There are lots of good socks that offer blister protection and some sort of friction protection. The socks that you are considering of buying should be able to protect your feet from damage. A good pair of socks will do that. So always check if the socks that you are going to get can offer you the protection that you want.

Moisture Wicking

Innovative designs and blend of materials can give the socks moisture wicking capabilities. This is great if you are having problems with odor and athletes foot. A good pair of socks with moisture wicking capabilities will keep your feet dry and handle unpleasant odor from sweat. There are lots of socks that do not have this capability but most socks with merino wool can.

Durability

The durability of the socks should be considered. I am suggesting some very affordable socks. However, I know that they are durable and they last for a long time. You don’t want socks that break apart easily. You are just going to waste a lot of money. So the socks that you are going to get should be durable. Some socks are just not that good and some are very fragile.

Price

There are times when you have to pay more for better materials and design. But sometimes you just pay for the brand name. I highly recommend considering the price. I listed some very good ones that are affordable also. There are just some very expensive ones that are terrible also. Sometimes I just feel that I wasted my money buying them.

Best Backpacking Socks

Here are some amazing backpacking socks that I have grown to love. These are very affordable and they work well also. They last for a long time and they are very durable. All product links are affiliate links.

1. Alvada 80% Merino Wool Hiking Socks

Technical Specs
How Many: 3 pairs
Material: 80% Merino Wool, 15% Polyester, 4% Nylon, 1% Spandex
Thickness: Medium Thickness
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: Wool hiking socks come blended with nylon to promote a comfortable, itch free experience, shaped cushioning in their foot bed to promise a more comfortable trek up the mountain

Short Review: I am often amazed mainly because this set of backpacking socks continue to satisfy a number of people. This offer a shaped cushioning in their footbed to promise a more comfortable trek up the mountain. This wool hiking socks come blended with nylon to promote a comfortable, itch free experience. The selling price is extremely budget friendly and it is the reason I recommend this item to a lot of men and women. I really like that this is extremely durable while having a very low price. If you need lots of backpacking socks but don’t want to pay a lot then this is a great choice. Very comfortable to wear and wicks moisture away. The construction is very well made and the socks should last for a long time. I wish all high quality socks are as affordable as this one.

2. Kirkland Signature Men’s Outdoor Trail Sock

Technical Specs
How Many: 4 pairs
Material: Merino wool
Thickness: Lightweight
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: Cushioned throughout and reinforced from heel to toe for maximum comfort and durability, Fibers in foot bottom wick moisture and maintain cushion, vented panels in foot bottom for breathability

Short Review: I have been testing a great deal of backpacking socks, and this is excellent. This features cushioned throughout and reinforced from heel to toe for maximum comfort and durability and vented panels in foot bottom for breathability. This comes with smooth toe seam for added comfort and better fit. This can protect the feet and keep them very comfortable even if you are walking lots of miles. I have no problems with this set. I wasn’t expecting much from this however I was really amazed when it worked incredibly well. This is very comfortable and made out of high quality materials. A great item to have if you love hiking and this is also very durable. This is one of the best items I have ever tried which is the reason why I really like that this is very sturdy and works well.

3. Smartwool mens Hike Light Crew

Technical Specs
How Many: 4 pairs
Material: 71% Merino Wool ,21% Nylon, 7% Poly, 1% Spandex
Thickness: Medium Thickness
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: Amazing and very high quality, company makes high quality items, one of the best and high quality item out there

Short Review: This set of merino socks is amazing and I know you will love this set when you try it. This has a flat knit toe seam for less bulk and light cushioning. The material helps with temperature and moisture management. I would not worry about the price too much given that this is very affordable or inexpensive. The comfort that this brings to our feet is amazing. One of the best items to have for hiking purposes especially if you are going to hike for a lot of miles. I am so happy with this item. It truly is remarkable. There exists a possibility that the selling price will increase mainly because a great deal of people are purchasing this item.

4. PEOPLE SOCKS 71% Merino Wool Ankle Socks

Technical Specs
How Many: 4 pairs
Material: 71% Merino wool ,21% Nylon, 7% Poly,1% Spandex
Thickness: Medium Thickness
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: High quality item, designed to be outdoor friendly, made by an amazing company

Short Review: We are constantly looking for some incredible backpacking socks like this set. This is constructed out of the finest quality Australian Merino Wool and knitted in the USA. The set is cushioned throughout and reinforced from heel to toe for maximum comfort and durability. This works well and this is pretty extraordinary as well. I will tell you that this is among the best because of the low price tag and comfort that this brings to the feet. This outdoor item is good to have and this is very high quality as well. The thing is that there is not a lot to say aside from you will really like this item just like a lot of people. Order was processed quickly. This company has a large amount of different socks as well.

5. Darn Tough mens Hiker Merino Wool Micro Crew Socks

Technical Specs
How Many: 1 pair
Material: 63% Merino Wool 35% Nylon 2% Lycra Spandex
Thickness: Moderate Cushioning
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: Maximum comfort and protection for the day hikes or extended backpacking in warmer weather conditions, warm and extremely comfortable choice when conditions demand it, true seamless technology allows for an undetectable seam fusion for an ultra-smooth, invisible feel

Short Review: I am often impressed due to the fact this pair of high quality socks is really wonderful. This pulls moisture away from skin and this is fast drying. This features the ultimate fiber for breathability and comfort in all conditions. This offers no slipping, no bunching, and no blisters. How rare is it to be blown away with an item? This is one of the greatest I have ever owned. The positive consumer feedback of this item is one of the factors why lots of people are buying it. This is rather comfortable and I like the way this feels on my feet. Multi-purpose pair of socks that makes hiking a lot easier.

6. KAVANYISO Men’s Thermal Merino Wool Hiking Socks

Technical Specs
How Many: 4 Pairs
Material: Merino wool, nylon, spandex
Thickness: Medium Thickness
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: Merino wool hiking socks can be the perfect present for hikers, outdoor walkers, and who love outdoor adventures reinforced heel and toe to ensure maximum comfort and protection, keeping your feet enjoyably-dry, yet warm and protected from your intensive activities

Short Review: Among the finest things that you can obtain is this set of backpacking socks. This features thickened loops inside, these outdoor hiking socks are super breathable and moisture wicking, keeping your feet dry, warm and comfortable every day. Comes with reinforcement design in heel and toe areas, these outdoor thermal socks are super wear resistant. This works very well and that is why I find this to be one of the most gratifying items that I have ever purchased. I know that you will love this item a lot also. This is very comfortable and will give your feet the protection that it deserves. There is not a great deal to point out with the exception of this is very good and a great set of socks if you love to hike for lots of miles. Comfortable and wicks moisture away plus very affordable.

7. DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Cushioned Hiking Socks

Technical Specs
How Many: 3 pairs
Material: Merino Wool
Thickness: Thick
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: Ventilation mesh lanes wick away sweat, increasing breathability while promoting odor control, hiking and outdoor socks make the perfect gift,  great for hiking, trekking, outdoor adventures

Short Review: I love this set of socks for the outdoors which is why I am promoting it to you. This features thermoregulating merino wool and sweat-wicking ventilation lanes ensure that your feet stay fresh, dry and comfortable in any weather. The hiking socks feature targeted cushioning to reduce the risk of blisters and sore feet. This is extremely budget friendly. This is a beautiful item. It is amazing that this is very comfortable and the material feels good. Amazing item for the outdoors and makes hiking lots of miles a little bit easier. I am glad that this is also very durable due to the fact making use of this has been an amazing experience.

8. Debra Weitzner Merino Wool Thermal Socks For Men and Women

Technical Specs
How Many: 3 pack
Material: 38% merino wool plus other fibers
Thickness: Medium Thickness
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: innovative thermal socks are crafted from 38% merino wool blended with a unique collection of various fibers, adjust to the external conditions, keeping you toasty warm when it’s cold out and cool when it’s hot, moisture wicking, absorbing condensation

Short Review: If you would like something extraordinary then this set of outdoor performance socks meets your needs. This is naturally moisture wicking, absorbing condensation and the fine blend of other fabrics in these crew socks ensures the moisture evaporates. The set keeps feet toasty warm when it’s cold out and cool when it’s hot. The company who made this item is very good. I had no difficulties with this item. It looks terrific and the price tag is even better. Very comfortable socks that are perfect if you are hiking or backpacking for a long weekend. Hiking is a lot easier if your feet are very comfortable. This has plenty of features and the price is extremely inexpensive. It can also protect the feet and keep them comfortable.

9. FUN TOES Men’s Merino Wool Socks

Technical Specs
How Many: 6 pairs
Material: Merino Wool
Thickness: Medium Thick
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: Strong enough to last through hundreds of wears, feeling warm on the coldest of days, socks are still lightweight and stretchy, soft feel that won’t leave your feet sweaty and itchy

Short Review: The way I view it is that this set of hiking socks is a very good deal. This has a soft feel that won’t leave your feet sweaty and itchy; They also have odor-fighting properties to keep your feet fresh. The wool socks will keep you feeling warm on the coldest of days, but the socks are still lightweight and stretchy for a comfy fit. The design made this item extremely comfortable. Merino wool has always been one of the best materials when it comes to socks. Having a great item like this is great for hiking and this has lots of positive customer testimonials. I am really confident that this item that I recommend is very durable and will last for a long time.

10. MERIWOOL Merino Wool Hiking Socks

Technical Specs
How Many: 3 packs
Material: 75% Merino wool blend
Thickness: Medium Thick
Comfortable: Yes
Feature Summary: Feet cozy and warm in winter, these thermal boot socks won’t weigh you down or let your feet overheat, natural wicking and odor-resistant properties keep you dry and comfortable, breathable fabric and absorbs moisture

Short Review: One important thing I really like in regards to this pair of merino socks is that this is pretty good. This is constructed out of  durable nylon that reduces wear and tear while 10% is composed of stretchable elastic that keeps your socks from loosening. This features breathable insulation that keeps feet comfortable in cold weather. This item that I recommend is very durable. I love that the company made this item very light and very comfortable. This is great for hiking and performs very well plus the material feels very high quality. You should definitely take into consideration acquiring this item mainly because this can give your feet the comfort that it needs. This particular item has a lot of positive customer feedback as well.