When hiking, the right pair of socks can make all the difference. Whether you’re conquering a mountain trail or enjoying a leisurely stroll through the woods, the socks you wear play a crucial role in your comfort, protection, and overall hiking experience. From blister prevention to support and moisture-wicking properties, the best hiking socks are essential for any outdoor adventure.
But with so many options available online, choosing the perfect pair of hiking socks can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best hiking socks you can buy in 2025 that are suitable for different hiking styles, seasons, and foot needs. These socks combine performance, durability, and comfort to keep your feet happy from the beginning to the end of your hike.
1. Darn Tough Merino Wool Hiker Boot Sock Full Cushion
Darn Tough has built a solid reputation in the hiking gear world, and their Merino Wool Hiker Boot Sock is a standout. Made from a blend of merino wool, nylon, and lycra spandex, these socks offer excellent moisture-wicking properties, breathability, and warmth, making them perfect for a variety of hiking conditions. The fully cushioned design provides extra support and comfort, while the merino wool regulates temperature and keeps your feet warm in both warm and cold conditions.
What sets Darn Tough apart is their lifetime warranty, so you can have your socks replaced when they wear out. These socks are known for their durability and wear resistance.
2. Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Crew Socks
Smartwool is another trusted brand in the hiking community, and their PhD Outdoor Light Crew Socks are a great choice for hikers who need socks that can handle a variety of conditions. These socks feature a lightweight, breathable design, ideal for warm weather hikes or those who prefer less bulky socks. The merino wool blend offers excellent moisture wicking and odor control, while the targeted padding provides support without adding extra bulk.
Smartwool’s PhD Outdoor Light Crew Socks are designed to stay in place even during intense movement, so you can hike without having to constantly adjust your socks.
3. Bombas Merino Wool Hiking Socks
Bombas has earned a reputation for making some of the most comfortable socks on the market, and their merino wool hiking socks live up to that reputation. Made from a blend of merino wool, nylon, and spandex, these socks are soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking. The merino wool helps regulate temperature, keeping your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Featuring targeted arch support and a seamless toe to reduce friction and prevent blisters, the Bombas Merino Wool Hiking Socks are perfect for casual hikers and more experienced adventurers looking for comfort and performance on their trails.
4. REI Co-op Merino Wool Hiking Socks
REI Co-op offers fantastic value with its Merino Wool hiking socks, which are designed for versatility and comfort. Made from a blend of Merino wool, nylon and spandex, these socks offer moisture-wicking properties and breathability. The rib-knit construction and elastic arch support ensure a comfortable fit, while the padding in key areas provides support during long hikes.
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a longer, more challenging hike, these socks offer great performance at an affordable price. REI Co-op Merino Wool Hiking Socks are a great choice for hikers looking for reliable socks without breaking the bank.
5. Icebreaker Hike+ Light Crew Socks
The Hike+ Light Crew Socks from Icebreaker are made from merino wool, nylon, and spandex, making them lightweight and breathable while providing a good balance of warmth and moisture management. The thin yet supportive design is ideal for warm weather hikes, while the merino wool ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout the trip.
These socks are also naturally odor-resistant, so you can wear them on multi-day hikes without worrying about unpleasant odors. The Icebreaker Hike+ Light Crew Socks also come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect pair for your hiking needs.
6. Thorlos Experia XCCU Hiking Socks
For hikers who need a high-performance sock for speed and comfort, the Experia XCCU Hiking Socks from Thorlos are a great option. Made from a blend of polyester, nylon and spandex, these socks offer excellent moisture-wicking properties and a comfortable, breathable fit. The unique cushioning system on these socks provides protection in key areas like the heel and toes, while the arch support reduces fatigue on long hikes.
The Experia XCCU hiking socks are perfect for those who prefer lightweight socks with just the right amount of cushioning and support.
7. Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight Crew Socks
The Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight Crew Socks are the go-to for those who prefer socks that offer a perfect combination of comfort and performance. Made from 100% American Merino wool, these socks are breathable, moisture-wicking and odor-resistant. The seamless toe and cushioned sole provide extra comfort and reduce friction, preventing blisters and pressure points.
With their stylish design and high-performance features, the Damascus Lightweight Crew Socks are ideal for casual and serious hikers looking for reliable socks for all types of terrain.
8. Wrightsock CoolMesh II Hiking Socks
The Wrightsock CoolMesh II Hiking Socks are designed for breathability and moisture management. These socks have a double-layer construction that helps prevent blisters by reducing friction. The inner layer wicks moisture away from your feet while the outer layer keeps your feet dry, ensuring all-day comfort.
Made from a combination of nylon, polyester, and spandex, the CoolMesh II hiking socks offer superior breathability, cushioning, and support. They’re perfect for warm-weather hikes or anyone who tends to get hot, sweaty feet on long hikes.
9. Columbia Men's Merino Wool Hiking Socks
Columbia is known for making durable, high-quality outdoor gear, and their men’s merino wool hiking socks are no exception. Made from a blend of merino wool and synthetic fibers, these socks offer a perfect balance of warmth, moisture wicking, and breathability. Cushioning throughout the footbed ensures comfort on long hikes, while arch support helps reduce foot fatigue.
Columbia’s Merino Wool Hiking Socks are versatile and ideal for hiking in a range of temperatures. They also come in a variety of sizes, making them a great option for hikers who need extra support and comfort.
10. Hanes Comfort Cool Hiking Socks
For those on a budget, the Hanes Comfort Cool Hiking Socks are an affordable yet reliable option. Made from a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, these socks offer breathability, cushioning, and moisture-wicking properties. While they may not have the same high-performance features as more expensive options, they still offer enough comfort and support for casual hikers.
These socks are perfect for anyone who needs something comfortable for shorter hikes or day trips, but still wants the benefits of a moisture-wicking, breathable sock.
Conclusion
When hiking, the right socks are just as important as the perfect pair of boots. Hiking socks not only provide comfort and support, but also help keep your feet dry, reduce the risk of blisters, and regulate temperature. The socks on this list represent some of the best options available online in 2025, and each offers unique features that are suited to different hiking needs.
Whether you’re hiking in warm or cold weather, looking for lightweight or cushioned socks, or looking for ways toIf you’re looking for a way to keep your feet dry on long hikes, there’s a perfect pair of socks for you. Investing in quality hiking socks is a small step that can greatly improve your overall hiking experience.
