Hikes are an excellent way to get some sun and exercise. But if you want to enjoy your time in the outdoors to the fullest, prepare. Pack up hiking socks. That’s one of the items you sincerely can’t do without when you walk up a mountain. If you’re shopping for pairs of hiking socks for the first time, here are a few considerations to check out when you shop around.
Height
How high should your socks be? This depends on several things. First off, how high are your shoes? If you’ve got high-cut boots on, it’s better to go for socks that are as high as your boots. Keep in mind that your socks protect you from abrasion with your footwear. Browse through different types of sock height options: the knee-high, crew, ankle, and no-show socks.
Cushioning
This basically refers to the thickness of the sock which usually determines how warm it will be. Finding the right cushioning, though, depends a great deal on your hiking destination. Where will you go? Will the weather be warm or cold? For cold weather conditions, you’ll need to pack along thicker socks. However, thicker socks often mean sweaty feet. You need to check out options to determine which brands provide you with the warmth you need and still keep your feet dry.
Type of Fabric
There are several types of fabric types. Explore options that include wool, polyester, and nylon along with silk and spandex. Out of all those fabrics, though, wool is a popular choice for hikers as the material regulates your temperature, preventing sweaty feet. It also offers wonderful cushioning, which keeps you comfortable throughout the hike. Most of the wool socks these days are also made of merino which doesn’t just wick moisture away but is also an itch-free version of wool, ensuring greater comfort for you. The synthetic materials that some of the brands for wool socks use also mean better durability and faster drying.
Fit
Don’t get socks that are too tight since that will pinch or create pressure points. By the time you sit down and remove your socks at the end of the day, you’ll be in a lot of discomfort. If they’re too big, on the other hand, they’ll just slide right down your calf or ankle. Loose socks could also rub and lead to a blister. Make sure the sock will fit your foot properly. Check the sizes on site just so you can be certain that you’re getting the right pair.
Source
Look for trusted online options. Check out the reviews. What do other people say? Is there a lot of positive feedback? What about negative ones? How soon can the socks get there? What are the buying terms and conditions? For instance, how do you process a return? If the shop has a complicated return process, that’s not a good sign. Also, if there are a ton of complaints lodged against the seller, spare yourself the time and trouble and look elsewhere.