Socks for walking, running, climbing and riding

Outdoor Socks Guide: Happy Feet for Every Adventure

By Kenny Stocker 19 Mar 2024

Your feet carry you through every adventure. The right socks can mean the difference between happy trails and painful problems.

Quick start: outdoor socks guide

New to technical socks? Start with Understanding Sock Performance
Preventing blisters? Jump to The Layering Approach: Two-Sock System
Choosing materials? Go to Material Guide: Natural vs. Synthetic
Activity-specific needs? Skip to Activity-Specific Sock Selection

The foundation of comfort

You might not think much about socks until something goes wrong – hot spots developing into blisters, cold feet ruining a winter hike, or soggy socks making every step uncomfortable. But when you get your socks right, they become an invisible foundation of comfort that lets you focus on your adventure.

Technical outdoor socks do far more than regular socks: they manage moisture, regulate temperature, prevent blisters, and provide cushioning exactly where you need it.

Understanding sock performance

In warmer conditions, keeping feet cool and sweat-free is crucial, especially when cycling and running in the summer. Cycling socks feature mesh zones for enhanced breathability and moisture-wicking. The polyamide construction is highly durable and fast-drying, ensuring quick drainage and drying after encountering water. This design keeps your feet comfortable through varying weather conditions and minimises cushioning to transfer power efficiently into your drivetrain.

Running socks are designed to provide maximum comfort and durability for runners, especially those tackling high-intensity and warm environments. With breathable panels and an ankle-length cut, these socks excel at keeping feet cool and dry. The slight stretch ensures a close fit, reducing blisters and hot spots, making them ideal for all-day wear.

Comfort and warmth in cold weather

For hikers and mountaineers braving colder weather, thicker and warmer socks are essential. However, managing moisture is equally important to prevent blisters and maintain comfort. Lambswool provides soft, next-to-skin comfort and excellent moisture-wicking properties. The midweight construction perfectly balances insulation and breathability, making them suitable for 3-4 season use in the UK. These socks are built to last, with zoned polyamide reinforcement in high-wear areas, ensuring they withstand the rigours of multi-day trekking. Additionally, the natural odour-resistant qualities of wool keep your feet fresh over long distances.

The four jobs of great socks

Moisture Management: Keep feet dry by moving sweat away from skin
Temperature Control: Insulate when cold, breathe when warm
Blister Prevention: Reduce friction and hot spots
Comfort and Support: Cushion impact and support your feet

Why Regular Socks Fail Outdoors

Socks can quickly become odorous after extended use. Wool’s natural odour-resistant properties ensure our socks remain fresh, even after long days. This makes them ideal for multi-day trekking and other extended outdoor activities, enhancing comfort and hygiene.

Cotton Problems: Holds moisture, loses insulation when wet, causes blisters
Poor Fit: Bunching creates pressure points and discomfort
No Cushioning: Feet suffer on rough terrain
Quick Wear: Not built for the demands of outdoor activities

The layering approach: two-sock system

Why layer your socks?

The two-sock system dramatically reduces blisters by creating movement between layers rather than between your skin and sock.

Inner Layer (Liner Sock):

Thin, moisture-wicking material next to skin
Moves with your foot to prevent friction
Usually synthetic or merino wool
Creates dry environment next to skin

Outer Layer (Hiking Sock):

Provides cushioning and insulation
Moves with your boot, not your foot
Often wool blend for performance and durability
Handles the harsh environment inside your boot

When to use the two-sock system

Incorporating socks into a layering system enhances their effectiveness, providing a comprehensive approach to foot comfort and protection. By carefully selecting and layering socks, you can confidently tackle various outdoor activities, knowing your feet are well-supported, dry, and comfortable.

Essential for: Long hikes, heavy packs, new boots, blister-prone feet
Helpful for: Hot conditions, wet environments, multi-day adventures
Skip when: Short easy walks, perfectly fitted boots, time constraints

Material guide: natural vs. Synthetic

Merino wool: the natural performer

Merino blend socks are designed to amplify all the core benefits of merino wool. High wicking and breathability combined with Coolmax for enhanced performance and Thermolite for insulation create a sock suitable for various activities. Whether hiking from Easter to Halloween, cycling off-the-beaten-track, or for everyday use, the right socks provide durability, comfort, and protection. The polyamide-reinforced sole ensures they last mile after mile, making them reliable for everyday performance.

Moisture Management: Absorbs moisture while still feeling dry
Temperature Control: Warm when wet, cool when hot
Odor Resistance: Natural antimicrobial properties
Comfort: Soft, non-itchy, feels great all day
Durability: Lasts well with proper care

Best for: Multi-day adventures, cold weather, comfort seekers

Synthetic materials: engineered excellence

Superior Wicking: Moves moisture away fastest
Quick Drying: Back to dry comfort quickly
Durability: Resists wear and maintains shape
Easy Care: Machine wash and dry
Better Value: Excellent performance per pound

Best for: High-intensity activities, frequent washing, budget choices

Wool Blends: Best of Both Worlds

Many people suffer from allergies and skin sensitivities. Lambswool is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making it socks suitable for sensitive skin. This ensures comfort and safety, allowing more people to enjoy their outdoor adventures without worry.

Enhanced Durability: Synthetic fibers strengthen natural wool
Improved Performance: Combine natural and synthetic benefits
Better Value: Performance benefits at lower cost
Balanced Properties: Moisture management plus comfort

Best for: Most people’s needs, versatile performance

Activity-specific sock selection

Socks for day hiking and walking

Your needs: Comfort over varied terrain, blister prevention
Best choice: Midweight wool blend with cushioning
Key features: Moisture management, supportive construction, durability

For multi-day adventures

Lack of adequate cushioning can result in foot fatigue. Socks featuring anatomical cushioning zones in the heel, sole, and toe box, providing extra padding where it’s needed most reduce impact and enhances comfort during long hikes or intense activities.

Your needs: Comfort over extended periods, odour control
Best choice: Merino wool or high-quality blend
Key features: Natural odor resistance, moisture management, packability

For high-intensity activities

Your needs: Maximum moisture removal, quick drying
Best choice: Lightweight synthetic with excellent wicking
Key features: Rapid moisture transfer, minimal bulk, durability

for cold weather adventures

Maintaining comfort across varying temperatures is crucial. Lambswool and merino wool blends are natural insulators that trap and release heat efficiently. This design keeps your feet warm in cold weather and cool in warm conditions, adapting to your body’s needs.

Your needs: Warmth without bulk, moisture management
Best choice: Heavyweight merino or quality wool blend
Key features: Insulation properties, moisture handling, comfort in boots

For hot weather activities

Overheating and sweat buildup are common problems. Socks featuring breathable mesh weave and anatomical mesh zones in the upper sections deliver the most ventilation, keeping your feet cool and dry during high-intensity activities.

Your needs: Cooling, moisture management, sun protection
Best choice: Lightweight synthetic with mesh ventilation
Key features: Maximum breathability, quick drying, minimal material

Understanding sock construction

Cushioning levels

No Cushioning: Minimal bulk, maximum boot feel, best for precise fitting boots
Light Cushioning: Slight padding, good for well-fitted boots and day use
Medium Cushioning: Versatile comfort, good for most hiking and activities
Heavy Cushioning: Maximum comfort, best for rough terrain and heavy packs

Height options

Outdoor enthusiasts often need different socks for different activities. Our designs cater to various activities, from hiking and mountaineering to cycling and running. The versatile crew length works well with both shoes and boots, providing arch support and protection.

No Show: Below ankle, for low-cut shoes
Ankle: Just above shoe line, minimal coverage
Quarter: Mid-ankle height, some protection
Crew: Mid-calf height, most versatile for boots
Boot: Over-the-calf, maximum protection and warmth

Key construction features

Seams can cause blisters and hot spots, leading to discomfort. Our seamless construction eliminates these pressure points, ensuring a smooth, irritation-free fit that enhances overall comfort, even during prolonged wear.

Seamless Toe: Eliminates pressure points and hot spots
Reinforced Heel/Toe: Extra durability in high-wear areas
Arch Support: Reduces fatigue and improves comfort
Moisture Zones: Different fabrics where you need specific properties

fit and sizing essentials

Ill-fitting socks can cause discomfort and distractions. Socks with medium-length elastane provide the perfect amount of stretch. This ensures a snug fit that maintains its shape over time without becoming too tight or loose, offering consistent comfort.

Getting the right size

Too Small: Creates pressure, restricts circulation, causes blisters
Too Large: Bunching creates friction and hot spots
Just Right: Snug without being tight, no excess material

Fit indicators

Heel Placement: Should sit in heel cup without slipping
Toe Room: Slight wiggle room without excess material
Arch Support: Should match your foot’s arch contours
Overall Feel: Secure and comfortable without restriction

Seasonal Considerations

Developing a summer sock strategy

Excess moisture can lead to discomfort and blisters. Our socks incorporate wool’s natural moisture-wicking properties and Coolmax fibres, which transfer moisture away from the skin, keeping your feet dry and reducing the risk of blisters, regardless of activity level.

Priorities: Cooling, moisture management, quick drying
Materials: Lightweight synthetics, thin merino
Features: Mesh panels, minimal cushioning, breathable construction

Develop a winter sock strategy

Priorities: Warmth, moisture management, comfort in boots
Materials: Heavyweight merino, insulating blends
Features: Thermal properties, moisture wicking, durable construction

Transition season flexibility

Variable Conditions: Medium weight, adaptable materials
Layer Options: Ability to add liner socks when needed
Versatile Performance: Work across temperature ranges

Common sock problems and solutions

Blisters and hot spots

Causes: Poor fit, moisture, friction
Solutions: Two-sock system, proper fit, moisture-wicking materials

Cold feet

Causes: Poor insulation, moisture, circulation restriction
Solutions: Insulating materials, proper fit, moisture management

Smelly feet

Causes: Bacteria growth in moist conditions
Solutions: Antimicrobial materials, regular washing, foot hygiene

Rapid wear

Outdoor socks often wear out too quickly, especially in high-stress areas. To combat this, socks are reinforced with polyamide in the heel, toe, and sole, significantly extending their lifespan and ensuring they withstand the rigours of long treks and intense activities.

Causes: Poor quality, wrong socks for activity, poor fit
Solutions: Quality construction, activity-appropriate socks, proper fit

Care and maintenance

Washing guidelines

Merino Wool: Cold water, wool detergent, gentle cycle, air dry
Synthetic: Regular detergent, warm water, machine dry low heat
Blends: Follow most restrictive material guidelines

Extending sock life

Rotate Pairs: Don’t wear same socks daily
Proper Drying: Completely dry before next use
Storage: Clean, dry storage prevents odors and damage
Early Repairs: Fix small holes before they become large ones

Building your sock collection

The minimalist approach

Two pairs of versatile socks: Medium-weight wool blend
Plus liner socks: For challenging conditions
Covers: Most outdoor activities adequately

The activity-specific approach

Light socks: High-intensity and warm weather activities
Heavy socks: Cold weather and rough conditions
Liner socks: Blister prevention system
Covers: Optimal performance for different activities

The complete system

Multiple weights and materials
Activity and season-specific options
Backup pairs for extended adventures

Our sock philosophy

Yes, we have a sock philosophy. We design socks for real-world comfort:

Material Selection:

Sustainable and ethical sourcing where possible
Performance-appropriate materials for intended use
Durability for long-term satisfaction

Construction Focus:

Comfort through long days of activity
Strategic cushioning and support
Features that solve real problems

Optimise your fit:

Sizes that work for different foot shapes
Construction that maintains shape over time
Comfort for extended wear

Making your choice

What’s your primary activity? (Determines performance priorities)
What conditions do you face? (Influences material and weight choice)
How often will you wash them? (Natural vs synthetic considerations)
Any specific foot issues? (Blister-prone, cold feet, etc.)

The comfort test

The best outdoor socks are ones you don’t think about during your adventure – they’re just keeping your feet comfortable so you can focus on where you’re going, not how your feet feel.

Good socks last

Quality socks last years with proper care and can prevent problems that would ruin adventures.

Next up in our series The Complete Guide to Outdoor Clothing: Dexterity is the focus as we explore how gloves and mittens protect your extremities, we think you will fin it very handy.