The Best Socks for Hiking in Summer in 2023
Summer is the perfect time to hit the trails and explore the great outdoors. But as the temperature rises, so does the risk of sweaty feet and blisters. To make your hiking experience more enjoyable, it’s important to choose the best socks for hiking in summer.
Whether you’re tackling massive hikes like the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail, or you’re just enjoying some easy day hikes where you live, you know you can keep your feet cool and comfortable during warm weather when you wear these best hiking socks for summer.
Plus, once you’re done checking out these socks, don’t forget to take a look at our post on how to stay cool when you’re hiking in the heat. You’ll learn a variety of useful and practical tips to make sure you stay cool and safe on those summer hikes.
1. Darn Tough Socks
Darn Tough makes some of the best all-around hiking socks no matter what season you’re hitting the trail. So it should come as no surprise that they make the best socks for hiking in the summer.
Your top option is the Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock. It’s available in men’s sizes and women’s sizes.
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This comfortable and lightweight hiking sock pulls moisture away from your skin to help prevent sweaty feet, which also helps you prevent blisters when you’re hiking. The vegan synthetic fibers also dry fast.
Like every other Darn Tough sock, these have True Seamless Toe technology so you don’t have any discomfort when you’re wearing them. The performance fit also means no slipping or bunching no matter how much you’re scrambling and moving on your hike.
Plus, you can feel good knowing Darn Tough’s socks come with an unconditional lifetime guarantee. If these socks don’t last, you can return them for another pair.
2. Patagonia
These durable Hemp Quarter Socks from Patagonia are just as strong as they are comfortable. They’re made from a hardworking blend of hemp, recycled cotton, recycled polyester, and nylon.
These fabrics are so tough they can stand up to daily wear, yet they’re also soft and breathable enough to keep your feet cool in warmer weather. Plus, they can wick moisture away from your skin to help prevent wet feet and painful blisters.
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Not only does hemp cultivation have a very low impact on the environment, but these natural fibers are also odor-resistant and can reduce smells even after heavy use.
3. Stio
In addition to having some good hiking socks for those cold weather hikes, Stio also has some of the best summer hiking socks. This All-Terrain Run Sock has a merino wool and nylon blend that keeps feet dry while naturally resisting odor — even on those high-mileage days.
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They feature a cushioned footbed that reduces impact and absorbs shock, as well as a seamless toe that minimizes friction and bulk. You’ll also appreciate the reinforced construction that increases the life and durability of the sock.
4. Wrightsock
All of the socks from Wrightsock are proudly made in the United States. The company offers a variety of styles and sizes for women and men. No matter which socks you choose, you know you’ll finish your hike with no blisters thanks to their range of anti-blister features.
If you’re interested in an outstanding sock for hiking in summer, you can’t beat the Wrightsock Coolmesh II. This sock is made with 70% recycled polyester, 26% nylon, and 4% Lycra.
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These breathable and lightweight socks have a mesh panel to help enhance airflow and keep your feet cool so you can wear them comfortably all day. They also have moisture-wicking technology and they dry quickly, so they’re ready to be worn on your adventures the next morning.
Plus, this sock has stabilized support and double-layer construction to ensure your feet don’t get tired and fatigued during your hike.
In addition to the quarter-length style, the Coolmesh II is also available in low cut, ankle, and crew cut styles, so you can easily find something that offers the perfect length and fit.
5. Smartwool
Smartwool has an excellent variety of good hiking socks in all types of styles for men, women, and kids. This includes everything from crew socks and low profile ankle socks to knee-high socks.
Smartwool socks are made with a blend of merino wool fibers and nylon to provide softness and durability. This blend wicks moisture away and helps regulate body temperature for a more comfortable summer hike.
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They have a light cushion on the entire bottom to provide just enough comfort for long treks without making it too tight or crowded in your hiking boot. It also has a flat knit seam at the toe for added comfort.
6. Icebreaker
Icebreaker believes there’s a better, more natural way to make comfortable clothing that doesn’t involve using plastic. Instead, they use merino wool, including merino wool socks.
The Icebreaker Hike + is an excellent option for hiking in hot weather. It’s available in different colors in both men’s sizes and women’s sizes.
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This sock is made with a blend of 63% merino wool, 34% nylon, and 3% Lycra elastane. They’re engineered to keep you comfortable with heat-releasing designs to help you stay cool.
They have a unique left and right anatomical shaped fit for maximum comfort. Plus, since they’re made with lightweight merino wool, they’re naturally odor free.
7. Wigwam
Wigwam has proudly made its socks in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, since 1905. With a history like that, you know you can find a great pair of hiking socks from this company.
The Wigwam Merino Comfort Hiker Sock is a great choice for summer hikes. It’s constructed with a blend of 62% merino wool, 34% nylon, 2% polyester, and 2% spandex.
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You know you’ll always be comfortable when you’re wearing this sock because it doesn’t itch and it doesn’t shrink after you wash it. It also has dense cushioning in several important areas — like the shins and the entire sole — to provide even more comfort.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Socks for Hiking in Summer
When you’re shopping for the best socks for hiking in summer, knowing what to look for can help you find the right pair of new socks. Here are some important attributes and features to keep in mind.
Material
When it comes to hiking socks, the material is important. You want socks that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. Look for socks made from natural materials like merino wool or bamboo, as well as synthetic materials like polyester or nylon.
Color
While color may not seem like a big deal, it can actually be important when it comes to hiking socks. Lighter colors like white or beige can help reflect heat and keep your feet cool in the sun.
Thickness
The thickness of your socks can affect how comfortable your feet are on the trail. In summer, you’ll want to opt for thinner socks that won’t make your feet too hot. However, make sure they’re thick enough to provide cushioning in the right places and prevent blisters.
Arch Support and Cushioning
Good arch support and cushioning are important for any hiking sock. Look for socks that offer extra padding in high-impact areas like the heel and ball of the foot. Additionally, socks with arch support can help prevent foot fatigue and discomfort on longer hikes.
Seamless Toe Design
Seams in socks can rub against your toes and cause irritation or blisters. Look for socks with a seamless toe design to prevent this issue.
Length and Fit
The length and fit of your socks can affect your comfort level on the trail. For summer hiking, you may want to choose ankle socks, low-cut socks, or no-show socks. Make sure the socks have a snug fit without being too tight or too loose.
Anti-Odor and Anti-Bacterial Properties
After long days of hiking, your socks can start to smell. Look for socks with anti-odor and anti-bacterial properties to help keep your feet fresh and clean.
Durability
Hiking can be tough on your socks, so it’s important to choose socks that are durable. Look for socks with reinforced heels and toes, as well as a strong overall construction.
Brand Reputation
Choosing socks from a reputable brand can give you peace of mind when it comes to quality and performance. Do your research and read reviews to find the best brands for hiking socks.
Consider brands that offer a lifetime warranty or guarantee. This means you know the brand stands behind the product it makes.
Enjoy Warm Weather Hikes With the Best Socks for Hiking in Summer
Hiking in warm weather presents several unique challenges, like keeping your feet cool and dry so you stay comfortable and don’t develop blisters. Fortunately, that’s a lot easier with the right socks.
Thanks to this list of the best socks for hiking in summer, you can easily find good pair of socks that can keep you cool and comfortable during all of your outdoor adventures.
More Helpful Hiking Tips
Did you enjoy learning more about the best socks for hiking in summer? Are you interested in discovering even more tips that can help you have a great time on your hiking adventures? Then please be sure to take a look at some of our other popular posts:
- Less-Crowded Alternatives to the Most Popular U.S. National Parks
- Outstanding Hiking Pants for Men
- The Best Hydration Packs to Help You Easily Drink More Water
- 10 Important Tips Every Beginner Hiker Should Know
