Top 11 Best Sock Brands On The Market For Hikers
Though socks may not be the first thing on the mind of many hikers, they are relevant clothing items to consider when hiking. This particularly true on longer hikes. Having a few pairs of quality socks can keep your feet healthy during your hikes and make a remarkable difference in the overall enjoyment of the activity.
When it comes to choosing the best socks for your hikes, there are plenty of factors to consider: price, fit, material, warmth, breathability, absorptivity, and durability all come to mind. Though the brand name is far from the most important factor, knowing the top hiking sock brands will surely help you in your search for your first or next tarp.
With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to find precisely what would work best for your needs and wants. In this article, we’ll share our take on the top hiking sock brands to look out for.
Though obviously subjective and prone to biases, we’ve done our best to list out these brands based on the following metrics (in no particular order):
- Company reputation
- Variety of hiking socks
- Performance of the hiking socks (in all climates)
- Longevity of the hiking socks
- Company must currently be in operation
With all that being said, let’s list out the brands.
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The top 11 best hiking sock brands on the market
- Darn Tough
- Smartwool
- WrightSock
- Balega
- SockWell
- Farm To Feet
- REI Co-op
- Icebreaker
- Stance
- Injinji
- Wigwam
Let’s get into each of these brands in greater detail and explain why they belong in the top 11 best hiking sock brands. I’ll share their country of origin, a bit of history, examples of high-end, popular and/or budget-friendly sock options, and a link to their official website.
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Darn Tough
Perhaps, the best way to start describing the groundbreaking products made by this sock company is to say that they guarantee their socks for life. They encourage any Darn Tough customer to fill out an online form, send them any broken socks, and get a new pair in the mail regardless of how long they had them; no receipt or reason is needed.
Beyond the fact they are guaranteed for life, they are also knit for perfection from merino wool that can withstand encounters with harsh terrains, flames, and time. Moreover, Darn Tough socks became the first option for the US Military forces due to their strength and endurance.
Today, the company is still family-owned, although it has grown exponentially to employ over 200 people.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Mountaineering Over-The-Calf Heavyweight Hiking Sock
These Merino-wool wonders are performance-fit and streamlined to provide maximum warmth with no hassles. If you’re heading toward cold territory, you need a pair of these socks.
Most popular hiking sock option: Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock
These fast-drying, performance-fit, fine-gauge knitting socks are the best choice for those looking for a fit that never rests, ultra-durability, and ultimate comfort.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Light Hiker No Show Lightweight Hiking Sock
Light Hiker No Show Lightweight Hiking Socks are perfect for trail-running sneakers. These socks feature merino wool, moisture-wicking and a breathable mesh.
Darn Tough was founded in 1978 by Marc Cabot. The company’s headquarters are in Northfield, Vermont, USA.
Official website: darntough.com
Smartwool
Smartwool is a brand deeply connected with protecting the environment as well as making some of the best socks in the market. To begin with, they are in a ten-year plan to achieve zero emissions for 2030 and have an ongoing recycling program to reduce their impact on the environment. For every person who loves the outdoors, keeping it as beautiful, lush, and diverse is as important as it is for Smartwool.
Their eco-friendly products became well-known in the hiking world because they utilize the highest-grade merino wool in the market and continuous innovation to deliver perfect-fitting, highly durable, visually appealing socks that can last for a lifetime. If you are aiming for the best, Smartwool needs to be on your list.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Hike Light Cushion Mid Crew Socks
Featuring a light cushion throughout the bottom of the foot, these socks are proudly made in the USA. They are made from top-notch merino wool and last a lifetime, thanks to the Indestructawool technology.
Most popular hiking sock option: Hike Light Cushion Low Ankle Socks
The socks feature the same cushioning technology as in the mid-crew socks, except in a low ankle model.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Hiking Liner Crew Socks
The Smartwool Liner Crew Socks are perfect for wearing underneath socks for added warmth and comfort.
Smartwool was founded by Patty and Peter Duke in 1994. The current company headquarters can be found in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, USA.
Official website: smartwool.com
WrightSock
Wrightsock is a brand that sets itself apart from the competition due to its exclusive anti-blister technology. In 1988, Joey, the son of Jerry Wrightenberry, a second-generation hosiery manufacturer, was suffering from blisters that affected his performance. But, as it is often said, the need is the mother of invention. Thus, to save his son’s athletic career, Jerry set on a mission to create socks that could prevent blisters on even the toughest of training.
Out of love, high hopes, and thin air, a new kind of sock was born. This soon became a true worldwide revolution. The rest, as they say, is history.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Escape Over the Calf Sock
The hidden terry loops throughout the bottom of this light-cushioned sock will keep you going for days without blisters.
Most popular hiking sock option: Coolmesh II Quarter Socks
The lightest, most durable, breathable, double-layer sock in the world. It’s no wonder this is the company’s worldwide best-seller.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Ultra Thin Crew Socks
These single-layer socks provide a second-skin feel and flawless performance regardless of weather or terrain.
Wrightsock was founded by the Wrightenberry family in 1948. The company’s headquarters are in Burlington, North Carolina, USA.
Official website: wrightsock.com
Balega
Balega’s history starts in South Africa, where both Tanya and Bert were born and first began running and hiking. In the early 2000s, they flew to the United States to find funding and a new market with their prototypes.
Fast forward to the present, Balega socks are recognized as some of the best in the world because they are made with performance in mind. They provide the perfect fit, have no seams to help prevent blisters, offer a deep heel pocket for increased comfort, and ventilation panels to keep feet dry even in extreme situations.
If you are after the best pair of socks money can buy, you have to try Balega out.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Blister Resist Crew
These are some of the best anti-blister socks. They feature Balega’s own Drynamix technology to keep feet dry, warm, and comfortable for even the longest of adventures.
Most popular hiking sock option: Enduro Quarter
These socks perfectly form around the contour of your feet, providing maximum comfort while delivering top-notch performance.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Enduro Physical Training Quarter
These military-grade socks are the perfect companions for your favourite footwear to take on the most challenging terrains in the world.
Balega was founded by Tanya and Bert Pictor in 2003. The company’s headquarters is in Hickory, North Carolina, USA.
Official website: balega-socks.implus.com
SockWell
SockWell’s seamless creations are true technology wonders in every sense. To begin with, they make cashmere-like softness a natural asset while adding to every piece a twist to address a particular need. Secondly, they are an eco-conscious organization with a solid commitment to reducing emissions. Finally, they offer some of the best socks in the market in a beautiful colour palette.
Their compression socks are a true enhancement to anything you’ve worn in the past. Not to mention, when combined with hiking features, these socks can make your socks the perfect companion for any terrain you’re about to face.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Summit OTC II Hiking Socks Class 2
These socks feature Class-2 compression, allowing you to feel energetic for longer due to optimal blood circulation. In addition, they help to prevent muscle pain, blisters, and irritation.
Most popular hiking sock option: Ascend Crew Hiking Socks Class 1
Seamless, antibacterial, quick-drying, and breathable. These socks will not only help keep your feet happy and comfortable on your adventures but also help prevent blisters and irritation.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Ascend Quarter II Hiking Socks Class 1
The socks are made of high-quality materials and feature Class-1 compression for optimal blood circulation and seamless construction, making them an excellent choice for any terrain.
SockWell was founded by Thomas Lee and Jim Markley in 2008. The company’s current headquarters are in Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA.
Official website: sockwellusa.com
Farm To Feet
Describing Farm To Feet products is to define a journey. The company made a decision upon its conception to source every material from the USA. This allowed superior control over the supply chain, ensuring that every sock leaving the factory was ready to bring comfort and warmth to the wearer regardless of the weather or terrain.
Coupled with the quality of the materials Farm To Feet socks are made with, the technology applied to every line makes them the perfect ally to face the challenges of the great outdoors. This ideal blend of quality raw materials and groundbreaking technology granted the brand nonstop growth and a reputation for being the best choice between your feet and your shoes.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Denali
Featuring 22-micron US merino wool and designed with the help of the Alaska Mountaineering School, there are no challenges too hard for this part of socks.
Most popular hiking sock option: Damascus Crew
Full-density cushioning, 19.5-micron odour-resistant merino wool, and multiple ventilation channels make this the go-to option for hikers around the world.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Damascus
Targeted cushioning and unique ventilation make this one of the most affordable and effective low-cut socks in the market.
Farm to Feet is the creation of Nester Hosiery and was launched in 2013. The company’s headquarters are in Mount Airy, North Carolina, USA.
Official website: farmtofeet.com
REI Co-op
What we know today as one of the most important outdoor and mountaineering brands in the world started out as a cooperative to help fellow mountain-goers in times when resources were scarce. Although the company grew beyond the founders’ wildest dreams, the spirit that fuels every move is still the same: create the best gear that can help mountain-goers conquer their goals.
Socks are no stranger to that philosophy. You can expect great quality products designed by experts that can address specific needs and can withstand all your adventures. If you are out shopping for socks, REI is a must-check before buying.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Merino Wool Expedition Hiking Crew Socks
With reinforcement at the toes, heel, footbed, and Achilles, these socks are your best companions for the toughest terrains.
Most popular hiking sock option: Merino Wool Lightweight Stripe Crew Socks
The Merino Wood Lightweight Stripe Crew Socks feature a stretch arch band that provides the support you need when hitting the road, while the seamless toes section helps prevent chafing.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: COOLMAX EcoMade Liner Socks
These polyester yarn liner socks are made from recycled water bottles. Protect the environment and keep your feet dry and warm with the COOLMAX EcoMade Liner Socks.
Rei Co-op was founded by Lloyd & Mary Anderson in 1938. The company’s current headquarters are in Kent, Washington, USA.
Official website: rei.com
Icebreaker
It is safe to say that Icebreaker was one of the first to bring merino wool to the bigger picture in hiking. Back in the mid-90s, synthetics ruled the world of garments, and most brands were using chemicals unrestrictedly to manufacture their products.
Icebreaker is a pioneer in searching for a material that could replace synthetics, uses limited chemicals, and has an outstanding warmth-to-weight ratio. Started by a 24-year-old dreamer named Jeremy Moon, Icebreaker not only makes quality gear but also prides itself on making sustainable, eco-friendly clothing for fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Merino Icebreaker Anniversary Heritage Crew Socks
The stretchy and luxurious merino blend makes these soft and breathable Icebreaker socks the best choice to face the harshness of outdoor adventures.
Most popular hiking sock option: Merino Lifestyle Light Crew Socks
With reinforced heels and toes, these breathable socks feature the same luxurious merino blend that made Icebreaker famous.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Merino Hike Liner Crew Socks
Breathable, quick-drying, ultralight, and yet incredibly durable, these are great to wear with heavier socks or alone in hot weather conditions.
Icebreaker was founded by Jeremy Moon in 1995. The company’s headquarters are in Auckland, New Zealand.
Official website: icebreaker.com
Stance
In the short time since its foundation, Stance managed to change people’s views on basic items such as socks. Moreover, they convinced not only the elite of the athletic community but also the summit of cultural icons that they should wear socks as a dressing item rather than as a necessity.
In this endeavour, they created some of the most original, best-performing, and beautiful-looking socks that can keep you dry, warm, and going for the longest time. If you want to find out if the hype is real, we suggest trying on a pair of Stance socks!
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Spirit Animal Crew Socks
The Feel360 treatment applied to this model allows your feet to stay fresh and dry under any circumstances, while the tough Infiknit manufacturing technique keeps them safe from holes and ripping.
Most popular hiking sock option: Complex Camo Crew Socks
Next-level protection from odour, moisture, wear and tear, and some cushioning for optimal performance and comfort make these the go-to socks for athletes and rockstars around the world.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Athletic Crew Socks
Ideal for low-impact activities, these socks featuring mid-cushion in critical areas are the perfect barrier between your feet and your footwear.
Stance was founded by John Wilson, Jeff Kearl, Aaron Hennings, Taylor Shupe, and Ryan Kingman in 2009. The company’s headquarters are in San Clemente, California, USA.
Official website: stance.com
Injinji
The most recognizable invention by Injinji is, to this day, the toe sock. This five-toe sleeve, anti-friction, seamless line of socks provided a completely different experience for some of the highest-performing athletes in the world. Soon after, the comfort and reliability of the brand cascaded into casual wearers. Nowadays, it’s easy to spot people from all backgrounds proudly wearing their Injinji socks anywhere.
Furthermore, their success paved the path for further innovation. The fabrics, manufacturing techniques, and distribution methods make this one of the fastest-growing, most successful sock companies in the world. If you haven’t already, slip your feet inside and find out why everyone loves them.
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Men’s Liner + Hiker Crew
Ultra-thin and designed to wick away your feet’ sweat, these socks will keep you dry, comfortable, and going for days.
Most popular hiking sock option: Women’s Liner + Hiker Crew
The same technology but with a woman-specific anatomic shape, these socks are ready to face any challenge at your feet.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Trail Midweight Crew Coolmax Socks
These socks are shaped around your toe, making them less likely to bunch while increasing the comfort for long hours.
Injinji was founded in 1999 by Joaquin and Randuz Romay. The company’s headquarters are in San Diego, California, USA.
Official website: injinji.com
Wigwam
The story of Wigwam is what makes their core philosophy and success remarkably strong. Wigwam constantly innovated to stay afloat during turbulent times. Thus pushing the boundaries to create groundbreaking designs that have allowed them to continue to be a top contender today.
This company is a synonym for fashion, endurance, style, cutting-edge fabric technology, and performance. Plus, they have been perfecting their techniques for well over a century; isn’t it about time you give them a chance?
Top-of-the-line hiking sock option: Avondale
Lightweight, blister-resistant, over-the-calf, stay-put, and made with insulating merino wool, these socks feature Ultimax moisture control and 15-20 mmHg of compression for enhanced blood circulation. It doesn’t get much better than this in sock-land.
Most popular hiking sock option: Trail Junkie Lightweight Mid Crew
Merino wool meets an ultra-comfy fit for the ultimate pair of socks to conquer any trail.
Budget-friendly hiking sock option: Gobi Liner
These socks are ultra-lightweight and warm enough to protect your feet from cold weather and blisters. These socks are the quintessential pair to hit the road.
Wigwam Mills was founded in 1905 by Robert Ehany, Herbert Chesebro, and Lawerance Bentz. The company’s headquarters are in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, USA.
Official website: wigwam.com
