Unless youre specifically looking for an alternative from wool or hiking in the warmest of temperatures, we still deem merino to be superior in almost every way.See the Men's Darn Tough Coolmax See the Women's Darn Tough Coolmax. Materials: 56% merino wool, 42% nylon, 2% elastaneCushioning: LightWhat we like: Performance fit and now made with recycled materials.What we dont: Can't match Darn Tough's lifetime guarantee. As we've found, no sock is totally perfect. But most of the winning recipe remains largely the same, including sufficient padding under the heel and forefoot for trail running, hiking, and lightweight backpacking, as well as good breathability and a secure, foot-hugging shape. Additionally, the moisture-wicking inner layer keeps your feet dry, providing yet another barrier against blisters (one editor described the feeling as similar to wearing a snug, skin-tight baselayer underneath a cozy midlayer). Smartwool, for example, has soft and comfortable socks but weve noticed holes developing more quickly than they used to (the recent change to Indestructawool has helped). Finally, this series also includes thinner, ultralight quarter socks ($12), as well as higher-riding crew options ($14-$16).See the REI Coolmax EcoMade Lightweight. With cozy seamless construction, high-quality merino wool, and a lifetime warranty to back it up, Darn Tough socks simply are the best. Materials: 77% Coolmax EcoMade, 22% nylon, 1% spandexCushioning: LightWhat we like: Around $5-$10 cheaper than the merino competition.What we dont: Holds onto stink more than wool. Made with fabric constructed from recycled plastic bottles, these socks provide a soft next-to-skin experience without the usual environmental burden of polyester (REI has been strong of late on the sustainability front). These socks are a nice option for hot-weather hikers, and like our favorite merino models, they are snug-fitting, well cushioned, and do not stretch with use. Comparing the two, the Smartwool is thicker, more durable, and has a better overall fit (the REI is a little too loose for our tastes). In normal temperatures your feet will sweat, and despite merinos impressive ability to wick moisture, you will get unwanted dampness. Durability is brand specific and weve seen changes throughout the years even among the same manufacturers. As we touched on above, merino resists odor better than polyester, and no-show socks like the Hidden Comfort are more prone to letting dirt and grime sneak in through the top. Finally, we really like the height, which lands between a quarter-length design and traditional crew-cut models (wed categorize it as close to a 3/4-length crew). If you want to try them out, make sure to pair your liner and sock accordingly: You should use a merino liner with a merino sock or a synthetic liner with a synthetic sock. Liner socks are also notably thin, which translates to a shorter lifespan than your regular socks and more care required. No matter the brand, you will be pleasantly surprised with how long a $20 pair of hiking socks can last. For a more hiking-focused alternative from Swiftwick with a slightly taller cut and more padding, see their Pursuit Hike Six Medium.See the Swiftwick Pursuit Four. Enter Darn Toughs Quarter Cushion, which is consistently one of the most popular and top-rated designs on the PCT. Quarter Socks Designed with thru-hikers in mind, Farm to Feets Damascus Lightweight Technical Crew offers a nice blend of breathability and cushioning for long days on the trail. High-density knitting creates excellent padding and breathability for virtually any 3-season outdoor activity. And among the various ultralight options, Smartwools latest Run Zero Cushion Ankle Socks are our favorite. Casual hikers may not care much about the construction of their socks, but thru-hikers covering long distances on trails like the AT or PCT prioritize an effective combination of breathability and durability. Essentially, instead of a standard sock, Injinji uses a five-toe design that claims to reduce the possibility of blisters and hotspots. But if you want a light hiker for the summer months that will keep your feet cool and ward off hot spots and blisters, the Wrightsock has a lot of appeal. Given its technical slant, the Pursuit Four does lack some of the casual appeal and downright plushness of options like the Balega and REI picks above and below. Not everyone is willing to spend $20+ on a pair of hiking socks, which we understand, and REI Co-op offers a budget-friendlier alternative to merino wool with their Coolmax EcoMade Lightweight Hiking Quarter. For more information, see our hiking sock comparison table and buying advice. It also takes much longer to build up stink, allowing for extra days of wear on a hiking or backpacking trip (how many days is up to you). What we dont: Lacking in plushness and everyday appeal. What do you sacrifice by saving with the REI Coolmax EcoMade? We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. All in all, these socks are highly comfortable, breathable, and stylish to boot. If youre sold on the benefits of merino but are looking to save, the REI Merino Wool Ultralight Crew hiking socks are just the ticket. Merinothe namesake wool from a highly prized type of sheep that lives predominantly in harsh mountain environments, including New Zealands Southern Alpsis extremely comfortable, wicks moisture well, and does a nice job of breathing and regulating temperature. Another option for summer hikers is a lightweight hiking sock in a 1/4 height, which has less leg coverage and a more airy feeling but the same cushion on the foot. All that said, if youve exhausted all other options and want to give them a try, a liner sock could be a viable way to boost padding and protection between your foot and shoe. Slotting in just below their max-cushioned Mountaineer Classic, these burly socks are one of only two heavyweight models on our list (joining the Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full-Cushion above). Materials: 61% merino wool, 36% nylon, 3% spandexCushioning: Light/mediumWhat we like: Comfortable and last forever.What we dont: Tough construction means they arent quite as plush as some other socks on this list. This lack of year-round appealcombined with the Smartwools thicker and bulkier fit and feelis enough to bump these socks toward the bottom of our list, but they nevertheless are a nice option for shuttling heavy loads in cold temperatures and will save you $4 over the Darn Tough. But for more technical pursuits that require your feet to work hard, youd be hard-pressed to find a more well-rounded option, and it doesnt hurt that the Pursuit Four is priced nicely at $20 (true compression models typically cost much more). Materials: 72% merino wool, 26% nylon, 2% spandexCushioning: LightWhat we like: Great value, soft feel, and certified to the Responsible Wool Standard.What we dont: Design is a bit dated and prone to pilling. Another draw is Farm to Feets superior warranty (Smartwools is only two years), which could be a deciding factor for those who put in a lot of miles. The former indicates that sheep were treated humanely and in accordance with strict animal welfare and environmental standards (on our list above, REIs Merino Wool Ultralight uses RWS-certified wool). Minimalist hikers and those out in the heat of summer may prefer 1/4 socks like the Darn Tough Quarter Cushion, which work well so long as you arent wearing boots with high ankles (you may end up feeling some friction) and dont need protection from abrasions. Weve had durability issues with previous Smartwool modelsparticularly at the heelbut the brand now uses Indestructawool technology, which is a denser and tougher wool blend. Specifically, we like the socks thick panels of padding over the forefoot, which reduce friction between your foot and boot to keep you comfortable on longer objectives. For winter hiking and mountaineering, the major brands make midweight and heavyweight options that provide much more warmth than the lightweight versions, like Darn Toughs heavyweight Hiker Boot Full-Cushion and Smartwools Classic Hike Extra Cushion Crew. They also wear well around the house and under your favorite pair of shoes, provided theres enough room. And if you like Darn Tough socks but are looking for something a little more breathable, check out their Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight model ($22), which is a thinner alternative with a performance fit similar to the Smartwool Performance Hike Light below.See the Men's Darn Tough Micro Crew See the Women's Darn Tough Micro Crew. Even lower than quarter-length are no-show socks. What are the downsides of choosing an ultralight hiking sock like the Smartwool? Darn Toughs Micro Crew Cushion socks above are a great option for moderate temperatures and even into the shoulder seasons, but for true mountain-ready performance, we like their beefier Hiker Boot Full-Cushion. We prefer 1/4 socks for most of our outdoor endeavors simply for the added coverage, but shorter socks, like Balegas Hidden Comfort, are undoubtedly lower-profile and have appeal for those looking to minimize bulk. Importantly, Swiftwick lists the Pursuit Four as having medium cushioning, but weve found that its noticeably thinner and more breathable than options like the Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion and Balega Hidden Comfort above. On particularly hot summer days, you just might not want to put wool on your feet, which is understandable. Keep in mind that the Darn Tough Quarter Cushion arent true ultralight socks like the quarter-height Smartwool Run Zero Cushion above, meaning that your feet can get warm in the heat of summer and wont dry out as quickly. Many companies sell both mens- and womens-specific socks, but in most cases, there are no major performance differences between the two. For three-season hiking, backpacking, and casual wear, we recommend the lightweight versions, which provide solid levels of padding and insulation for temperatures from approximately 40 degrees to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. First and foremost, liner socks can give a somewhat sloppy feelits another layer between your foot and your shoe and there can be some unwanted movement as a result. Virtually all wool socks have issues with pilling, which can be lessened by line drying. Hiking socks have gotten fairly expensive in recent years, which has made their warranties a noteworthy part of the buying process. But if you have tough feet and can avoid blisters, these socks will help keep your feet cool even during the hot summer months. Materials: 51% merino wool, 46% nylon, 3% LycraCushioning: LightWhat we like: High-quality design that is sourced and made in the U.S.What we dont: Less merino and pricier than the Smartwool Performance Hike Light above. In this category, there currently are two key trends: wool that is certified to the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) and the use of recycled materials. For starters, the synthetic material holds onto stink more than merino. The fit is super comfortable, not overly elasticized around the arch or forefoot, and doesnt bunch or create pressure points. Further, the Circulator comes up to just below the knees, which helps with coverage and protection when venturing off-trail but isnt everyones cup of tea. Why? And as a final solution, blister dressings like Moleskin or tape can be an effective way to treat or prevent hotspots. You can expect to pay a bit more for dedicated compression modelsand theyre certainly not for everyonebut some may find the potential benefits worth the investment. The jury is still out on the true efficacy of compression technology, but weve found that the added snugness does help with minimizing fatigue over long distances (its also a plus for those who suffer from chronically cold feet). The socks were quick to win us over on ambitious outings and high-mileage days: The fit is snug and almost compression-like in feel (similar to their Flite XT model below), breathability is excellent even in warm summer temperatures, and you get a just-right amount of cushioning for high-impact activities like mountain biking, trail running, or hiking in trail runners (which generally have less protection underfoot than typical hiking shoes). Further, its important to ensure that the collar of your shoe falls below the top of the sock, as any gaps can cause uncomfortable rubbing. Years ago, you might have seen a smattering of cotton and polyester hiking socks on the trails, but merino wool is now the leader far and away. Both socks run too warm for most sub-alpine summer outings, but if your itinerary includes logging considerable mileage above treeline, the Hiker Boot Full-Cushion is a proven option that should last many seasons.See the Men's Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full-Cushion See the Women's Hiker Boot Full-Cushion. Stacked up against the Micro Crew above, the model here boasts thicker cushioning with more merino (66% vs. 61% for the Micro Crew), giving it a nice boost in coziness and insulation for activities like summer-time mountaineering and winter hiking and snowshoeing. However, the Farm to Feet is no slouch. Smartwool used to be synonymous with hiking socks, but over the past few years Darn Tough has taken the lead. Crew Socks The focus on sustainability has been increasing in the outdoor industry over the past several years, and hiking socks are no exception. If youre hiking in hot places like Utah or Arizona in lightweight hiking shoes, you may want to consider an ultralight hiking sock. They still wont last forever, but the Run Zero Cushion is a nice option for summer when you dont need serious padding and thickness. All that said, there are some downsides to be aware of with the Injinjis unique design. The Damascus lineup also includes no-show, quarter-height, and medium-cushioned crew socks that share similar overall designs and features.See the Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight. Technically billed as trail running socks, Swiftwicks Pursuit Four is an excellent all-around performance pick. If youre wearing low-riding hiking or trail-running shoes, a no-show sock should rise just above the collar and still offer padding and protection between your ankle and shoe. Last but not least, brands like REI aim for more value-oriented buyers, and the snugness and durability cant match Darn Tough and Smartwool. But for easy-going activities, the REI is a fine choice.See the Smartwool Classic Hike Extra Cushion. The momentum in hiking footwear is moving away from bulky boots toward lightweight shoes and even trail runners that are faster and more comfortable. In terms of construction, theyre made from 56% merino wool (10% less than the Darn Tough) and have the same traditional look and feel as the brands popular Classic Hike Light Crew but with a noticeable boost in warmth and cushion. It also detracts from the socks ability to fight odorsthey get smelly faster than alternatives like the Darn Tough Micro Crew and Smartwool Performance Hike Light above. With a seamless toe area for minimizing bulk and preventing blisters, strategic padding in high-wear areas, and a snug performance fit, the Damascus is purpose-built to handle trail life. However, keep in mind that no-show socks have a greater chance of letting in trail debris like gravel or dirt, and a poor fit could lead to rubbing along your heel and ankles. But this is telling: In all the miles we've racked up with our Micro Crews (some are 7+ years old and counting), we havent put a hole in one sock. And for more on hiking footwear, weve tested and written about hiking boots and lightweight hiking shoes. They wick moisture well too, making them a great choice for hot-weather adventures when you still want decent cushioning and support. However, in most scenarios, crew socks should provide ample coverage and protection. Key changes include the use of sustainable materials (the Hike Light here uses 31% recycled nylon), increased cushioning (especially under the arch), and Smartwool also updated the mesh zones and overall fit. It's true, they aren't tall enough for all hiking boots, but they're a great pairing with ankle-height hiking shoes or trail runners (and importantly, they offer considerably more coverage and protection than no-show designs like the Balega above). Finally, for those looking for synthetic material that is kind to the environment, check out Coolmax EcoMade (seen in the REI Co-op Coolmax EcoMade Lightweight), a polyester made from recycled plastic bottles. Smartwool still cant match Darn Tough's lifetime guarantee (although two years is pretty good), but we think the updates to the new Performance collection are positive and give them a leg up in some areas, including fit and plushness.See the Men's Performance Hike Light See the Women's Performance Hike Light. For long-distance trekking, peak-bagging, and other mileage-heavy pursuits, some hikers and backpackers now turn to compression socks to improve blood flow and help with overall support. We feel that this is the optimal height for hiking: Crew socks dont make you excessively hot and offer some added lower leg protection from brush and rocks. And well admit that we were skeptical too before trying them out, but weve come to appreciate some of the performance benefits. And if you like the design but prefer more coverage, Wrightsock makes the Coolmesh in a crew-height version for $17 (both models strike us as a decent value).See the Wrightsock Coolmesh II Quarter See the Women's Coolmesh II Lo Quarter. This style also crosses over well to wear with running shoes. Right off the bat, well note that Injinji socks are a far cry from the more traditional designs above, and the polarizing looks will be enough to deter many hikers. Before going this route, its better to pick up a quality pair of moisture-wicking wool or synthetic socks (rather than cotton) and nail down a well-fitting shoe or boot. Our REI socks have held up fairly well, but they seem to loosen over time. On our list above, Sockwells Circulator Compression Socks fall just below the knee and add a boost in security around the calf, which some find helpful for muscle recovery and maximizing circulation. For warm-weather hiking, trail running, and casual use with your sneakers, a minimally padded sock makes a lot of sense. The density varies by sock as welljust because the REI Merino Wool Ultralight Crew socks are 72 percent merino doesnt mean they are the highest-quality option. In the end, with the quality of hiking socks improving so significantly, liner socks are becoming less and less common for hiking and backpacking. As we alluded to above, most people will find socks like the Darn Tough Hiker Full-Boot Cushion and Smartwool Classic Hike Extra Cushion way too hot for most summer outings. The downside is that ultralight socks are thin on the foot and offer significantly less padding and blister protection than lightweight and midweight socks. Other popular brands like Stance, Feetures, and Farm to Feet also have strong lifetime guarantees, with the latter two brands also offering full refunds (with proof of purchase). Darn Tough socks arent the softest but we have had no issues to date with holes with either their Micro Crew or Quarter Cushion, which is frankly pretty amazing. Materials: 56% merino wool, 42% nylon, 2% elastaneCushioning: HeavyWhat we like: Durable, cozy, and cheaper than the Darn Tough Hiker Full-Boot Cushion above.What we dont: Less merino than the Darn Tough and runs very hot in summer temperatures. Darn Tough's Micro Crew Cushion socks, for example, are around 61 percent merino but the weave is denser, and they tend to hold their shape better and last longer. Further, the design in general is a bit of a throwback with drab colorways and a looser (rather than performance-focused) fit. All that, and the bump in breathability is noticeable. Quarter (1/4) height hiking socks cover the heel and ankle but dont extend up the leg as far as crew socks. Another concern is long-term durability, which is largely a result of the fairly minimal padding. If not, traditional hiking socks perform great and require less work.See the Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew. By covering more of your leg, they can be a great option for hiking off-trail through high grass or brush, or in cases where you need extra warmth. Materials: 37% nylon, 34% Coolmax, 26% acrylic, 2% Lycra, 1% otherCushioning: Light/mediumWhat we like: A high-performance synthetic sock.What we dont: We still prefer merino over Coolmax. Crew is the most common hiking sock height, which extends 6 to 8 inches above the heel and at a least a couple of inches above just about any pair of hiking boots. Materials: 39% Coolmax, 58% nylon, 3% LycraCushioning: MediumWhat we like: Five-toe design can help with hotspots.What we dont: Takes longer to put on than other socks and can spread out the toes. Competitively priced at $19, you get a great, snug fit, superb breathability, and a very comfortable feel. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we know a thing or two about rain. Materials: 32% merino wool, 32% stretch nylon, 31% rayon, 5% spandexCushioning: LightWhat we like: Very snug and secure fit.What we dont: Knee-high design isnt for everyone; fairly pricey for the amount of wool. Most of our favorites are made with merino wool, which has become the standard-bearer in socks and performance outdoor apparel in general. And its taken some time to get used to the feeling of having each toe separated in our hiking shoes, although the slight awkwardness did fade after a short time. Our favorite model for hiking and backpacking is the Micro Crew Cushion. Materials: 61% merino wool, 37% nylon, 2% spandexCushioning: Light/mediumWhat we like: Cool, light, and very durablea great match for long distances.What we dont: The lower cut means less protection. Sock manufactures offer a variety of thicknesses designed for everything from summer hiking to mountaineering. That said, the Hiker Boot Full-Cushion does have a noticeably lower-profile and less cumbersome feel than Smartwools Classic Hike Extra Cushion below (one editor accurately described the Smartwool as slipper-like).The Smartwool does get the edge in price ($23), but it contains less merino (56%), and we prefer the tighter and more streamlined fit of the Darn Toughs for maximizing performance while minimizing bulk (on the flip side, we like wearing the cushier Smartwool on hut trips and more casual winter adventures). Worn under your hiking socks, liner socks bear many similarities to the models above but are thinner and generally cost around half the price. Compression is a bit of a buzz word among outdoor athletes these days, praised for its ability to help with muscle recovery and reduce overall fatigue. These socks are soft, wick moisture well, and offer sufficient padding for most moderate hiking and backpacking with added reinforcements in friction-prone areas like the heel, toe, and footbed. Further, all Farm to Feet socks are backed by the companys generous lifetime guarantee that rivals Darn Toughs well-known warranty. Keep in mind that these burly socks are overkill for three-season hiking and casual use. Hikers and backpackers fall on both ends of the spectrum: some prefer the unparalleled breathability of non-waterproof footwear, while others Cozying into your sleeping bag at the end of a long day on the trail is one of the simple pleasures of backpacking. Compared to REIs Coolmax sock above, Darn Toughs version is better-made and offers a much closer fit (the downside is a jump in price). Finally, youll often find shorter or more limited policies from budget-oriented brands. Materials: 32% Drynamix, 11% nylon, 3% neofil, 2% elastaneCushioning: MediumWhat we like: The most low-profile socks on our list and very comfortable.What we dont: Minimal coverage and no wool. Chances are that if you like Smartwools lightweight hiking designs, the Classic Hike Extra Cushion Crew will make you happy as well.