10 Best Hiking Socks UK 2024 | SmartWool, Darn Tough and More

Managing to have a decent amount of merino wool whilst being incredibly good value, these socks are a real winner. You get two pairs for the price some hiking brands charge for one, and all without compromising any of the quality. 

The choice of black as the colour, although maybe not the most interesting or eye-catching, is good when hiking through muddy puddles. Sizes range from 3 to 12, so both men and women with almost any foot size can enjoy these socks. 

These socks might be light and thin, but that doesn't mean they don't offer support where they need to. The seamless toe design means your toes won't rub in what can often be a bit of a problem area for blisters. 

The merino wool has been reinforced to be extra strong, so you won't find you have holes in your socks after only a few uses. They are lighter than some other pairs, too, so if you find your feet get warm whilst hiking, look no further than these socks. 

These socks are a perfect example of when socks specially designed for women will probably fit them better. They are designed with a narrower heel and to be tighter round the calves, an area that might be too loose when wearing men's socks. 

These socks have plenty of merino wool, but to keep them lighter and less bulky for warmer walks they also include nylon. This makes them a perfect choice if you like to hike during the summer or on holiday. They are highly durable and will last, walk after walk after walk. 

Padding is used economically across this sock to provide support where it is needed, in areas such as the ball of your foot and your heel. In addition to padding, it also has bracing, namely around the arches, which will help your feet keep going when you're relying on them. 

This sock is made from an extremely high percentage of merino wool, which means you can use this mid-weight sock throughout the year. The soft wool combined with the cushioning will make you feel like you're walking on air. 

Having a double layer isn't a particularly common hiking sock design, but this doesn't mean it can't be a clever and cosy choice. The two layers serve two important purposes. Firstly, they are excellent at keeping your feet warm, trapping air between the layers and insulating them. 

The second advantage is the anti-blister properties. The outer layer grips the shoe whilst the inner is free to move with your foot. This means that any friction that might be happening stays within the sock and doesn't impact your feet. 

These socks are described as 'mid-weight', which makes them extremely versatile, allowing you to use them throughout the year. With 66% merino wool, they'll keep your feet warm when they need to be warm. They also feature a seamless toe and cushioning on the leg and sole for comfort. 

As the brand name suggests, these socks are made to last many an adventure, and even come with a lifetime guarantee – if they wear out or get a hole, you can send off for a replacement pair! However, they are on the pricey side because of this, so you'll want to make sure you order the right pair.

Heavy-duty and made for winter weather, these are the socks you're going to want on your feet if the temperature starts dipping. They are much thicker than your average hiking socks, keeping even your toes warm. In spite of this warmth, they still let your feet breathe, so you don't have to worry about sweaty feet.

Being so thick means they are not as versatile as a mid-weight sock which you can use in many different conditions. It is worth bearing in mind that you might struggle to fit a thick sock and your foot into your hiking boots. 

The main purpose of knee-high socks is to keep you warm, something that these socks – with their high amount of wool – will easily do. If your socks come high enough up your legs, it also means they won't fall down. 

As with all specifically-warm winter socks, you might find there aren't many occasions when it is actually cold enough to need something so cosy. They also only come in one size for women, which limits who will be able to use them. 

These socks are incredibly good value when you consider that you get three pairs at this price. The fabric is breathable and will wick any extra moisture away. Elastic bands are used at the top of the sock and around the arch to keep these socks in place, no matter how fast you're moving. 

Merino wool is not a component of these socks, which will make them less durable and less warm. You'll probably notice the lack of any sort of wool during hikes in the winter months when your feet are a bit on the cold side. 

If you are new to hiking or don't plan on spending hours and hours walking, these socks are a good way to go. They are a cheap option and come in packs of three, so you'll be set. They also offer arch support, which will help to keep your feet in place. 

To make them come in at the cheap price they do, these socks don't include any merino wool. They are designed for women and only come in one size, which even women with larger feet, let alone men, will struggle to fit into. The bright colours, although pretty, might not last very long through rugged terrain.