Buying walking socks

When looking for sock’s it can be hard to tell which pair of walking socks are right for your needs. The tips below will help you get the right pair.

Designed for men or women

It may seem obvious, but men’s and women’s feet are different shapes, so it makes sense to choose a sock that’s designed and shaped to fit your feet. 

Fit

During a day’s walking, your feet will need to move in your boot, and your feet can expand. Take this into consideration when making your purchase.

Cushioning and support

Whichever boots or shoes you’re wearing, your feet will inevitably take a bit of a pounding on a long hike or climb, and cushioned walking socks are designed to give extra protection to those areas that take the most punishment.

Socks can feature additional support around the sole, upper heel, and ankle. Look for socks with extra padding around the heel and the ball of the foot.

Many socks have arch bracing for additional support and custom fit.

Double-layer construction eliminates friction between foot and shoe, reducing wear and helping to prevent blisters.

Single or dual-layer socks.

Single or dual-layer socks will depend and the length and conditions you intend to walk in. Some people can be heavier in their wear, and others have particular pressure points which can affect the type of socks you choose.

Not only can wearing a pair of sock liners underneath your regular walking socks reduce chafing and blisters, but lining socks can also help to keep your feet cool or warm, depending on your needs.

Those made of fabrics such as ‘Coolmax’ quickly wick moisture away to prevent it from building up next to your skin, which is great if you’re walking in warm weather and likely to build up a sweat.

Thermal liners, or liners made of thin-but-warm merino wool, can provide an extra layer of insulation in cold weather, as well as wick away moisture to stop feet from feeling cold and clammy.

Warmth

The type of walking sock you need depends on the conditions you’re likely to encounter during your walk – lightweight socks for summer and thicker, warmer socks for colder climates. 

You’ll find most manufacturers divide their socks up into different ranges designed for different pursuits, such as hiking, climbing, running, or skiing. In addition, many will suggest a season of use on the pack to give you more idea of how warm they are. Two seasons are typically for warmer lighter-weight use, and four seasons are for heaver/ colder weather conditions.

A pair of sock liners can help to make lighter-weight socks warmer and extend their season of use.

Lining socks

Not only can wearing a pair of sock liners underneath your regular walking socks reduce chafing and blisters, but lining socks can also help to keep your feet cool or warm, depending on your needs.

Those made of fabrics such as ‘Coolmax’ quickly wick moisture away to prevent it from building up next to your skin, which is great if you’re walking in warm weather and likely to build up a sweat.

Thermal liners, or liners made of thin-but-warm merino wool, can provide an extra layer of insulation in cold weather, as well as wick away moisture to stop feet from feeling cold and clammy.

Environment and Sustainability:

Within the industry/sector, there is a big drive to promote Environment and Sustainability factors. 

This can cover the company’s overall strategy, as well in some instances; go down to the individual product.

I would always recommend taking these into your final decision.