There’s nothing like getting out in nature when the sunny season is finally here. And if you’ve got the route planned, the SPF sorted and the hiking boots at the ready for your next adventure, don’t forget the right socks.
The scenery looks stunning with clear skies and you’ll feel much lighter without layers on your back, but let’s face it: blisters or swollen feet are a definite dampener — and can both be avoided with the right layer inside your trekking shoes of choice.
To help you pick the best hiking socks for your summer plans, we’ve asked Emily Thornton and Lucy Hird, who are Soft Girls Who Hike on TikTok — and who have wandered routes spanning everywhere from the Yorkshire Dales to Iceland — for your need to know.
What materials are best for socks for hiking in summer?
“While in winter we look for thermal socks, especially with the unpredictable British weather, in summer we opt for lightweight socks with breathability,” says Thornton.
Consider looking for Merino wool, as the wool’s natural heating, cooling and antibacterial properties ensure that your feet stay fresh in warm weather. Look for a blend with synthetic fabrics for durability as you don’t have the material to be rubbed thin around areas that need cushioning.
What features should I look for?
“You need something breathable, comfortable and supportive when hiking. Arch support is a must! And if they're colourful then it's a bonus in our opinion,” Hird explains.
Choose an ankle sock if you are hiking in trainers or a crew length with high Merino content will work with taller boots so you don’t experience rubbing against bare skin.
Now you’re ready to pick your perfect pair...
Falke TK2 Explore Women Trekking Socks
Falke’s TK2 hiking socks are an all-around great purchase for your summer hiking adventures. They’re made from technical fabric: performance synthetics and 19 per cent wool for added comfort and to keep your feet cool in warmer climes. Plus, they’re true to fit and stay in shape after washing. This fun new colourway is a major bonus.
Buy now £28.00, Falke
Free People Forager Hike Socks
From FP’s style-led activewear range, these playfully printed hiking socks are super soft with ribbed knit details for extra support.
Buy now £15.00, Free People
Finisterre Rossby Ankle Sports Sock
In a shorter length, these organic cotton socks are great for pairing with walking shoes. They offer underfoot padding, ankle and arch support so you stay comfy on all of your adventures.
Buy now £12.00, Finisterre
Darn Tough Heady Betty Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock
These eye-catching short socks from Darn Tough are a favourite with hikers. They’re the brand’s softest yet, made to cushion your feet and knitted with Merino Wool to keep them cool as well.
Buy now £27.00, Darn Tough
Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking Socks
As well as Merino wool to control temperature, Danish Endurance’s hiking socks have ventilation zones to allow constant airflow. There’s also padding from heel to toe for shock absorption and to prevent chafing and blisters. All in all, a perfect choice for longer hikes.
Buy now £15.25, Amazon
Moggans Lightweight Merino Ankle Socks
Scottish brand Moggans’ socks are an all-rounder which you can use for any of your summer sporting pursuits. They’re weather-suitable thanks to the Merino wool inner and durable recycled polyamide structure. They are super comfortable too, while being tough enough for you to rack up some serious miles.
Buy now £13.99, Moggans
Outdoor Collection Blue Hiking Socks
If you’re looking for a more sustainable choice then the Outdoor Collection’s hiking socks deliver, made partly with recycled polyester. They also have a high percentage of merino wool to keep feet cool, and will stand up against rubbing with towelling support at the ankles and on the soles. This is all while the ventilation mesh lanes wick away sweat, so your tootsies stay nice and dry.
Buy now £30.00, Thunders Love
Montbell Merino Wool Supportec Walking Short Socks
These shorter-length Japanese-made hiking socks from Montbell have the perfect features for the warmer months. The unique design offers support and provides cushion at the arches. They’re wool-rich to regulate temperature, while synthetic fibres ensure they’re durable too.
Buy now £26.00, Outsiders Store
Smartwool Zig Zag Valley Crew Socks
With a cute print and durable design, these Smartwool hiking socks are the go-to for stylish hikers. A crew silhouette, wool blend fabric (using low-impact wool) and secure fit mean they’ll keep you comfortable and cool all day while you’re on your trek. They use patented Shred Shield technology to reduce wear at the toes and a trademarked Virtually Seamless toe detail for added comfort.
Buy now £22.00, Free People
Arc'teryx Mid Grotto Socks
For anyone who likes style with substance, these Arc’teryx hiking socks are the one. They boast focused cushioning, breathability and great support in high-friction areas. They’re also made from performance materials to ensure they last the distance.
Buy now £23.00, Arc'teryx
