Which material to choose?
When it comes down to socks, choosing the right material is the key. In general merino wool socks are best as well as socks from performance and sweat-wicking materials. Under no circumstance go for cotton or cotton blend. Cotton will retain any moist or bacteria and it is more likely to cause blisters.
What is the difference between the different weights?
Socks come in different thickness and you should pay attention to this and pick the right one for the weather and your level of comfort. For example, if you get warm easily, select lightweight option. The common terms when describing weight of the sock are lightweight, medium and heavy and liner.
What is liner sock?
Liner sock is very thin and it is meant to be put under thick pair for extra warmth in winter. These socks are also ideal for very hot days or for people who get warm easily.
Some people use liner socks and use them to layer the socks as blister and hot spot prevention.
What are other features of sock?
They come at different length – anything from low ankle to knee height. This is personal preference.
One feature I like is some socks come padded at places where hot spots occur (ball of your feet, heel) and at the same time they have thinner breathable material at top and bottom of your foot to help with ventilation.
Ideally choose socks without seams as that will help prevent blisters and hot spots.
Do you need Toe socks?
This is becoming very popular amongst hikers and many claim for these socks to prevent blisters. I have to admit, initially I did not like the idea of toe sock, but I learned to like them. It takes slightly longer to put those socks on and you should make sure there is no folded material to prevent rubbing = blisters.
Injiji is the most known brand for toe socks and they offer the socks in different styles and materials. A pair is around 15-20 EUR.
What is the price?
Known brands have socks in the range around 10-20 EUR per pair on average. This is good price for quality socks.
What are good quality brands for socks?
- Injiji
- Icebreaker
- Smartwool
- Inov-8
- Mons Royal
- Bergen
- Lorpen
- Silverlight
Falke is also popular brand of socks but I do not have personal experience.