Merino wool is excellent for socks because it offers several benefits over cotton. These include insulating, moisture-wicking, and odour-resistant qualities.
This makes them perfect for hiking, camping, and other active activities. Moreover, merino wool is also environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Comfort
Comfort is essential to any sock, and merino socks offer exceptional support and comfort. The right pair won’t slip or bunch around your feet and will stay in place despite a long day on the trail.
In addition to a snug fit, the best wool socks keep your feet cool, dry and comfortable during hot weather or intense workouts. Because Merino is moisture-wicking and antibacterial, it won’t trap sweat or cause foot odours so you can go longer between washings.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly pair of merino socks, these three-packs by REI Co-op are great. They’re made from recycled polyester and have a lower merino content, but they’ll keep your feet dry and comfortable while hiking or backpacking in hot weather.
Breathability
Wear socks to keep your feet dry if you’re going for a hike or other outdoor activity. The breathability of a fabric is measured by its ability to wick away water vapour.
A higher breathability rating means it will keep you dry without pools of sweat on your feet. This is especially important during intense efforts when the temperature becomes hot and sweaty.
Wool socks are excellent for breathability because they’re made of natural fibres that absorb and release moisture at the correct times. They also help regulate body temperature and are very effective for keeping odours at bay.
Merino wool is one of the best sock materials for summer hiking because it can keep your feet cool, dry, and comfortable even when sweating a lot. It is also antimicrobial, which helps prevent the buildup of odours on your feet during your hike.
Warmth
Wool is an excellent insulator that absorbs moisture without feeling wet or sweaty, keeping your feet comfortable in warm and cold temperatures. It can also help prevent odour buildup.
Some merino socks are also temperature-regulating, which means they keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. These qualities are great for any outdoor activity, and a good pair of merino socks can last years!
Another advantage of merino wool is that it can be sourced from environmentally friendly and sustainable sheep. This is important to anyone who cares about the environment.
The best winter socks are made from a merino wool blend that’s soft, warm, and moisture-wicking (like Merino should be). They need to fit snugly enough not to bunch under your boots but loose enough to let blood flow freely, and they shouldn’t make your shoes too tight.
Durability
Merino socks are among the most durable of all active wear. They’re softer than cotton, more comfortable and last longer (up to six times longer). In addition, wool’s natural ability to regulate your body temperature makes it perfect for warm-weather activities and cold-weather hikes or runs. And it wicks moisture to keep your feet dry and comfortable, too.
So, if you’re planning a long adventure or travel, consider packing several pairs of merino socks for added durability. And be sure to turn them inside out before washing them to avoid agitation and fabric friction with other garments.
In addition, wool’s odour-absorbing properties can keep your feet smelling fresher for longer. That’s a win in our book, especially when you’re travelling and don’t want to deal with stinky socks or other foul-smelling gear.
Top 5 Merino Wool Hiking Socks
Merino wool socks are made from fine, breathable fibres that can wick moisture and keep your feet warm. It also resists odours. They’re incredibly soft and don’t itch or cause irritation like cotton socks.
There’s no better sock for hiking and other outdoor activities than a pair of merino wool socks, especially when made by a top-notch brand. Check out our best merino socks selection to prepare for your next adventure.
Farm to Feet’s Damascus Lightweight Technical Crew is an excellent option for thru-hikers and other long-distance hikers who need a sock to last them to the end of their journey. They feature strategic padding in high-wear areas, a seamless toe area to minimize bulk and prevent blisters, and a snug performance fit for extra comfort.
They also come with a lifetime warranty and are sourced from American-raised sheep for the best sock quality available. It’s worth noting that wool can shrink in hot water, so it’s essential to machine-wash these socks with cold water and air dry them after washing.