HIKING SOCKS - LOTS OF TIPS
Choosing hiking socks for your equipment is at least as important as choosing the right hiking boots. Here we share the knowledge we have acquired over the years. We look at the two-layer principle, toe socks, wool socks and compression socks. And when to choose what.
Two layers of socks when hiking
The reason why many outdoor experts recommend double socks for hiking is that they can prevent chafing, blisters and irritation on the feet.
By using double socks, you reduce friction between skin and shoe. Important to remember is that the innermost sock should be a "liner", i.e. a thinner sock.
If you are going to use the two-layer principle, it is important that the thinner sock that is closest to the skin has a good ability to transport moisture, such as bamboo and wool. Then the foot stays dry and warm. The outer layer, which is the coarser sock, can easily be a warming layer, for example in wool or in a warming functional material. The advantage of wool is that it has warming properties even when it is damp, and is dirt repellent.
Compression socks on the hike
Being out on a longer hike puts a lot of strain on the legs. Especially if you are not used to walking longer distances. Compression stockings counteract tired and swollen legs by stimulating blood circulation in the legs. What could not be more needed during a tough hike?
If you want to use the two-layer principle here, we recommend a bamboo sock on top of the compression sock. This is because it is important that these sit smoothly against the leg.
Our compression socks in wool release the compression in the front of the forefoot to have increased mobility for the toes.
Choose a wool compression sock and you've killed two birds with one stone!
Avoid chafing with socks without a toe seam
Another way to avoid chafing is to use socks without chafing seams. A sock with a seamless toe is therefore recommended. Toe socks, which are also seamless, have also become popular to use in the hiking boot.
Toe socks in wool for hiking
Toe socks are a five-toed sock that is becoming increasingly common to see in hiking contexts. In a toe sock, the toes are separated from each other and in this way moisture is prevented from penetrating between the toes. And it is precisely the moisture that is a source of trouble when it comes to shoe chafing. By choosing toe socks in wool, you also get features such as good ventilation, a warming layer and dirt repellency.
You also get a significantly better balance and the natural function of the foot comes into its own when the toes are allowed to play freely.
If you want to take advantage of the two-layer principle, it is fine to choose a bamboo sock on top of the toe socks. If so, you should go up a size as the toe socks make the toes take up more space.
Hiking socks in wool
It's no wonder that wool socks have become a clear favorite among hiking enthusiasts.
Wool is a fantastic material for a hiking sock. It not only regulates the temperature around the foot and transports away moisture should you get damp in the shoes. Good for avoiding athlete's foot. The antibacterial and dirt-repellent functions of the wool also ensure that the socks stay fresh longer.
