4 Types of Socks Explained

Naturally, the socks that you wear when you are backpacking, hiking, or simply wandering around the outdoors are at least as important as your shoes. Since manufactures know that socks are important, they have flooded the market with so many options that it is hard to keep them straight sometimes. Here they are broken down into the main categories.


Liners - Sock liners are thin, lightweight wicking socks designed to be worn right next to your skin. These liners wick sweat away from the surface of your foot to keep you dry and more comfortable, some will also provide added warmth should you need to bolster outer socks. Liners also limit the amount of abrasion between your outer sock and your skin. They are purpose designed to be worn under other socks, as well as being suitable to wear on their own. It is very important to remember that liner socks are going to allow your foot more room to slosh in your hiking boot, so don't try them for the first time when you are 40 miles out with 80 lbs on your back.

Lightweight walking/backpacking socks - Designed for warm conditions and easier walking/light footwear, lightweight walking socks stress wicking performance and comfort over warmth. These socks are thicker, warmer and more durable than liners alone. They also provide more cushioning. But they are relatively thin so that you can stay comfortable on warm weather trips. Because most lightweight walking socks are made from wicking materials, they can be worn with or without liner socks. Usually are thicker on the bottom allowing for extra padding, and thinner on the top and sides to allow breathing.

Midweight walking/backpacking socks - These socks are designed to provide reliable cushioning and insulation in moderate to cold conditions and are also better suited to heavy weight boots and trekking. They tend to be thicker and warmer than lightweight walking socks. Many models have extra padding built into high-impact areas like the heel and the ball of the foot for maximum comfort. These socks can also be worn with liners to improve wicking, comfort and warmth.

Mountaineering socks - Mountaineering socks are generally the thickest, warmest and most cushioned socks available. They are designed for long trips, tough terrain and cold temperatures. Usually, mountaineering socks are too thick and warm for basic backpacking journeys in moderate/warm conditions. Again liner socks maybe appropriate for foot management (wicking, blister protection etc.)


So remember, to thick of socks=blisters; to thin of socks=blisters. Try them out before you go out.




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