The best walking socks 2023 (2024)

A good pair of walking socks can make all the difference over a long day of hiking. Just like running socks, a decent pair of walking socks will help you avoid chafing, blisters and sore spots while keeping your skin dry by wicking away sweat and adding cushioning to the impact areas.

There's endless pairs of walking socks out there: our guide lets you stride through those muddy waters in confidence (as well as warmth and comfort).

What to look for when choosing walking socks

For runners, you may like to invest in a multi-tasking pair of socks that are not only designed for hiking but can also be used on runs. If so, you can check out our best running socks round-up and our best waterproof socks for even more choice. One thing to bear in mind is the height of the sock – if you're wearing boots that cover the ankle you’ll want mid-to-high-cut socks to ensure no skin on your ankle rubs on the boot.

Material – the more wool in the mix, the warmer and more breathable the sock will be. Merino wool is especially good in this respect. It’s a natural fibre that's breathable, odour-limiting and keeps the cold out. You’ll pay a higher price for this wonder-fibre, though. Wool blends are also popular, and more sustainable than virgin polyester.

Fit – you want a pair that's snug-fitting to keep it held up. If the sock begins to slip down on a long walk, you increase the chances of rubbing and chafing. Equally, a tight fit around the arch of the foot helps keep it in place. Most socks come with extra padding on the heel and forefoot with the aim of limiting hot spots on longer treks.

The best walking socks

1.Stance Divide Crew Sock (Unisex)

Made with the brand’s Infiknit fabric technology (which it claims never rips or tears, and if it does rip, Stance will replace it for free) and manufactured with 34 percent merino wool, the Divide Crew is warm and breathable. It also has a luxuriously soft feel – so much so you’ll soon be wearing them not just for hiking but for everyday tasks.

2. Finisterre Dizzard Walking Sock (Unisex)

These are comfortable and sustainably produced, Finisterre says, from wool grown by “happy sheep”. They are also made in the UK by Ladkins Hosiery, and are designed specifically for walkers, with underfoot padding and ankle and arch support. Sturdy and long-lasting.

3. Feetures Elite Light Cushion Mini Crew (Men's)

As found in our list of best running socks, these double up well for summer walking due to the light padding and seamless toe section. Feetures socks are always super-soft, so your toes will thank you for wrapping them in the Elites, whether walking or running.

4. Bridgedale Women’s Midweight Merino Endurance Sock (Women's)

Bridgedale specialises in hiking socks, so these do what you’d expect with no gimmicks or fancy claims – they simply do what all good hiking socks should do: keep you warm and comfortable. The fit is snug, which means there’s no risk of them rucking or slipping. Will see you through the longest walks with aplomb.

5. Darn Tough Ranger Micro Crew (Men's)

Darn Tough's Ranger is a midweight sock designed specifically for hikers. Made from 62 percent merino wool and featuring the brand's super-soft twisted yarn, they're perfect for long days on your feet or simply taking the dog for a walk round the block. They're also constructed without seams to minimise the risk of irritation.

6. 1000 Mile Ultimate Compression Sock (Unisex)

Also featuring in our best running socks list, these double-layered socks are stalwarts for runners and walkers alike. Comfortable and cushioned, with ventilation zones for breathability, Achilles tendon protection and inner layers to wick sweat away from your feet. The brand also makes anklet socks specifically for women.

7. CEP The Run Sock (Men's)

Although technically designed for running, these work equally well for hiking. The knee-cut socks are ideal to go above the level that hiking boots reach, but they come in mid-cut versions too if you prefer a shorter length. They remain dry in the sweatiest of walks due to the next-generation Feran ICP concentrate, so chafing's not an issue. Silver treatment also means they resist becoming a stink-fest.

8. Sealskinz Waterproof All-Weather Sock With Hydrostop (Unsiex)

Sealskinz has built a solid reputation for waterproof socks that are, most importantly, breathable, so your feet stay dry on the outside and inside. These are a lighter-weight version of the brand’s excellent waterproof all-weather socks with the crucial addition of a ‘Hydrosock’ seal around the top of the ankle that halts water from entering the top of the sock.

9. Sweaty Betty Hiking Sock (Women's)

A lightweight, comfortable and affordable pair of socks from the running specialists. Featuring a breathable blend of fabrics, including 9 percent wool, they provide a good level of warmth and breathability. They also stay hoisted up well and don’t slip during walks, which can be the downfall of many pairs of socks.

10. Otter Waterproof Sock (Unisex)

These rain-excluders incorporate three-layer technology to ensure your toes remain bone-dry by featuring a waterproof PTFE membrane sandwiched between two other layers. They are available in a range of plain colours, as well as a camo pattern for the more adventurous.