Socks

Recent Sock Reviews

L.L.Bean PrimaLoft Performance Socks, Crew Height

These socks are expensive, but they lost most of their cushion after a week of active use. It is a good idea, but needs a lot of improvements. This will be a short review, since the socks failed on me after a week of use. Therefore, I didn't have time to test drying time, wicking, and other aspects of the sock. I am not sure if I received an exceptionally bad model, but I would not recommend this sock to anyone. I have some L.L. Bean gear and it is all functional, so I was surprised to see this… Full review

Darn Tough Light Hiker No Show Lightweight Hiking Sock

A cushioned Merino wool sock that works as well for running as hiking, long on comfort and by all accounts as tough as they come. Superb. Sometimes, in my sartorial existence, there are articles of clothing that are just so comfortable, so right, that I kind of don’t want to wear anything else. Blue jeans in general, for sure, but then there are certain pairs of blue jeans that I just reach for day after day. Or my NRS river runner’s lightweight hoodie, which is so light and comfortable I wear… Full review

Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks

Hikers know Smartwool as one of the best-known Merino wool brands on the market. I have owned several Smartwool products over the years, and I have never been disappointed with any of them. The Hike Light Cushion Crew Sock is no exception. As a lighter cushioned sock, it is perfect for day hiking or backpacking with an ultralight setup. With Smartwool’s improved warranty and a commitment to sustainability, these are definitely hiking socks worth considering when making your next purchase. The… Full review

Royal Robbins Bug Barrier Venture Crew Socks

Described as a “travel sock” Royal Robbins claims that this crew sock is a versatile sock, suitable for wearing while traveling on planes, hiking, exploring cities, or relaxing at a hotel or restaurant. Its construction (hemp blended with recycled polyester) is reported to be durable, odor controlling, breathable, and temperature regulating. One of Royal Robbins’ group of Travel Hemp Socks, this version is also treated with Permethrin and labeled as an “Insect Shield” garment. I have used… Full review

Swiftwick Flite XT Trail

Up your socks-game with a set of all-around socks that can be stretched into service for almost any three-season activity. I can wear shirts that don’t wick sweat away and I’ll be fine.  I can put up with a crappy, $3 vinyl poncho. I can tough it out when my pack tries to wear a hole in my hide. However, if my feet aren’t happy, I’m MUCH less fun to be with.  This is why I no longer complain about paying for great socks. The Swiftwick Flite XT Trail socks qualify as great socks. This isn’t… Full review

Bridgedale Ski Lightweight Merino Endurance Over Calf

I tried, I had hope, the socks catastrophically failed. On an evening while the powder piled higher outside my office window, I made the decision to indulge myself. I purchased two pairs of Bridgedale Light Weight Ski Socks from their Merino Performance category. These socks were even endorsed right on the package by the National Ski Patrol!  “They are bound to please,” I thought. The socks arrived from the wonderful team at Liberty Mountain where I have a pro-deal account. I paid a slightly… Full review

Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Crew Socks

What can I say about these just amazing socks that keep all the water out? I'm certain you will love them if you run, bike, or hike in wet conditions. When waterproof socks first appeared on the market I was wondering how good they could be. Well, I broke down three years ago and bought a pair from REI when they were on sale. All the hype was true. Showers Pass Waterproof Socks I've mainly reserved them for winter and wet weather cycling over the years and about six hikes. They are very size specific… Full review

Darn Tough Over-the-Calf Lightweight

Darn Tough intended these lightweight, over the calf socks for snow sports as a thin sock inside tight, form fitting boots. The merino wool blended with synthetic fibers to increase elasticity and wear made them a great liner sock with excellent moisture wicking properties. Darn Tough makes a wide variety of socks and most folks seem to like the ones they try. My personal previous experience with their socks was limited to a single pair that I didn't especially care for and I didn't bother to get… Full review

Happy Yak Socks The Adventurist Socks

These are amazing socks. Of course they are comfortable and thick...but they also don't need washing for days and days, and still keep all of their cushion. I took two pairs of these socks on a four-day backpacking trip that included plenty of thunderstorms. We got wet the first day, hiking first in the rain, and then on a narrow trail through rain-soaked bushes. These socks were so wet that I squeezed out as much water as I could and left them in the tent vestibule overnight. They did not really… Full review