Socks

Recent Sock Reviews

Smartwool Expedition Trekking Socks

Have been my “go-to” hiking sock for years! Quality is top-notch and they last for A LOOONG TIME! I have both the Smartwool branded, as well as the now extinct L.L. Bean branded version of these socks. If you compare them side by side the ONLY difference is the branding on them. Smartwool in white. LL Bean written in red. They are fantastic socks. They offer enough padding to protect your feet, while also taking up a little additional space in your boots if you need it. They keep my feet warm… Full review

Bridgedale Hike Ultra Light T2 Boot

A well-cushioned pair of hiking socks that are designed for warmer temps. The cushioning makes for a very comfortable wear, while the non-wool Coolmax fabric (polyester) doesn't quite wick moisture as I had hoped. Still, a very comfortable and durable sock that is best worn during low-to-moderate energy-burning activities. Conditions I’ve worn the Bridgedale Hike Ultra Light T2 socks in a wide range of temps and conditions from April to October in the mid-Atlantic, USA. From cold, wet hikes to… Full review

Bridgedale Hike Lightweight T2 Boot

A well-made pair of socks that have ample cushioning, but run a little warmer than I had expected. The non-wool Coolmax technology has its pros and cons, but is overall favorable. Best worn when hiking in cooler temperatures. Conditions:I’ve worn the Bridgedale Hike Light Weight T2 socks in a wide range of temps and conditions from April to October in the mid-Atlantic, USA. From cold, wet hikes to midsummer humidity, I’ve worn the socks on countless occasions with four different pairs of footwear—sandals,… Full review

Skinners Sock Shoes

Is it a sock? is it a shoe? Yes! Skinners sock shoes might be a new category in outdoor footwear. I recently acquired some Skinners Sock Shoes. What? They are basically a sock covered on the sole with a protective rubber polymer. I believe that this might be new category of outdoor footwear. I'd say they offer more protection that a sock and perhaps less protection than a minimalist shoe. I suppose the closest comparable footwear might be minimalist footwear like FiveFingers Shoes, Merrell Trail… Full review

Red Wing Heavy Weight Mid Calf Sock

Red Wing heavy weight sock (#97392). These are a nice heavy duty wool blend sock. I have owned several pairs over the years; they hold up well. They don't stretch out, and don't tear easily. A good sock. Like was said on another website, these socks are the best sock he has ever owned. I could not say it any better than that. They last long enough you forget just how long you have had them before you need another pair. Full review

Bridgedale Men's Hike Lightweight Boot Coolmax Comfort

Lightweight and cool enough for summer use for those like me who have hot feet. Good for hundreds of miles of blister-free walking. After boots, socks are probably the most crucial decision any walker, hiker, or trekker will make yet they are seriously underrated. The humble sock is a vital piece of kit and deserves a great deal of consideration to find the right pair. I learned the hard way… I ended up abandoning a long distance trail after two days because I thought I could get away with a… Full review

NRS HydroSkin G2 Socks

A great sock for wet conditions. Perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or rafting! Great in cool weather or with cold water. A great insulator in cold water and or cool weather. I wear under river sandals or with sneakers when rafting Another great use is in harsh winter snow and ice conditions with a hiking boot or insulated pac shoe.   Full review

Mund Socks Makalu

Good soft winter socks. Warm socks from the Spain company Mund. But not by any stretch suitable for -25C. I've worn these in temperatures ranging from 12C up to -7C and these were not warm enough.It features Primaloft's synthetic yarn blended with merino wool by an unknown percentage.One would expect for an L and R indication. But these are all "L". Weird...It features an almost seamless construction. Except in the toe area. Full review

NRS HydroSkin 0.5 Wetsocks

Provides good warmth in wet and cold conditions. I've packed these on my last four years of doing an event that takes you across the Bob Marshall Wilderness in May, but never felt the need to use them, so they stayed in the pack. This year we experienced a lot of cold rain (temps in the 30's and 40's), more snowshoeing than any year past, and with the normal amount (lots and lots) of fording icy creeks/streams/rivers, so I tried them. I used them in conjunction with a very thin merino sock—think… Full review