Our Top 3 Picks!
MudGear Premium Compression Socks
CWVLC No Show Compression Socks
Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks
Hey hiking buddy! We know hiking is a great way to get your heart rate up, burn some calories, and enjoy some fresh air. But do you know that hiking in the wild can be dangerous?
You might slip on a rock or fall into a river, hurting yourself or leading to a severe leg injury. You need to make sure that you are prepared for any situation that might arise on your hike.
So if you’re an avid hiker, you know how important it is to have comfortable socks. And if you’re a zealous hiker of snowy areas who’s also looking for the best socks for hiking, then it’s time to check out the 7 latest options available in the market in 2023. Check them out!
How Did We Make This Article Dedicated To Hikers, & Why Should They Trust Our Selected Products?
We know you are looking for an ideal pair of compression socks for your next hike. So we’ve rounded up our favorite products to help you with hiking injuries or if you want them to support your feet during long walks. This article will make sure you have the right gear on hand.
Our team has spent hours researching and reviewing these products, and we think you’ll love the results. All the information collected comes from customer reviews and visual data shared online by users themselves. We used these resources to make this guide useful, ensuring that none of our readers make the wrong purchase!
So whether you’re looking for something to help with injuries or just want to support your feet during long hikes, this article can make sure you have the right gear on hand.
Reviewing Our Picks
best overall
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 63% Nylon, 28% Polyester, 9% Spandex | Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg | Sock Type: Knee High | Available Sizes: S/M/L | Available Colors: 5 | In Package: 1 Pair
MudGear Premium Compression Socks Review
If your primary concern of buying compression socks is comfort while hiking, then MudGear Premium Compression Socks are one of the best options out there
For those who have an adventurous touch in their lives, such as hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone else who wants a durable pair of socks that will withstand harsh outdoor conditions, these socks boast a built-for-performance construction with graduated compression for the best fit possible and ventilated mesh for breathability.
They also have smooth seams that help reduce friction and chafing, so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about blisters or cuts from rubbing.
What makes them the best?
Since the brand (MudGear) has been producing socks for outdoor enthusiasts that are highly effective for healthy legs and feet, it has also designed them with the same benefits.
Their 15-20 mmHg pressure is highest at the ankle, which can help boost performance and support the foot during strenuous activities. This pressure then decreases towards the knee, which can provide additional support and help with pain relief for any medical concerns that hikers may have.
Why Do We Recommend Them?
What Customers Say About Them?
“I was skeptical at first, but these MudGear compression socks have been a game-changer for my hikes. They provide the perfect amount of support and have really helped with my health concerns. I highly recommend them to any serious hiker.
Our Verdict
The MudGear Premium Compression Socks is a great option if you’re looking for a pair of socks that will withstand harsh outdoor conditions while still being comfortable enough to wear while hiking or other outdoor activities.
However, it should be noted that these socks may be a bit expensive if you only want to purchase one pair, and they may feel a bit tight when trying them on for the first time. Despite these potential drawbacks, the benefits of improved athletic performance, pain relief, and medical support may make them well worth the investment for many individuals.
Best For men
Sockwell Men’s Ascend Moderate Graduated Compression Socks
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 41% Merino Wool, 39% Stretch Nylon, 14% Alpaca, 6% Spandex | Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg | Sock Type: Below Thigh (OTC) | Available Sizes: M/L/XL | Available Colors: 2 | Package Contents: 1 Pair
Sockwell Men’s Ascend Moderate Graduated Compression Socks Review
By making a more directional purchase in the men’s category, you can get more comfort out of your compression socks. So the Sockwell Ascend Moderate Graduated Men’s Hiking Compression Socks are designed to be a stylish and comfortable option for men looking for relief and essential convenience.
These are crafted with American wool-based yarns, which provide a blend of durability and thermoregulation (for body temperature maintenance), making them suitable for everyday wear.
Since they are available in only 2 colors, they might not be an option for women who prefer attractive designs and colors, as the design of these socks is quite appropriate for men, as are the colors.
The best thing about these socks?
It is their ability to relieve pressure on your legs while remaining comfortable and warm. In fact, they’re very comfortable even if you don’t have any issues with swelling or pain from swelling after long periods of standing or walking about on your feet all day long at work!
Why We Recommend Them?
What Customers Say About Them?
“I love these socks. I’m a big guy, and my feet get sweaty if I wear shoes all day – which is why I love these socks so much.”
Our Verdict
We would say if you want something that’s more practical than fashionable but still looks good with jeans at the office or around town (or even just on casual weekends), these merino wool hiking compression socks will be perfect for you.
Also, the sturdy design and durable material make it perfect for hikers. Just a thing to note about them, the top seams could wear out if proper washing is not ensured!
Read: Best Compression Socks For Men
Best For Women
Sockwell Women’s Pulse Firm Graduated Compression Socks
Key Features:
Specifications:
Material: 32% Merino Wool, 32% Nylon, 31% Rayon, 5% Spandex | Compression Level: 20-30 mmHg | Sock Type: Below Thigh (OTC) | Available Sizes: S/M/L | Available Colors: 3 | Package: 1 Pair
Sockwell Women’s Pulse Firm Graduated Compression Socks Review
If you’re looking for a pair of socks that are available in fascinating colors and designs, keep your feet dry, comfortable, and make you feel energized while hiking, the Sockwell Pulse Firm Graduated Hiking Compression Socks For Women are the ones for you.
The moisture-wicking fabric helps keep your feet dry and comfortable – no matter what the weather is, while durable materials that blend durability with energy-boosting properties add to an exceptional all-around performance.
What makes them ideal?
The best part about these socks is that they are designed with some medical conditions in mind that are commonly faced during hiking, such as plantar fasciitis. Its turn-welt top, along with its cushioned sole, makes you feel like walking on pillows instead of rocks!
Plus, the anti-fatigue lining helps you feel more energized after a long hike, so you don’t need to stop walking as soon as you get back home!
Why We Recommend Them?
What Customers Say About Them?
“I have been hiking for 20 years, and I have never found anything that has made my feet as comfortable as these socks. They are so soft, and the compression is just right to help keep me feeling fresh while I’m hiking.”
Our Verdict
Overall, the socks are soft, durable, and the perfect addition to any hiker’s wardrobe. However, there are two downsides. One is, these socks don’t come in sizes for men.
The second one is that they’re not as wash-friendly as some other socks on the market, but this is something that’s easily fixed with a little care.
Just wash them in cold water after each hike, then hang them out to dry. You’ll be surprised at how much better they feel once they’ve dried out!
Budget Friendly Pick
CWVLC No Show Sports Compression Socks
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 58% Nylon, 28% Moisture-Wicking Fabric, 14% Elastane | Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg | Sock Type: Ankle/Low Cut | Available Sizes: M/L/XL | Available Colors: 3 | Package: 4/8 Pairs
CWVLC No Show Sports Compression Socks Review
You’ve been looking for a budget-friendly option in compression socks. You’ve tried all the big brands, and they aren’t doing it for you.
CWVLC No Show Sports Compression Socks are a four-pack of socks, which is pretty decent. The package includes four pairs of compression socks, so you can get your feet fixed up in no time. They are made of a terrycloth structure, which is a shock absorber during hikes, and they also have moisture-wicking and fast-drying qualities.
The best part?
The airflow channels and mesh zones provide comfort without sacrificing breathability, so there’s no need to worry about overheating when hiking on a hot day or wearing these socks in the wintertime.
Also, the optimum compression level with soft sole padding works best for ankles, as they feel great against your skin but still resist abrasion and wear. And did we mention they come in a pack of four at a reasonable price?
Absolutely, the budget-friendly deal in our entire list of products!
Why We Recommend Them?
What Customers Say About Them?
“I love wearing these with my hiking boots when I go on long hikes in the summertime! They’re just good for my feet and I always prefer to wear them even in gym time and during morning walks.”
Our Verdict
The CWVLC No Show Sports Compression Socks are a budget-friendly option for hikers who experience ankle problems. However, they may not be suitable for more serious medical conditions due to their low compression level and the fact that they fit around only the ankle.
If you are seeking compression socks for a medical condition, it is important to consult with a medical professional to determine the appropriate level of compression that fits your needs.
Crew Cut Design
CWVLC Crew Hiking Arch Compression Boot Socks
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 24% Acrylic, 18% Modal, 20% Moisture-wicking Fabric, 10% Polyester, 15% Nylon, 13% Elastane | Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg | Sock Type: Below Thigh/Crew | Available Sizes: M/L/XL/2XL | Available Colors: 6 | In Package: 3/4 Pairs
CWVLC Crew Hiking Arch Compression Boot Socks Review
The CWVLC Crew Hiking Arch Compression Boot Socks are designed to help you hike more comfortably, as they’re targeted at the arch of your foot and provide targeted arch compression designed to help you get the most out of your hiking experience. And because they’re made of moisture-wicking fabric, they keep your feet dry and cool during hot summer days!
The best part about them?
The socks have a crew-cut design that provides targeted arch compression to reduce swelling and pain. Wearing these socks while hiking all day provides amazing support without making your feet hot or uncomfortable due to the breathable material.
Why We Recommend Them?
What Customers Say About Them?
“I was looking for a pair of compression socks that would offer targeted arch compression and keep my legs warm while hiking. These socks were exactly what I was looking for! They are comfortable, durable, and provide a nice cushion against the cold ground.”
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a product that provides calf compression and are willing to take the risk of potentially encountering discomfort at the toe seam, the CWVLC Crew Hiking Arch Compression Boot Socks might be a good choice for you. However, some customers have reported issues with the toe seam causing a “bump,” which may be uncomfortable.
For Blister Prevention
limide Five Finger Ankle Compression Socks
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: Cotton 77.4% Polyester 20.1% Spandex 2.5% | Compression Level: 15-20 mmHg | Sock Type: Low Cut/Toe Socks | Available Shoe Sizes: 7-11 | Available Colors: 3 | Package: 4 Pairs
limide Five Finger Ankle Compression Socks Review
Limide’s Five Finger Ankle Compression Socks are the ultimate pair of hiking socks for those who want to be comfortable and move their feet and fingers freely.
Because toe socks are designed to fit snugly around each toe, they can help reduce friction and rubbing between the toes and the shoe, which can help prevent blisters from forming. Additionally, the compression provided by these toe socks can help reduce swelling in the feet, which can also help prevent blisters.
What makes them best?
The material used in these socks is very high-quality, they’re made from cotton, polyester, spandex, and elastic fibers all woven together into a single fabric that’s soft to the touch but still durable enough to take on any activity you throw at it. This makes it ideal for holding shoes in their place and avoiding slips!
Why We Recommend Them?
What Customers Say About Them?
“I used them for hiking, and they were perfect. They were comfortable, easy to clean, and durable. The only thing that I can say is that they are a little large so if you have smaller feet you might have a problem with it.”
Our Verdict
Overall, the Limide Men’s Cotton Toe Five Finger Compression Socks are a useful and comfortable option for preventing blisters during long hikes or everyday wear. However, the one size fits all design may not be suitable for those with extra large or short feet. But this thing could only arise if you seriously have wider feet or itchy toes!
Honorable Mention
Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks
Key Features:
Specifications:
Materials: 80% Merino Wool, 15% Polyester, 4% Nylon, 1% Spandex | Sock Type: Below Thigh/Crew | Available Sizes: S/M/L/XL/2XL | Available Colors: 4 | Package: 3 Pairs
Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks Review
Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks are not exactly compression socks, but they are an excellent choice for any outdoor activity, specifically hiking, due to their padding/cushioning as an alternative to compression. You can use them for hiking, running, or even walking around the house.
The socks are made with 80% merino wool, 15% polyester, and 4% nylon, which makes them ideal for wearing in cold weather. The nylon also keeps them from being itchy and uncomfortable, while the spandex makes them extra stretchy and comfortable.
What is best about them?
These socks are made to keep your feet protected from dirt and bacteria while keeping them comfortable and itch-free. They are also recommended for cold weather hikes because they keep your feet warm in these low temperatures during hiking trips or any time you want to feel good about yourself.
Why We Recommend Them?
What Customers Say About Them?
“I used it and it was great. I didn’t get any blisters, and they were really soft. I would definitely recommend them.”
Our Verdict
The Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks are a decent option for outdoor activities, but customer support is not helpful, and some customers have reported them wearing out quickly after a few washes in cold water. Overall, they may not be the most durable option on the market.
Checklist of Things to Look For in Hiking Compression Socks – [Buyers Guide]
Medical Disclaimer for Hikers
Using compression socks while hiking can lead to an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if you are immobilized for too long.
If you have diabetes, you should avoid using compression socks when hiking because it may increase your blood sugar levels.
If you have a pacemaker, you should use caution before wearing compression socks on hikes because they can interfere with the signal from your pacemaker and cause it to malfunction.
References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6457834/
https://swellcaroline.com/can-you-wear-compression-socks-if-youre-on-blood-thinners/
Compression & Insulation
When you’re looking for socks specifically designed for hiking that have compression features, it’s important to make sure that your socks are made from materials that provide compression and insulation.
You need some degree of compression so that your socks will fit snugly around your feet and ankles, but you also want some degree of insulation because otherwise, you’ll end up with sweaty feet and cold toes on those cold hikes!
A good pair of hiking compression socks should be able to fit tightly around your feet while still providing enough breathability and wicking sweat away from them, so they don’t get too uncomfortable while hiking through rough terrain or through long periods spent sitting down at campsites during hikes.
Compression Levels For Hiking Socks
If not compression, you can also look for warm, insulated socks for hiking, or you may also want to consider purchasing a pair of thick, fleece-lined socks or a pair of socks made from a warm, insulating material such as wool or synthetic fiber.
Read: How To Measure For Compression Socks
Material Quality
Once you have checked the compression level while buying hiking compression socks, you want to make sure that you’re getting materials that are both breathable and supportive. This will ensure that your feet stay cool and dry, but not so much that they lose their ability to move freely.
Here are the three main materials used in hiking compression socks:
Take note:
Nylon (when used alone) has a tendency to stretch over time and lose its shape (especially if you’re wearing them on long hikes), which means that they may start to feel uncomfortable after some time of wear.
This is why we recommend buying hiking compression socks that are made with polyester or cotton spandex instead. They’ll last longer and stay put better than their nylon replicas.
Breathability & Wicking
First things first: breathability and wicking aren’t the same thing!
Breathability refers to the level of moisture that gets through a fabric, while wicking refers to how much moisture is pulled away by the material itself.
You should look for a pair of compression socks that have both breathability and wicking features in order to make sure that you stay comfortable throughout your hike without having any issues caused by overheating or discomfort from unwanted moisture accumulation around your feet!
You can also find wicking features in the products listed above, so they stay comfortable during long hikes in the summer and don’t overheat in the winter!
Protection & Durability
As protection, these are the factors hikers need to know before finalizing compression socks:
Durability is also important because it ensures that the socks will last for multiple hikes and not wear out or break prematurely. To achieve durability, the socks should be well-constructed, with reinforced areas and sturdy seams.
Read: How To Wash Compression Socks
How much should you pay for it?
One thing that many people don’t think about when they are buying hiking compression socks is price.
If you purchase them online or at a store, you may not realize how much you are paying for each pair until it’s too late!
To see the worth of a product, you need to look at what kind of quality materials the manufacturer uses for their product. Some brands use nylon or cotton blends that feel like silk against your skin. Others make use of synthetic materials, which can be scratchy or even hot against your skin (if too tight).
Some more useful things you need to know:
Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Buying Compression Socks
Also Read: Best Compression Socks For Nurses
FAQs
Yes, you should definitely wear compression socks when hiking!
They’re a game-changer for your legs, providing increased blood flow and support for tired muscles.
Also, they can help prevent blisters and injuries from occurring, keeping you on the trail longer and stronger, as they’re made of stretchable material (nylon, spandex) for compression, among other things that help you keep your feet breathable and cozy on hikes.
The best material for hiking is merino wool. It has high levels of moisture-wicking properties and is lightweight, which makes it perfect for long hikes in hot weather. It also provides good protection against blisters, making it good for people with sensitive feet.
You want at least 25% merino wool in your socks if you’re going to hike in them regularly (or if you want them to last as long as possible).
The best thickness for hiking socks depends on the specific conditions you will be hiking in. In general, thicker socks may provide more cushioning and insulation, which can be beneficial in cold or wet conditions.
Read: Compression Socks Benefits
Here’s a wrap-up of this article!
Well, here you have it! The above list of compression socks is a hiking essential for anyone looking to take their trail game to the next level.
They help increase blood flow and support tired legs, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable hike. Plus, they can even help prevent blisters and injuries. But let’s face it, with so many options on the market, it can be tough to pick the right pair. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you and narrowed down the best of the best.
So, we hope that this information will be helpful in your search for the perfect hiking socks for your needs that boost your feet’ health instead of deteriorating them!