Best Hiking Socks
Amazing Hiking Socks
Find your perfect walking socks
Perfect for multi-day treks and challenging terrain in the Lake District, these socks have become my essential foot protection for serious hill walking throughout the year. I purchased these Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew socks because I needed reliable, durable performance that would prevent blisters and maintain comfort in all weather conditions. Their seamless construction means no hot spots even after 20+ miles, and the natural merino wool provides exceptional temperature regulation regardless of whether I’m trudging through spring mud or battling autumn downpours.
What I Love
- Exceptional durability with lifetime warranty
- Superior blister prevention with no-slip fit
- Outstanding moisture management in wet conditions
- Temperature regulation across seasons
- Quick drying when wet
- No detectable odour even after multiple days
What Could Be Better
- Premium price point compared to competitors
- Limited padding for those who prefer ultra-cushioned options
- Slightly tight ankle cuff on initial wears
- Can shrink slightly if accidentally tumble dried on high heat
- Limited colour options in standard hiking models
My Review: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew
I purchased Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew socks after growing increasingly frustrated with having to replace cheaper hiking socks every few months. They’ve become my indispensable companions on all Lake District adventures, from quick afternoon strolls around Buttermere to multi-day backpacking circuits through the Central Fells.
The unparalleled durability was actually my main reason for buying them. Previously, I’d used various budget brands that would develop thin spots and holes after just a handful of challenging hikes. Picture this: I’m partway through a multi-day trek, with several tough miles still ahead, when I feel that telltale hotspot developing where my sock has worn thin. What should be a joy becomes a painful slog as I try to adjust and compensate. The Darn Tough socks solved this persistent problem – after two full years of regular use across hundreds of miles in varied terrain, they show amazingly minimal wear. This durability is backed by a genuine lifetime warranty; if they ever develop holes, the company will replace them, no questions asked.
The comfort level is equally impressive. The seamless construction eliminates any raised stitching that might cause friction points, while the performance fit ensures they stay perfectly in place without bunching or slipping. I’ve completed numerous challenging hikes, including the full Cumbria Way and sections of the Coast to Coast, without developing a single blister – something I previously would have thought impossible. The merino blend combines the natural antimicrobial properties of wool with just enough synthetic material for stretch and structure, resulting in socks that truly don’t stink even after multiple consecutive days of wear.
Where these socks truly excel is in varied British weather conditions. During a particularly memorable three-day trek from Keswick to Wasdale Head, I encountered everything from blazing sunshine to pouring rain and even a brief summer hailstorm. Throughout it all, my feet remained remarkably comfortable. When moisture inevitably penetrated my boots during stream crossings, the socks maintained their insulating properties and didn’t develop that clammy sensation that often leads to blisters. Equally impressive, they dried surprisingly quickly overnight at camp without requiring special treatment.
The cushioning is moderately thick – sufficient for protection without excessive bulk that would make boots feel tight. The ribbed upper section provides excellent support that prevents the socks from sliding down during long descents, while the reinforced toe and heel areas target the highest-wear sections effectively. I particularly appreciate the micro crew height, which sits just above my boot tops to prevent debris entry while not being so tall as to cause overheating.
Perfect for year-round Lake District hiking, these socks have become my non-negotiable hiking essential. Despite their higher initial investment, the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew (£24) offers exceptional long-term value through their durability and performance. If Darn Tough could offer a slightly more cushioned version while maintaining the same performance characteristics, they would be absolutely perfect.
SCORE ★★★★★
Conclusion on Best Hiking Socks
After two years of extensive use in Lake District conditions, I can confidently say the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew socks represent the best hiking sock investment I’ve ever made. I initially balked at paying over £20 for a single pair of socks, but the long-term value is undeniable – these socks have outlasted multiple pairs of competitors that cost half as much.
It’s worth emphasising that Darn Tough’s lifetime warranty isn’t just marketing hyperbole. While I haven’t needed to use it yet, I know several fellow hikers who have had their worn-out pairs replaced without question. This commitment to product longevity is increasingly rare and reflects the company’s confidence in their manufacturing quality.
The combination of blister-free comfort, all-weather performance, odour resistance, and exceptional durability makes these socks ideal for anyone who regularly hikes in British conditions. They perform admirably in all seasons, managing the challenging mix of dampness, temperature variations, and rough terrain that characterises Lake District hiking.
For anyone serious about walking or backpacking, I believe these socks are worth every penny of their premium price. I’ve since expanded my collection to include several pairs, ensuring I always have clean Darn Tough socks ready for spontaneous hiking opportunities, and I haven’t regretted the investment for a moment.
SCORE
Alternative Options
If you’re looking for other hiking socks in this category, here are three alternatives worth considering:
Icebreaker Hike+ Medium Crew – For those seeking the highest percentage of merino wool content, Icebreaker offers an excellent option. With a composition of 68% merino (compared to Darn Tough’s 61%), these socks provide exceptional temperature regulation and natural antimicrobial properties. The anatomical toe box design prevents bunching and reduces blister risk, while the seamless construction eliminates potential friction points. Though not quite as durable as Darn Tough, many hikers appreciate their superior softness and comfort straight out of the package with minimal break-in period. At approximately £22 per pair, they’re slightly less expensive than Darn Tough while still offering premium performance. They excel in varied temperature conditions, making them ideal for Lake District hiking where weather can change dramatically throughout the day.
Bridgedale Trail Light Merino Fusion – A British-made alternative with an excellent reputation for durability and comfort. The Trail Light model uses a slightly higher percentage of synthetic materials alongside the merino wool, resulting in enhanced durability in high-wear areas. Many hikers report faster drying times than pure merino options, making them excellent for multi-day treks in typically damp Lake District conditions. The fit is slightly less compressive than Darn Tough, which some walkers prefer for longer days. They don’t quite match the legendary durability of Darn Tough, but at around £18 per pair, they represent excellent value and are widely available across the UK. The additional cushioning under the ball of the foot and heel provides targeted protection where it’s most needed.
Smartwool PhD Outdoor Medium Crew – These premium hiking socks feature a more structured fit with specific zones of cushioning and ventilation. The PhD range uses Smartwool’s Indestructawool technology, which significantly improves durability over previous generations. The 4-Degree Elite Fit System helps keep the socks perfectly positioned throughout your hike, preventing slippage that can lead to blisters. Though slightly less durable than Darn Tough in my experience, they offer more targeted cushioning in high-impact areas, which some hikers may prefer for rocky Lake District trails. Priced similarly to Darn Tough at around £23, they represent a premium alternative with slightly different performance characteristics – particularly excelling in warmer conditions with their effective mesh ventilation zones.