8 Best Winter Hiking Socks [keep em WARM and TOASTY]

So you wanna go hiking in winter and want to know what the best winter hiking socks are and how to get them.

I understand. In summer, I’m always running around the high mountains in the Alps and it’s all about anti-blister socks because of the heat. But in winter (in my advancing age) it’s harder and harder to keep my feet from turning into ice blocks and I am sick of numb feet (even in temperate climates).

If you’re in a seriously challenging climate, maybe neoprene socks or heated ski socks would be a better option than this review.

Are winter hiking socks worth it?

Yes, for most people that get cold feet in winter but aren’t tackling extreme wet and cold environments. When I say extreme….sub zero. Your shoes will make a difference too and how long you depend to stop for some palinka (or other delicious drinks) on the hike.

Features to watch out for:

• material
• wicking potential
• thickness
• cushion
• fit and support

Keep reading to learn about the coolest off-the-beaten path hikes in Europe that combine good food, Nature and serious elevation.

Remember, you can always double up on socks with hiking sock liners to help your feet stay warm.

Let’s get to the review.

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Quick Verdict: Best Winter Hiking Socks

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🔥 ➡️ Related Reading – Hiking Advice from a Physical Therapist Hiking Addict:

Read my review of the 13 top hiking socks that can prevent blisters.

• More Buying Guides:
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  💥 Best Inexpensive Trekking Poles
  ⌚️ Review of the Best Hiking Watches

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If you’re planning on hitting the trails this winter, you need to make sure you have the right gear to keep you warm and comfortable.

One of the most important pieces of gear for any winter hike is a good pair of socks.

The right socks can make all the difference in keeping your feet warm and dry, preventing blisters, and providing support for your feet.

DG Hill Merino Wool Socks

If you’re looking for warm and comfortable winter hiking socks, DG Hill Merino Wool Socks are a great choice.

Pros

• Made with 80% Merino wool for optimal warmth and temperature regulation
• Incredibly soft and comfortable with brushed fleece lining and added stretch
• Superior cushioning in the footbed with reinforced toe and heel, plus added arch support

Cons

• May be too thick for some people’s liking
• Sizing can be a bit off
• May not be suitable for warmer weather hiking

These socks are designed to keep your feet warm and comfortable in extreme temperatures. The Merino wool acts as a body temperature regulator, keeping you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot.

The brushed fleece lining and added stretch make these socks extremely comfortable, while the reinforced toe and heel and added arch support provide superior cushioning in the footbed.

One potential downside is that these socks may be too thick for some people’s liking, especially if you prefer a thinner sock. Sizing can be a bit off, so make sure to check the size chart carefully before ordering.

281Z Military Warm Boot Liner Socks

If you are looking for a warm and comfortable liner sock for your winter sports and activities, then the 281Z Military Warm Boot Liner Socks is a perfect solution for you.

Pros

• The Polartec Classic 200 fleece fabric keeps your feet warm, comfortable, and dry.
• The anatomical design provides a tight, firm fit to prevent liners from slipping down and clogging.
• The liners are designed to work with the majority of hiking, trekking, and working socks and footwear.

Cons

• The liners are not particularly stretchy.
• The tube part for the calf is too narrow.
• The seam across the toe comes under your toes, which can be uncomfortable.

These liners are made from original Polartec Classic 200 fleece, which is soft, breathable, and warm. The flatlock seams totally eliminate rubbing, and the liners remove excess moisture, dry quickly, and create a comfortable temperature balance, so your feet will always be dry and warm. These liners are a perfect solution for cold season, and they work perfectly with all types of working footwear.

The 281Z Military Warm Boot Liner Socks are eco-friendly, and the materials meet the “STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX”. You can easily use them as warm, soft, and comfortable slipper socks that keep your feet warm while doing work around your house, yard, or garden.

NinetoFiveLife Winter Warm Wool Socks

If you’re looking for a comfortable and warm pair of socks for your winter hiking adventures, then NinetoFiveLife Winter Warm Wool Socks may be just what you need.

Pros

• Made with a high-quality fabric blend that provides unmatched softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties.
• Designed to keep your feet warm in cold weather conditions, making them perfect for winter hiking.
• Stylish and trendy design that will coordinate with any outfit.

Cons

• Some users may find the socks to be too thick, which could make them uncomfortable in certain types of shoes.
• The sizing may not be accurate for everyone, so it’s important to check the size chart before making a purchase.
• The socks may not be as durable as some other options on the market, which could be a concern for those who plan to use them frequently.

If you’re looking for a comfortable and warm pair of socks for your winter hiking adventures, then NinetoFiveLife Winter Warm Wool Socks are definitely worth considering.

Made with a high-quality fabric blend that provides unmatched softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, these socks are designed to keep your feet warm in cold weather conditions.

They also feature a stylish and trendy design that will coordinate with any outfit, making them a versatile addition to your winter wardrobe.

One potential downside of these socks is that some users may find them to be too thick, which could make them uncomfortable in certain types of shoes. Additionally, the sizing may not be accurate for everyone, so it’s important to check the size chart before making a purchase.

Some users have reported that the socks may not be as durable as some other options on the market, which could be a concern for those who plan to use them frequently.

Yeblues Wool Hiking Socks

If you’re looking for a warm and comfortable pair of hiking socks for the winter, Yeblues Wool Hiking Socks are a great choice.

Pros

• These socks are made of high-quality wool and polyester blend, which makes them super warm and soft.
• The thick inner design of the socks keeps your feet warm and comfortable all day long.
• The socks have non-slip stay-up elastic cuffs that prevent them from slipping down.

Cons

• The socks are not as long as they appear in the pictures and may not cover your entire calf.
• Some customers have reported that the socks are a little small and tight, so you may need to size up.
• The socks may not be as fluffy as some customers expect.

Yeblues Wool Hiking Socks are perfect for cold weather hikes or any outdoor activity in the winter. The socks are made of a high-quality wool and polyester blend that keeps your feet warm and comfortable. The thick inner design of the socks provides extra insulation and cushioning, which is perfect for long hikes or walks in the snow.

The socks have non-slip stay-up elastic cuffs that prevent them from slipping down, so you don’t have to worry about constantly pulling them up. The socks are also available in two sizes to fit sizes 6-13, so you can find the perfect fit for your feet.

However, some customers have reported that the socks are not as long as they appear in the pictures and may not cover your entire calf.

Thorlos Women’s LTHW Max Cushion Hiking Crew Socks

If you’re looking for the best winter hiking socks, then you should definitely consider the Thorlos Women’s LTHW Max Cushion Hiking Crew Socks. They provide maximum comfort and protection for women on day hikes or extended backpacking in warmer weather conditions.

Pros

• The socks are engineered for women’s feet with extra stretch yarn in the ankle, a smaller heel pocket, and smaller toe box, resulting in a better fit and less discomfort during long hikes.
• The socks feature Thorlo legendary padding in the heel and forefoot, which is clinically shown to reduce blisters, moisture, pain, and pressure.
• The cushioned instep and arch provide better fit, more support, and less pressure on feet during hikes.

Cons

• The socks may be too thick for some hikers who prefer thinner socks.
• The ventilation panel may not be sufficient for hikers who sweat excessively.
• The socks may not be suitable for very cold weather conditions.

I recently tried these socks on a day hike in the mountains, and I was impressed with their comfort and support. The extra padding in the heel and forefoot helped reduce the impact on my feet during the hike, and the cushioned instep and arch provided a better fit and support for my feet.

The socks also stayed in place and did not slide down during the hike, which is a common problem with other hiking socks.

The socks are made of a blend of Thor-Lon and Thor-Wick COOL fibers that channel moisture away from the foot, resulting in a sock that wears for years.

The ventilation panel also helps control moisture and breathability, which is essential for hikers who sweat a lot.

Winter Hiking Socks Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best winter hiking socks, there are a few key features you should look for. Here are some factors to consider when making your purchase:

Material

The material of your socks is an important consideration as you don’t want to get frostbite. Look for socks made from materials that are warm, moisture-wicking, and breathable.

Merino wool is a popular choice for winter hiking socks as it is warm, soft, and naturally moisture-wicking.

Other materials to consider include synthetic blends, such as nylon or polyester, which are also designed to wick moisture away from your skin.

Thickness

The thickness of your socks will depend on the weather conditions you will be hiking in. If you are hiking in extremely cold temperatures, you may want to opt for thicker socks to provide additional insulation.

However, if you are hiking in milder conditions, thinner socks may be more appropriate.

Fit

A good fit is essential for any hiking sock. Look for socks that are designed to fit snugly without being too tight. Socks that are too loose can bunch up and cause blisters, while socks that are too tight can restrict circulation.

Cushioning

Cushioning is another important factor to consider when choosing winter hiking socks. Look for socks with extra padding in the heel and toe areas, which can help absorb shock and provide additional comfort on long hikes.

Durability

Finally, consider the durability of your socks. Look for socks that are designed to withstand the wear and tear of hiking, with reinforced stitching and durable materials that can stand up to the elements.

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Final Verdict

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the warmest materials for winter hiking socks?

Some of the warmest materials for winter hiking socks include wool, synthetic materials, and blends of the two. Wool is a natural insulator and can keep your feet warm even when wet. Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon are also good at retaining heat and wicking away moisture.

Are there any specific brands of hiking socks that are best for winter weather?

There are several brands of hiking socks that are known for their quality and warmth, including Smartwool, Darn Tough, and Wigwam. However, the best brand for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

What features should I look for in winter hiking socks?

When choosing winter hiking socks, look for socks that are made from warm and moisture-wicking materials, have a snug fit, and provide ample cushioning and support. Socks with reinforced heels and toes can also help prevent blisters and prolong the life of the socks.

Can wool socks help prevent blisters while winter hiking?

Wool socks can help prevent blisters while winter hiking by wicking away moisture and keeping your feet dry. Dry feet are less prone to blisters than wet feet. Additionally, wool socks provide cushioning and support, which can reduce friction and pressure on your feet.

What is the difference between merino wool and regular wool hiking socks?

Merino wool is a specific type of wool that comes from Merino sheep. It is known for being soft, lightweight, and moisture-wicking. Regular wool can come from a variety of sheep breeds and may not have the same properties as Merino wool. Merino wool hiking socks are often more expensive than regular wool hiking socks, but they offer superior performance.

Do hiking socks for women differ from those for men in terms of warmth?

In general, hiking socks for women and men do not differ in terms of warmth. However, women’s socks may be designed with a different fit and cushioning to accommodate the shape and size of women’s feet. It’s important to choose socks that fit well and provide ample cushioning and support, regardless of gender.

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My Gear Review Process

At Crave the Planet, I’m all about honest and relatable reviews of outdoor products. As a physical therapist, hut to hut hiker, downhill skier and mom, I’m constantly trying new gear to make my outdoor experiences more comfy and fun but with science in mind.

I’ll be real with you, I’m not an expert in every outdoor activity. But, who is? I’m just a regular person who loves exploring the planet. Perfectionism is my enemy and I hope to help you ditch that vibe too.

My review process involves testing each product in real-life outdoor situations, but if it’s a really horrible day I’ll probably find a hotel in the valley. I’ll let you know what worked for me and what didn’t, so you can make informed decisions about your gear choices.

I don’t do sponsored reviews or take payment for my reviews. All comments are based on my personal experience. Sometimes I’ll test something and then send it back for a refund. Usually there’s a hefty fee. Bummer. So, if you’re looking for a relatable and honest take on outdoor gear, you’re in the right place.

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