xsocks trek light

Cairngorm Treks Review - X-Socks Trekking Light Limited

Posted by Cairngorm Treks on Feb 12, 2018

X-Socks Trekking Light Limited Review

Tested regularly throughout Autumn and Winter 2017/18 in the Cairngorms.

Picking the right socks for trekking can be tricky and once you find a certain brand you trust, you tend to stick with them. So when we were sent a very innovative product from X-socks we were very interested to see if they matched up or bettered our usual chosen brands. On arrival it was evident these are not just your average pair of socks but are the Swiss Army knife of the sock world. Boasting 14 integrated patented functions is quite an incredible amount of tech... for a sock!

The packaging is filled with descriptions detailing each feature and a number of awards alongside to back these claims. But how do they work differently to my usual socks? How many features do socks actually need? These are a few of the questions we started asking ourselves as we also considered how much attention we had paid to our socks of the past. Previously we would consider the weight of sock to suit each season, breathability and comfort obviously being the biggest concern, whilst also considering the wear, fit and support. So how does the X-Sock compare to a regular trekking sock?

Out of the box the X-socks appear to be built to a high quality using Mythlan lightweight yarn, which aids breathability and prevents a build of bacteria and odour. The fit is comforting as you really feel the support given especially the stretching rib feature around the front of the foot. They are mid-calf in length, which is perfect for use with most trekking boots and hold in place securely throughout the day without rolling down or pinching. We tested these socks with varying footwear and they always held well and felt supportive. One of the most interesting features with this sock, and one we didn't think would be as noticeable, is the climate regulating technology. This mimics the same pattern of warmth dispersion as a bare foot, with a claim that other types of sock trap heat and moisture keeping the foot damp and overheated. This was very noticeable when using a pair of leather boots that have been a close companion for many years. When working very hard in these boots the foot can feel very warm and it had always been assumed this was just the boot itself. After using the X-socks this issue reduced massively. This has to be testament to the Air Conditioning Channel and Air Guide patented features that create space between the sock and boot, providing constant airflow. With so many different features throughout it's hard to fit them all into this review but we can safely they are all surprisingly noticeable and work well.

Our Verdict

Many of you right now are probably thinking the same as we did when first hearing about this product. Surely these claims are more suited to a high spec Gore-Tex jacket not socks? This is the first time we have looked into socks in so much detail. It's obviously a part of our kit that doesn't get overlooked as the wrong pair of socks can make for a rough trip, but never have we had a pair of socks that simply do the job they state as well as the X-sock Trekking Light. It's also apparent that many awarding bodies agree with their claims just as we have. Are they going to replace our usual brand? For us they already have and we look forward to trying out the other products in their range.

Cairngorm Treks is a small family business based in the picturesque village of Tomintoul in the North East region of the Cairngorms National Park. They provide bespoke Mountain Guiding for Single Day Walks and Lightweight Multiday Trekking experiences, including wild camping, in the stunning Cairngorms wilderness and surrounding areas. Whether in the high mountains or lower valleys, their Multiday Treks are equipped with high quality, lightweight camping and trekking gear. They only work with small groups and, whatever your ability, pride themselves on designing your outdoor experience completely to your needs and with professional guidance and expertise. Adventure is waiting...

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X-SOCKS Men's Trek X Merino Light Socks Socks

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Product details, about this item.

• Crafted from high-quality yarns, the X-Socks Trek x apian merino LT is the intelligent trekker's choice
• The refined apian merino wool, The Technologically optimized material of the X-BIONIC 4.0 Generation increases your stamina with its tempering climate effect
• These unisex socks are designed for wearing with sturdy hiking boots to ensure that you are ideally equipped for tours in cool weather and at higher altitudes

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Product description.

1. These unisex Socks from the X-Bionic 4.0 Generation prove that outstanding quality can be further enhanced by technological innovation. 2. Thanks to the high-tech Functions in the densely knit material, your stamina increases significantly when you're hiking in sturdy mountaineering boots. 3. Alani Merino Wool provides more effective Moisture Management than Sheep's wool. 4. Perfectly coordinated technologies provide additional feel-good effects: The patented X-Cross Bandage Stabilizes your foot, The shape-optimized Air-Conditioning Channel 4.0 improves the ventilating system for a temperature-controlled climate effect, and the latest evolutionary phase of the Lamberts-Nicholson Achilles Tendon Protector 4.0 provides optimal protection for the Achilles tendon.

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 25 x 11 x 4 cm; 50 g
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ 1 May 2019
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ X-Technology
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07PZXHL8L
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ XS-TS03S19U
• Department ‏ : ‎ Men's

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X-Socks Light Trekking Merino Socks

• £23.99 £19.99
• RRP: £25.00 £20.83
• View All X-Socks
• View All Merino Wool Socks
• Description
• Specification

X-Socks Merino Trekking Light are absolute high-tech socks that take advantage of all the positive characteristics of merino wool. They are extremely comfortable to wear and protect sensitive areas from pressure and friction by means of a sophisticated protector system. The sophisticated ventilation system keeps your feet pleasantly dry for a long time, even in warm temperatures and during physical exertion. The effective transfer of moisture significantly reduces the risk of blisters. The special material mixtures reduce the drying time and merino wool prevents the development of unpleasant odours.

• Air-Conditioning Channel: Conducts air away from the anatomically shaped footbed via the inside surface of the foot and thus ensures that moist,overheated air is pumped out of even tight fitting shoes with every movement. 
• {Air Guides:false}: Function like spacers along the AirConditioning Channel® and effectively support the continuous circulation of fresh air. 
• Instep Protector The Instep Protector cushions and acts as a shock-absorber, significantly reducing the incidence of painful pressure points and scraping, bruising and blistering. 
• Stretching Rib: Provides maximum elasticity and ideal fit, and air can easily circulate along the ribs. 
• Toe Protector: Guards against blisters and chafing. 
• ToeTip Protector: Asymmetrical impact-absorbing protectors made of hollow-core Robur™ fibers cushion and protect toes at the pressure-sensitive tips. 
• Anatomically shaped footbed For “L”-left and “R”-right foot with integrated AirConditioning Channel®. 
• Traverse AirFlow Channel System: Regulates the temperature of the sole of the foot and conducts moist and overheated air into the AirConditioning Channel. 
• Heel Protector: Guards against pressure and friction. 
• X-Cross® Bandage: The unique crossover ankle bands, knit of elastic materials, give stressed tendons, muscles and joints secure hold and stability without limiting freedom of movement. 
• Rod-Type Paddings: The rod-type structure of the padding allows air to move, so in the case of an impact, the pressure is not transferred to the skin, but escapes to the sides. This way the shock is not only buffered in one direction, but three ways and in three directions.
• Lambertz-Nicholson Achilles Tendon Protector: Thanks to its highly abrasion-resistant and impact-absorbing material, the protector protects the Achilles tendons from pressure points and friction from the top of the shoe. The sensitive Achilles tendons aren't stressed because they are encased in the cushioning pod. 
• Self-adjusting cuff (Socks): Adapts to any size leg without slipping or constricting. 
• AirCool Stripes: Knit like a fine net of air permeable Mythlan™. This results in cooling ventilation on the soles of the feet. 
• AirFlow AnklePads: Ankle bones are often scraped up during falls since they jut out from the sides of the legs. The crescent-moon-shaped alignment of the pads offers the best possible protection without affecting the ventilation ability of the AirConditioning Channel®.

Size guide:

• 1 = 35-38, UK 3-5.5
• 2 = 39-41, UK 6-7.5
• 3 = 42-44, UK 8-10
• 4 = 45-47, UK 10.5-12

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X-socks Trek Silver EU 45-47

Product details, about this item.

• Olive Melange / X-Orange / Grey Melange

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PRODUCT CERTIFICATIONS (2)

Global Recycled Standard (GRS) verifies the percentage of recycled content and tracks it from the source to the final product.

Recycled Claim Standard Blended (RCS Blended) certified products contain between 50-94% certified recycled content.

• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 10.75 x 4.57 x 2.01 inches; 1.76 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ XS-TS07S19U
• Department ‏ : ‎ male
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ September 15, 2020
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B083G68NPG

Looking for specific info?

Product description.

The X-SOCKS TREK SILVER guarantee a performance-enhancing barefoot climate and create ideal conditions for mastering even the most demanding trekking tours. Men’s feet need intelligent protection when the path leads across rough terrain. Twelve patent-protected technologies in this special sock with fine APANI Merino wool counteract the typical stresses associated with trekking. The X-BIONIC 4.0-generation models prove that outstanding quality can be further optimized through technological innovation. Perfected high-tech functions ensure a relaxed skin feeling, lasting comfort, more safety and enhanced endurance. The newly shaped Air-Conditioning Channel 4.0 promotes air exchange along the sole of the foot. The modified Lambertz-Nicholson Achilles Tendon Protector 4.0 protects sensitive zones against pressure, friction and shocks. Skin NODOR in the densely knit material neutralizes germs and odours.

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xsocks Trekking Light Socks W

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Features xsocks trekking light socks w

• AirConditioning Channel & reg ;: System developed by the brand that dissipates heat and humidity, making the sock breathe and keep our feet always dry.
• Toe Protector: Protector in the toe area that prevents the appearance of chafing and blisters.
• Toe Tip Protector: Asymmetric cushioning for shock absorption made of hollow Robur & trade; fibers, which protects the fingers from shocks and pressure.
• Traverse AirFlow Channel System & trade ;: Regulates the temperature of the soleplate and directs moisture and stale air into the AirConditioning Channel & reg ;.
• Heel Protector: Heel protector that prevents pressure points and friction on them.
• X-Cross & reg; Bandage: Ankle support bands made of elastic material that prevents stress on tendons, muscles and joints and maintains stability without limiting your freedom of movement.

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Trekking Merino

Free EU shipping on orders over €150 (Italy over €75) Shipping costs from €7, depending on country. Shipping time approximately 3-6 days. Free Switzerland Shipping on orders over CHF150. Shipping time approximately 4-5 days Free US shipping on orders over $200. Shipping time approximately 4-6 days

2 YEAR GUARANTEE

Developing the ultimate functional sportswear is not enough for us. Our goal is not only to provide you with the best gear in the high performance sports world, but also to ensure that your investment meets all your needs, requirements and expectations while performing at its best. We offer a two-year X-Bionic warranty on our revolutionary products.

Benefit from the intelligence of high-quality yarns with the X-SOCKS® TREK X Merino and enjoy the inimitable comfort effect of refined Merino wool on demanding trekking tours. Specially designed for men's and women's feet and equipped with fifteen patented technologies, these socks from the X-BIONIC 4.0 generation prove that outstanding quality can be further enhanced through constant innovation. The high-tech functions in the densely knit material increase your endurance when you’re hiking in sturdy mountaineering boots. Merino wool provides more effective moisture management than sheep’s wool. Perfectly coordinated technologies provide additional feel-good effects: the patented Suppronation® XX-Cross® Bandage bandage stabilizes your foot, the shape-optimized Air-Conditioning Channel® 4.0 improves the ventilating system for a temperature-controlled climate effect, and the latest evolutionary phase of the Lambertz-Nicholson Achilles Tendon Protector 4.0 provides optimal protection for the Achilles tendon.

Polyamide (56%) Merino Wool (32%) Polypropylene (10%) Elastane (2%)

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Trek’s Carback Bicycle Radar Light Takes on the Market Leader

The Carback claims a better detection range than the Varia RTL515, but its real-world performance doesn't quite match up.

Takeaway: The Trek Carback is a serious contender to Garmin in the on-bike radar market. However, while the Carback nears the Varia RTL515’s performance, Trek’s claim of increased radar detection range fell short in our side-by-side testing.

Trek CarBack Radar Rear Bike Light

The Garmin Varia is so widely used and functions so well that Garmin essentially cornered the on-the-bike radar market. Competing units from Bryton and Magicshine are available, but they suffer from inconsistent car detection or poor battery life, so it’s hard to recommend anything other than the Varia.

I trust the Varia so much that I purchased a second one for my cargo bike right before having my first kid. While I know the radar cannot protect me from being run over by someone staring at their cell phone, it will at least alert me that a car is approaching me from behind.

If you were to force me to bet which brand would attempt to make a run at Garmin in the radar game, I’m not sure I would have picked Trek. But with its new Carback system, Trek comes closest to unseating Garmin from the taillight radar throne.

Overall, Trek’s Carback is a good product. The device offers solid detection, plus a few other very nice features that are upgrades over the Varia. Unfortunately for Trek, I don’t think the Carback beats out the Varia as the best product in the category, but it gives the category leader a run for its money.

Carback Details

Trek put a lot of thought into designing the Carback. Trek boosted the Carback's detection range from 460 feet claimed by the Varia to 790 feet (claimed by Trek) for the Carback. The brand switched from a 24Ghz radar to 77Ghz to accomplish this.

To support the more powerful radar, Trek installed a new 2,000 mAh battery, which provides the light a claimed 7-hour run time. However, in testing, I found the light’s run time closer to 8 to 9 hours, depending on the light mode used. The Carback has a very convenient LED light battery life gauge on the side of the device, something the Varia lacks. (Both lights also give you a low battery warning on your paired cycling computer.) The Carback charges with a USB-C plug, another nice upgrade from the Varia’s Micro-USB. The Carback and the Varia carry an IPX7 waterproof rating, and the lights are ANT+ and Bluetooth capable.

For mounting, the Trek Carback uses the same mount as Trek’s popular Flare RT series of lights. Basically, it is a rubber strap with Trek’s proprietary Blendr accessory mount attached. The best method to attach the Carback is directly to the saddle. If you ride with a Trek or Bontrager saddle, you can attach a Blendr mount directly to the shell with an adapter (sold separately).

A few places sell 3D-printed mounts and GoPro-style adapters to attach a Blendr accessory to various saddles and seatposts from other brands. If you want to move the Carback between different bikes, the rubber strap works fine., but I will eventually get annoyed with it, as I do with every other strap of this kind, and buy the right adapters for my bikes.

Side-by-Side Comparison to the Varia RTL515

I tested the Carback a few different ways. First, I rode with both the Carback and a Garmin Varia on my bike, each paired to a different cycling computer. I also rode quite a bit with a colleague, with one of us using the Carback and the other using the Varia. Finally, I did some back-to-back rides where I switched which radar system I used.

The good news is that the Carback is nearly as good as the Varia. And I recommend it to riders who already own the Flare RT lights and matching Blendr accessory mounts. It’s a no-brainer upgrade for these folks.

But there are two things that bug me about the Carback. First, Trek claims over a 71% improvement in detection range versus the Varia (790 feet vs 460). However, in real-world testing, this was not the case. In every scenario, either riding with both radar systems or riding side by side with a colleague, there was never any discernible difference between which system detected a car first. And in several instances, the Varia warned me of a car a second or two before the Carback.

Had Trek not claimed the greater detection, the Carback’s range would be at the same level as the Varia (which is great). But since the Carback only works on par with the Varia and not better (as claimed), I feel that Trek’s claims are somewhat misleading.

Second, the Carback lacks the variable light pattern of the Varia. When the Garmin detects a car, the Varia’s light pattern changes from steady red to flashing. Knowing that the Varia has another method to grab a driver's attention—short of slapping the cell phone out of their hand—that a cyclist is on the road is extra peace of mind for me. It’s a small detail, but it makes me always reach for the varia over the Carback.

I wanted to hear from Trek on both points and Alex Applegate, Trek's Electronics Marketing Manager, was kind enough to respond. “It was an intentional decision not to move away from our best and most visible flash pattern as cars were detected and approaching,” Applegate said regarding the lack of light pattern change. He also left open the possibility that this functionality might be added to the Carback.

Applegate also addressed the detection range question, “It is important to note that Radar requires line of sight, and in many cases, especially in city and suburban areas, the environment is the limiting factor.”

He continued, “Factors such as the crown of the road, curves in the road, and the angle of the rider and mount can all affect the line of sight and detection range. It is more common than you’d think for environmental factors to affect the range.” So, while I did not see an increased detection range in my extensive testing of the Carback, Trek is confident and fully stands behind its claim.

Final Thoughts

Trek produced a light and radar that functions almost equally to the Varia. And the Carback certainly is better than the other on-bike radar alternatives to Garmin. The Carback is slightly heavier than the Varia (86 grams vs. 72 grams). While it has less battery life, Trek’s nine-hour run time (compared to the Varia’s 16 hours) should be plenty for most riders. However, not needing to charge the device as often is convenient if you ride a lot.

Where the Carback improves on the Varia is with USB-C charging, which is almost a requirement for electronic accessories, especially at this price. Trek’s unit also has very easy-to-read battery life indicators. They are much more convenient than the Varia’s tiny little blinking LED, which is sometimes hard to see.

In the end, I can recommend both lights. If you already own Blendr accessories, going with the Carback is an easy choice. But because of the slimmer form factor or longer run time, the Varia still comes out a bit ahead. Plus, Garmin has the Varia RTL515 on sale right now for $50 less than the Carback, which makes it a no-brainer for anyone who doesn't already own a radar light. It’s nice when some competition can benefit the consumer.

Test Editor Dan Chabanov got his start in cycling as a New York City bike messenger but quickly found his way into road and cyclocross racing, competing in professional cyclocross races from 2009 to 2019 and winning a Master’s National Championship title in 2018. Prior to joining Bicycling in 2021, Dan worked as part of the race organization for the Red Hook Crit, as a coach with EnduranceWERX, as well as a freelance writer and photographer. 

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The Best Hiking Socks to Keep You Comfortable and Blister-Free on the Trail

By Emily Pennington

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Spend enough time on the trail , and you’re likely to hear some crusty old-timer touting the benefits of Merino wool and sweat-wicking, quick-drying socks. At first glance, paying a premium for high-tech foot gloves might not seem like something to prioritize when setting up your hiking arsenal, but having the right combination of form and function on your feet will save your tootsies in the long run, preventing blisters and soreness on long outings and hot days on the trail.

In other words, yes, hiking socks do make a difference. A big difference.

Most quality hiking socks are made with a blend of Merino wool , nylon, and spandex. Wool is a naturally odor-resistant fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin and helps prevent sores caused by unnecessary rubbing; nylon typically adds durability; and a small percentage of spandex is used to make the socks elastic so that they can stand up to hundreds of on-trail miles.

When selecting the right sock, pay special attention to the length and cushioning. Adventurers who prefer to hike in trail runners or low-cut hiking shoes can get away with a no-show or ankle-cut design, while boot wearers might opt for a longer “crew” sock height. As for cushioning, keep in mind the aggressiveness of the terrain you’ll be hiking through and the weather in the area you plan to visit; more cushioning means more comfort but also more warmth.

As an avid hiker who’s trekked across Iceland , Nepal, the U.S., and Ecuador , including a 25-day stint on the John Muir Trail, I’ve seen my fair share of sore toes and unnecessary rubbing. I hope you never know that pain, so I’ve hand-picked a few of my favorite hiking socks to keep you comfortable and blister-free in any conditions.

Best overall

Best blister protection, best ankle height sock, best odor protection, best budget pick, best non-wool option, best for recovery, best for cold weather adventures.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Should I wear thin or thick socks hiking? 

Most hiking socks come in a variety of thicknesses, to match the weather you’ll be facing in the wilderness and the amount of cushy comfort you prefer under your heel and forefoot. As such, it’s crucial to first think about the type of terrain you’ll be encountering. Thicker, heavily cushioned designs are warmer, sure, but they also provide impact absorption on rough, rocky terrain (like granite slabs in Yosemite ) and add an extra barrier of protection between your precious skin and high-ankle boots. Thinner socks (especially Merino wool ones) wick moisture like a dream but provide better ventilation in hot, muggy climates.

What length sock is best for hiking?

This one all depends on bugs and what style hiking shoe you prefer. Hiking in a warm, sunny, tick-and-mosquito-free zone? Low-profile ankle socks will keep you comfortable and cool. Venturing out in chilly shoulder season (spring or fall) weather? Grab those full crew-length babies from your drawer. It’s also generally a good idea to wear longer, crew-length socks if you know you’ll be wearing a high-top boot for ankle stability.

What is the best material for winter hiking socks?

Merino wool all the way. And, yes, we’re going to talk your ear off about this point. Not only is wool a naturally antimicrobial, odor-controlling fiber, it’s also excellent at staying warm, even when wet. That means you’ll stay safe, dry, and blister-free even after slogging up a long, snowy uphill trek. Look for products labeled with the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) seal of approval to ensure that your purchase protects the welfare of these remarkable animals.

Darn Tough Hiker micro crew cushion socks

It’s hard to argue with Darn Tough’s unconditional lifetime guarantee on its uber-comfortable Merino wool socks, which is why the brand has become a no-brainer for serious backpackers on the Pacific Crest and Appalachian Trails. With high-density cushioning to minimize sore spots on longer hikes and superior sweat-wicking, their micro crew cushion is a must-have for day hikes and overnighters alike.

Runner-up: Smartwool Hike light cushion mid crew socks

Smartwool is a brand that’s become synonymous with high-quality, odor-controlling, moisture-managing outdoor apparel, and the light cushion mid crew is just one arrow in the brand’s quiver of functional hiking socks. Not only are these babies nearly impossible to get a blister in, they’re also padded where you need it most—the entire bottom of the foot—with ventilating mesh zones up top for temperature regulation and avoiding sweaty feet on the trail. Plus, Smartwool recently launched a collaboration with the non-profit organization Outdoor Afro , making it easier to give back while you get outside.

Injinji Trail midweight crew socks

Sure, they might look a bit silly and downright unconventional at first glance, but Injinji’s unique performance toe socks are designed to minimize friction on rugged terrain and hot days , sparing you those dreaded, hike-ending blisters you’ve probably had nightmares about. The crew length provides in-boot comfort while sealing out debris, and the mesh tops make sure your feet stay cool on longer runs and scorching summer afternoons.

Runner-up: Swiftwick FLite XT Trail Five

Looking for a sock that’s so perfectly fitted to your foot that you’ll forget you’re even wearing it on the trail? Swiftwick has you covered. Their all-new FLite XT Trail sock is designed with the rugged, warm weather phenom in mind; hikers who don’t balk at a steep set of rock stairs or trail runners who go hard in adverse conditions. With bespoke AnkleLock technology to protect against heel rubbing and grippy fabric in the heel and forefoot to prevent in-shoe sliding, this is a truly excellent sock for your wildest adventures.

Smartwool Performance Hike light cushion ankle socks

Sustainability meets durability with Smartwool’s welcome update to its beloved PhD series, now with the addition of cooling, body-mapped mesh zones, improved durability, and recycled nylon. These ankle height crew socks are ideal for hikers who prefer to head to the hills in low-profile trail runners or know they’re going to be hiking on well-maintained park paths where grass and gravel aren’t likely to invade their toe box.

Runner-up: Swiftwick Pursuit One

Designed with, you guessed it, moisture-managing Merino wool, Swiftwick’s Pursuit One is a functional ankle-height sock that’ll keep your tootsies guarded against blisters year-round. Since wool is naturally sweat-wicking in hot months and warming when you need it, these luxuriously soft socks are an ideal trail companion for long runs and epic hikes in any weather (especially for warm weather hikers who love a low-cut sneaker). Bonus points for having the ideal length for that no-chafe heel feel.

Paka Inca socks

Not only does Paka work with over 100 Quechua weavers to preserve Inca traditions, the company views all-natural alpaca wool as a novel technology–one that’s lighter, softer, and more moisture-wicking than its Merino counterparts. Often called the “fiber of the gods,” alpaca fabrics are three times lighter than sheep’s wool and supremely good at sweat-wicking, which means they’re virtually impossible to stink up. Your tentmates and hiking partners will thank you.

Decathlon Quechua Hike 900 High

When lifestyle writer and Emmy-nominated makeup artist, Karim Orange , told me about Decathlon’s Merino wool Quechua hiking socks, I was blown away by the high-end features (think soft, anti-friction wool paired with an anatomical right/left foot design and durable Cordura fibers) offered for such a low price. “I love these socks for medium-weather hikes and often choose to layer them for added insulation or moisture control,” she says. Want something even more wallet-friendly? Check out Decathlon’s Quechua U-Warm mid hiking socks, which are half the price.

Darn Tough CoolMax micro crew socks

Vegans, rejoice—Darn Tough has perfected the art of the recycled polyester/nylon-blend hiking sock. Engineered with CoolMax technology, which is designed to pull sweat away from the skin and toward the surface of the fabric where it can evaporate quickly, this micro crew is cozy, comfy, and padded in all the right places for all-day wear.

Sockwell Pulse Firm compression socks

Any good coach will tell you that recovery is a crucial part of training, and compression socks have been scientifically proven to benefit muscle function and soreness during the post-exercise rest period. Sockwell’s four zones of firm, graduated compression wrap up the leg, from foot to calf, and work together to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve post-hike fatigue and pain. Plus, the company uses a blend of soft rayon and environmentally-sourced Merino wool to provide perfect, next-to-skin comfort and durability.

Smartwool Classic Mountaineer maximum cushion crew socks

If you’re planning to tackle a trek in sub-freezing or snowy conditions, you’ll want well-cushioned Merino on your feet, to maximize comfort and stay warm even in damp or frigid weather. Luckily, Smartwool’s mountaineering-focused crew socks deliver in all the right categories, boasting the brand’s thickest design, an elasticized arch brace for a no-slip fit, and ethically-sourced ZQ wool .