1 – Avoid cotton socks. Cotton is a natural fibre that provides great comfort, but it has a great tendency to absorb moisture without the ability to expel it. This means that the foot remains damp during activity due to sweat, or in wet and rainy conditions. Continuous moisture makes the skin on your feet soften, and the dreaded blisters are likely to appear. Additionally, these high humidity conditions will help fungal growth. In humid conditions, cotton will lose its ability to warm the feet; thus, if we are in a cold environment, our feet will also be.

2 – Choose between socks produced with 100% synthetic fibres or socks that combine synthetic fibres and natural fibres. Both types of socks will be suitable for hiking or trekking, however each type will have its advantages and disadvantages.

Socks made of synthetic fibres will provide great durability, good fit, and drying ability. However, these types of fibres facilitate the production of bad odours and, in humid conditions, they will lose their capacity for thermal insulation. Being made of 100% petroleum-derived fibres, it makes them less sustainable and increases contamination by micro-plastics.

The other alternative is to combine natural and synthetic fibres. Merino wool is currently the only natural fibre that is a real alternative to synthetics. Merino wool is the perfect fibre due to its high capacity to absorb sweat and expel it to the outside. As well as providing great comfort, it also boasts odourless properties. In addition, it delivers great thermal insulation in wet conditions. Altogether, they make it the ideal fibre for trekking or hiking. Being a natural fibre, its wear will be greater than that of synthetic fibres, which is why a 100% merino wool sock would not be recommended for outdoor activities. Instead, combined with synthetic fibres targeted to the areas of greatest wear and fit, it will provide the perfect combination.

3 – Fit and durability. It is important that the sock fits the foot perfectly without wrinkles or areas where the sock is not in contact with the foot. The socks must be knitted seamless. A good fit will prevent the sock from moving and rubbing against the skin, leading to blisters or skin erosions. The use of high-quality fibres will provide greater durability by delaying wear. A good yarn will also maintain the structure of the sock longer, preventing the sock from losing its adjustability too soon.