#10 Best Hiking Socks for Hot Weather 2023

The best hiking socks should support you and keep your feet cool and dry, even on long hikes in the hot sun. Below is a list of the ten best hiking socks for hot weather that we think you should check out.

👤 Written by: A. K. Sari
⏳ Updated on:
📋 List: 10 items
👀 Reader: 48 views

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Socks are one of the most underappreciated pieces of hiking gear. Regarding socks, hikers frequently overlook how painful wet feet are. Socks for hiking should move the sweat from your feet to the inside of your boots to keep your feet from getting blisters and getting too hot.

Socks for hiking are usually made of materials that wick away moisture, dry quickly, and let air in. Some hiking socks are antimicrobial, which means they don’t get smelly. This is great for longer hikes where you might not change your socks daily. Below, we chose the best hiking socks for hot weather. We only listed fairly thin socks that work well for hiking in warm weather.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Do I need hiking socks?

To avoid blisters, you need a hiking sock. Unlike a thin, stinky cotton sock, a hiking sock won’t rub against the back of your foot all the time. It also protects your foot from the rubbing that your boot might cause.

What should I consider the best hiking socks for hot weather?

  • Material: Most hiking socks are made of natural and synthetic fibers. They generally can be split into two groups: those made mostly of Merino wool and those of synthetic fibers.
  • Cushioning: The more cushioning socks offer, the thicker they are. But if you’re hiking in warm weather, you should wear socks that aren’t too thick to keep your feet from getting too hot.
  • Height: Crew socks are suitable for high-cut hiking boots, whereas micro crew socks are best for trekking shoes or mid-cut boots.
  • Durability: Hiking socks should be able to be washed often without losing their shape or performance. Socks made of only synthetic materials tend to last a little longer.

What types of fabric are the best hiking socks for hot weather made?

  • Wool: There are many good things about wool. It lets a lot of air in, gets rid of moisture quickly, and keeps the feet at the same temperature even when wet. Wool is naturally antimicrobial, meaning socks made from wool are less likely to smell bad after a long day of hiking.
  • Synthetics: Socks made from synthetic materials tend to last longer and dry faster than those made from wool.
  • Tencel: This fabric is made from wood fibers that are turned into a high-performance, lightweight, and breathable fabric through a closed-loop, ultra-sustainable process.

What are the benefits of wearing the best hiking socks for hot weather?

When it’s hot, the best hiking socks for hot weather will take care of your feet. Hiking socks are made to give extra cushioning to the front and back of the foot. This extra cushion also makes the socks last longer, which is a nice bonus.

It also keeps your feet from getting wet. A dry foot is a happy foot. A hiking sock absorbs the sweat from the foot and stores it in the sock. Even the lighter styles of hiking socks are thick. This makes sure that the feet stay warm.

When someone starts wearing a good hiking sock, their old cotton socks often end up in a drawer or the basement. Most people who buy good hiking socks wear them around the house, at work, and even to bed quickly.

*Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more
Name Rank Check Prices
Run Lightweight No-Show Injinji
Injinji
Run Lightweight No-Show
#1 Amazon Injinji.com eBay
Unisex Adult Coolmax Micro Crew Darn Tough
Darn Tough
Unisex Adult Coolmax Micro Crew
#2 Amazon Rei.com eBay
Vermont Hiker Merino Wool Socks Cushion Darn Tough
Darn Tough
Vermont Hiker Merino Wool Socks Cushion
#3 Amazon Darntough.com eBay
unisex Phd Outdoor Light Crew Smartwool
Smartwool
unisex Phd Outdoor Light Crew
#4 Amazon Smartwool.com eBay
Cool Lite Hiker F6067 Crew Sock Wigwam
Wigwam
Cool Lite Hiker F6067 Crew Sock
#5 Amazon Wigwam.com eBay
Men's Merino Hike+ Light Crew Socks Icebreaker Merino
Icebreaker Merino
Men's Merino Hike+ Light Crew Socks
#6 Amazon Icebreaker.com eBay
Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High Feetures
Feetures
Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High
#7 Amazon Feetures.com eBay
Women’s Hiking Crew Socks Smartwool
Smartwool
Women’s Hiking Crew Socks
#8 Amazon Smartwool.com eBay
Axiom Lightweight Low Wigwam
Wigwam
Axiom Lightweight Low
#9 Amazon Wigwam.com eBay
COOLMAX EcoMade Ultralight Hiking Socks  REI Co-op
REI Co-op
COOLMAX EcoMade Ultralight Hiking Socks
#10 Amazon Rei.com eBay

10 List of Best Hiking Socks for Hot Weather

  • Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show
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    #1

    Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show

    Best Prevent Toe Blisters

    1  readers vote
    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Injinji Run Lightweight No Show has been the go-to brand for toe socks for a long time. With their toe socks, they try to solve the problem of rubbing and chaffing when their toes rub against each other. It has a low profile, is light on the foot, lets your toes spread out, and doesn’t have any extra material around the ankle to bunch up. This makes them great for day hikes in warm climates, hikes that are short and light, and trail running.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Less expensive
    Wearable with flip-flop-style hiking sandals
    It can help prevent toe blisters

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Take a bit of adjusting to when you first wear them

    What other experts liked

    These are great for running. They work well for me to keep my toes from getting blisters.
    deannah

    What other experts didn't like

    After two wearings, I wore a shoe through both big toes. Very thin material that doesn't hold up well on long runs.
    Kelly O
  • Darn Tough Unisex Adult Coolmax Micro Crew
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    #2

    Darn Tough Unisex Adult Coolmax Micro Crew

    Best Synthetic Hiking Socks

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Coolmax Micro Crew Cushion socks are made of a different material than those above. They use Coolmax fibers from Invista, which are known for being very good at wicking away moisture, letting air in, and drying quickly. The amount of nylon fibers in the socks makes them last longer, while the amount of acrylic fibers in the fabric makes it softer. These hot weather hiking socks use the same True Seamless technology as the Darn Tough Hiker socks to give you the most comfort.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Breathable
    Moisture Wicking
    Quick-drying
    Lifetime guarantee

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Expensive
    Sizing may be confusing

    What other experts liked

    I like how they keep my feet dry and how comfortable they are. Even after almost 150 miles (242 km) of use, the cuffs still stretch well and look almost brand new.
    Backpack Gear Test

    What other experts didn't like

    Poor temperature control and moisture wicking; socks are sweaty after a day's walking despite fitting well. They impede mobility and are uncomfortable.
    Palms McGee
  • Darn Tough Vermont Hiker Merino Wool Socks Cushion
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    #3

    Darn Tough Vermont Hiker Merino Wool Socks Cushion

    Best Undetectable Seams

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Hikers, trekkers, and mountaineers love the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion socks because they are very comfortable for hiking in the summer. The high amount of Merino wool fibers in the fabric makes it wick away moisture, resist odors, and be breathable. The socks also have nylon fibers to last longer and Spandex fibers to make them stretchy. The True Seamless technology in these hot weather hiking socks keeps them from rubbing and chaffing, making them very comfortable.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Breathable
    Moisture Wicking
    Odor-resistant
    Undetectable seams
    Extremely durable

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Did not wick and breathe well

    What other experts liked

    The Darn Tough Light Hiker is the sock that can be used for anything. In our tests, it was the best at being flexible, long-lasting, and comfortable.
    99 Boulder

    What other experts didn't like

    Smelled worse than usual after a long day and even worse after several days.
    Dirt Bag Dreams
  • Smartwool unisex Phd Outdoor Light Crew
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    #4

    Smartwool unisex Phd Outdoor Light Crew

    Best Ventilation Light Hiking Crew

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Choose the Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Hiking Crew when the temperature is above 80 degrees, but you still want to protect your feet with tall socks. The light sock has a thin layer of padding from the toe to the Achilles, and the ball and heel have more padding. You will be comfortable because the shoes were mostly Merino wool and had a mesh area at the top of the foot to let air in. Moderate compression kept the sock in place and stopped it from moving around.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Taller cut that doesn’t cause overheating
    Thin padding absorbs impact

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    On the pricey side

    What other experts liked

    Sooooo good on my feet. They really help protect my feet from all the nasty things on the ground and my stinky shoes.

    What other experts didn't like

    There is a bump of thread right at the end of the toe seam, which makes the socks very uncomfortable. Hurt my pinky toe. Will be taking these back
    Jeremy
  • Wigwam Cool Lite Hiker F6067 Crew Sock
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    #5

    Wigwam Cool Lite Hiker F6067 Crew Sock

    Best Quick-drying Crew Sock

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Wigwam Cool Lite Hiker Pro Crew socks are made entirely of synthetic fibers. In addition to nylon, X2O Acrylic, and Spandex, the material also has Drirelease fibers. They dry rapidly, draw moisture from the skin, and are sturdy. The socks are very comfortable to wear in the summer heat because they are made with Drirelease fibers. The soles of these hot weather hiking socks are also cushioned, and the socks are shaped like the foot.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Moisture-wicking
    Breathable
    Quick-drying

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Hardly breathed

    What other experts liked

    Nice hiking and camping socks. The socks could be worn with other shoes. Either one could go on either foot.

    What other experts didn't like

    These socks sucked. They provide little more cushioning than cotton socks, don't breathe effectively, and don't prevent blisters.
    MegaKarl
  • Icebreaker Merino Men's Merino Hike+ Light Crew Socks
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    with this product?
    #6

    Icebreaker Merino Men's Merino Hike+ Light Crew Socks

    Best Odor Resistance

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Icebreaker Merino is so sure of the quality of their merino/nylon blend that they offer a lifetime guarantee. This includes holes. If your socks get a hole, they will replace the pair. Even though they don’t smell and will last long, these hot weather hiking socks are also very comfortable. They fit well and stay that way even after being worn and washed. And if you care about how things affect the environment, you can feel good about buying from Icebreaker.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Odor resistance
    Comfort
    Lifetime guarantee
    Eco-friendly production

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Expensive

    What other experts liked

    I love these anatomically shaped, light and medium-weight socks, so I bought them for my son. He's glad to get the chance to try them.

    What other experts didn't like

    The toe and heel of these socks are a bit big, and when I put them on with my hiking shoes, I noticed right away that they were a bit uncomfortable.
    daytodre
  • Feetures Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High
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    #7

    Feetures Graduated Compression Light Cushion Knee High

    Best for Reducing Muscle Fatigue

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Feetures Graduated Compression Light is an excellent choice if you want a sock that will keep your feet relaxed and help you recover faster from those long, multi-day hikes by making your muscles less tired. The compression is tightest at the ankle. A good thing about these socks is they were made to fit the shape of the right and left feet, which makes them more comfortable and prevents blisters. Plus, the cushion has a high density, which makes it more protective without adding extra fabric.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Reducing muscle fatigue
    Anatomical socks create a better fit

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Expensive

    What other experts liked

    The toe box is very comfortable, and the compression on the calf is strong.
    Mud Run Guide

    What other experts didn't like

    They aren't great because they didn't even get worn that much.
    Dragon Star
  • Smartwool Women’s Hiking Crew Socks
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    #8

    Smartwool Women’s Hiking Crew Socks

    Best for Variable Temperatures

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    You may need a sock when the temperature goes from cold in the morning to warm in the afternoon on shorter day hikes. The Merino wool in the Smartwool Light Hiking Crew helped to keep our feet warm in the morning and cool in the middle of the day. The arch support kept your socks in place all morning, and after a hike, your feet were dry and didn’t smell. If you’re going hiking for a longer time, you can choose the same sock with a medium amount of padding.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Keep feet warm and dry
    Durability
    Very comfortable
    It stays in place thanks to an elasticized arch brace

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Pricey
    Very tight

    What other experts liked

    Best socks ever! SO easy to hike in either hot or cold weather. They are great. You won't be sorry if you buy them.

    What other experts didn't like

    Tight ankle and lower leg cut circulation. Thin yet with big, muscular legs, not a good fit.
    get_outdoors
  • Wigwam Axiom Lightweight Low
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    #9

    Wigwam Axiom Lightweight Low

    Best Low Cut

    1  experts agree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    This lightweight crew hiking sock is excellent for a lot of different situations. It’s undoubtedly one of the best hiking socks for both men and women. The Wigwam Axiom hot weather hiking socks are made from a Merino wool blend woven in a special way to cut down on the number of stitches. The result is a perfect fit. There is padding in the right places, especially around the foot and heel ball. The SynchoKnit Axiom won’t let you down when the temperature rises.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Soft yet secure
    Incredible durability
    Quick to dry
    Accommodates a liner
    Comfortable

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Prone to pilling
    Loose fit

    What other experts liked

    I like these a lot. They make sneakers feel as cozy as slippers.
  • REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Ultralight Hiking Socks
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    with this product?
    #10

    REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Ultralight Hiking Socks

    Best Affordable Price

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The REI Co-op Coolmax is a good option for your wallet and the trail. Even though lower prices often come at the cost of ethics, these socks are not the case. As part of this effort, they make their EcoMade Lightweight Quarter Socks with polyester that is made in part from recycled water bottles. Even though natural fibers like merino wool might be better for the environment, this sock from REI is made of synthetic materials, but it still feels pretty eco-friendly.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Inexpensive
    Partially recycled materials

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    No natural odor resistance

    What other experts liked

    These are my favorite socks because the seams at the toes don't get in the way or hurt my feet. Easy to walk in!
    gnollau

    What other experts didn't like

    Not the best place to be. Even when they are not, they feel like they are going down.

Conclusion: Best Hiking Socks for Hot Weather

When it comes to hiking socks, they have to be strong, not smell, and comfortable. Wear shoes that let air in during the summer so your hikes don’t turn into sweaty slogs. Our recommendations of the best hiking socks for hot weather above will help you choose the right pair so that you can enjoy hiking in the summer. We have made an article about the best hiking socks to prevent blisters if you want to find out about other recommended items for your hiking trip. Find out about the best products on the market in an interesting way.

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