The selection of hiking socks is huge.
Synthetic fiber or merino wool?
Thin or fat?
The price range for a pair is from five euros to 30 euros.
The testers from AllesBeste tested hiking socks and revealed what is important when making a purchase.
When it comes to the material, the expert opinions differ widely.
A sock made of pure synthetic fiber quickly begins to smell.
A cotton sock dries slowly or poorly.
Socks made from 100 percent merino wool are very expensive.
The new wool is also not particularly stretchy and durable.
That is why the manufacturers create blended fabrics.
Odor-reducing merino wool that warms when exposed to moisture is combined with stretchy elastane and durable synthetic fibers such as polyester.
The increased social interest in a natural and ecological lifestyle has caused the demand for merino wool to explode in recent years.
The topic of “body mapping” has now also arrived at outdoor socks.
It means that the manufacturers use different types of fabric in the different areas of the body in order to meet the respective requirements for the material.
Heavily stressed areas such as the heels or toes are provided with material reinforcements.
Breathable materials are used in areas with increased sweat production, such as the back of the foot.
Hiking socks in the test
The test portal AllesBeste took a close look at nine hiking socks.
The testers convinced the Smartwool Men's Phd Outdoor Light Crew Socks in a practical test.
They have a great fit, a comfortable material thickness and an outstanding fit.
The Falke TK2 hiking socks are a good alternative.
The editors were won over by the excellent fit and the outstanding climate management.
You can read more information and further recommendations in the extensive review of AllesBeste.
