Hiking socks for summer and winter: thickness explained

Sock weights explained

Brands describe sock thickness by cushioning level rather than a standard measurement, so one brand's medium can feel like another's light. The table shows the general pattern. When comparing, look at where the cushioning sits: many walking socks pad only the heel and ball of the foot and keep the top thin for breathability, which is a sensible design for most walkers.

Summer and hot weather

In warm weather, the main enemy is sweat. Damp skin softens and rubs more easily, which is when hot spots appear. Light socks with mesh panels across the top of the foot let heat escape. Low-merino or synthetic blends dry fastest. Pair them with breathable walking shoes or light boots.

Ankle-height socks suit walking shoes; crew height is better with boots so the cuff does not rub your skin. Our merino vs synthetic hiking socks explains fibres in more detail.

Spring and autumn

For most British walking, a medium-cushioned merino blend is a good default. It pads the heel and ball of the foot on long days, stays warm when damp in wet grass and is still comfortable on mild days. If you only buy one type of hiking sock, this is the one.

Bring a spare pair in a dry bag on wet days. Changing into dry socks at lunch makes the afternoon far more comfortable.

Medium socks also suit the changeable days of spring and autumn, when a walk can start cold and frosty and end mild. Their cushioning helps on hard, stony tracks and long descents, which are common on popular hill routes in the Lake District, Snowdonia and the Peak District.

Winter and cold weather

In cold weather, a heavier merino-rich sock adds warmth and cushioning in stiffer boots. But warmth depends on blood flow as much as insulation. If a thick sock makes your boot tight, it squeezes the foot and can leave toes colder than a medium sock in a comfortable boot. Check fit before a winter day out.

Many walkers buy winter boots slightly roomier to allow for thicker socks. Our guides to B1 vs B2 boots and the best boots with ankle support cover stiffer boots often used in winter.

Note:Cold, wet feet on winter hills can become serious. Carry spare dry socks, keep moving and turn back if your feet become numb.

Are hiking socks thick?

Not always. Hiking socks range from very thin to very thick. What sets them apart from everyday socks is the fibre (merino or synthetic rather than cotton), targeted cushioning at the heel and ball of the foot, a close fit that does not bunch and reinforced heels and toes.

A thin hiking sock can be more comfortable than a thick one in a close-fitting boot or a summer shoe.

• Wool or synthetic fibres rather than cotton.
• Cushioning where the foot takes impact.
• A snug fit with no wrinkles.
• Reinforced heel and toe for durability.

Socks and boot fit

Switching from a light to a heavy sock can take up as much room as half a boot size. Always try boots on with the socks you plan to use, and if you walk year-round, try them with both summer and winter socks. If a winter sock makes your boots tight, a medium sock with a liner can give warmth without the bulk; see how to use liner socks.

Our best walking boots for wide feet includes higher-volume boots that take thicker socks more easily.

See walking boots for wide feet →

Frequently asked questions

What socks are best for hiking in hot weather? Light, breathable socks in synthetic or low-merino blends, with mesh panels if possible.

What socks should I wear for winter hiking? Medium or heavy merino-rich socks, as long as your boots still fit comfortably with them.

Do thicker socks keep feet warmer? Only if your boots have room. Tight boots restrict circulation and can make feet colder.

Should hiking socks be thick or thin? It depends on the season and your boots. Medium cushioning suits most UK walking.