Sock it to me: the best socks on the market, tried, tested and reviewed
Whether you’re after a breathable sock for hiking or comfort for long-haul journeys, these durable travel socks have been put to the test. Find out which pair were voted best.
Alpkit socks (Alpkit)
ALPKIT, Aktif (Value buy)
£10 (3 pack)
Good value and the second lightest on test at 33g/ pair, these low-cut cotton/polyester blend are left and right-specific for a good fit. Padding aids comfort and a vented section of ribbed fabric mid-foot keep the socks in place. There’s a flat toe seam, too.
Verdict: Light, low-cut warm-weather socks.
alpkit.com
Bridgedale sock (Bridgedale)
BRIDGEDALE, Trail Light (Best in test)
£16
A wool/synthetic blend gives a great mix of insulation, moisture control and durability. With underfoot and heel cushioning, mid-foot venting and a slim fit, these 3/4 length are great for 3-season use. They’re comfy, stay in place well and have a seam-free toe box. The third lightest at 48g/pair.
Verdict: Well-featured, durable and light.
Hilly marathon anklet sock (Hilly)
HILLY, Marathon Fresh Anklet
£11
Lightest on test at 27g/pair, these polyamide socks are made for marathons, but anti-pong Polygiene stops the growth of bacteria and fungi. There’s cushioning underfoot, minimal fl atlocked seams and ribbed venting to keep the sock in place and allow breathability.
Verdict: A great option for multi-day travel and trekking.
Lorpen light hiker sock (Lorpen)
LORPEN, Light Hiker
£16
Made from wicking Coolmax panels and synthetic fibres, they have a ‘spider net’ design on the upper foot to keep it in place. There’s extra cushioning in key areas; seams are minimal and flatlocked for comfort. Heavier than Bridgedale (56g; fifth lightest) but softer to touch.
Verdict: Very good soft-feeling socks.
HJ Hall flysafe travel sock (HJ Hall)
HJ HALL, Flysafe Travel Socks
£11
For prolonged travel on trains and planes, HJ Halls’ cotton, nylon and lycra blend is a good choice. Cotton means a cool and comfortable fi t and the ribbed design keeps them in place, building up compression in increments to avoid DVT
and swelling. Second heaviest at 60g. No flatlocked seams.
Verdict: Great for reducing risk of DVT on long journeys.
BAM active socks (BAM)
BAM, Actives
£16.50 (4 pack)
Bamboo wicks moisture and is anti-bacterial. These 3/4 socks are soft to touch, with reinforced padding around the toes, under the heel and around the ankle. Seams are flatlocked. Fourth lightest on test at 54g, but fabric feels thinner than others so durability may be an issue.
Verdict: Good value for warmer climates; not as durable.
1000 mile sock (1000 mile)
1000 mile, 2-season walk sock
£14
Walking socks for warmer weather. Longer so comfy in boots and made from polyester/nylon Coolmax that wicks sweat and o ers good airfl ow. They have padding around the ankle, Achilles, upper foot and around the toes, and flatlocked seams. Heaviest on test at 69g.
Verdict: Heavier than some, though with lots of features.
Meindl magic sock (Meindl)
MEINDL, Magic
£17
Pricier than others but soft polyester/cotton. Shaped anatomically, with air channels along the bottom and sides that wick moisture. Padding around the heel, ankle and lower leg; higher than most with a wide cu ff. Toe seams flatlocked. Third heaviest at 57g.
Verdict: Comfy but air channels noticeable underfoot.
How we did the test:
We asked gear manufacturers to submit socks they felt were most suitable for travellers. Our editor, Phoebe Smith, took them out on the road to assess the available options. The ‘Value Buy’ and ‘Best in Test’ are indicated.
