We updated this article in June 2022 to ensure all products and styles selected by the Good Housekeeping Insitute Textiles Lab were in stock and correctly priced.
Whether you want some fresh air or to break a sweat, hiking is an excellent way to connect with nature and get some peace, quiet and solitude. But without the right hiking socks, it likely won’t be a fun experience, since you’ll be more prone to blisters. Hiking socks all have added cushioning on the bottom, so they will feel different than traditional socks inside hiking boots. They're also designed to help ease the repeated impact from trekking over rough, uneven terrain.
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluates socks of all kinds, including running socks, wool socks, no-show socks and warm socks. We assess fabric strength, moisture-wicking capabilities, washability and more. We also test athletic apparel such as workout leggings, walking shoes and sports bras, so we know what makes a product great for exercise.
Our top picks:
The following picks are from brands with previous top performance, new pairs with useful features or styles that have rave online reviews. You can find more tips on how to choose the perfect hiking socks at the end of this article, but first, here are the best hiking socks of 2022 for when you hit the trails: