Best socks for long-distance walking

Is it really worth spending the equivalent of three pints or fancy coffees on one pair of socks? Honestly, yes. Let me try to convince you why...

So, I haven't always bought fancy socks, but after several long walks and runs (and a lot of blisters), I’ve realised they’re worth it. Cheaper socks wear out quickly, they lack the cushioning you need, are ineffective at wicking away sweat and can bury themselves down the back of your shoes, so you end up walking along wearing only half socks.

So, I haven’t always been someone who buys fancy socks, but after several long walks and runs (and more more my fair share of blisters large and small), I’ve learned they’re worth it. Cheaper socks wear out quickly, lack cushioning where you need it most, don’t wick away sweat effectively, and have a habit of squirrelling their way down the back of your shoes. Before you know it, you’re halfway through a walk wearing only half a sock on each foot.

So, what have I tried...

Injinji makes toe socks, which, admittedly, make your feet look a bit mad, but they really do work. Each toe sits in its own little pocket, helping prevent blisters and stopping toenails from digging into their neighbours. Now for a bit of TMI… I wear gel polish on my toenails, which lasts about six weeks, and I usually wait until my next appointment to have them trimmed. That laziness, paired with hours of walking or running, often leads to a few bloody toes — so Injinjis are lifesavers. Trimming your toenails before any long walk or run is probably the better advice, but take your pick!

Hilly socks have cushioned tabs at the top, front and back of their socks to prevent trail shoes and trainers (sneakers for any American reading this, hey y'all!) from rubbing, which is perfect if you’re a fan of trail shoes (rather than boots) on your long-distance adventures. I find they do run small, so I usually go for the men's sizing. I particularly like their Twin Skin range for added protection, which literally has two layers of material but not at all bulky.

Balega socks are super cushioned and also have soft tabs at the front and back of their no-show style to prevent rubbing.

I’ve just started wearing On Running Performance socks. Snazzy colours, but their longevity and cushioning are still to be determined.

All these brands offer ankle-length and knee-length versions. Personally, I go for no-show socks because I wear trail shoes and out of vanity, really. Spending so much time on the trails, I like to have tanned legs, albeit with milk bottle white feet!

Compression socks

It depends on what you’re aiming for. If you wear them during a walk or run, they can help boost circulation, cut down on muscle wobble, and keep fatigue from creeping in, especially on long or hilly days. Some foot surgeons (the folks who literally keep us on our toes) even say they’re great for recovery, helping blood flow back up your legs and keeping swelling and soreness in check.

Personally, I’m all about wearing them after a long day on the trails, especially if my calves feel tight or my ankles start to puff up. If my legs are really tired and throbbing, I’ll even wear them to bed.

The downsides? They can be a real struggle to get on and off. If you have ever tried to take off wet, denim jeggings (hello, early 2000s) or wrestle into an already wet wetsuit, this can be akin to pulling them on, especially if you have damp or tired legs. And they’re not the most breathable, so in hot weather they can feel a bit much. Still, when I’ve worn them consistently after long hikes or back-to-back walking days, I’ve noticed a real difference in how fresh my legs feel the next morning.

Shopping for the best socks for long-distance walking

When shopping for socks, look for features that actually make a difference out on the trail (or even just on your feet all day):

• Cushioning in the right spots

• Moisture-wicking fabric to keep feet dry

• Support where it matters most

• Double layers if you're blister-prone

• A fit that matches the type of shoes you're wearing

• A length that works for both your shoes and comfort, whether that's no-show, ankle, or calf

  
  

Buy fewer, better pairs. If you take care of them, by hand washing them and hanging them to dry, they’ll last even longer. If I were a better person, I would, but the less time I spend on laundry, the better, so I don’t. Mine go straight into the washing machine and dryer, but even with that abuse, they hold up well enough to justify the cost. After miles on your feet, you won’t be thinking about that extra tenner you spent on your socks, you’ll just be grateful your feet are still speaking to you. The best socks for long-distance walking are ones that feel comfortable, stay in place, and help prevent blisters.

Got your good socks on? Perfect. Let’s go exploring. Join us for a guided walk along Hadrian’s Wall, full of history, laughter, and wide-open skies. Book your tour today.

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The Bit at the Bottom Where We Answer Stuff...

How many pairs of socks should I pack for a multi-day walk? Do you mind washing socks in the sink? If the answer is no, then two or three good pairs are usually enough. Rotate them each day so one can dry while you wear the other. Fresh, dry socks every morning make a huge difference, especially if you’ve been walking through rain or mud. If you do, and there's no access to a washing machine, then you will need a pair of socks for each day, and a pair of everyday socks for after each day's walk.

What are the best socks if I have Raynaud’s? If you struggle with cold feet or Raynaud’s, go for merino wool socks. They’re naturally insulating, breathable, and help regulate temperature better than synthetics. Compression socks are also touted for helping improve circulation. However, make sure they have sufficient cushioning to avoid blisters and chaffing. You might also want to pair your socks with GTX walking boots or trail shoes.

How do I stop my socks from slipping or bunching? There is nothing worse than starting a long walk or run and realising that you're going to be hooking the back of your sock out of your trainer every time you stop. Choose socks that match your shoe type. So, for example, no-show socks for trainers or ankle-length socks for boots. Look for ones with a snug heel cup and supportive arch band. If your socks still slip, it might be a sign they’re too big, too small or too thin.

Never put a sock in a toaster. —Eddie Izzard