Merino Wool Hiking Socks for Cold & Warm Weather Hikes

Smartwool’s Mountaineer Classic Edition is built for serious cold, heavy packs, and long days in rigid boots, making it one of the most dependable mountaineering socks available. As Smartwool’s thickest and warmest sock, it delivers dense, full-volume cushioning that protects feet from repeated impact while also adding vital insulation for winter hiking and alpine conditions. The high merino wool content excels at regulating temperature, keeping feet warm in freezing weather without causing overheating during sustained effort. Moisture management is equally impressive, helping prevent dampness that can lead to cold feet or blisters on multi-day trips. An elasticised arch brace improves overall fit and reduces movement inside the boot, even when carrying heavy loads. Built with recycled nylon, it also offers improved durability while maintaining Smartwool’s classic comfort-focused design.

Key specs
Fabric 74% merino wool, 8% nylon, 17% recycled nylon, 1% elastane
Cushion level Maximum
Height Crew

This women’s-specific Mountaineer sock delivers the same maximum warmth and plush cushioning as the men’s version, tailored for a more precise fit. Designed for long-distance hikes and cold-weather backpacking, the thick construction helps reduce foot fatigue when navigating uneven terrain with a heavy pack. Merino wool provides reliable insulation while still managing moisture effectively, keeping feet comfortable across long days in winter boots. Flat-knit toe seams minimise friction and hot spots, which is especially valuable on multi-day treks. The elasticised arch brace adds stability and prevents bunching inside stiff hiking footwear. It’s a standout option for alpine trekking, winter hiking, and cold-climate travel where comfort and warmth are non-negotiable.

Key specs
Fabric 74% merino wool, 8% nylon, 17% recycled nylon, 1% elastane
Cushion level Maximum
Height Crew

The Smartwool Hike Classic Zero Cushion Liner Crew is designed to reduce friction and manage moisture, making it an excellent foundation sock for long hikes. With a low-profile, zero-cushion construction, it fits easily under thicker hiking socks or can be worn alone in warm conditions and snug footwear. Merino wool helps regulate temperature and control odour, even during extended wear. The flat-knit toe seam reduces rubbing across the toes, helping to prevent blisters on high-mileage days. An elasticised arch brace improves fit and keeps the sock securely in place inside the boot. This liner is particularly useful for thru-hiking, travel, and anyone prone to hot spots.

Key specs
Fabric 59% merino wool, nylon and recycled nylon blend
Cushion level Zero
Height Crew

Darn Tough’s Men’s Hiker Boot Full Cushion sock is built for durability, warmth, and all-day comfort on demanding trails. Dense cushioning runs throughout the entire sock, offering consistent protection underfoot and around the ankle, especially when carrying heavy loads. Merino wool provides excellent moisture-wicking and temperature regulation, keeping feet dry and comfortable in both warm and cold conditions. The seamless construction eliminates friction points, reducing the risk of blisters over long distances. Designed at a boot height, it offers added warmth and protection against rubbing from stiff footwear. Backed by Darn Tough’s unconditional lifetime guarantee, it’s a reliable long-term investment for frequent hikers.

Key specs
Fabric 66% merino wool, 32% nylon, 2% Lycra
Cushion level Full
Height Boot

This women’s full-cushion boot sock from Darn Tough delivers dependable warmth and comfort for year-round hiking and backpacking. The midweight build strikes a balance between insulation and breathability, making it suitable for both cold conditions and shoulder-season hikes. Dense cushioning underfoot helps absorb impact during long days on the trail, while the boot-height design protects against chafing from hiking boots. Merino wool effectively manages moisture and odour, even during multi-day use. True Seamless construction minimises irritation, enhancing comfort over extended distances. As with all Darn Tough socks, it’s covered by a lifetime replacement guarantee.

Key specs
Fabric 69% merino wool, 27% nylon, 4% Lycra
Cushion level Full
Height Boot

The Sunset Ridge Crew is a lightweight hiking sock designed for warm-weather hikes, travel, and everyday wear. It features light cushioning along the base of the foot, offering comfort without adding unnecessary bulk. Merino wool keeps feet cool, dry, and odour-free during long walks and active days. The micro crew height sits just above the boot line, providing protection while remaining versatile enough for casual use. Seamless construction reduces friction and improves comfort over extended wear. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a sock that transitions easily from trail to town.

Key specs
Fabric 45% merino wool, 52% nylon, 3% Lycra
Cushion level Light
Height Micro crew

First of all, how cute are these Treeline Micro Crew sock. It offers midweight warmth without excessive bulk, making it ideal for spring, autumn, and cooler summer hikes. The shorter micro crew height provides ankle protection while helping prevent overheating on warmer days. Merino wool regulates temperature well across changing conditions and effectively manages moisture during long hikes. Dense knitting improves durability and helps the sock maintain its shape over time. The seamless toe construction minimises irritation and rubbing inside hiking boots. This sock is well suited to hikers looking for reliable comfort during transitional seasons.

Key specs
Fabric 63% merino wool, 35% nylon, 2% Lycra
Cushion level Midweight
Height Micro crew

This light cushion hiking sock from Smartwool is designed for comfort over long distances without crowding the boot. Cushioning runs along the sole to absorb impact while maintaining breathability for extended wear. With a high percentage of merino wool, it offers excellent temperature regulation and moisture control in a wide range of conditions. The 4 Degree Elite Fit System improves stability and reduces bunching inside footwear. Flat-knit seams enhance comfort by minimising friction. It’s a strong choice for multi-day hikes, travel, and everyday outdoor use.

Key specs
Fabric 69% merino wool, recycled nylon blend
Cushion level Light
Height Crew

This women’s hiking sock offers a secure, performance-oriented fit with light cushioning that works well for long treks and travel days. The high merino wool content helps regulate temperature and manage moisture across changing conditions. Cushioning underfoot adds comfort without compromising breathability. Flat-knit toe seams reduce friction during extended wear, helping prevent blisters. The crew height protects against boot chafing while remaining versatile across different footwear. It’s a dependable all-round option for day hikes through to longer adventures.

Key specs
Fabric 67% merino wool, recycled nylon blend
Cushion level Light
Height Crew

The Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Light Cushion 2nd Cut Ankle sock offers sustainable performance using recycled fibres from Smartwool’s sock take-back programme. Light cushioning provides comfort and impact protection while maintaining a breathable, low-profile feel. Merino wool helps manage moisture and temperature, making it suitable for both hiking and everyday wear. The Virtually Seamless toe reduces chafing, enhancing comfort on longer outings. An elasticised arch brace ensures a secure fit without slipping. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a shorter sock with eco-conscious construction.

Key specs
Fabric Merino wool and recycled fibre blend
Cushion level Light
Height Ankle

The Darn Tough Men’s Light Hiker Micro Crew is designed for warm conditions and high-output hiking. Its lightweight construction and minimal cushioning help keep feet cool while still offering protection where it matters most. Merino wool efficiently wicks moisture and dries quickly between wears. The micro crew height pairs well with modern hiking boots, offering protection without excessive coverage. Seamless construction reduces friction on long days. Backed by a lifetime guarantee, it’s a reliable choice for summer hiking and fast-paced adventures.

Key specs
Fabric 43% merino wool, 54% nylon, 3% Lycra
Cushion level Light
Height Micro crew

This women’s version of the Light Hiker Micro Crew delivers the same breathable performance in a fit designed for smaller feet. Lightweight cushioning provides comfort without trapping heat, making it ideal for summer hiking and fastpacking. Merino wool manages moisture effectively and controls odour over long days. The micro crew height offers protection while maintaining a streamlined feel. Seamless construction enhances comfort during extended wear. As with all Darn Tough socks, it’s covered by a lifetime replacement guarantee.

Key specs
Fabric 43% merino wool, 54% nylon, 3% Lycra
Cushion level Light
Height Micro crew

The Sockwell Men’s Circulator is designed to improve circulation during travel, recovery, and long days spent on your feet. Moderate graduated compression helps reduce swelling and leg fatigue, making it particularly useful for flights and prolonged standing. Merino wool provides temperature regulation and moisture management, keeping legs comfortable throughout the day. The over-the-calf height ensures consistent compression coverage. Seamless construction improves comfort during extended wear. It’s a strong option for both active recovery and everyday support.

Key specs
Compression level 15–20 mmHg
Fabric Merino wool blend
Height Over the calf

This women’s compression sock offers moderate graduated support for circulation, recovery, and daily comfort. Designed for long travel days, pregnancy, and jobs that require prolonged standing, it helps minimise swelling and leg fatigue. Merino wool regulates temperature while managing moisture effectively. The over-the-calf design stays securely in place throughout the day. Seamless construction reduces pressure points and irritation. It’s a practical choice for both lifestyle wear and recovery-focused use.

Key specs
Compression level 15–20 mmHg
Fabric Merino wool blend
Height Over the calf

These USA-made merino wool boot socks offer solid performance at a more accessible price point. A high merino wool content provides warmth, breathability, and effective moisture management for hiking and work boot use. Reinforced high-wear areas improve durability in demanding conditions. The performance fit helps prevent slipping, bunching, and blisters during long days on your feet. Designed and knit in the USA, they balance comfort and value well. They’re a strong option for hikers looking for reliable merino socks without the premium price tag.

Key specs
Fabric 61% merino wool with nylon blend
Cushion level Light to medium
Height Crew