Top 10 Hunting Socks Reviewed & Rated
Brian Dan Novak What’s the easiest way to ruin a good day hiking or hunting when the weather is cold? Well let us set the scene: you’ve got your cold weather jacket, and pants and you’ve even got a solid pair of hiking boots that are going to keep you dry (or so they say). As you prep in the dark, you reach into your drawer and grab a pair of socks, and it turns out they’re flimsy, bunchy and they hold water like a sponge. Well, those friends are the best way to ruin a good day out in the wilderness. Your outfit is just not complete without a great pair of socks and anyone who has made a bad sock choice knows this story already. We won’t belabor the point, just take a look at our best hunting socks, and get some.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 14 hrs of research
Antibacterial
Nice blend of material
Ideal for all types of weather
Arch support
10 Best Hunting Socks
1. Thirty48
Antibacterial
Nice blend of material
Ideal for all types of weather
Arch support
Can wear down with use
Tight fit
This has a lot going on for it when it comes to getting the most out of a sock meant for the outdoors. And there’s a lot of extras in the fabric that can satisfy even the pickiest of customers. They’re cushioned and breathable and the best hunting socks for cold weather.
Material
These feature both anti-bacterial fabric materials and vegan blends for those who are conscious of their fabric needs. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, these make for a great and safe option.
Soft and Breathable
There are abrasion protection and some assistance for aching muscles but also the ability to get airflow going through so that your feet stay cool and dry if the air starts to turn warmer on you.
Cost and Value
These are more expensive than many of the other socks on this list but they also come with a ton of features and material specifications that the others do not. So, know what you’re paying for and you won’t be afraid of spending a little bit more.
2. Sockbin
Waterproof
Great material blend
Sizing options
Sizing on the length can be off
These socks are all about fighting the cold weather and keeping your feet toasty warm while out in the harsh weather of winter. They are ideal for the outdoorsy type of guy who needs a durable and warm to use while working outside, hiking, or camping.
Waterproofing
These waterproof socks have an important component of being very waterproof against deep snow and rain while out hunting or hiking in the cold of winter. They’re specially designed for wintertime weather so they come with a waterproof guarantee.
Nice Material Blend
The trick here lies in the blend of materials and these socks are rocking it when it comes to the blend of warmth, comfort, and fit. It boasts wool cotton, polyester, and spandex for the ultimate comfort and fit needs.
Cost and Value
These are low priced socks and you get a nice bit of warmth with them, plus there are bulk buying options. So the value and price here match up pretty well in your favor.
3. Pure Athlete
Warm design
Extra padding
Ideal for winter sports
Sizing options
Lifetime guarantee
They can run too thick for some tighter footwear
This is an athletic sock that’s also highly focused on comfort. There are also some impressive guarantees of waterproofing and a lifetime guarantee on the durability of these socks.
Warmth
They designed to be used in some pretty cold conditions. It’s made from ultra-soft yarn which creates a thick material for total warmth while wearing the sock. But you also don’t have to worry about overheating or sweating your way through work. There’s breathability ensured and waterproofing so you won’t ruin the socks or your shoes.
Durability
Despite the soft yarn, these socks are incredibly durable. They come with a lifetime guarantee and the thick material can stand up to pretty much anything. Another added bonus here is, if they do wear down, you can receive a replacement pair for free.
Cost and Value
These are priced mid-range which is great for what you get. There’s no real ergonomics or physical therapy design, but they’re very warm and very comfortable.
4. Darn Tough Hunter
Made in the USA
Merino Wool, Nylon, Spandex Construction
Durable
No Slipping or Bunching
Socks Run Small
Well if there’s a more descriptive name for a product we’re not sure of it. But does it live up to the name? Thankfully yes it does, in spades. The Darn Tough Hunter socks are made of warm comfortable Merino wool. They’re made in the U.S., and are guaranteed to not slip, bunch or cause blisters. All in all a great solid hunter sock that lives up to its name.
Merino Wool
We all know the greatness that is Merino wool but add a bit of Nylon and Lycra Spandex and you’ve got a pair of socks that are going to stay where you put them, not blister and not bunch in the heel or toe. They also are going to wick away moisture like a boss. Simply put this is a great combination of materials that makes for the perfect sock.
Specially Knitted for Durability
Even the best sock is going to wear at heel and toe (especially if you don’t have a relationship with a nail trimmer) but the Darn Tough earn their name here as they’re made to be durable and to stand up to the kinds of things that would shred a sock that isn’t as Darn Tough as these.
Cost and Value
A nice price for a great sock. Not as cheap as some of the others on our list but like their name, these are tough socks and they’re going to stand up to the kind of long term beating that a dedicated hunter is going to put them through.
5. Smartwool PhD Outdoor
Merino Wool
Cushioned Bottom
Breathable
These Stay on
Wash Poorly
Another great Merino Wool sock that’s built to be warm, built to be durable and built to keep your feet blister-free and comfortable for the duration of your time out in the field, or your day in front of a cozy fire on a snow day. They’re breathable and will wick moisture away from the foot but will also hold onto your body heat so your toes stay toasty.
Base Layer of Comfort
The Merino Wool, Nylon, Elastane mixture ensure that these socks aren’t only warm but they’re comfortable as well. They’re not scratchy or tight, but slide on easily and stay in place so no bunching or blisters.
Cushioned Bottom
A light cushion so it won’t feel like they’re bunching but there is some extra padding built into the heel of this boot so you can keep on the road, or on the trail without pain at the end of the day.
Cost and Value
These are another pair of well-priced socks. This comes in at a great price and a few pairs should be all you need no matter how much outdoor work you do.
6. Miramaru
Designed for winter athletics
A great blend of material
Extra padding at sole
Small Leg Openings
We like these Miramaru socks for a number of reasons, the main one being they come in a five-pack but also they're a unique blend of polyester, cotton, and spandex. What that means is you get great thermal protection plus some solid wicking material to keep your feet dry in any kind of weather.
Comfort
Comfort is key on these socks. They’ve got extra padding on the sole to provide the best comfort and have breathable and moisture-wicking material to ensure you get the most out of wearing these while out moving around.
Elasticity
These socks feature some unique med-compressed elasticity that keeps them strong where you need them most at the arch, ankle, and heels. This protects your feet from blistering and sock bunching, as well as you can feel confident they'll stay up on your leg.
Cost and Value
These have a great price for the type of sock they are. While, as an athletic sock, they don’t provide the same amount of compression and circulation that comes with many others, they’re a great buy for anyone just looking for a sock to wear while hunting without too many bells and whistles.
7. FootMatters Compression
Compression for blood flow
Non-restrictive
Breathable material
Several inner seams can cause minor irritation
These are compression socks, which means they’re going to get the blood flowing, and that’s a good thing for a couple of reasons. First, you’ll have constantly activated legs for your treks through the wilderness. Second, you’ll also have a built-in warming mechanism if blood is constantly flowing in your foot and leg. And despite what it sounds like, this actually isn’t a tight fit or an uncomfortable sock.
Compression
A lot of people use compression socks for health reasons. But they can be great for maximizing workouts and hikes as well. And this is no different. While making your way through rough terrain, you have the comfort of knowing you won’t put a strain on your legs with this added help and if the air turns cold, you’ve got a way to keep yourself warm.
Non-Restrictive
Despite the fact that compression socks sound like they’d do the opposite, these don’t cause irritation by restriction or tightness, which makes them an ideal item to have on while spending all day out in nature.
Cost and Value
These are an extremely low priced sock, which works out in your favor because you’re getting a lot for that price. You’ve got an orthopedic sock that’s great for hunting trips and your overall health for a low price.
8. People Socks
Merino wool
Made in the U.S.A.
Won’t Bunch
Breathable
Run Small After Washing
Another Merino Wool entry and another great sock for cold weather hunters. They’re made in North Carolina and knitted to stay put on your leg and manufactured to wick moisture away from your body as well as stay breathable.
Well Built
These socks have a lot going for them, a reinforced heel and extra strong knitting that’s going to keep them where you put them, they’ll stay up on your leg, and they won’t bunch at the heel or toe so no blisters to worry about.
Made in the U.S.A.
North Carolina to be exact. What this means for you is that you know where your money is going if you like to give it to people who own businesses in this country.
Cost and Value
A bit pricey but you’re getting a really well-made sock at a decent price. They look cool but will keep you warm so the few extra bucks are worth it to us.
9. Carhartt Extremes
Good support system
Durable
Great for warmth
Odor-fighting
Some users have reported that the socks do not stretch as well as what they expected
Other users have mentioned that the socks do not stay as warm as expected
These socks are made for the coldest winter hunting weather. They are tall socks that are made from a wool-blend material that will help your feet stay nice and warm while you are hunting. You won't need to worry about chafing, because they reach the height of even taller footwear so that your skin stays warm and protected.
Moisture Wicking
You will not need to worry about your feet feeling hot and sweaty while you are wearing these socks because they are made out of a moisture-wicking material that pulls foot sweat away from your skin and lets it evaporate.
Odor Control
Everyone has smelt dirty socks at some point in their life but these socks help address that problem by being made from odor-fighting materials that control bacteria growth and help your feet and socks continue to smell fresh.
Cost and Value
You will see this brand of socks sold at a price that is around the average price. This makes it into an excellent value because you get a high-quality pair of socks without having to spend a lot.
10. Heat Holders
Moisture wicking
Machine washable
Traps warmth
Large color assortment
Some reviewers have reported that the socks are not as warm as expected
Other reviewers have mentioned that the socks are bulky and feel way to large
These socks are meant to keep you warm without your feet getting hot and sweaty while you have the socks on. This makes them great for hunting or hiking in cold weather because your feet will feel warm and dry at the same time. The socks provide you with the ultimate insulation so that your body heat gets trapped against your feet and keeps the cold air away from them.
Acrylic
The socks are made from 91% acrylic so that you get the warm and insulating capabilities of acrylic without the scratching and itchiness that is often associated with wool. This makes them a great brand of socks because they help you feel warm and comfortable.
Moisture Wicking
The socks are made from fully synthetic materials which means that they will not trap sweat and perspiration against your feet. This will help you stay warm and dry while you have the socks on because they will allow moisture to wick away.
Cost and Value
You should plan on seeing these socks sold at a price that is slightly higher than the average. The slightly higher price is due to the socks being made from a higher quality material that doesn't trap moisture.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
Before looking at anything else, check the fabric a pair of socks is made from. This will be the difference between being comfortable and being uncomfortable when you are putting on your socks. For socks, the fabric that usually produces the best results is merino wool and synthetic. This type of fabric warrants that the moisture produced by your foot is removed. They also dry faster. Even when wet, the fabric still provides a certain level of insulation so that your feet remain warm.
One type of material you should steer clear of when looking for outdoor socks is cotton. It usually fails to stand the rigors of most outdoor activities. In such environments, this material can absorb water and retain it right next to the skin. This provides a good breeding ground for foot fungi. These are the types of microorganisms responsible for conditions like athletes foot. Also, this material does not have good insulation when wet.
Comfort
Comfort usually goes hand in hand with material, but the fit and length also play a role. if you are going on a long hike over some rough terrain, your feet will feel it. Your shoes can do a lot to protect your feet, but your socks also need to help out. you want to enjoy your time outdoors and sore feet can prevent you from doing that. There are a few things you can do to ensure that you get comfortable socks. One of the first things is to check out reviews. Consumers will have no problem complaining if their expectations are not met.
You also have to take into consideration that outdoor socks are made for different activates. Therefore, the first element you want to check when looking for outdoor socks is what they are made for. Some are made for walking and hiking, others for running, and some for mountaineering among other outdoor activities. You also want to make sure that they provide enough cushion for your feet as wearing the wrong socks can lead to problems with your feet such as blistering.
Check that the fabric from which your walking socks are made is capable of drawing water from the feet. This will ensure that you keep warm when it is cold. These socks are also manufactured from layered fabrics. The reason behind this is so that your feet receive maximum comfort.
Insulation
If your idea of the outdoors is going up mountains, you will need mountaineering socks. These socks are usually designed to be used right across the year. The most important feature to look for in these socks is insulation. They should be able to keep your toes warm no matter how low the temperatures go. Look at the fabric from which these socks are made. If it is not soft, you will not be comfortable when wearing them; look elsewhere. Apart from being soft, mountaineering socks should be thick.
Breathability
Whether it's cold or hot, if you are going to be moving around a lot, your feet will sweat. Not only does this cause them to smell bad, but it also allows fungi to form and grow.
This can cause lots of problems for your feet and also affect your mobility, which is important when out in the wild. Make sure you look for sock made from a material that allows moisture wicking in order to keep your feet dry. This not only prevents foot odor and fungi, but it also helps keep you cool during hot days and warm during colder days.
Style
Nowadays, outdoor socks are not only made to be comfortable, but they are also designed to be fashionable. These types of socks come in different types and styles. These different styles are informed by the activities that the socks are designed for, together with the weather conditions under which they will be used.
Ensuring that you select the right ones will, in turn, ensure that your foot remains comfortable throughout the day while you also get the functionality you require. Your outdoor socks are made for different activates. Therefore, the first element you want to check when looking for outdoor socks is what they are made for. Some are made for walking and hiking, others for running, and some for mountaineering among others outdoor activities.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Materials Comfort Insulation Breathability Style
An important feature to look at when selecting running socks is flexibility. So, they should stretch. Apart from being able to stretch, also make sure that the socks are made from cushioning fabric. Another thing to look out for is the weight. Even though in the beginning this may look like a petty concern, after walking for miles, you will understand that the smallest weight can impede your progress.
One of the most important considerations you need to focus on when buying outdoor socks is the shoes you will use with your pair of outdoor socks. For instance, you will discover that your mountaineering shoes are designed in such a way that they take socks that are thicker, while your running shoes are mostly designed to take slimmer lightweight socks.
Other Factors to Consider
Protection
An important feature of outdoor socks which is often ignored is protection. The length of your socks will determine whether your skin will be protected from the elements or not. When looking at the length of your socks, it’s also important to consider the activity you’re going to use them for and the type of footwear that will go with them.
If you know that the area where you are going has heavy grass and shrubs, then we will recommend you get yourself a pair that is much taller. Whatever outdoor socks you end up selecting, ensure that they are durable. If the manufacturer is willing to give a certain guarantee, it may be an indication that they are confident of the pair they are selling you.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Why do I specifically need hunting socks?
There is one thing that product researchers are always doing: finding the products that are best for different situations. This is the case with socks. There are different types of socks for different occasions. When you go out hunting, there is a possibility that your feet could get wet and soggy, which can ruin your whole hunting trip.
The right footwear will protect you from this. However, in order to do so, they have to be made from the right material, have the right thickness and be of the right quality. It is not just every pair that will be able to do this.
q: What elements do I need to consider before I buy a pair?
First things first, the material is very important. The socks have to be soft while also being durable. The best material for ensuring this is merino wool. These wool fibers contain tiny little bubbles of air that insulate well. This helps to keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Consider the conditions you will be hunting in. If you are hunting during the wet season when the grass is high, you may want to consider a pair of socks that are much taller. You will notice that most of the socks you will find in the market are tall since almost all hunting footwear will also be tall. You can also select your pair of socks based on whether you are usually wearing a pair of long pants or shorts when you go out hunting.
q: What Features Should I look for?
Buying a pair of hunting socks is not something you should do without putting a lot of thought into it. Like anything else you buy, doing your research before buying will ensure that you buy the right product that will do the job for which you have selected. It also ensures that you get the best price.
When buying a pair, ensure that they give you the warmth you need on an outdoor trip. However, this does not mean that they should be bulky, they just need to be manufactured from the right material, as we have already indicated merino wool and other synthetic material.
Ensure that the socks are moisture-wicking. Any socks that keep your feet wet can create great conditions for fungi to breed and cause your feet all sorts of problems.
Look for a pair that does not only support your feet, it should also be comfortable. Remember that a hunting trip can have you walking for long distances. If possible, ask for socks that have arch support. With regards to comfort, ensure that the socks are not too tight or itchy.
q: Why is Merino Wool always recommended as a material?
Mostly the reason is that merino wool is warm. It’s also antimicrobial. What this means is that it discourages the growth of the kind of microorganisms that are usually the reason behind most problems related to feet. The material ensures that your feet smell fresher for longer. Also, the material has great moisture-wicking properties and allows air to circulate around the feet.
q: How Should I wash my socks?
It is always advisable to wash your socks by hand even though some instructions will advise you to use a warm machine wash. Use a mild detergent and then dry them in a line away from direct sunlight. If you are drying them in the machine, use the warm thimble dry setting to ensure that they do not shrink while getting dry. Bleaching is usually discouraged as it could damage the wool fiber from which the socks are made.
Wash the socks inside out. This is the best way to ensure that you get rid of the bacteria which causes odor. This also reduces the fluffing and pilling that happens as the socks rub against other clothes when being washed.
q: How should I store my winter hunting socks in summer?
Let’s start by discouraging you from balling your socks when you store them, it compromises the shape. Rather lay the socks flat one on top of the other. You will also realize that when stored like this, they take less space than when you balled up.
Before putting them away for extended periods of time, ensure that they are clean. There is nothing that attracts pests to your socks than dirty socks. A good idea is to keep yours in an airtight container. A plastic tub with a lid will do this job very well.
Sources
- , How to Choose Socks, Article
- , Why Everyone Should Be Wearing Wool Socks This Winter, Article
