Outdoor Socks and Footwear 101
If you’re a fan of the outdoors then you fully understand how important comfort is to having an enjoyable outdoor experience. Half the battle is choosing the right gear. Whether you are hiking or climbing rocks, you need the right socks and footwear so that the experience is fun and enjoyable. No one wants to be stuck outdoors dealing with wet feet or blisters. Those kinds of issues are avoidable and can ruin any outdoor experience.
When choosing outdoor socks and footwear, first ask yourself what type of activity will you be doing; will it be hot or cold, and what will the conditions be like for the activity. Depending on your answer to these questions, you will need certain types of socks or footwear. During the summer months you want a sock that will provide the right amount of cushioning while being light enough to keep your feet cool during hot temperatures. Your socks should contain wicking fabric to keep your feet dry including other materials such as polyester like Dri-release® and X2O® to help improve sweat control and reduce odor. Try avoiding cotton during outdoor activities as it is not great at drawing moisture away from the feet, it dries slowly, and has no insulation while wet. Most summer socks are also cut shorter on the leg unless you are hiking in which they should be higher on the calf. During the autumn choose socks that find a balance between keeping your feet warm, but not too warm that your feet overheat. You can also choose three-season socks, which are thicker than summer socks, but still provide added cushioning. During the winter choose socks that are much thicker consisting of insulating materials to keep your foot warm in the coldest of temperatures. Keep in mind not to wear socks that are so thick they cut off the circulation to your feet. You want to combat frostbite not cause numbness. Most winter outdoor socks are made of wool because it cushions and retains warmth well. Some synthetic blends are also great options as they have better durability and dry faster than pure wool. Often times, when people wear wool socks, they wear them with a thin liner sock. Liner socks can be your summer socks or socks that are specifically made to be liner socks. Spring socks are traditionally a variety of socks that can dry quickly while still retaining enough heat.
When choosing outdoor footwear there are a variety of wide options to choose from such as boots, sandals, cross trainers, and shoes. Whether you’re running, hiking, or just going for a stroll in the park, there’s a specific kind of footwear for each activity. Choose outdoor boots when the trail is wet, there is a possibility of injuring your ankle, when trails are steep, and when there is snow on the ground. Choose outdoor shoes when the trail or terrain is level, for day hikes, trail running, and at campsites.
There’s a high chance that you’ll put more miles on your outdoor socks and footwear than some runners. Therefore keep in mind that it’s really worth the time and expense to buy the proper pair for your feet. Choose wisely and equip well so that your outdoor experience is memorable.