How to Layer Hiking Socks

While hiking can be a summer hobby for many, there are just as many who continue to enjoy the outdoors in the cold winter months. One thing that can make a difference between a good and rough day on the trail in the winter is your ability to keep your feet warm. Fortunately, you can keep your feet warm and toasty all day long in the coldest conditions by layering footwear just as you would layer the rest of your clothing.

Instructions

1. Start with a thin sock liner made of polypro or a similar moisture-wicking material to keep sweat and moisture away from your feet.

2. Add a thick Smartwool or other non-cotton sock over the liner.

3. Add an additional sock layer on extra cold days. Develop your own preference on what temperature warrants the additional protection.

4. Check the fit of your boots with your sock layers on and be sure they are not too tight. Wear a larger boot if your foot feels squeezed or you cannot wiggle your toes.

Tips & Warnings

• Keeping feet dry is the first key to keeping them warm. The sock liner itself is not meant to add warmth and will add virtually no bulk, but performs the vital function of keeping your feet dry.

• When cotton becomes wet, it will trap moisture in against your foot. In cold, wet conditions, cotton can actually make you colder faster than wearing no sock at all. Smartwool, or a wool and polypro blend make excellent choices.

• Hikers in winter often wear a half-size larger boots than they would in summer to accommodate thicker socks and multiple socks. If your boots are too tight, circulation to your feet becomes restricted, which also results in feet becoming cold much faster and counteracts the effects of wearing layers of thick, warm socks.