This article is based on what I presented in the Beginner Backpack Workshop held by Appalachian Mountain Club, Delaware Valley Chapter, April 22, 2006.

What are socks for?

For your feet – socks provide cushion and warmth, and help wick moisture out.
For your boots – socks block sweat and dead cells from getting into the boots which destruct the internal structure of the boots.

Modern hiking socks usually mix different materials, such as wool, nylon, spandex, etc. Based on the proportion of the blend of materials, they emphasize on different functionalities while still taking care of other basic requirements. For example, wool is good for warmth, and it provides excellent cushion and absorbency. Coolmax is a wicking material, and it keeps the skin dry.

Two Pairs or One Pair?

Traditionally we are advised to use the “two-pair” system in order to prevent blisters. The inner layer is a pair of liner socks, which are made of wicking material only. Therefore its main objective is to take moisture off the skin and keeps your feet cool and dry, which is the key to prevent blisters from happening. The outer layer is usually wool socks, which provide warmth and cushion.

However, as mentioned in the previous section, modern socks usually provide all the functions by weaving in various materials. More and more people have found that one pair is adequate against blisters.

You might want to experiment different systems to find out your preference. To me, both systems work fine, and I usually only wear one pair of socks.

Different Ways to Employ Liner socks

However, it doesn’t mean that liner socks lose their position. I still use liner socks from time to time, especially when I hike in sports sandals. Here I quote a paragraph from Colin Fletcher and Chip Rawlins’s The Complete Walker IV for some other ways to employ liner socks:

“They [liner socks] can reduce friction when breaking in boots or on sustained trips, add a wicking layer next to your skin, and boost the warmth of normal-weight socks. They also provide a nice pre-filter for organic crud – it’s easy to wash and dry liners on the trail, allowing you to change more frequently. Trail runners and the unbearably light may wear liners alone. I use them with sandals against sun and chafing. A clean pair at night can boost the warmth (and hygiene) of insulated booties and sleeping bags.”