If my feet aren't happy, I'm not happy -
and I'm not alone. The most important piece of camping equipment is footwear,
but while hiking shoes can make or break a trip, your socks can seal the deal
in more ways than one.
Socks are all the same though, right?
That's what I thought until I tried out a couple of pairs of specialized hiking
socks a few years ago. Now I know that all socks are not created equal and the
only two brands that cover my toes are Smart Wool and Ultimax. They're not cheap, but their comfort, cushioning and durability
definitely keep my tootsies satisfied. Make sure your hiking socks have these
features:
- Ribbed, elastic cuff to hold
socks in place
- Extra cushioning in heel and
forefoot for added comfort
- Flat-knit seams to enhance
comfort and durability
- Technical fit, which adds
support and comfort around the ankle and arch
- Made from material that wicks
away sweat and keeps feet dry
Helpful tip:
If you're planning on wearing your hiking
socks for multiple days, rinse them out each night to remove sweat and dirt,
which can irritate your skin on long hikes. Just make sure you have a place to
dry them or you'll have wet feet to deal with - an even bigger problem.
Kim Bowerman,
Nomadik Personal Fitness Expert