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