Using running socks for walking can save you money because you don’t have to buy several pairs of socks. But are running socks also suitable for walking and hiking?
Running socks are also suitable for walking and hiking. There are several types of running socks; some are more suitable for walking than others. The most suitable running socks for walking and hiking are long and cushioned socks made of wool. Such socks protect the ankle well and absorb sweat.
There are many different types of running socks on the market, differing in material, shape, and length; some are even lined. What all these sock features mean and which running socks can also be used for walking will be discussed later in this article.
What types of running socks exist?
Have you ever been confused by the wide variety of running socks? Some are thin, some are thick, and there are long and short. Some socks are made of synthetic materials, and others are made of wool. Let me explain how specific properties of socks affect your performance.
Before continuing, I suggest you read this post where I did an unusual test. Where I tested whether you can wear running socks repeatedly without washing them. The result may help you when you buy running socks in the future. For access to the test, click the link above.
What sock material is the best for walking?
The best material for walking is wool. Most often, running socks are made of synthetic materials. But there are also socks made from natural materials such as wool. Both materials are suitable for the health of your feet during frequent and long-lasting sporting activities. But if possible, for sports socks, always use wool as a material.
Running socks made of synthetic materials are elastic and fit the foot well, which is very important to prevent blisters. Synthetic materials such as nylon, elastane, and polyester wick sweat away from the foot so that the foot is not soaked when running. These socks are also very breathable, which causes the foot to sweat less when running. As synthetic stockings are very elastic, they press the feet well and have a compressive effect. The compression speeds up blood flow to the feet, making long-distance running easier.
One of the most popular materials for runners is wool. Wool is a warm and comfortable material that absorbs a lot of sweat during a run but still feels dry to the touch. This keeps your feet dry for longer during the run, which prevents unpleasant odors and athlete’s foot. Although wool is a warm material, socks made from it are suitable for winter and summer.
| Synetic materials | Wool | |
| Sweat-wicking material | X | |
| Sweat soaking material | X | |
| More comfortable | X | |
| Better for cold weather | X | |
| Better for warm weather | X | |
| Odor protection | X |
I think wool running socks are best for walking and hiking. When you walk, your footwear should be comfortable and warm, especially when you walk in the hills where it is usually cold.
The best-running sock shape for walking
Most people use regular socks like these:
But there are also toe socks for running:
Toe socks have several advantages over regular socks. Each toe is in its own space, so rubbing between the toes is prevented, which also prevents blisters. Toe socks absorb more sweat because each toe is wrapped in a soak-wicked material, which keeps the foot dry for longer.
If possible, I would choose toe socks for walking and hiking because these socks provide more comfort and better grip when walking. You can read why I think toe socks are better than regular socks by clicking on this link.
The best-running sock length for walking
In terms of length, we have the most choice. There are no-show, ankle, crew, knee-high, and compression socks.
No-show and ankle-size running socks are also acceptable for walking on the flat. For hill walking, I recommend crew, knee-high, or compression socks because they protect your ankles more, absorb more sweat and keep you cooler. Compression socks are suitable for longer hikes because they speed up blood circulation to your legs, keeping them fresh for longer.
| No-show | Ankle | Crew | Knee-high | Knee-high compression | |
| For walking | X | X | X | ||
| For hiking | X | X | |||
| Ankle protection | X | X | X |
Cushioned socks for running and walking
Some running socks are padded on the most stressed parts – the heels and toes. Cushioned running socks are more comfortable, helping to keep your feet rested for longer. The cushioned parts of the socks absorb more sweat and are warmer.
If possible, use padded running socks for walking and hiking to give you more comfort when walking. If you are interested in learning more about cushioned socks, you can read more about them here.
Which running socks are best for walking
These are the characteristics that running socks must have to be suitable for walking and hiking:
- they must also be comfortable for long walks and hikes in the hills,
- they must absorb sweat well to protect against blisters and foot infections,
- hiking socks must be high enough to cover the ankles and provide support,
- they must be warm because it is usually cold in the mountains.
So, looking for the perfect combination of material, length, and comfort has led me to conclude that the best running socks that are also suitable for walking are made of wool, are over ankle-length, can be knee-length, and are padded on the feet.
If you are willing to spend more money on socks, I recommend you try compression socks, which make a difference. You can choose either regular or toe socks, but toe socks are even more foot-friendly and provide a better grip.