Composition: 26% new wool, 18% merino, 38% nylon, 17% polypropylene, 1% elastane

Best for: Premium comfort, warmth and durability for 3-4-season use.

Overview

Refined for comfort for long days all year round, this plushly padded sock makes use of dual wool types and synthetic fibres to optimise shape retention, durability, comfort and odour control. It’s thickly padded at the toe and heel, but elsewhere the knit is looser and the fibre blend fine-tuned for breathability. It is lower-calf height and well suited to mid- or regular-height boots.

Trail test

I can attest to the long-distance comfort of this sock, having previously used it through autumn and winter in the South Island while thru-hiking Te Araroa, when wet feet were a constant. Its crew length is ideal for all round tramping, but some people will find it overly warm in hot weather. Conversely, if you’re looking for a true winter sock, a taller model will be warmer. The fine-tuned fibre blend provides the warmth and odour control of wool but leans towards a high ratio of synthetic fibres to boost durability, drying time and fit. Ten years after TA, mine are a little felted but still going strong.