Composition: 66% Coolmax EcoMade, 28% nylon, 6% Lycra

Best for: Blister protection and moisture management for fast packing and trail running.

Overview

The Spectrum Trail is a toe sock designed for long runs and fast-paced hiking. For those unfamiliar with the concept of toe socks, each toe has its own sleeve, like a close-fitting glove. The theory behind toe socks is that they allow your toes to splay naturally, for better foot health and stability on the trail. Additionally, they minimise the likelihood of blisters between the toes by reducing friction and wicking moisture from each toe evenly. This model is mostly Coolmax (polyester) and nylon for maximum wicking and durability, but Injinji also makes merino versions and different heights.

Trail test

By Injinji’s standards this is a midweight sock, but compared to typical tramping socks it’s a mild-weather model. At first they are a little fiddly to fit, which might frustrate an impatient dresser, but once they’re on the feeling of having your toes separately caressed by soft fabric is both pleasant and novel. I mostly used them for warm to cool-weather local walks and trail runs and found them cosy. On sweaty outings the fibre selection wicked and dried very well while optimising toe comfort; however, they do widen your toe profile so you need space in your footwear to accommodate this. For prolonged activity like thru-hiking, they are smellier than merino-blend socks, but because they dry fast they can be washed daily. I did note some pilling when I wore them slipper-fashion around the house.