Composition: 60% merino, 35% nylon, 5% elastane 

Best for: A warm, good-value sock for year-round tramping.

Overview

When I started tramping in the 1980s, Norsewear grey-fleck socks were ubiquitous among the backcountry community. But those socks of old were a far cry from the world-class range now available from this southern Hawke’s Bay heritage brand. Of these, the merino-based Serious Trekker is a mid-calf, medium-weight sock with targeted cushioning, breathing and anti-blister zones, a seamless toe and differential knit. 

Trail test

This good value, generously padded tramping sock is best suited to taller hunting-style boots and regular height tramping boots. If you like a generous buffer between your feet and your boots or suffer from cold feet, it comes highly recommended, but we found them a bit warm for summer use outside of the transalpine zone. The fit is well engineered and balances comfort, breathability and durability with the blend of merino and nylon.