Gear Review - Socks by SmartWool

Looking after your feet is one of the most important aspects of enjoying a walk. The range of socks under review are produced by SmartWool who specialise in Next-To-Skin wear.

Made from the highest grade of Merino, the wool is put through a special process to create garments that are washable, dryable and soft. In addition, SmartWool wicks moisture 27% faster than any synthetic fabric. The manufacturers claim "Hot or cold, rigorous or relaxing SmartWool is guaranteed to be the best performing, most comfortable product you have ever worn or your money back."

Expedition Trekking   RATING

These socks are designed for harder walking and were tested in Snowdonia over tough terrain with snow on the ground. Provided with heavy cushioning throughout, this sock has the benefit of extra insulation against the elements, together with high levels of shock absorption and support. As soon as you put your feet inside you can appreciate the quality and when walking the level of comfort was superb with your feet staying warm and dry. Washing was easy and straightforward with no noticeable loss of quality.

Manufacturer's Technical specification - Heavyweight cushioning throughout the sock provides extra comfort, insulation and protection - Extra cushioning also protects the foot from the pressure of stiff boots and laces - Elasticised ankle brace holds heel in place and allows for less bulk and greater forward flex in the boot - Crew height to wear with hiking boots

Sizes available - S, M, L, XL
Colours - Natural Celery, Natural Forest, Natural Gray, Natural Navy, Natural Oatmeal & Natural Taupe (shown)
Suitable for - hiking, long treks and backpacking with heavy loads
Use with heavy hiking boots

Recommended price £14.95

Light Hiker    RATING

Designed for less demanding use, these socks were tested under lightweight boots and performed well. Worn for over a week and washed each night they were supremely comfortable.

Manufacturer's Technical specification - Medium weight cushioning on the foot and toes provides protection in high-friction areas while a thin flat knit instep provides a sleeker fit and extra breathability - Elasticised arch brace helps keep the sock in place and adds arch support to keep your legs happy - Similar to the Hiking sock with the addition of a flat knit instep to provide more ventilation and a closer fit for lightweight hiking boots - Crew height to wear with boots

Sizes available - S, M, L, XL
Colours - Natural Celery (shown), Natural Denim, Natural Gray, Natural Taupe
Suitable for - lightweight hiking or aggressive walking
Use with light or flexible hiking boots

Recommended price £10.95

Conclusion

Your first reaction to woollen socks may well be negative as many of us remember the old-fashioned and often cheaply produced items we wore to school. Thankfully socks have progressed since then and the wool used is wonderfully soft - soft enough to destroy my wife's initial worries about itchy feet.

These are high performance, quality socks that can be recommended for walkers.

Footlogic Website - www.foot-logic.com

SmartWool website - www.smartwool.com

UK Distributor of SmartWool - telephone 0131 221 2200

www.foot-logic.com