Topic: Socks for hiking

[Nomad]

 Planning a long term hike and fishing trip.
 What socks would you wear cotton, wool or what would
be some of your other choices?
 Pack is about 65 pounds........

[e11charlie]

I would go with wool for a long hike or march.  Every time I used cotton I would get horrible blisters.  And maybe some of those calf high panty hose.   

[fj40mojo]

I like these. They aren't cheap, but I've never gotten a blister while wearing them, even on extended days of hunting in wet weather.

http://www.rohner-socks.com/shop.php/EUR/en/all_products/original_overknee

[Scarecrow]

I got some REI socks on discount that made me rethink how much I was willing to spend on socks.  They were a few bucks a pair, but vastly superior to my old cotton tube socks.

[GrayWolf]

I agree with what's been said with cotton socks.  One problem with them, at least on long hikes, is that they don't wick perspiration.  This tends to cause blisters.

[Beamncoke]

I like the wool blended GI boot socks.  Not fancy or expensive but durable and they wick moisture.

[JollyRoger]

Stay away from the cotton socks.  They are terrible for hiking in or any activity where you're going to be on your feet long periods of time.

My suggestion is to go to REI and look at the SmartWool and Thorlo brand socks.  Both are wool or wool blends that are designed to be worn in rough conditions and on sweaty feet that are being pounded day in and day out.  Both brands have serveral models to cover everything from summer weight light hiking to expedition weight super warm socks for mountain climbing or other alpine adventures.

As for the GI issued green wool socks...yeah, they're ok for what you're wanting.  But I've found that there isnt much padding after a while with them.  If you're getting them through a supply chain, hell yeah.  If not go with one of the brands above.

Hope this helps!
 

[RGinIdaho]

I use a polypropelene liner sock and a rag wool outer for heavy work. The liners wick the moisture away and the two differing layers move the friction points from my feet to the socks.

For light hiking, fishing, single day hunting, the Smartwool socks are pretty spiffy.

[luvmy45]

My suggestion is to go to REI and look at the SmartWool and Thorlo brand socks. 

Pickup up a pair of SmartWools tonight to try out, they are 30% off right now at REI.

[tgibson]

These http://www.point6.com/home are all I wear anymore.  These things are great.
Adios,
TG

[ARgeek]

Look into Darn Tough Vermont Socks.  They are all the rage in the backpacking forums I hang out in.  Very comparable to Smartwool, but longer lasting and they don't mill as easily or quickly.