Donna Mosello
New Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- Oct. 2017: Via Francigena--Grand St. Bernard to Rome.
Oct. 2015: Camino Francès--SJPdP to Santiago.
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There isn't just one SmartWool sock!!those Smart Wool socks that everyone has been talking about
Me too. I live and play in Central Florida, and wear them year-round.I use the Smart Wool Outdoor Medium weight in the Winter and Light weight in the Summer and it works well for me with trail runner shoes (Saucony Peregrine 5) I find the Medium weight socks too warm for Summertime. YMMV.
Exactly which Smartwool socks?. . . I hiked a 10 miler and wore my broken in Merrill Moab hiking shoes and those Smart Wool socks that everyone has been talking about. Well....it was really hot in the mountains (90º) and my feet were so hot they felt like they were on fire.. . .
. . . but everyone is saying to use wool socks.
Would love to hear some comments about this.
I think a lot of people new to long distance walking or hiking have no real experience or clue about all the different weight socks available from 'ultra-light' to 'heavy' weights.I use the Smart Wool Outdoor Medium weight in the Winter and Light weight in the Summer and it works well for me with trail runner shoes (Saucony Peregrine 5) I find the Medium weight socks too warm for Summertime. YMMV.
Hi Donna,I'm leaving for Spain in September, so I've been training pretty hard in the hills and mountains in California.
What I started doing lately is using my backpack, shoes etc. that I plan to take with me.....just to get used to them.
My problem is this past weekend I hiked a 10 miler and wore my broken in Merrill Moab hiking shoes and those Smart Wool socks that everyone has been talking about. Well....it was really hot in the mountains (90º) and my feet were so hot they felt like they were on fire.
I almost wanted to go barefoot. I'm used to hiking in my Adidas running socks, and they're fine, but everyone is saying to use wool socks.
Would love to hear some comments about this.
SmartWool is a BRAND of socks.Hi Donna,
There is a difference between Smart Wool and Merino Wool.
Smartwool socks are more for comfort and warmth, and Merino socks are better at moisture wicking, to keep your feet dry.
*proof positive why it's so important to test out and break in all your equipment prior to the "big" adventure.
I am going go back to REI this week and look around for either a mix or a lighter weight sock.There isn't just one SmartWool sock!!
http://www.smartwool.com/activities/hike.html
If you are using thick socks, try a thinner sock to keep your feet cooler. If you have the 100% wool socks, try a blend with less wool in it. I have found that the more synthetic, the better the moisture wicking.
Thanks for the great info. I will definitely get on their website and see what they have. I'm sure there's an 800 number that I can call and talk to a customer service rep. The ones that I bought were the Smart Wool Merino "Light Cushion-Outdoor", and they were just too hot.SmartWool is a BRAND of socks.
They make Merino Wool hiking socks.
All of the major brands have some sort of blend with Merino being the majority component. There is typically some amount of elastic and other synthetic in the sock as well.
LINK to SmartWool brand hiking socks => http://www.smartwool.com/activities/hike.html?icid=HP:marq2
I'm leaving for Spain in September, so I've been training pretty hard in the hills and mountains in California.
What I started doing lately is using my backpack, shoes etc. that I plan to take with me.....just to get used to them.
My problem is this past weekend I hiked a 10 miler and wore my broken in Merrill Moab hiking shoes and those Smart Wool socks that everyone has been talking about. Well....it was really hot in the mountains (90º) and my feet were so hot they felt like they were on fire.
I almost wanted to go barefoot. I'm used to hiking in my Adidas running socks, and they're fine, but everyone is saying to use wool socks.
Would love to hear some comments about this.
"outdoor" socks are more of a general wear sock. "hiking" socks, as well as "running" socks have elastic stretch panels in strategic places to keep the sock from shifting on your foot.Thanks for the great info. I will definitely get on their website and see what they have. I'm sure there's an 800 number that I can call and talk to a customer service rep. The ones that I bought were the Smart Wool Merino "Light Cushion-Outdoor", and they were just too hot.
Smart Wool makes Merino Wool socks. I am unaware that they make any sock that is not primarily a Merino Wool sock.Hi Donna, I also have problems with smart wool socks in warm weather. The Spanish Lurbel sock is my Camino favourite. This year I also wore injinjis (the synthetic trail running ones). I had very few foot issues, unlike in previous years when I wore smart wool and merino socks.
Hi Donna, I love socks! tried many different types both on and off camino and I am taking this year ............... Adidas running socks! Thin wicking, still change halfway through day, I love them. My feet swelled horrendously 0n my 8th day, despite all my efforts before I went I still got blisters with merino and 1000 mile socks.Thank you, thank you!
Don't know "why" I thought that I just had to stick with whatever suggestions were given to me by friends who walked the Camino, and other blogs that I've seen about what to pack.
Thanks for everyone for all your suggestions. I will definitely go to REI and look at other lighter weight socks......Hiking/running....not Outdoor. I think the others will be much lighter. I'm going to check on those Injinji socks too. I've heard other people mention those."outdoor" socks are more of a general wear sock. "hiking" socks, as well as "running" socks have elastic stretch panels in strategic places to keep the sock from shifting on your foot.
Don't limit yourself to trying only SmartWool, but if you do, try at least 1 pair from their "Phd" collection.
There are other good brands out there. Just like shoes, people become very devoted and loyal to a brand.
Consider also the following (and I'm sure there are more!):
- Point 6
- Darn Tough
- Wigwam
- Bridgedale
- Injinji
- FITS
- Lorpen
Here is a sock review from OUTDOOR GEAR LAB => http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/Hiking-Socks-Reviews
Not trying to add to your confusion!
I'm using Smart Wool "Outdoor/Light Cushion/Merino". I checked out the Smart Wool website and saw that they had the same sock but it "Ultra light". I'm going to check those out too. Otherwise I'm definitely looking at other brands at REI. Thanks!Smart Wool makes Merino Wool socks. I am unaware that they make any sock that is not primarily a Merino Wool sock.
Smart Wool makes summer weight ultra-light socks for warm/hot weather. Most brands I know of have at least 3, some have 5 different weights/thicknesses of socks providing different levels of insulation.
For people who have problems with their feet getting too hot then I have to ask what weight socks do you use?
That's just what I planned on doing. Smart Wool also comes in "Ultra Light", which I plan to check out.There isn't just one SmartWool sock!!
http://www.smartwool.com/activities/hike.html
If you are using thick socks, try a thinner sock to keep your feet cooler. If you have the 100% wool socks, try a blend with less wool in it. I have found that the more synthetic, the better the moisture wicking.
The Smart Wool "Outdoor/Light Cushion is what I am using, and in 90+ degree weather my feet were on fire.I use the Smart Wool Outdoor Medium weight in the Winter and Light weight in the Summer and it works well for me with trail runner shoes (Saucony Peregrine 5) I find the Medium weight socks too warm for Summertime. YMMV.
Thanks Mike. I agree with you. Let's spread the word. I'm using the Smart Wool Outdoor Light Cushion.Exactly which Smartwool socks?
They make different WEIGHTS and different TYPES.
The only Smartwool socks I like are the "Phd" series in "light" weight.
But generally I prefer DARN TOUGH socks, I think they are the best socks. If your feet get hot you may want to choose one of their lighter weight COOLMAX synthetic & wool blends.
I think a lot of people new to long distance walking or hiking have no real experience or clue about all the different weight socks available from 'ultra-light' to 'heavy' weights.
Experienced walkers like yourself realize that changing the sock type/weight is important for comfort. Somehow we have to spread the word to new folks on this forum that equipment choices can make/break a Camino.
Thanks for all the info. I plan to try a few different ones before my trip, including some wool blends."outdoor" socks are more of a general wear sock. "hiking" socks, as well as "running" socks have elastic stretch panels in strategic places to keep the sock from shifting on your foot.
Don't limit yourself to trying only SmartWool, but if you do, try at least 1 pair from their "Phd" collection.
There are other good brands out there. Just like shoes, people become very devoted and loyal to a brand.
Consider also the following (and I'm sure there are more!):
- Point 6
- Darn Tough
- Wigwam
- Bridgedale
- Injinji
- FITS
- Lorpen
Here is a sock review from OUTDOOR GEAR LAB => http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/Hiking-Socks-Reviews
Not trying to add to your confusion!
Thanks Annie! I am definitely going to try a lighter weight sock and some wool blends instead of 100% Merino.There isn't just one SmartWool sock!!
http://www.smartwool.com/activities/hike.html
If you are using thick socks, try a thinner sock to keep your feet cooler. If you have the 100% wool socks, try a blend with less wool in it. I have found that the more synthetic, the better the moisture wicking.
I will take your advice and try other makes and weights, including wool blends instead of 100% Merino.Hi Donna, I also have problems with smart wool socks in warm weather. The Spanish Lurbel sock is my Camino favourite. This year I also wore injinjis (the synthetic trail running ones). I had very few foot issues, unlike in previous years when I wore smart wool and merino socks.
FWIW, most of the "hiking socks" from SmartWool have 60% to 70% Merino Wool content. None of them are 100% Merino Wool...... I am definitely going to try a lighter weight sock and some wool blends instead of 100% Merino.
I see that Smart Wool also has an Ultra Light model.
Now that you mentioned it, I wore the mini sock (above ankle) because I don't like the real high ones.Cool, I was going to start a very similar thread. This past weekend I even got a heat rash from wearing wool socks. My feet were sore a day later.
I am checking out marathon runner socks. I was really curious if there are other people who have had the same issue.
Please be kind and post back when you find a solution rather than just saying great I found one. Thanks
What a great idea! Thanks for the great advice.Donna: Like others, I have a number of socks. I picked up a pair of Wright Socks at REI. They are fairly short with two thin layers. I wore them last week for an 8 mile walk at about 85 degrees Fahrenheit (30 Celcius) and my feet liked them. The week before I wore Injinji (light weight) for 12 miles. My feet were ok with them, too. The REI employee encourages me to try the socks on before I bought them so take your shoes with you.
I'm leaving for Spain in September, so I've been training pretty hard in the hills and mountains in California.
What I started doing lately is using my backpack, shoes etc. that I plan to take with me.....just to get used to them.
My problem is this past weekend I hiked a 10 miler and wore my broken in Merrill Moab hiking shoes and those Smart Wool socks that everyone has been talking about. Well....it was really hot in the mountains (90º) and my feet were so hot they felt like they were on fire.
I almost wanted to go barefoot. I'm used to hiking in my Adidas running socks, and they're fine, but everyone is saying to use wool socks.
Would love to hear some comments about this.
I never got blisters - so here are my thoughts thin liner sock and then top sock pref the type you have been recommended, and I took out the original inner soles of my boots (forget the inner soles that all these manufacturers tell you they have put in them) and bought the best soles I could afford - saves all the impact - but also get used used to walking everyday in your boots - which and every way rough and smooth - it will stand you in good steadI'm leaving for Spain in September, so I've been training pretty hard in the hills and mountains in California.
What I started doing lately is using my backpack, shoes etc. that I plan to take with me.....just to get used to them.
My problem is this past weekend I hiked a 10 miler and wore my broken in Merrill Moab hiking shoes and those Smart Wool socks that everyone has been talking about. Well....it was really hot in the mountains (90º) and my feet were so hot they felt like they were on fire.
I almost wanted to go barefoot. I'm used to hiking in my Adidas running socks, and they're fine, but everyone is saying to use wool socks.
Would love to hear some comments about this.
Hi, Did not use wool socks for several reasons. They don't dry fast. They are too fluffy so your feet move easily in your shoes (blisters).
We walked CF from SJPdP last September in Keen Mids. When the feet were hot, everything was hot. Due to the high rate of blisters and foot problems on the Camino, I recommend a liner sock then a synthetic sock that dries quicker than wool, such as those by Nike or Puma. consider reducing friction with Glide and taping bony spots. Save your wool for winter hikes.I'm leaving for Spain in September, so I've been training pretty hard in the hills and mountains in California.
What I started doing lately is using my backpack, shoes etc. that I plan to take with me.....just to get used to them.
My problem is this past weekend I hiked a 10 miler and wore my broken in Merrill Moab hiking shoes and those Smart Wool socks that everyone has been talking about. Well....it was really hot in the mountains (90º) and my feet were so hot they felt like they were on fire.
I almost wanted to go barefoot. I'm used to hiking in my Adidas running socks, and they're fine, but everyone is saying to use wool socks.
Would love to hear some comments about this.
You tried the WRONG wool socks.Hi, Did not use wool socks for several reasons. They don't dry fast. They are too fluffy so your feet move easily in your shoes (blisters)...
Hi, Did not use wool socks for several reasons. They don't dry fast. They are too fluffy so your feet move easily in your shoes (blisters). I only used so called "dual layer" socks and they were FABULOUS! Never use anything else anymore! See: www.wrightsock.com
Buen Camino
We walked CF from SJPdP last September in Keen Mids. When the feet were hot, everything was hot. Due to the high rate of blisters and foot problems on the Camino, I recommend a liner sock then a synthetic sock that dries quicker than wool, such as those by Nike or Puma. consider reducing friction with Glide and taping bony spots. Save your wool for winter hikes.
You tried the WRONG wool socks.
Merino Wool socks come in 3 to 5 different thicknesses/weights (depending upon which brand you try) ranging from 'ultra-light' to 'extra heavy' weight/thickness.
The ultra-light and lightweight socks both dry just about as quickly as comparable synthetics. Both are comparable to similar synthetics in terms of thickness/cushioning (in your terms 'fluffy').
If you compare a synthetic 'light hiker' to a Merino Wool "medium hiker" then yes, the wool sock will feel fluffy. But compare a 'light hiker' to a light hiker' and the feeling will be similar.
I strongly suspect that you were making some sort of apples-to-oranges comparison in terms of socks.
Many people are not aware that there are many TYPES of socks and many WEIGHTS/THICKNESSES of socks. A "light hiker" will feel different than a "medium outdoor" sock, regardless of if it is made of synthetic or wool material. etc etc etc
I also got WrightSock & am using them for training walks/hikes - so far so good. Has anyone tried Armaskin Anti-blister socks?I swear by WrightSock Merino Stride 1/4 socks. They are double layer with inner synthetic layer and soft, fine merino blend outer layer. I wear them in Canada winter AND summer for running. I'll be wearing them for walking the Camino in September/October. Never had a blister, and I've run 50 km trail races in them in hot, dry conditions and in wet conditions sloshing through mud and rain. They dry fast.
I bought the middle ones & will use them on my walk in Sept/Oct.Thanks so much for the website. I want to check those socks out.
I noticed that they come in Lightweight, Middle, Light Cushion and Cushion.
Which ones did you use?
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