Are socks the most underrated piece of outdoor gear? Chris Townsend assess the best for hillwalking. On test Wigwam Merino Comfort Hiker socks


With soft terry loop cushioning throughout these Wigwam Merino Comfort Hiker socks are wonderfully soft and comfortable. The cushioning makes them warm too and excellent in cold weather. In warmer conditions (I haven’t tried them on hot summer days) they haven’t been too hot. Compared with many socks the construction is fairly simple. There is a very narrow ‘ventilation channel’ along the side of the foot. I can’t tell if this makes any difference or not. The socks are quite warm when wet and dry quite quickly anyway. To help with the fit there is elastication round the arch and to keep the legs up there is rib knitting as well as cushioning. The socks fit well and I’ve had no problem with them slipping down or crumpling. The price is good for merino wool socks.

Reviewed in January 2015 Issue