And they have to be extremely comfortable: no bunching, falling, or chafing. Darn Tough Merino wool boot socks fit the bill—and the foot. They’re made in Vermont and come with a lifetime ...

For a non-wool hiking sock ... The shorter micro-crew height makes the Coolmax Micro Crew sock suitable for both boots and shoes. The women’s and men’s versions each come in three sizes.

Update on April 11, 2025: Added new picks for the boot sock, hiking, and less-expensive hiking sock, as well as wool dress sock, and added additional testing notes for multiple picks; updated ...