Why Our Merino Wool Socks Are The Ultimate Walking Socks

Searching for the ultimate pair of walking socks that are comfortable, breathable and will last you for years to come? 

I designed our merino wool walking socks to be the perfect pair of everyday socks that just so happen to be ideal for hiking. When I was developing these socks, I knew that they would first and foremost be walking socks, but I didn’t want them to just be technical socks that are otherwise shoved to the back of your drawer. I envisioned them to be your go-to sock for long hikes or weekend rambles, but also cosy and practical for all the other aspects of your daily life. Our customers have really championed every possible use of these socks, wearing them for activities as varied as skiing, gardening, dog walks and lazing on the sofa!

As one customer told us: “I’m never not in my GS walking socks! They’re my trusty faithful socks for bed and working at home. They fit like a glove, are so cosy and incredibly hard wearing. I’m looking forward to wearing them for years, and will happily darn them to keep them going!”

I love hearing the places these socks have been. Customers have told me tales of wearing them for hikes in the Lake District and Peak District, trekking in South America, exploring the Sahara Desert, visiting Father Christmas in Lapland, skiing in the Alps, climbing mountains in Madeira and visiting family in New Zealand. They’re the most well travelled garment in our collection!

When it comes to outdoor activities like hiking, having the right gear is absolutely essential. You can’t climb a mountain without the appropriate footwear or outerwear – socks can be an often overlooked but critical part of your gear. I designed our merino wool walking socks to not only be a testament to the quality of British craftsmanship, but also for their myriad of benefits that makes them the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Having a cosy pair of socks to slip on in bed at the end of a long day is an added bonus! 

Crafted from merino wool, these socks are a blend of exceptional comfort, durability and style finesse. Their high-quality craftsmanship, sustainable ethos and high-performance design make them the ultimate walking sock. Below, I’ve gone into more detail on each attribute which makes these socks what they are. They’re a true investment piece. I really believe in investing in what you put on your feet – after all, we spend so much of our lives walking around on them!

Comfortable

Our walking socks are crafted from sustainably-sourced merino wool which offers a soft, cushioned fit to keep your feet comfy all day long – whether you’re snuggled up on the sofa or marching up a hill. Cushioning is added in the high-impact areas of the heels and balls of the feet for enhanced comfort. The seamless construction helps to prevent blisters, while the elasticated cuffs ensure the socks stay in place without feeling too tight around your ankles. Merino wool is also finer than other wools, which minimises irritation and itching.

Durable

These socks are designed for longevity. I’m still wearing a pair of my walking socks that I made five years ago, and they’re in great condition! One of the reasons I chose to use a merino wool blend is that it retains its shape and elasticity through multiple washes. 

Breathable

The highly breathable fibres of merino wool promote better air circulation for the feet, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature and to reduce sweating. Merino wool also has incredible properties that help to keep your feet cool in warmer weather and warm in colder conditions. 

High performance

Whether you’re rambling in the Lake District or trekking in South America, our socks perform equally well in both hot and cold weather conditions. The breathability of merino wool keeps your feet dry and comfortable, while reducing your risk of developing blisters. The moisture wicking properties of the wool draw sweat away from the skin, maintaining the health of your feet during prolonged activities.

Modern design

Walking socks don’t have to be boring! Our socks have a pop of colour and our signature marl to add a contemporary flourish to your walking gear. 

High craftsmanship

Each pair of our walking socks is knitted by a small family-run mill in Derbyshire, with an emphasis on quality and traditional practices. With over 60 years of expertise, the mill ensures that every single sock meets the highest standard of craftsmanship.

Sustainable

We save end-of-line yarns from being discarded, a process that reduces waste while creating one-of-a-kind products. Merino wool is a natural, renewable resource and supports sustainable practices in the textile industry. 

Give your feet a treat with our merino wool walking socks.