With the Melbourne Oxfam Trailwalker now only 2 months away (20-22 April 2012) before we see 700 teams walk from Wheelers Hill to Wesburn, we thought it would be a good idea to shed some light on what the best socks are to wear for such an event.

First things first. Wearing a sock purchased from K-mart isn't going to cut it. Plain and simple. Sure we sell socks and some may say, of course socksforliving.com is going to say that but think about this - 100 km is a long, long way. Do you really want to risk blistered red raw feet half way through the event to save a dollar? The reality is you only get what you pay for and getting the right socks for 100 km is just as important as the shoes you decide to wear!

Going the distance!

We recommend you choose a sock containing medium to high cushioning. As 100 km is a long way your feet will get sore.  That's a fact. To minimise the soreness and impacts through your shoe a good sock with very good cushioning will help make your adventure more comfortable. A sock containing a wicking fibre (i.e. Coolmax, Thor-lon & others), one that helps move sweat away from your foot will also help keep those nasty blisters at bay.

Socks for Oxfam?

If you're a hard core racer and plan on running vast sections of the course (OMG if this is you sign up for the British Gurkhas) you will be better off with a running / trail hiking sock, however for this blog we will concentrate on what us mere mortals will wear and walkwould recommend the following socks:

1. Thorlo Light Hiking Sock

Thorlo Light Hiking Sock

These socks contain Coolmax, an important fibre that wicks moisture away from your feet. Given our feet sweat at the best of times, doing a 100 km walk and they will be in overdrive, pumping out loads of sweat! Coolmax will help get rid of that excess sweat and in turn minimizes the chances of blisters occurring. This sock also contains good cushioning (medium), is crew in height and so offers a degree of protection and support for the ankle.

Note: For those who don't know, when feet sweat excessively the skin softens because of the moisture. Once the skin softens any rubbing aggravates the skin more so than normal and so the blister cycle begins. Prevention is the best cure!

2. Thorlo Hiking Sock with Thor-lon

Thorlo Hiking Socks with Thor-lon

This sock also does a good job of wicking moisture, but instead of using Coolmax, this socks uses Thorlo's own patented fibre called Thor-lon. This sock also contains excellent cushioning (high), is crew in height and so offers a degree of protection and support for the ankle.

3. Smartwool Medium Hiking Sock

Smartwool Medium Hiking Sock

This is a very rugged thick sock. We've included this one if you're after a traditional heavy duty thick hiking sock. This sock will cope with just about anything, but it is heavier and thicker meaning extra weight on your feet. That said if maximum cushioning is your priority then these socks are brilliant. They come in great colours too!

4. Smartwool PHD Outdoor Sock

If you are a wool fan then Smartwool's PHD outdoor sock might just be for you. This sock contains it's own unique moisture management system and so will do a similar job to the Coolmax and Thorl-lon. Their strength is in their comfort, fit and longevity.  They are a very, very comfortable sock and fit well around not only the foot but the ankle.  They are a pleasure to walk in and are an 'active hiking' sock, rather than just a sock for hiking.

5. Rohner Hiking Sock

Our final sock is a Swiss sock by Rohner. This is a medium sock and is at a good price point. It will do everything you're after, but note only has medium cushioning. This sock doesn't have any special wicking fibres, but Rohner's use of a mix of fibres achieves a good result, albeit not quite as good as those socks using Coolmax or Thor-lon.

We hope this helps you.

Do remember to try wearing the socks before the big day (days for those walking it). If you need any help at all, feel free to contact us anytime.

Good luck!