Hollow Boot Socks

Pros:

• These kept our feet toasty warm without breaking a sweat - the most versatile socks we’ve taken into the woods by far.
• Soft to the touch with no itch, we favored the feel of alpaca over merino.
• Through sleet and snow, these socks wicked moisture and kept our feet dry all day long.
• Their moisture-wicking abilities left us blister-free and prevented hotspots.
• With a 99-day warranty, these socks have you covered through the entire season.

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than other options, but worth every penny. **At the time of publishing this article on 9/13/24, Hollow’s Boot Socks are available for up to 30% off.
• Limited color options (if you care about that kind of thing)..

DARN TOUGH - Over-the-Calf Heavyweight Hunting Sock

RUNNER-UP FOR DURABILITY

Pros

• Super Durable: Known for their toughness and ability to withstand rugged use.
• Lifetime Guarantee: If you somehow manage to wear them out, Darn Tough will replace them for free.
• Performance Fit: These stayed in place with minimal slipping or bunching while on the move.

Cons

• Not as Warm: Falls short when compared to Hollow Socks in terms of insulation in freezing conditions.
• Heavily Cushioned: If your boots are snug, you might have some issues fitting these in.
• Moisture Retention: Tends to get soggy when hunting in wet conditions.

KUIU - ULTRA Merino Over-the-Calf Sock

BETTER FOR MILDER CONDITIONS

Pros

• Targeted Cushioning: Features additional yarn thickness in high-wear areas to help protect the feet with cushioning.
• Lightweight: Great for early fall or mild hunting conditions.
• Odor Resistant: Merino wool fights odors fairly well, even after days of hunting.

Cons

• Less Temperature Regulation: Not as versatile in fluctuating conditions compared to Hollow Socks.
• Less Moisture-Wicking: Does not wick away sweat as effectively as Hollow’s alpaca fibers.
• Slightly Stiffer: Not as soft or flexible as some other merino options.

Smart Wool - Hunt Classic Edition Over The Calf Socks

BETTER FOR TOUGH TERRAIN

Pros

• Comfortable Fit: Snug, without being too tight, ensuring the sock stays in place during long treks.
• Good for Mild Conditions: Great for early season or hunts in moderate climates.
• Widely Available: Easy to find and purchase online or in stores.

Cons

• Not as Durable: Wears out faster compared to more rugged options like Hollow or Darn Tough.
• Light Weight: These socks didn’t provide the warmth or cushioning that we expected from a “Heavyweight” sock.
• Less Warm in Extreme Cold: Doesn’t hold heat as well as Hollow Alpaca fibers in freezing temps.

First Lite - Zero Cold Weather OTC Sock

BETTER FOR CASUAL HUNTING

Pros

• Affordable: Less expensive than some other premium hunting socks.
• Odor Control: Merino wool does a solid job at keeping your feet fresh after long days.
• Breathable: Good airflow for hunting in warmer climates.

Cons

• Loose Fit: With less elasticity, these socks tend to sag and bunch under the foot.
• Average Durability: Breaks down quicker than alpaca or synthetic options.
• Moisture Issues: Tends to hold onto moisture longer than you’d like.