10 Walking Essentials: Socks

Toss those cotton tube socks, they aren't for walking. Your foot is not shaped like a tube, and cotton sets you up for blisters by holding sweat next to the skin. Head to the sock section of a sporting goods, outdoor, or running store and get the right socks.

• Fabric: Look for socks made from CoolMax, polypropylene, or other wicking fabrics. They wick away the sweat to evaporate and help prevent blisters.
• Padding: If your feet feel tired after walking on pavement, look for padded running socks. Be sure that you try them with your walking shoes so you have enough room left in the shoe. Walking is lower-impact than running and light padding is adequate for most walkers.
• Double layered socks: Some socks are two-layered, with an inner sock of wicking fabric and an outer sock layer. These advanced socks are touted as helping to prevent blisters by reducing the moisture and the friction that cause them.
• Your own double layering: Many hikers and cold weather walkers wear an inner sock of a wicking fabric and an outer sock of wool or a wool blend, to provide insulation. Always make sure this combination fits well in your shoes or boots and still leaves enough room for your foot.

Top Picks for Walking Socks

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