Mountain Bike Socks: 7 Best Pairs for the Trail

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Mountain bike socks may not be the most important piece of gear you purchase for your rides, but they can be a fun and expressive addition to your mountain bike wardrobe. Personally, I like to go with muted jerseys and shorts and let the ‘pop’ happen with my socks (and gloves).

Good mtb socks can also add a layer of protection. They’re usually the first line of defense against trailside brush and debris and they can provide cushioning and support for a more comfortable ride.

I’ve tried dozens of mountain biking socks over the years and in this post, I round up my favorite pairs.

Let’s dive in!

Why Good Socks Matter for Mountain Biking

As I’m sure you’re well aware, the right gear matters when it comes to mountain biking. Quality stuff can significantly enhance your overall experience, safety, and performance on the bike.

Among mountain bike essential gear, socks may seem trivial but they can play a surprisingly important role when it comes to comfort, performance, and preventing injuries.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Mountain Bike Socks

Choosing the right mountain bike socks is not just about picking a pair that matches your outfit (although that’s an important factor, too).

Here’s what to look for when selecting your next pair:

Remember, everyone’s feet are different. What works best for one person might not work for another. Take the time to try out different options and find what works best for you.

7 Best MTB Socks

Alright, let’s dive into the best mountain bike socks.

HANDUP is my go-to brand for mountain bike gloves so it’s no surprise that I love their socks as well. I’ve tried both their Tech Socks (see below) and All Temp Merino Wool socks and the wool socks are by far my favorite.

They’re super soft and comfortable and the perfect weight for pretty much any climate or weather conditions aside from dumping rain or freezing temps.

I also like that they have very well-reinforced heels and toes (because mountain biking is not the most delicate sport…) and that they’re made in the great US of A (unlike most mountain bike apparel).

Lastly, since they do contain a large percentage of Merino wool, they have Merino wool odor-resistant properties that will help keep your car from smelling too gnarly.

Darn Tough Micro Crew socks are one of the most popular options among hikers and backpackers because of their comfort, performance, and durability. I’ve been wearing Darn Tough for years (partly because they’re from my home state of Vermont) and I have several pairs I wear for mountain biking.

I find that Darn Tough socks have better cushioning than a lot of other socks out there, so they’re a great choice for riders that need a bit more padding for sensitive feet.

I also LOVE the Darn Tough lifetime guarantee. If your socks get torn, worn out, or half-eaten by your dog simply send them back (clean) and Darn Tough will send you a new pair totally free.

The only thing I would change about these socks is to make them a little taller to add a bit more protection against trail-side brush.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, highly breathable mountain bike sock that is perfect for warm summer days then check out the Pearl iZUMi Merino Trail Sock. They are designed to be low-bulk high-performance socks for gravel riding, road cycling, or cross-country mountain biking.

Because it’s so lightweight, I wouldn’t recommend it for more ‘hard core’ mountain biking, but it’s a great choice for mellower rides and smooth terrain.

While my top choice for mtb socks are the HANDUP Merino woolies above, I do have a few pairs of their Tech Socks as well and they’re a great option for everyday pedaling. Plus, they come in a lot of fun colors and patterns! (One thing to note about HANDUP, though, is that once a pattern is gone, it might be gone for good so grab your favorite styles while you can).

Made from a blend of nylon and spandex, they’re nice and stretchy while still being supportive. More importantly, they’re lightweight and breathable and dry quickly.

The main reason I like the Merino wool ones better than these Tech Socks is because the material is softer and a bit more plush. If prefer a more ‘techy’ sock, these ones are great.

Live in the PNW or like to ride through puddles? Then you’ll want to check out the Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Socks.

Designed with three layers of construction that includes a knit exterior, a waterproof breathable membrane, and a moisture-wicking anti-bacterial lining, the Crosspoint will keep your feet dry no matter the weather.

These socks are a bit bulky and heavy, so if you need something thinner to fit into your bike shoe check out the lightweight waterproof option.

Compression socks are more popular among road cyclists, but some mountain bikers prefer them, too, particularly long-distance cross-country mountain bikers.

The Swiftwick ASPIRE socks are made from olefin yarn, which is highly breathable and moisture-wicking and they’re designed with a firm compression fit to support your foot’s arch, improve circulation, and help reduce fatigue.

I’ve tried these socks and, personally, a compression sock isn’t for me but that doesn’t mean it won’t work for you.

If you’re part of a mountain bike club or you received a custom pair of mountain bike socks for an event, they are probably from the Sock Guy.

The Sock Guy does have a bunch of ready-made trail socks with fun patterns and colors or you can get a batch of custom socks made for your club, event, or ride crew.

I’ve had mixed results with Sock Guy socks. Some have been great, but others have stretched out really quickly.

Final Thoughts

Mountain biking socks may not be the most exciting piece of mountain bike gear you can buy, but they do play a role in comfort, performance, and safety so it is worth spending a bit of time researching and shopping around for a good pair.

I hope my tips and recommendations help you make the right choice for your ride style, preferences, and region.

Happy trails!

Do you have a favorite pair of mountain bike socks? What are they and why do you love them? Leave a comment below!