NEW ZEALAND GREAT WALKS GUIDE
Socks /Hikers Wool/ Gaiters
When it comes to hiking, taking care of your feet is crucial. To ensure a comfortable and blister-free experience on the Great Walks, it's important to choose the right socks. Opt for high-quality merino wool socks which will wick sweat, keep your feet dry, and reduce odour so you can wear them day after day. Many hikers opt for toe socks or double layered socks to help prevent blisters and feet rubbing inside the boot. Don't skimp on socks when packing they don't take up much room. Be kind to other hikers in the hut that have to smell your wet smelly socks drying by the fire because you only carried one pair.
Hikers Wool is a god send and can help stop rubbing and formation of blisters. We all carry a pack of hikers wool on each walk and shove plenty into our boots for a pain free walk. ​​
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Gaiters are an optional extra that prevent stones, debris, and snow from getting inside your footwear. Gaiters can also protect your legs from abrasions, water, snow, and mud helping to keep your feet dry and warm. Depending on the Great Walk they can either be optional or a necessity but are highly recommended for the Hump Ridge & Rakiura tracks which have long sections of deep mud.
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Socks
Merino Socks
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Merino wool socks are a popular choice among hikers for good reason. Merino wool is naturally moisture-wicking, which means it can help keep your feet dry and comfortable even during intense hikes. Additionally, merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, making it a great choice for multi-day hikes. Our ice breaker socks are10 years old and still going strong.​
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Toe Socks
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Toes socks provide a number of benefits, including improved balance and stability, reduced risk of blisters and hot spots. The crew think they are a bit 'uggers' but I tried these toe socks on our last hike and came away blister free after 70km. Happy days!​
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Double Socks
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Double layered socks are popular among hikers and hunters. Essentially two socks are worn - a thin liner sock and another more cushioned sock. Wearing two pairs of socks prevents blisters by reducing friction between your foot and shoe.
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Injinji and Ice Breaker both sell liner socks​​
Hikers Wool
Hikers Wool is essential kit and can be used to prevent blisters, hot spots, and other foot injuries. It's also lightweight and easy to pack. Everyone in the crew packs some. Hikers Wool can keep you rolling even if you have a nasty blister.
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Available at most outdoor stores in NZ.
Gaiters
Looking to purchase some gaiters? Consider this first
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Length and Terrain - gaiters can come in short, mid, or full-length. Consider the conditions you are likely to encounter on the track and choose the correct length accordingly. If you are hiking in hot conditions and just looking to keep rocks/debris out of your boot, a shorter length will suit. But for wet or muddy conditions, longer gaiters may be more suitable to provide better protection.
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Waterproofness - most gaiters are water resistant, and this should be sufficient, however if you are likely to encounter very wet or snowy conditions, consider gaiters with waterproof materials like Gore-Tex.
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Breathability - this is important particularly for mid and full-length gaiters to help manage your temperature.
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Durable and Abrasion Resistant - choose gaiters made of durable and abrasion resistant materials that can handle some punishment on the trail and keep your legs protected.
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Adjustable - choose gaiters that are easily adjusted to fit snugly but not too tightly around your legs and boots. Look for gaiters that can clasp together and that cinch at the top to avoid falling down. Lace hooks and instep straps that fit under the boot securely will help gaiters stay put.
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Ensure you choose the right size gaiters that fit around your legs and boots to function correctly on the track. It's always best to try them on with your hiking footwear before you buy.
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