Swiftwick Pursuit Four Sock

Swiftwick is as good as it gets for scent-free, blister-free comfort, wicking, and durability. Updated!!

I have owned Swiftwick socks of one variety or another for five or so years now. I've worn them up and down several Cascades Volcanoes and they are now my go-to light hiking and running socks.

Test Conditions:

I received two almost identical sets of Swiftwick socks about four months ago and I have included them in all my fitness, trail runs, gym workouts and hikes in the hills. It's been long-pants season so I don't have a ton of action shots in them (socks are tough to review) because you'd just see me in pants and shoes.

I never used any powder, creams, or other products on my feet while wearing these socks and my runs averaged four miles in winter to wet spring conditions. I wear them every time I go to the gym and lift.

Fit:

I have size 9.5 D feet and the medium size have hugged my dogs like a hippie on a redwood. They never slip around, sag or bunch up. They stay where they belong and do their job perfectly.

Merino:

This magical wool comes from the same hardworking sheep that grow wool for our best suits. It is finer than crappy rag-wool and doesn't itch or smell like wet dog in the way that cheaper wool socks do.  

After four months almost zero visible wear!!

Durability:

I usually destroy socks in a matter of a few months. I then retire them to the kids where they finish the job. Unlike synthetic fibers, merino is super durable and Swiftwick puts elastic right where you need it to mold them to your feet without being so tight that they leave marks after you remove them.

Why don't people say something fits like a sock? I guess they haven't tried these. 

Smell:

Synthetic socks stink to high heaven after wearing them for a day. Thankfully, the Swiftwick socks avoid these problems by using the best merino wool, which is naturally stink resistant. After a whole day of tromping around the sage hills my feet aren't roses but they don't kill at fifty meters like they do in synthetic socks.

Moisture Control:

I used to worry about socks keeping me warm and now that I am older and do more active hobbies I am more concerned about keeping my feet dry. Wet feet give you blisters and blisters take the fun out of anything.  Swiftwick has solved the problem of wet feet by making their socks out of superior materials and giving them a snug, foot-hugging fit. Socks like these stay put and move moisture away from your feet so you don't end up limping home.  

Value:

Merino is expensive. At first. But considering that they outlast cheaper socks three or four to one I think they are still a good value for the dollar.  

Cushion:

These being lightweight socks they will not supply a padded landing the way thicker socks will. If you require that, I'd take a look at other Swiftwick offerings.  

Conclusion: 

Seriously, if you can get your feet into a pair of these socks for hiking and running, DO IT!

They also make AMAZING over-the-calf socks that keep my feet comfy and happy at high altitude. 

I know it's hard buy a brand you haven't used yet, but if you are in the least bit interested in having happier feet on the trail, give these a try. 

Updated 06/17/19: What do running socks dream about? Climbing Mt Rainier of course!

Still love them!

Background

I have worn really bad socks and socks that cost around $40 per pair and most things between. I climb mountains, hike, and run in the ones I love. I get blisters about the same as most people and I'd consider my feet average when it comes to sweat.