Hiking & Trekking   back

Hiking can put various pressures on the foot, depending on the terrain, length of hike and weight of the equipment you are carrying. Peak pressure on your foot on heel strike and toe off is 1-1.5 times your body weight and can be more if you are carrying a heavy pack. Shear occurs both from the walking movement and the uneven terrain and is increased with steeper trails where slippage can occur or edging may be necessary. And, just mild physical strain can generate 1-1/2 cup of moisture per foot.

The Hiking product line features Hiking Thorlos® and Light Hiking Thorlos®. Hiking Thorlos® provide the most comfort and protection, while still allowing a snug boot fit for better control. They're designed for three season hikes on varied trail surfaces and are comfortable at temperatures as low as 35o F. Light Hiking Thorlos® provide protection on easier hikes and are the perfect choice to wear with lightweight hiking boots, sandals and other casual outdoor footwear.


Trekking puts various pressures on the foot, depending on the terrain, type of boot and weight of the equipment you are carrying. Trekking boots typically have little cushioning, increasing the impact felt by the foot on heel strike. Peak impact on your foot is 1.5-2 times your body weight and can be more if you are carrying a heavy pack. Increased pressure combined with steep grades of the terrain, often result in high shear forces on the foot. And, the moderate to physical strain of trekking can generate as much as 1 cup of moisture per foot.

The Trekking product line features Trekking Thorlos® and Light Trekking Thorlos®. Trekking Thorlos® provide the most comfort and protection and are ideal for experienced trekkers. They're designed to work with hiking boots that may have leather uppers, steel shanks and stiff midsoles and provide comfort through the four seasons at temperatures as low as 35o F. Light Trekking Thorlos® are a versatile, all-around trail sock, designed to be worn on day hikes with lightweight hiking boots made of softer materials. Light Trekking Thorlos® can be combined with CoolMax® liners in wet or warm conditions or ThermaStatTM liners in colder weather conditions.

Hiking Thorlos® are designed with high-density pads under the ball and heel that provide protection against shock, concussion, abrasion and blisters. A low-density pad in the arch provides a contour fit and comfort. A low-density pad over the top of the foot protects the toes and cushions the instep from lace pressure. Flat knit panels allow for a better fit and moisture ventilation. pl_hik.gif (10684 bytes)
pl_hlt.gif (15948 bytes) Light Hiking Thorlos® w/ CoolMax® are constructed with lighter density padding than our Hiking and Trekking Thorlos®. Light Hiking Thorlos® w/ CoolMax® are the perfect choice for wear with lightweight hiking boots, sandals, and other casual outdoor footwear. The high performance wicking action of CoolMax® and Foot·HealthTM acrylic makes the Light Hiking Thorlos® with CoolMax® ideal for warmer environments.
Trekking Thorlos® contain high-density padding under the ball and heel to protect the foot against shock, concussion, abrasion and blisters, which are common when covering rough terrain. A medium-density pad in the arch cushions and supports, while medium-density padding in the instep and over the toe cushions against lace pressure and boot folds, and protects from "black toe". Spandex in the arch and instep adds support and prevents bunching. A flat knit side panel also allows for a better fit and moisture ventilation. pl_tre.gif (12526 bytes)
pl_tlt.gif (11030 bytes) Light Trekking Thorlos® feature medium-density padding under the ball and heel to protect the foot against shock, concussion, abrasion, and blisters. A low-density pad in the arch cushions and supports the arch and allows for a better fit. Low-density padding in the instep and over the toe cushions against lace pressure and boot folds. A flat knit side panel allows for a better fit and moisture ventilation.
Liner w/ CoolMax® Thorlos® worn with Trekking Thorlos® keep feet cooler, drier, and more comfortable, and provide maximum protection in wet or warm conditions. Low-density padding under the ball and heel cushion the foot and provide longer roduct life. Flat knit construction provides for maximum ventilation and fit. pl_lin.gif (6293 bytes)