> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.unknowndivide.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Crew Socks: The Merino Sock Hikers Trust - URL: https://www.unknowndivide.com/smartwool-hike-classic-edition-crew-socks/ - Published: 2024-03-04T15:00:00.000Z - Updated: 2026-10-31T06:13:59.000Z - Description: A merino wool hiking sock from the brand that introduced merino hike socks in 1994. Here is what the Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew is, why it works and who it suits. - Author: unknowndivide staff - Tags: Gear, Style *Unknowndivide may earn a commission from purchases made through links in this post.* Ask a group of hikers what made the biggest difference to their comfort on the trail and a surprising number will say socks. Good boots get the attention, but the layer between your foot and the boot decides whether you finish the day with happy feet or hot spots. The Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew is one of the most dependable answers. Here is what it is, why it works and where to buy a pair. ## What it is The [Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew](https://www.smartwool.com/products/hike-classic-edition-crew-socks-sw013000?ref=unknowndivide.com) is a merino wool hiking sock from [Smartwool](https://www.smartwool.com/?ref=unknowndivide.com). The brand says it introduced the first merino wool hike socks in 1994, and its hike socks remain best sellers. Smartwool describes this crew height version as focused on comfort and durability, so you can go farther on every hike. The sock is knit in the USA of imported yarn, with a blend of 66 percent merino wool, 33 percent nylon and 1 percent elastane, model number SW013000\. The merino does the comfort work, the nylon adds strength and the elastane helps it hold its shape. ## What full cushion means Smartwool sorts its socks by cushion level, and knowing the scale makes shopping easier: - **Zero cushion:** the absolute minimum between you and your footwear. - **Targeted cushion:** padding placed only where it is needed, without bulk. - **Light cushion:** cushioning along the entire bottom of the foot. - **Full cushion:** medium thickness with full sock cushioning. This sock. - **Extra cushion:** heavy thickness with full sock cushioning. - **Maximum cushion:** the thickest and warmest option. Full cushion is the middle of the range, which is why it suits so many people. It is padded enough for long days in hiking boots but not so thick that it crowds a well fitted shoe. ## Why it is cool Merino is the reason. Smartwool explains on its [merino wool page](https://www.smartwool.com/en-us/pages/whats-merino-wool?ref=unknowndivide.com) that the fiber wicks sweat to the outside of the fabric to evaporate, traps air in its natural crimp for warmth and absorbs the odor caused by bacteria so it stays fresher longer. For socks, that means drier, more comfortable feet and a pair you can wear more than one day on a trip. Our full [merino wool guide](https://www.unknowndivide.com/merino-wool-explained/) covers the fiber in more depth. The details matter too. Smartwool's Virtually Seamless toe creates a flat knit toe seam, so there is no ridge rubbing across your toes on a long descent. The crew height is a natural match for hiking boots. ## Care Smartwool's care instructions are simple: machine wash on a gentle cycle in warm or cool water and tumble dry low. Do not dry clean, iron or bleach them. ## Getting the fit right A hiking sock only works if it fits. Use the size chart and match it to your shoe size rather than guessing, and try the socks on with the boots or shoes you plan to wear, since a cushioned sock takes up room inside the shoe. The heel should sit in the heel pocket of the sock, with no fabric bunching at the toe or across the top of the foot, because folds are what turn into hot spots on a long day. On longer hikes, pack a spare pair so you can change into dry socks at lunch. ## Who should buy it This sock is for day hikers, backpackers and anyone who spends long days on their feet in boots. It pairs naturally with classic leather boots like the [Danner Mountain Light](https://www.unknowndivide.com/danner-mountain-light-hiking-boot/) or a waterproof shoe like the [KEEN Targhee IV](https://www.unknowndivide.com/keen-targhee-iv-waterproof-hiking-shoe/). If you want to compare it with another favorite, read our take on the [Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew](https://www.unknowndivide.com/darn-tough-hiker-micro-crew-cushion-socks/). For cold weather, add a merino top like the [Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew](https://www.unknowndivide.com/smartwool-classic-thermal-merino-base-layer-crew/) and you have a full merino layer from head to toe. ## Where to buy Smartwool sells the sock directly in several colors and sizes for men and women, and outdoor retailers carry it too. Check the size chart, since a sock that fits well is the whole point. **Shop Smartwool Hike Classic Edition socks** [Hike Classic Edition Crew Socks at Smartwool](https://www.smartwool.com/products/hike-classic-edition-crew-socks-sw013000?ref=unknowndivide.com) [Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew Socks](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097NLF5T2?tag=unknowndivi02-20&ref=unknowndivide.com) [Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew Socks, Women's](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09577KWFX?tag=unknowndivi02-20&ref=unknowndivide.com) For more trail and travel gear, browse our [buying guides](https://www.unknowndivide.com/buying-guides/).