Alternatives to Wool???

[Not_Yet_Prepped]

I was with my brother this weekend for short hike (finally in the woods again!) and he started complaining about hot spots. I noticed he was wearing cotton socks, so I started asking why he was not wearing wool. He reminded me he has a problem with wool, it gives him a bad rash.

Anyone have any good alternatives to wool?

Thanks,

N.Y.P.

[EX121]

Have him try smartwool brand liner socks. If that doesn't work then some acrylic ones work almost as well as wool.

[Grand58742]

+1 on the liner. But also, try the synthetic blends of acrylic (for the winter) or polyester. I swear by Fox River military boot socks and they are polyester. But they make the same ones in other styles than olive drab and black. And made in the USA.

http://www.foxsox.com/defaultEcomm.aspx

Another brand I've used for some years with good success is Thorlo. They make a synthetic blend as well. Check REI or Campmor.

Neither are cheap, but buy once cry once and your (or his) feet will thank you.

[Not_Yet_Prepped]

Thanks guys!

I believe he has tried the smartwool... But I will buy another pair and tell him to try them out... If his feet dont get along with them then I will take them back and use them. Foxsox looks like a good 2nd choice too.

I hope to keep my brother hiking with me!

Thanks,

Kaleb

[Matt In Oklahoma]

Merino wool doesnt bother me like the other wool

[Swordarm4]

Wig Wam ironman socks have been great for me, plus the five pair I have , have lasted me six years and still going with no holes or weak elastic.

[hayseed]

didn't mention what color they were. black socks tear me up no matter what material.

[Not_Yet_Prepped]

didn't mention what color they were. black socks tear me up no matter what material.

I dont think his problem has anything to do with color. When we were young, our mom kept trying to get wool sweaters for my brother (older) but after 30mins of wearing it he would have a bad rash. I would get the hand-down sweater early and then the next winter they would try it again!

[hayseed]

i was referring to the cotton socks you said he was wearing.