Your Socks Matter More Than You Think on the Camino

When a pilgrim prepares to walk the Camino de Santiago in the summer, they usually think about boots, the backpack, the walking stick, the credential... but often forget the smallest item. And that small item can make the biggest difference between reaching Santiago or giving up: socks.

Yes, socks. The layer that separates your skin from your shoes, absorbs—or traps—sweat, cushions each step—or causes pain. This is not a minor detail: it’s one of the foundations of comfort and prevention on the Camino.

Why are socks so important?

Your feet will walk 20 to 30 kilometers a day, for many days in a row. In summer, with high temperatures, humidity, and constant sweating, your skin is under a lot of stress. A poor-quality sock can:

• Retain moisture = blisters

• Bunch up or slip = rubbing

• Have thick seams = pressure points

• Hold sweat = fungus and odor

But a good technical sock can prevent all of the above. Because it’s not just about the shoe—your sock is your second skin.

What kind of sock should you bring on the Camino?

🧦 Technical fabric, never cotton

Avoid cotton socks. While they may feel soft, they absorb sweat and hold it against your skin, which leads to constant moisture and softening of the skin. Ideal materials include:

• Coolmax

• DryFit

• Polyamide or synthetic blends with Merino wool (low percentage)

These fabrics wick away moisture, dry quickly, and help regulate temperature.

🚫 Seamless or flat seams

Poorly placed seams (like across the toes or instep) create friction, and that quickly turns into a blister. Look for socks with flat or invisible seams, especially designed for long-distance walking.

🧍‍♂️ Snug fit without compression

Your socks should fit your feet snugly but not tightly.

• If too tight: they restrict circulation

• If too loose: they slip and bunch up

Choose anatomically shaped socks with gentle arch support or compression, which reduce fatigue and provide better stability.

Double-layer or liner socks?

Some pilgrims prefer socks with a built-in second layer to reduce friction, while others wear a thin liner sock underneath a thicker one.

Both can work, but only if you’ve tested them before the Camino. Don’t experiment on the trail.

How many pairs should I bring?

At least three pairs:

1. One to walk in

2. One to switch out mid-stage if needed

3. One clean, dry pair for the evening

Additional tips:🧽 Wash them daily if possible☀️ Dry them in the sun or fresh air❌ Avoid storing them wet (it leads to odor and fungus)

Special care for sensitive feet

If you suffer from:

• Plantar fasciitis

• Bunions

• Chronic blisters

• Thin or fragile skin

Choose socks with extra padding in the heel and forefoot, soft fabric, and excellent fit. There are also toe socks that help prevent friction between the toes and improve breathability.

Bonus tip: don’t forget the Vaseline

Before putting on your socks each morning, apply a small amount of Vaseline or anti-friction cream to sensitive areas: toes, heels, and the bridge of the foot. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent blisters.

When you reach Redondela… give your feet a break

At La Casa de la Abuela Boticaria, our pilgrim-friendly accommodation in Redondela, we know that well-cared-for feet make all the difference. That’s why, when you stay with us, you’ll enjoy a free revitalizing herbal foot bath, designed to relax, reduce swelling, and refresh tired feet.

Because on the Camino, rest is also progress.

🥾🌳☀️ Buen Camino, pilgrim

Save this guide.Share it with someone preparing for the Camino.And remember: socks aren’t just an accessory—they’re part of your success.