One of the warmest and chunkiest pair of hiking socks i’ve tested (alongaside the Smartwool) the Women’s Fusion Double Layer Walking sock uses 1000 Mile’s tried and tested double layer construction to help minimise friction between skin and footwear, thereby helping to prevent the formation of every walkers worst nightmare- blisters. The outer layer of these longer-length socks is a fairly traditional feeling combination of merino wool and nylon, with the slightly less common addition of 23% cotton too. The inner layer is a smooth and finely knitted layer of TactelÔ which also wicks moisture away from the skin and dries super fast. The two layers are designed to move slightly independently- a sort of sock within a sock scenario – allowing natural foot movement without chafing.
TGO Magazine verdict
If you’re after a warm sock with good layers of cushioning and extra blister protection, these are worth a try, but probably not if you are blessed with a chunky calf.- Well-padded
- Good balance of wool and synthetic yarns
- Blister free guarantee
- Fit won’t suit those with chunkier calves
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price | £18.50 |
| Weight | 86g |
| Materials | Outer: 30% merino wool/46% nylon/23% cotton/1% elastane; Inner: 100% TactelÒ |
| Features | Two-layer structure to minimise blister-causing friction, padded zones on heel and Achilles tendon, ribbed ankle and calf section for neat fit |
| Sizes | EU35.5-42.5/UK3-8.5 |
| Versions | Men’s available |
| Brand site | www.1000mile.co.uk |
For me, the Fusion Double Layer’s fit is great around the foot section, but I find the upper section to be slightly too long and narrow for a comfortable fit for my chunkier calves. Those with slim calves may love them, but the cuff at the top really is on the neat side. In wear, the socks stay put and do a great job of keeping my feet comfortable, although the very slight feeling of the two layers moving independently is a little odd. The two-layer structure has been tried and tested by 1000 Mile on their socks for decades, so it does work. I can’t really comment as, on the whole, I don’t suffer from blisters anyway. I find the cushioning underfoot and at Achilles to be effective and well-placed, and the socks are warm enough for even cold conditions. The TactelÔ lining helps keeps my skin and sweat free, while the outer layer moves moisture away effectively but not as quickly as the other socks on test, probably due to the cotton content. This also means they took a bit longer to dry after washing too.
If you’re after a warm sock with good layers of cushioning and extra blister protection, these are worth a try, but probably not if you are blessed with a chunky calf.
Tested by Lara Dunn
Lara has worked in outdoors media since the late 90’s as a writer, reviewer, and an editor in her own right across adventure travel and cycling titles. She has hiked, cycled, climbed, scrambled, trekked, ambled, and swum all over the UK and further afield.
