With their pronounced left and right specific fit, the Falke TK2 Explore mid-weight all-purpose hiking socks are a highly technical blend of performance synthetics with the addition of 19% wool for extra comfort, temperature management and longevity. Available in a huge variety of colour options and with sizing options spread across four relatively narrow size bands, fine tuning is the name of the game and a perfect fit is the ultimate goal.
Lara Dunn’s Best in test
Costing very slightly more than most of the other socks i’ve tested, it marks an investment but it’s one that pays off for ongoing on-trail comfort.- Anatomically shaped left and right feet
- Technical fit and fabric
- Versatile weight
- On the pricy side
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price | £28 |
| Weight | 50g |
| Materials | 43% polypropylene/22% polyamide/19% acrylic/16% wool |
| Features | 3 layer construction, medium padding, anatomic left and right foot shape |
| Sizes | EU35-42/UK2.5-8 |
| Versions | Men’s available |
The Falke TK2 Explore have long been my go-to for walks and treks, delivering a superb combination of reliable fit, enduring comfort and wash-after-wash durability. It’s a mid-weight three-layer sock (although the lightest on test here) but suitable for all but genuinely cold conditions. Those with a particularly narrow forefoot might not find the broader anatomic fit at the toe box to suit, although this female-specific version does feature a narrower fit than the men’s version. For me it offered plenty of wiggle room, while still giving a secure fit with minimal bunching of fabric. Length-wise, they’re on the shorter side but still long enough to fit securely above boot cuffs.
For me the levels of underfoot and heel cushioning are sufficient and well-placed to make a long walk with a reasonably weighty pack a comfortable proposition, and the blend of synthetics and merino in the three-layer composition means that there is no issue with sweat build-up or chafing, minimising the risk of blisters developing. The Falke TK2 Explore is billed by the manufacturer as a sock for long hikes in easy terrain, but in my experience it’s capable of far more challenging walks than that, interacting very well with a variety of types of outdoor footwear. It’s neither too thick nor too thin and as such works well for year-round use too.
Costing very slightly more than most of the other socks tested here, it marks an investment but it’s one that pays off for ongoing on-trail comfort.
Reviewed 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.
