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When it comes to trail running, the gear you choose can make or break your experience – I know this because I’ve reviewed a ridiculous amount of gear over the years, some of it awful. Socks are one of those overlooked essentials, and sometimes regarded as ‘all being the same’ – well news flash, they’re not.
After “Going Outside In Nature” (just like the socks asked me to), and testing the Paka Trail 3/4 Crew Socks for several weeks on many a trail run, I have a lot to share. Designed from alpaca wool, they offer some really cool features that other socks (cotton or wool) just can’t compete with. Stick around to learn everything you need to know about these Alpaca wool running socks.
Key specifications
- Price: $24 at pakaapparel.com
- Material: 33% Baby Alpaca Fiber, 7% Tencel, 57% Recycled Nylon, 3% Spandex
- Fit: 3/4 length with ribknit for durability. They feel super soft.
- Features: Compression arch support, extended heel cushion, mobility mesh for breathability
- Care: Fully machine washable
- Color: Mine are the “Quail” colorway
The Paka brand and why Alpaca wool?
I love that the Paka brand is so deeply committed to sustainability and community support. Every Paka product we have reviewed so far, from their Hoodies, to their Apu Parka, and Baselayer have all performed exceptionally well in testing.
Each product bought helps empower over 200 women artisans in Peru. That alone makes it stand out in the crowded performance gear market.
But what really sets these socks apart when it comes to running performance, is their use of alpaca wool. Alpaca fiber has evolved in the extreme climates of the Andes Mountains, which makes it particularly well suited for outdoor performance.
It’s lightweight, thermoregulating, moisture-wicking, and even odor-resistant (you can wear them for a week straight and they won’t smell).
Unlike merino wool, which tends to hold more water, alpaca retains less moisture, making it perfect for those long, sweaty trail runs – Mm mmm! 🙂
What’s good?
They’re so comfortable
The Paka Trail 3/4 Crew Socks feel wonderfully soft under and around your feet – much more so than standard cotton socks.
I have mostly been running in warm conditions so far in these, but my feet have stayed comfortable and blister-free. They also have excellent support where you need it, like on the arches and the lower part of your shins, and padding around the heel for extra comfort.
Temperature regulation and sweat control
The alpaca fibers keep my feet warm when I need it but don’t overheat me once the temperature climbs during an intense run or climb.
Odor resistance
Here’s where Paka Trail Socks are incredible – after a few days of heavy use, they didn’t smell at all. I dared to wear them for multiple runs without washing because PAKA’s product page says you can.
Just as the brand claims, they still smelled fresh – even if they were very dirty from all the trail dust.
Bacteria doesn’t seem to thrive on alpaca fibers, and that’s the secret of what makes these socks so great if you’re planning multi-day hikes, backpacking trips, or tend to get smelly socks.
What’s not so good?
Paka Trail Socks aren’t the most budget-friendly option out there but in this case I believe you get what you pay for.
And what you’re paying for quality, comfort, and sustainability, but that might not be enough to convince everyone. However, based on their durability and performance, I’d argue they’re worth the investment, especially when compared to some other running sock brands that don’t offer the same odor resistance or durability.
The verdict
In short, yes your $24 will be well spent on a pair of these Paka Trail socks.
If you’re serious about trail running or outdoor adventures, the Paka Trail Socks are a fantastic investment and it’s nice knowing you’ll be supporting the women making them in Peru.
They’re extremely comfortable, regulate temperature well, and have been very durable so far. While the compression might not be for everyone (I like the support), the socks’ ability to stay fresh and dry through demanding conditions is very impressive.
If you’re socks smell after a single run or can’t handle varying conditions, these are definitely worth adding to your gear. And as a bonus, you’re supporting sustainable practices and women artisans in Peru. So, are they the best trail socks I’ve ever used? At this point, quite possibly.
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