Ah, summer. The time for backyard BBQs, getting outdoors, and sweaty feet. Sweaty feet? Yup, that’s part of the package out here in the high desert. When temperatures soar into the triple digits you need to take care of your feet while playing. The folks at Swiftwick just happened to send out a few pairs of their fancy compression socks for me to test, and with the Utah summer swelter starting in June, the timing was just right. I put the Swiftwicks though the proverbial paces to see if these are the perfect socks for your next outing.
Swiftwick doesn’t pull any punches: they humbly claim that these are “the best socks you will ever wear, guaranteed.” They back that claim up by allowing customers to exchange their Swiftwicks for a pair competitor’s socks. Now that is brand confidence if I’ve ever seen it. With this in mind, I donned the Swiftwick Pursuit socks for most of my summer adventures: dog walks, backpacking trips, and mountain biking.
The first thing I noticed was the tight fit of the Pursuits: these are true compression gear, and my feet liked them. The socks feel very sleek, and I was comfortable from the start of my rides until the finish. After several outings in Park City I stuck a finger inside my shoes expecting to feel some dampness, but nay! The Swiftwicks had successfully kept moisture away from my tootsies, which in turn kept temps from rising inside my shoes. Thanks to a merino wool blend, Swiftwick is able to achieve solid results without using any harsh chemicals to aid in the wicking process.
I wasn’t on the mountain every day this summer, but that didn’t mean my feet would have to suffer with standard cotton ankle socks. For casual days in the city or light hiking with my pup, I rocked the Swiftwick Sustain socks. Again, the full compression, 200 needle construction had my feet feeling dry, cool and very comfortable. I wore them as much as I could, and even after several wash cycles the Sustains showed no signs of fatigue. The only bummer was having only one pair at my disposal. Both the Sustain and Pursuit socks excelled in almost every situation…almost.
During a backpacking trip to the Uintas, I chose the Pursuit socks for the 8 mile hike to camp. My pack was over 30 pounds and I wore my meanest mountain boots. I never developed any hotspots, nor did my feet get sweaty (even during high-effort uphill pushes). When I finally made camp, I did what any hiker usually does: tore those big boots off my feet ASAP. I was bummed to see that a small tear had developed near my right ankle. Perhaps I asked too much of the socks, but Swiftwick does list the Pursuits in their “extreme” category. One caveat: the company does not list backpacking among the extreme activities. Glean what you will from that.
All things considered, I still give the socks a thumbs up. The high-density knit and compression felt very good on my feet. The socks performed better than many other brands I have worn in similar conditions. All you tree-huggers out there will like that Swiftwick takes a carbon neutral approach to manufacturing: no chemicals and a pledge to reuse and recycle their materials. The socks are 100% made in the USA, so you’re supporting your fellow ‘muricans if you buy a pair.
The Good: Swiftwick Pursuits are excellent for biking and hiking, feel great and keep your feet dry. Swiftwick Sustains are ideal for lighter pursuits.
The Bad: Not tough enough for backpacking with heavy loads.
The Verdict: If you want to keep your feet cool, comfy, and like the feel of compression gear, then these socks are for you.