The Nijmegen Four Days Marches is a major achievement. Walking 30, 40 or even 50 kilometres for four days in a row requires preparation and the right equipment. Many walkers pay a lot of attention to their shoes, but forget one crucial part of their equipment: walking socks.

In this blog you will read why good walking socks are essential during long hikes, which properties really make a difference, and why more and more participants in the Four Days Marches are choosing walking socks with medical compression.

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Fit: How the Right Sock Prevents Chafing and Blisters

For long distances, such as the 120 to 200 kilometers during the Nijmegen Four Days Marches, the fit of your sock is at least as important as that of your shoe. A good walking sock fits seamlessly, prevents creases and does not slide. This reduces the chance of friction, pressure points and ultimately blisters.

Compressionhiking sockstake this a step further. Thanks to the tight, anatomical fit, the sock stays perfectly in place, even after hours of walking. The medical compression pressure ensures that there is no excess material that can fold or slide.

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Material: breathable, quick-drying and antibacterial

Cotton socks, for example, seem comfortable, but are disastrous for hikers. Cotton retains moisture, dries slowly and increases the risk of blisters. Therefore, always choose synthetic materials such as polyamide, polyester or elastane.

Herzog compression socks are made from a sustainable mix of breathable, quick-drying fibres with elastic compression yarns. This keeps your feet drier, fresher and better protected - even on warm days or in wet conditions.

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Why compression really makes a difference at the Four Days Marches

While standard hiking socks are mainly aimed at preventing blisters and providing a little more comfort while walking, compression hiking socks go one step further: theyactively support your muscles and blood circulation.

The benefits:

  • Less muscle fatigue while walking
  • Less fluid retention in ankles and feet
  • Accelerated recovery between walking days
  • Lower risk of overloading calves and tendons

For most Four Days Marches walkers this is not an unnecessary luxury. Four days of intensive walking demands a lot from your legs, compression helps you to absorb the load and shorten your recovery time.

High or low hiking socks: which one suits your hike?

Not every hiker chooses the same sock height and that makes sense. What works well depends on the type of shoe you wear, the weather and the distance you walk. Herzog therefore has a compression solution for different applications:

  • Need a low hiking sock?ThePro Compression Ankle Sockis ideal in warm weather or when walking with light, low hiking boots. This sock fits well, breathes well and provides light compression around the foot and ankle, without getting too warm.

  • Need high walking socks?TheSupport Compression Stockingcomes to below the knee and is nice for longer distances or when you notice that your calves get tired quickly. This sock actively supports the lower legs and helps to limit muscle fatigue.

Whether you opt for short or long socks for your walk: hiking socks with compression provide more comfort while walking and better support along the way.

Practical tips for walking socks during the Nijmegen Four Days Marches

A good preparation prevents a lot of discomfort on the way. With these tips you get the most out of your hiking socks and your hiking performance:

  • Break in your socks on time: Test your socks just like your shoes well before the start. This way you can be sure that the fit is good and you avoid surprises along the way.
  • Wash your socks carefully: To maintain the compression and structure of the socks, wash them by hand or inside out at a low temperature.
  • Change socks during long days: In extremely hot or wet conditions, it is wise to change socks halfway through the day. This will help keep your feet dry and prevent blisters.
  • Bring multiple pairs: Make sure you have at least two pairs with you for each day of walking. Always keep an extra spare pair on hand for emergencies.
  • Actively support your recovery: Combine your compression socks with recovery support, such as amassage gunorcompression pants. This helps your muscles recover faster between walking days.

Hiking socks that keep you on your feet

Anyone who walks the Four Days Marches knows how important it is to stay injury-free – so that you can start fresh on days two, three and four. Good footwear is essential, but don't underestimate your socks: they largely determine your comfort and endurance.

Thehiking socksby Herzog are developed based on medical compression technology. They support your muscles, reduce the chance of blisters and help prevent fluid retention. Ideal for those who want to start prepared and finish fit.