• Overall Rating

  : 4-5 out of 5

The Bridgedale brand dates back to the late 1980’s, and they certainly know their socks. The Bridgedale Women’s Hike Midweight Merino Performance Ankle socks are an ankle length version of their much-loved Trekker sock, which celebrates its 30th birthday in 2026. It is aimed at those who want specific hiking sock performance but in a shorter length sock.

Those who prefer wearing a shoe rather than a boot will enjoy the fact that these are essentially the same as their tried and tested boot socks but have less fabric at the top. In wear, these perform much as the Trekker do. With a midweight merino blend knit, they are soft next to skin and suitable for all but the coldest conditions (when more at the ankle might be welcome).

They balance the warmth, durability and comfort of merino with the moisture transport and fast drying properties of synthetics. Levels of underfoot cushioning are good, while the flat seam construction of the toe box means there’s minimal chance of chafing. The arch support does helps keep the sock in place, but I found that the fabric was slightly prone to relaxing in wear, meaning that the fit did become looser on cooler, longer walks where my feet weren’t hot. My medium width, mid-volume feet were happy nonetheless and the socks didn’t bunch up at all, but those with lower volume or particularly narrow feet may find the fit loosens.

There were no issues with the sock sliding down while out on the hill, making them a pleasant option for wear with hiking or approach shoes and even with mid-height boots, with the sock offering enough protection to the back of the ankle. The high-quality merino-mix fabric washes well and the fit, comfort and softness all bounce back nicely once dry.

How we tested

Lara wears a UK size 5.5-6 and has a medium width forefoot and a narrow heel. She tested the socks in a mix of weather and in a variety of footwear from lightweight breathable walking shoes to stiffer, lined trekking boots. The tests were mostly lower-level hill walks but with some rocky, boggy and forested terrain too.

This review was first published in the March 2026 issue of The Great Outdoors. Compare this to others in our guide to the best hiking socks.