The airline network planners seemed to be on their summer vacations in August.
19.08.2024 - 15:55 / cntraveler.com
Whether you’re going on a mellow road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway or trekking the entirety of the John Muir Trail, one thing’s for certain: you’re going to need an awesome pair of hiking socks. Though top brands might seem pricey at first glance, it’s important to remember that hiking socks are your first (and best) defense against blisters on the trail. Natural fibers, like Alpaca and Merino wool, are great at odor-prevention, insulation, and wicking away sweat. Synthetic materials, on the other hand, are likely to be a bit more durable and affordable.The long and the short of it is that having the right hiking socks makes a big difference.
When picking out a pair of hiking socks, pay attention to both length and cushioning. Adventurers who prefer to trek in trail runners or low-cut hiking shoes can shed some extra fabric with a no-show or quarter-crew design, while high-top hiking boot wearers should choose a longer “crew” sock height. As for cushioning, the aggressiveness of the terrain, outside temperature, and length of the hike matter most; more cushioning means more comfort on tough trails, but also more warmth.
I’ve hiked on all seven continents and in every national park in the US, including remote treks in Iceland, Nepal, Antarctica, and Ecuador. I even did a 23-day stint on the John Muir Trail, with only one blister to speak of. It goes without saying that over the years, I’ve seen my fair share of sore toes and unnecessary chafing. I hope you never know that pain, so I’ve hand-picked a few of my favorite hiking socks to keep you cozy and blister-free, no matter the conditions.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
It's crucial to first think about the type of terrain you’ll be encountering. Most quality hiking socks are made with a blend of Merino wool, nylon, and elastane or spandex. Thicker, heavily cushioned designs are warmer, sure, but they also provide impact absorption on rough, rocky terrain (like granite slabs in Yosemite) and add an extra barrier of protection between your precious skin and high-ankle boots. Thinner socks (especially Merino wool ones) wick moisture like a dream but provide better ventilation in hot, muggy climates.
This one all depends on bugs and what style hiking shoe you prefer. Hiking in a warm, sunny, tick-and-mosquito-free zone? Low-profile ankle socks will keep you comfortable and cool. Venturing out in chilly shoulder season (spring or fall) weather? Grab those full crew-length babies from your drawer. It’s also generally a good idea to wear longer, crew-length socks if you know you’ll be wearing a high-top boot for ankle stability.
Merino wool all the way. And, yes, we’re going to talk your ear off
The airline network planners seemed to be on their summer vacations in August.
I've been on over 25 long-haul train rides since I started working as a travel writer in 2015. I tend to take one or two train trips each year, traveling the US in quadrants and stopping in multiple cities along the way.
Nestled below California's Laguna Mountainis Campo, a small unincorporated community that Deborah Jean Peck calls home.
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Clarksville, a historic district of Austin, Texas, has lately emerged as a stylish dining and shopping enclave. Among the area’s most compelling new businesses is La Embajada, a design shop housed in a 1923 Craftsman bungalow. Combining the hospitality and interiors expertise of its founder, Raul Cabra — who has designed tableware for some of Mexico City’s most celebrated restaurants, including Rosetta and Pujol — La Embajada presents a refined, regionally diverse selection of Mexico’s artisanal offerings. A series of small rooms display vintage and contemporary furniture, from stately midcentury armchairs and 1970s glass sconces to a minimalist agave fiber rug by the Oaxaca-based textile artist Trine Ellitsgaard. The house is also an actual residence. Cabra often stays in the bedroom up the creaky stairs, and he’s recently made it available for short-term stays (bookings include a daily basket of baked goods from Austin’s Swedish Hill). Guests can purchase the room’s handmade décor, such as a pair of sleek bedside lamps in milky white onyx, a 1960s La Malinche dresser and a bedspread from a Michoacan manufacturer that once supplied Herman Miller. Downstairs, glassware, candles and gifts fill a section modeled after a typical general store in a small Mexican town. But La Embajada’s heart is its inviting kitchen, where visiting chefs cook elaborate meals and staff prepare ice cream and coffee. In another twist, every bespoke detail — including a hammered copper sink, caramel-colored tiles and waxed pine cabinets — can be custom-ordered for one’s own home.
It has been a very eventful summer and we're all sad to see it go. As we soak up these final days in the sun, endless deals from some of our favorite travel-friendly brands are here to help you prepare for pumpkin spice season. Labor Day sales are in full swing and that means steep discounts on fall-ready clothing, new footwear, outdoor gear, beauty products, and more. We've rounded up all the top deals for travelers, whether you're looking to refresh your fall wardrobe, prep for autumn camping trips, or restock your skincare essentials. There are plenty of deals to shop now through the weekend—and some even running through mid-September. Below, find the best Labor Day sales from Brooklinen, Calpak, Cozy Earth, Monos, and more.
Aug 27, 2024 • 8 min read
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