(HealthDayNews) -- When hiking, the type of socks you wear is as important as a pair of good-fitting boots.

The best way to keep your feet comfortable and dry is to wear socks made of synthetics, such as acrylic, or a blend of wool or alpaca and synthetic fibers, says the Wellness Letter of the University of California, Berkeley.

Avoid the 100 percent cotton varieties, since cotton absorbs sweat and will leave your feet moist and more likely to develop blisters, fungal infections, and odor.

Equally important is getting the right fit. If possible, try socks on before you buy them.