How to Care for Brushtail Possum Socks on the Trail

By Zpacks | Level Up Your Next Adventure | Published: 2026-10-15

Category: Tips & Care

Keep your Brushtail Possum Socks warm, dry, and odor-free with this simple trail care routine. Learn washing, drying, and storage steps that protect the merino-possum blend.

Quick answer

Wash your Brushtail Possum Socks by hand in cool water with a gentle soap, then air-dry them away from direct heat. On the trail, rotate them daily and let them air out overnight. This keeps the merino-possum blend warm, odor-resistant, and durable for many trips.

Why Brushtail Possum Socks Need Special Care

Brushtail Possum Socks are made from a blend of New Zealand brushtail possum fur and New Zealand Merino lamb's wool. This combination is naturally warm, breathable, and resistant to odors. However, the fine fibers can be damaged by high heat, harsh chemicals, or rough machine washing. Proper care preserves the loft and softness that make these socks effective for camping and backpacking.

Everyday Trail Habits That Extend Sock Life

Small habits make a big difference. Change your socks daily if possible, and let them air out completely before stuffing them back into your pack. Avoid wearing them inside tight boots for days on end without a break. If you're on a long thru-hike, rotate between two pairs so each pair has time to dry and recover.

Step-by-Step Care for Brushtail Possum Socks

Pre-treat and soak: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of gentle wool soap. Submerge the socks and let them soak for 5–10 minutes. Avoid hot water, which can shrink the wool. Checkpoint: Water should be lukewarm at most—if it's steamy, it's too hot.
Gently wash: Squeeze the soapy water through the socks without twisting or wringing. Focus on the heel and toe areas where sweat and dirt accumulate. Rinse with cool water until no suds remain. Common mistake: Rubbing aggressively can cause pilling and break down the possum fibers.
Remove excess water: Lay the socks flat on a clean towel and roll the towel up to press out moisture. Do not wring or twist the socks. This step speeds drying without distorting the shape. Checkpoint: Socks should feel damp, not dripping.
Air dry: Lay the socks flat on a drying rack or hang them in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Keep them away from direct sunlight, radiators, or campfire heat. Turn them over halfway through drying. Common mistake: Drying near a fire can scorch the fibers and reduce warmth.
Store clean and dry: Once completely dry, store the socks loosely in your pack or a stuff sack. Avoid compressing them tightly for long periods, which can crush the loft. Next step: Rotate between two pairs on long trips to give each pair time to air out.

Product facts

Brushtail Possum Socks: Made from a combination of New Zealand's brushtail possum fur and New Zealand Merino lamb's wool. This blend provides exceptional warmth and natural odor resistance, but the fine fibers require gentle washing to maintain performance.