Socks!

We all get worn out socks and most of us just throw them away. They get holes, thinned, stained, and who knows what else. Those of us who hike in winter have wool socks that wear out as well and the curious hiker would ask "what can I use worn out socks for?" There are many creative ways to use them. I'm sure you could even think of other uses than I can't but I will demonstrate some really innovative uses for socks. 

Improvised gloves

If you happen to be in a pinch in winter and need an extra layer of warmth for your hands, you can slip the socks over your hands. You can also cut finger holes and use them as fingerless gloves. 

Water warmer

If your socks are still in relatively good condition, you can slide them over your water bottle and stuff it in your pack to keep it warm. It works best if they are wool socks. 

Water filter

If the socks are clean, but worn and thinned, not having holes, you can make an improvised water filter. Make sure the sock is clean first! Fill it 1/3 full of sand. Then fill the same amount of ground charcoal in. Lastly, fill with dirt. Pour your water in the sock and keep a bottle under it. It may take copious amount of water to get the flowing process going through the filter so it's best if your near a water supply. The filtering will be slow so be patient. 

Bandage

If your in a pinch, you can use the sock as a bandage for a wound. If it's long enough, it can be used as a tourniquet. 

Stuff sack

If you think your socks are clean enough to eat off of, you can use it as a stuff sack for your food. It can be used to carry many other things as well such as tent stakes, clothes, etc. 

Coffee filter

You can put your coffee grinds in the sock, tie it off, and boil it in water. You can do this for tea as well. Again, make sure it's clean. 

Poop sack

If your stretched on resources, a sock can be used to carry your business out of the forest. However, make sure it's rather solid or your pack will suffer. As precaution, you can put it in a plastic bag. 

Pot holder

If you need some way to pick up a hot can or pot off the fire, use socks to insulate it to avoid burning your hands. 

Entertainment

When you have been on the trail all day and want to relax around the fire, what kind entertainment is available? Sock puppets!

There are several ways to utilize old socks and these are just a few ideas. Some are better than others. I personally use them for warming water bottles but not so much for poop sacks. How you use then is based on your preference. Comment some things you use old socks for.