Key Features of Leech Socks 1. Leech-Proof Fabric The socks are made from a dense, tightly woven material (usually polyester or cotton canvas) that physically blocks leeches from penetrating. Leeches cannot crawl through or bite through this special fabric, keeping your skin safe during jungle treks or wet-season hikes. 2. Full Leg Coverage Most leech socks extend from the foot up to the knee or even thigh, offering complete coverage for your lower legs. This is especially important since leeches often latch on near your ankles or calves while walking through undergrowth. 3. Adjustable Ties or Elastic Bands The top of the sock features a drawstring or elastic cuff that ties snugly around your thigh or knee, ensuring leeches don’t enter from the top. The bottom is shaped to fit over your boot or sock securely. 4. Durable and Reusable Leech socks are made for rugged outdoor use. The tough fabric resists tearing and abrasion, and the socks are washable and reusable for multiple treks. You can use them throughout the season without worrying about wear and tear. 5. Lightweight and Packable Despite their effectiveness, leech socks are extremely lightweight (usually under 150 grams) and fold compactly to fit in your backpack. They’re a no-fuss addition to your trekking gear.
When venturing into the lush forests, hills, and jungles of South India, especially during the monsoon season, one often faces an uncomfortable but common threat—leeches. These tiny, stealthy bloodsuckers can latch onto skin without pain and leave behind bites that are itchy, prone to infection, and simply unpleasant.
To combat this, seasoned trekkers and wildlife professionals rely on a simple yet highly effective tool: Leech Socks. Designed specifically to prevent leeches from attaching to your feet and legs, these socks are an essential piece of gear for anyone hiking in leech-prone areas. And now, you can buy them brand new at Trekkers stores in Bangalore and Mysore, the go-to destinations for high-quality trekking equipment.
Leech Socks are long, durable socks made from tightly woven, leech-proof fabric. They are worn over your regular socks and trousers, covering the feet and lower legs completely. Their primary function is to act as a barrier between your skin and the environment, especially in areas with dense undergrowth, moist soil, or marshy paths where leeches thrive.
Regions like the Western Ghats, Coorg, Agumbe, Wayanad, and Sakleshpur are stunning during the monsoon—but also notorious for leeches. A pair of leech socks ensures your experience remains comfortable and bite-free.
Leeches are common in damp forests. If you’re trekking in Bandipur, Nagarhole, Mudumalai, or the forests of the Nilgiris, these socks offer essential protection.
Photographers and birders often stay still for long periods in wet environments. Leech socks protect you even when you're not on the move.
Researchers, volunteers, and forest department workers wear leech socks as standard protective gear during surveys or fieldwork.
Trekkers stocks leech socks designed specifically for Indian trekking conditions—breathable, rugged, and suitable for the intense humidity of South Indian forests.
Find knee-length or thigh-length versions, in different colors and materials. Trekkers ensures that fit and function meet your specific needs.
Unlike online platforms, Trekkers allows you to try the socks in-store, so you can check the fit over your boots or trousers and ensure complete coverage.
Trekkers is a go-to outfitter for local trekking clubs and professional guides. Their gear, including leech socks, is recommended by those who use it in the field regularly.
Put on your regular trekking socks and pants.
Pull the leech socks over your foot and pant leg, starting at the toe and moving up.
Secure the top drawstring or elastic band above the knee (or thigh).
Tuck the bottom part under or over your boot, depending on the design.
For maximum protection, avoid rolling up your pants and always ensure the top is snugly tied to prevent leeches from entering from above.
Wash after every use with mild soap and water.
Air dry thoroughly before storing.
Avoid ironing or bleaching.
Store in a dry, ventilated area to avoid mildew.
Material | Canvas / Poly-cotton blend |
Length | Knee-high or thigh-high options |
Weight | 120–180 grams (per pair) |
Colors | Olive green, khaki, black, camo |
Closure Type | Drawstring / Elastic band |
Reusable | Yes |
Washable | Yes (hand or machine wash) |
Ideal For | Forest trekking, camping, fieldwork |
If you’re serious about trekking in the forests and hills of Karnataka or anywhere leeches thrive, a pair of Leech Socks is non-negotiable. Lightweight, easy to use, and 100% effective, these socks let you focus on the beauty around you instead of constantly checking your ankles for leeches.
Pick up your brand-new pair of Leech Socks at Trekkers in Bangalore or Mysore today, and step confidently into the wild—no leeches, no worries.