These socks were nearly without a name until I suddenly remembered a photograph print of footprints in the snow that I had given to my Mum when I was small.

“Do not follow where the path may lead … go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

In that instant, remembering my Mum who was never one for following the well-worn path, these socks had a name - Trailblazer Socks!

I think it’s the perfect name for anyone who knits socks as we have stepped away from the well-worn path of shop-bought socks to blaze our own trails of colours and patterns, knitting for anyone we choose to and in the process, developing our knitting skills and talents and somehow, magically, gaining a confidence for anything in life that we want to turn our hand to.

We are all trail blazers.

The Trailblazer Socks are constructed as top down socks with a heel flap and gusset. There are two versions of the cuff so you can choose which you like best. The “path” is created through increase and decrease stitches, and the pattern is easily memorised. The heel is knitted in heel stitch which creates a durable, cushioned heel. This pattern is written for four sizes, and the length of the sock is easily adjusted for any foot.

This pattern is an ideal next-step pattern for adventurous beginners and intermediate knitters who want to move on from basic (vanilla) socks.

Pattern updated 09.01.25 - latest version Trailblazer Socks 01