The Best Running Socks

Buying Guide

What’s the most important piece of equipment for a runner? If you answered “shoes,” you’re not entirely wrong. The longer and harder you hit the track, the more it pays to have a durable, comfortable running shoe. But veteran runners know that those shoes won’t be worth much without a good pair of socks underneath.

Don’t believe it? Try running a 5K or two in your regular tube socks and see what condition they come back in. For durability alone, it’s worth paying a little extra to have foot coverings that can stand up to your routine — but that’s hardly all you should expect out of a quality pair of running socks.

The biggest difference between running socks and casual ones is the material. Cotton may be the gold standard for comfort if you’re sitting around the house during winter, but you should avoid it at all costs when it comes time for a jog. As soon as you start to sweat, that cotton absorbs and holds it. That won’t just make your feet uncomfortable and smelly, it can make them prone to blisters as well.

Your best bet is a breathable, synthetic fabric like nylon or polyester. They’re fairly common, comfortable if woven well and can lift moisture away from the skin. If you’re running in colder climes, you might consider spending a little more for merino wool, a natural fiber that’s able to keep your feet warm while still regulating moisture buildup.

The next thing to consider is fit. We tend to think of socks as “one size fits most,” but runners need to be a little more picky. Loose socks can mean disaster on an extended jog, so you want something a little tighter. If you’re going for ankle socks, make sure that they’re especially secure. You might even look for a tab on the back that protects the heel and keeps it from sliding down once the shoe is on.

Many runners swear by compression socks, which fit tighter on strategic areas of the foot. This can increase blood flow when it counts and lead to faster recovery times. There can be a lot of fringe benefits too, such as enhanced arch support.

Subtle touches in the design of the sock can make all the difference. If you’re prone to blisters on your toes, look for socks that are seamless in the front. (That extra stitching can chafe over time.) If your heels suffer a lot of wear and tear, many socks have extra cushioning on the back. There are even socks that have an extra layer that’s designed to act as a buffer against excess friction. Keep in mind that while cushioning in general may seem like a good thing, you still want to let your feet breathe and feel the surface to a certain degree. It may take a little time and a few pairs of socks to find your sweet spot, but it’s worth it.

You wouldn’t dream of buying running shoes without checking the fit. Socks need to fit your feet as well, but they also need to fit the kind of run you’ll be taking. It may seem like thicker socks with a lot of cushion would keep your soles more comfortable, but that’s not necessarily the case. On shorter jogs, that excess material can cause sweat to build up quickly.

Save the thick wool socks for long runs in winter weather. Thinner socks are best for your daily run, though you can spend a little extra on breathable socks that have pads on strategic areas of the sole.