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While socks might not be the first item that comes to mind when you think of running gear, they can make or break the quality of your run. Healthy runs start with a solid foundation and socks can help provide the comfort you need. Even with a high-quality running shoe, wearing the wrong socks can affect your running experience. With the best running socks, you can avoid blisters, bunching, slipping, and hot spots as you get your daily run in.
There are several factors that should be considered when choosing the best running socks for you. It is important that your running socks fit your feet, have the correct thickness for your running shoes, and match the needs of your typical run. With so many running sock options out there, picking the best ones for you can seem like a daunting task, so we have compiled this list to help ease your purchase. Whether you're running on trails, the street, or a treadmill, we have a running sock recommendation for you!
Why Trust Us?
The ACTIVE Reviews Team is made up of fitness experts that include athletes, coaches, and certified trainers who bring years of knowledge and experience to each review. More importantly, each member of our team is a fitness enthusiast. Fitness may be our job, but it is also our passion. Therefore, we strive to bring you products that we trust and would personally use.
The Best Running Socks - Our Top Picks
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Best Overall Running Socks: Balega Silver No Show
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Best Compression Running Socks: Copper Compression Knee High Support Socks
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Best Running Socks for Trail Running: Injinji Trail Midweight Crew
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Best Running Socks for Winter: Thorlos Running Maximum Cushion Crew
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Best Running Socks for Summer: Feetures Elite Ultra Light No Show Tab
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Best Budget Running Socks: Under Armour Run Cushion No Show Tab Running Socks
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Most Durable Running Socks: adidas Running Mid-Crew Socks
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Best Running Socks for Long Runs: Balega Support Running Socks
What to Consider When Shopping for Running Socks
Type of Runs
When choosing the best running socks for you, it is important to determine what type of run you will typically be doing. Certain features are needed depending on how long and where you run. If you run on rough, uneven paths, you will likely want your socks to be a higher length than no-show options. For those who run long distances, you may want a sock with more compression. Someone running a 5k will need different socks from someone running a marathon. We all have different needs to improve our running experience and there are sock options out there for everyone.
Thickness
The thickness of your running socks will depend on your specific needs and the shoes you wear when running. Those who live in warm climates will want lightweight socks that will keep you cool while you run. It is also important that the thickness of your running socks fit well with your shoes. If you wear a narrow, lightweight shoe, a thinker sock won't work.
Compression
How much compression you need should also be considered when picking your running socks. Compression running socks work to improve circulation, muscle recovery time, and energy levels. All of these effects can increase your ability to run for longer periods of time. When wearing knee-high compression socks, your calves, ankles, and feet can all be supported and kept comfortable. Compression socks can also address things like varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis.
Best Overall Running Socks - Balega Silver No Show
SPECS
- Material: Drynamix proprietary blend (polyester, nylon, elastane), microfiber mesh
- Cushioning: Heavy
- Sizes: S-XL
- Styles: No-show
- Care: Standard washing
Designed to offer both a high level of compression and antibacterial features, Balega Silver No Show Running Socks are ideal for all runners. To make your run as comfortable as possible, these compression running socks have arch support bands and a deep heel pocket. The heel also includes a high tab which keeps your sock from slipping as you run, which helps to prevent blisters from occurring. They come in a wide array of color options so you can easily match your running socks to your running shoes.
Balega Silver No Show Running Socks are antibacterial and moisture wicking—the yarn is infused with antibacterial silver ions that work to remove fungi and bacteria. You also won't have to worry about your feet getting too sweaty, thanks to the moisture wicking properties and mesh ventilation panels.
What We Like
- High heel tab
- Unique antibacterial features
- Moisture wicking
What We Don't Like
- May not be durable with long-term use
- Less compression than other options
Best Compression Running Socks - Copper Compression Knee High Support Socks
SPECS
- Material: Copper-infused polyester, spandex, and nylon
- Cushioning: Moderate compression
- Sizes: S/M, L/XL
- Styles: Knee-high
- Care: Machine wash
Keep your feet and calf muscles at ease while you run with the excellent level of compression and stability of Copper Compression Knee High Support Socks. Even with high compression, these running socks have four-way stretch and are flexible enough to move with you. Because these anti-wrinkle running socks go up to your knee, they offer maximum coverage of your lower legs.
Copper-infused materials ensure that the Copper Compression Knee High Support Socks can be odor-free as you sweat due to the antimicrobial properties that help to prevent fungi and bacteria. These materials are breathable and lightweight which allows the temperature of your lower extremities to stay cool during and after your run, as well as being moisture wicking to keep them dry and comfortable. No matter how many times you wash these running socks, they will not lose elasticity, flexibility, or their durable copper features.
What We Like
- High level of compression
- Copper infusion for antibacterial purposes
- Knee sock design for more coverage
What We Don't Like
- Sizing may be inconsistent
- Difficult to put on
BUY: Copper Compression Knee High Support Socks
Best Running Socks for Trail Running - Injinji Trail Midweight Crew
SPECS
- Material: COOLMAX, Nylon, and Lycra
- Cushioning: Midweight cushioning
- Sizes: S-XL
- Styles: Crew toesocks
- Care: Machine wash on delicate in cold water, line dry
Tackle any trail with Injinji Trail Midweight Crew running socks! You can comfortably go for a long run on rugged paths thanks to the toesock design of these crew socks. This feature completely eliminates skin-on-skin friction between your toes which can prevent blisters and hot spots. It also allows your toes to be fully separated so you can splay your foot naturally, while a supportive band helps to provide stability as you run so you can more easily utilize your whole foot even on the roughest trails.
These running socks are crew length to better keep out debris, and unique COOLMAX fibers and a mesh top create impressive moisture wicking technology. These features keep your feet dry and comfortable as you run. Sweat is better addressed with these socks as each of your toes are wrapped in this moisture-wicking material.
What We Like
- Toesock design
- COOLMAX moisture wicking fibers
- Crew sock length to keep out debris
What We Don't Like
- Toesock design may need some getting used to
- Compression may be too tight for some
BUY: Injinji Trail Midweight Crew
Best Running Socks for Winter - Thorlos Running Maximum Cushion Crew
SPECS
- Material: THOR-LON acrylic, nylon, and elastic
- Cushioning: Maximum cushioning
- Sizes: S-XL
- Styles: Crew
- Care: Machine washable
Wearing running socks with thick cushioning can help reduce stress on your foot as you run, as well as keep your feet warm and comfortable when the weather is cold. For those looking for this amount of support, Thorlos Running Maximum Cushion Crew is a great option. To prevent blisters, pain, and discomfort, these crew-length running socks provide protection and comfort in all of your critical strike zones. The cushioning extends over the toes which lessens the chance for developing runner's toe. Flat knit instep is combined with the cushioning in the arch to improve the fit, increase support, and reduce pressure.
The THOR-LON fibers are moisture wicking, so whether you're going for a marathon length run or a short jog, your feet will stay warm and dry. These fibers also provide durability, softness, and resilience to help you be prepared for any type of winter run.
What We Like
- Several color options
- Maximum cushioning
- Flat knit instep
What We Don't Like
- Can be too thick for some running shoes
- May slip
BUY: Thorlos Running Maximum Cushion Crew
Best Running Socks for Summer - Feetures Elite Ultra Light No Show Tab
SPECS
- Material: Nylon, spandex
- Cushioning: Lightweight cushioning
- Sizes: S-L
- Styles: No-show
- Care: Machine wash
A lightweight running sock is ideal for running in the summer months when the weather is hot. The Feetures Elite Ultra Light No Show Tab running socks feature a lightweight anatomical design with targeted compression that makes them a great choice for running when it is warm. Even though these running socks are lightweight, they do not sacrifice support with their cushioning. Compared to other running sock options, compression is zone specific to ensure you get the comfort in areas you need it most. The anatomical design makes it so these socks have a secured fit on both your left and right feet.
A no show tab at the heel of the sock reduces friction, so there's a low risk of developing blisters. Moisture wicking technology is included so that your feet will stay dry as your sweat. If you are looking for a thin running sock to pair with a lightweight shoe for summer runs, Feetures Elite Ultra Light No Show Tab is a great option.
What We Like
- Lightweight cushioning
- High heel tab
- Lots of color options
What We Don't Like
- Sizing may be inconsistent
- Socks may pill with long-term wear
BUY: Feetures Elite Ultra Light No Show Tab
Best Budget Running Socks - Under Armour Run Cushion No Show Tab Running Socks
SPECS
- Material: Nylon, polyester, elastane
- Cushioning: Lightweight, targeted cushioning
- Sizes: Y 4.5-7/W 6-10/M 7-8.5, M 8.5-13/W 10-14
- Styles: No-show
- Care: Machine wash
Supportive and comfortable running socks don't have to break the bank. Under Armour Run Cushion No Show Tab Running Socks are the best running socks for those looking for a budget-friendly option. Despite being lower cost than many competitors, these running socks still have many of the features to make your next run comfortable. To provide support, these socks have strategic cushioning. This targeted cushion design helps to reduce bulkiness while increasing flexibility. In doing so, these running socks are lightweight and breathable, yet supportive and comfortable. This combo works to prevent stress and pressure on your feet while you run.
Under Armour Run Cushion No Show Tab Running Socks will conform to both your left and right foot with its anatomical fit technology. Fit and comfort is further improved with a Y-heel pocket. You will never have to stress about sweat because these running socks keep your feet dry with moisture wicking technology. Reducing prolonged sweat helps to make these socks free from smells by preventing odor-causing microbes.
What We Like
- Budget friendly
- Left/Right technology
- Targeted cushioning
What We Don't Like
- May be thicker than other lightweight options
- Can run small
BUY: Under Armour Run Cushion No Show Tab Running Socks
Most Durable Running Socks - adidas Running Mid-Crew Socks
SPECS
- Material: Nylon, elastane
- Cushioning: Lightweight cushioning
- Sizes: L
- Styles: Mid-crew
- Care: Machine wash
If you run often, you know that having socks that will last is important. The adidas Running Mid-Crew Socks offer this needed level of durability without being super thick. These socks are constructed with compressive yarns which help provide increased support. Even though these running socks from Adidas are very stable, they have a lightweight design that keeps your feet comfortable as you run. Stretch materials contribute to the comfort level by improving flexibility.
In more ways than one, adidas Running Mid-Crew Socks allow you to stay cool and dry during your run. Like most options, these running socks have moisture wicking features to prevent sweat from causing friction and odors. What makes these socks stand out is their climacool ventilation which further reduces the effects of moisture. Even though this unique ventilation system keeps you cool, the crew length protects you from any debris that you might encounter on your run.
What We Like
- Climacool ventilation
- Compressive yarns
- Cushioned toe
What We Don't Like
- Compression may be too tight for some
- No size options
BUY: adidas Running Mid-Crew Socks
Best Running Socks for Long Runs - Balega Support Running Socks
SPECS
- Material: Moisture wicking fibers, microfiber mesh
- Cushioning: Unique oval cushioning
- Sizes: S-XL
- Styles: Quarter
- Care: Machine wash
Running for long periods of time can increase the odds that pressure on your feet will lead to soreness and discomfort. Balega Support Running Socks is a great option for those who need next-level comfort for lengthy runs. These socks give you all the support of a compression sock without actually being super compressive. Cushioning of these socks is placed in a very distinct way: Non-restrictive support bands circle the ankle and arch to create a cradle fit and oval ankle cushions prevent ankle clipping.
You don't need to be concerned about these quarter length socks slipping during your run because of the included silicone grip pads. These pads also work to stop blisters from forming which can help you to improve your running performance. Friction is further reduced with the Drynamix moisture wicking technology of these socks. These fibers are combined with microfiber mesh ventilations to keep your feet cool as you head out on your long runs.
What We Like
- Unique cushioning design
- Drynamix moisture wicking
- Several color options
- Non-restrictive support
What We Don't Like
- Not as cushioned as other options
- May not be as protective as higher length socks
BUY: Balega Support Running Socks
FAQs About Running Socks
What is special about running socks?
Running socks have features that make your run as comfortable as possible. Moisture wicking material keeps your feet dry as you run. Cushioning helps to prevent blisters from forming. Arch support and compression improve circulation and reduce discomfort and pain. These features, and many more, are important to making it so you can comfortably run more often and for longer distances.
Do I need running socks?
In our opinion, running socks are much-needed gear for a quality run. In fact, they can oftentimes be just as important as the shoes you choose to run in. Running socks are effective in avoiding pressure on your feet and the side effects that can come from friction, as well as often having antibacterial properties to help prevent you from developing foot fungus or general odors. Ultimately, running socks are needed as a preventative measure.
Should running socks be thick or thin?
The thickness of your ideal running sock will depend on several things, such as how you intend to use them, what kind of shoes you wear, and what type of running you're doing. Lightweight running shoes require thinner socks. This is also true for those who run in warm temperatures. Thin socks are less tight than thicker options and are typically more breathable. Those who need more support will want thicker socks. Long distances and rugged terrains are ideal for thick socks. If you have small feet, thick socks could also help prevent your shoes from slipping as you run.
How to Train for a Half Marathon | Running Tips for Your First Half Marathon | Best Half Marathons | Long-Distance Running Shoes | Running Socks | Running Water Bottles | Running Backpacks | Running Belts | Wireless Earbuds for Running | Garmin Fitness Watches
About the Author
Emily is a mental health, fitness, hospitality, and entertainment content writer. Emily’s work can be found on Recoveryworldwide.com, where she wrote about the importance of treating addiction and mental health with holistic health approaches. She can also be found on DVCShop.com where she currently works as the editor.
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