10 Best Running Socks | Overlooked and Undervalued Gear!

The best running socks aren’t just an opinion; there’s a lot of data and science around what’s going to keep our feet blister-free and possibly even feeling less tired from the pounding! With over 28,000 miles of running behind me, I’ve tested a lot of socks, and I’m happy to point you in the direction of the best options!

Unfortunately, we tend to overlook this piece of our running gear because the focus tends towards fancy tech gear. But guess what, the right running socks have a lot going on.

For first-time marathon runners looking for advice, I always start with the feet. While shoe fit is VERY important, it’s not the only thing happening down there.

I find that even for us long-time runners, it’s good to be reminded that a few minutes of care can go a long way towards preventing blisters, increasing comfort, and possibly recovery.

Let’s jump into the best running socks right now, based on many years of testing different brands.

But first, the real question now is, ankle, no-show socks or crew socks???

10 Best Socks for Running

When it comes to running socks, it depends on the weather you’re running in, the compression you’re looking for, and the added features that’ll work for you.

I definitely have my personal preferences, but I have run in all of these socks and you’ll find many of them still in my drawer ready to roll!

Luckily, pretty much every running sock brand offers options for either, so even if what’s pictured is low-cut, have no fear, my fashion-forward friends.

Best Cushioned Running Socks: Balega Hidden Comfort Socks

There’s a wide variety available here and though I tend towards the thin Swiftwicks a lot, Balega is a great choice. They’re actually one’s I tend to pick in the winter or just when my feet need some love.

The cushioning is immediately obvious as you slip these on, and they remain soft and comfy throughout the day. Despite the cushioning, they manage to feel really comfortable without feeling bulky.

The cushioning extends around the toe cap and up to the top of the toe to give protective cushioning from the top of the shoe.

Especially for older runners who lose fat in the pad of our feet, this can be such a great choice!

And the seamless toes help to keep the shoe from irritating the foot and the ventilation panels around the top wick away sweat and keep the feet cool.

Thanks to the rib-band design, the fit is tight and supportive without feeling restricting. This design not only makes the sock more comfortable, but it also keeps its shape over long runs.

If you don’t like visible names, you will find that pretty consistently with these. Along with some big bold colors.

Best Lightweight Running Socks – Bombas Lightweight Athletic Socks

Bombas has so many different types of socks that you can pick from based on your activity type.

We love these lightweight, ankle socks for those who find themselves getting hot rather easily.  Plus that little tab on the back isn’t just there for comfort, it’s for blister protection when your running shoes come up maybe a little too high. Plus, every purchase with Bombas equals a donation of socks. Buy 3 pairs, Bombas donates 3 pairs. We love when a brand’s mission is about giving back to the community.

Best Winter Running Socks – Smartwool Running Socks

Winter means my toes often feel like popsicles, and that isn’t terribly pleasant when you’re pounding the ground.

But super thick socks can mean sweaty feet, which also become cold…what’s a poor determined runner to do?!

The answer lies in merino wool! Merino wool is a fiber you can wear year-round thanks to its ability to regulate temperature, move moisture, and resist odors.

This makes it perfect for winter, as it keeps your feet warm while still being moisture-wicking. These socks feature a performance-oriented fit and a mesh ventilation design.

They also call their wool technology ‘Indestructawool,’ which features a construction method that’s known for its incredible durability. So, if you’re looking for running socks that’ll last, these are the ones for you!

The one thing to remember when looking at winter socks is that as they get thicker, you need to consider replacing your shoes to ensure they don’t become too tight and cause blisters.

What’s great about Smartwool is you can get a variety of designs and also heights. They are a MASSIVE hit among trail runners and winter runners.

Best Running Socks for Toe Blisters – Injinji Run Socks

If you have an issue with blisters, then this might be just what the running doctor ordered. For some reason these are what I prefer on trail runs, I’ve noticed fewer issues with big toes when I use them. And David swears by them for cycling, which makes them a perennial on our list of fitness gift for men.

Injinji’s patented five-toe design helps prevent blisters and hotspots while I’m running. It also features excellent moisture management which further helps prevent blisters and increases comfort.

These nylon socks also include mesh panels for ventilation and compression in the arch that gives additional support.

Another thing to consider with rubbing is the height of your socks…I know that the look right now is no-show socks, but if your ankles are being rubbed raw it’s very hard to keep the running habit going.

And if you’re hitting the trails a higher sock is designed to keep the pebbles from crawling inside.

Best Plantar Fasciitis Running Socks – Feetures PF Socks

We’ve tested a few different socks in this category and nothing feels quite like theses socks.

These Feetures PF socks are designed with particular left and right forms that fit each of your feet, which give you both the compression and arch support you need. It’s not the same as a full compression sock because you can feel that it’s designed to stabilize the Plantar Fascia.

We were honestly pretty amazed how darn good these feel. You could wear them to run or for your everyday activities.

It also features a seamless toe that will not bother your feet and a high heel clip that’ll prevent the sock from slipping down into your shoe. These socks also feature a tab in the back to protect from the heel cup of the shoe.

I get a TON of messages from runners who really like Feetures, so they definitely have wide spread support. Coach Stacey actually wears these all the time to help with her PF. She said after first they can feel a little tight but then after a few wears it’s just the right amount of support.

Best Budget Natural Fibers Running Socks: EcoSox

You might assume all socks feel the same if you’ve been living in a world of cotton…but they don’t! And when it comes to your running socks, bamboo socks, like EcoSox, are hard to beat at their price point.

First of all, it’s pretty awesome to wear a sustainable resource, but also bamboo fibers are twice as soft as cotton which is going to mean less friction and less chance of blisters!

The EcoSox No Shows are a go-to for warm feet thanks to the vented top and because bamboo is thermoregulating!! A fancy way of saying it keeps your feet cool when they should and warm when they should.

These are a THICKER sock, so I use them more for winter runs or if you really like cushion.

Best Low Cut Compression Running Socks – CEP No Show Socks

Most of you know about knee-high compression socks by now (if not read this post on why compression socks work). I love wearing these on race day, but actually enjoy low cut compression socks on other runs!

Especially as I increase mileage I find wearing them after my long run for the rest of my day as I walk around feels great.

This is where CEP Ankle Performance socks come into play. They’re the best compression socks on the market and are incredibly comfortable to wear.

This brand has been in the compression gear market for a LONG time, which means they know what they’re doing. This is going to be a lighter level of compression than tall socks, but can still help with swelling and recovery.

Especially great if you feel like your feet muscles are often sore or tired. They also have the seamless toe are to help prevent potential issues with blisters.

Best Tall Compression Socks: Comrad Compression Socks 

There are so many different types of socks that you can throw on for a run or as part of your post-run recovery.

I wore them while running, weight lifting, and resting at home.  After my run workouts, I noticed I was slightly less sore and more energized. The ankle socks provide targeted arch support and would be perfect for sweaty summer runs. 

The socks come in cheerful colors, patterns, and different lengths. If you like to put together fun matching outfits for runs and races these are going to be perfect because there’s something for everyone!

Have you ever tried to put on tall compression socks before? Oof, what a challenge.

Once you figure out the technique for putting on the Comrad compression socks, they are very comfortable, providing compression without feeling restrictive. Comrad even provides a video with helpful tips on how to get the socks on correctly!

Pro tip, make sure you pull the socks firmly onto the foot,  otherwise, you may notice the seam at the toe while running.

Best Running Socks for Summer: Swiftwick Aspire No Show Socks

You’ve probably seen the logo for Swiftwick in tons of my travel running photos and it’s because I can wear these socks for multiple days in a row and they’ll repeatedly pass the sniff test!

This means less to pack and I can take off my shoes on the plane without fear thanks to their Olefin fiber. It’s all along the footbed and helps wick moisture and dries quickly.

These are very thin socks, which means they won’t be best for those who want some cushion, but are definitely the ones you want if you’re looking for breathability and ventilation.

And it does make them nice for long runs when your feet swell and are my go-to for running all summer long.

Swiftwick’s proprietary GripDry Fiber includes micro-treads in the heel and forefoot that use frictional force to keep your feet in place when you run which improves stability.

Highly recommend these Swiftwick socks if you’re planning on running during the summer or just want a sweat-wicking and smell-proof option. Also, if you want socks with very little show or branding these hit the mark.

Best Socks to Prevent Blisters – Farm to Feet Greensboro Crew Socks

When it comes to comfort and blister prevention, the Farm to Feet Greensboro ¼ Crew gets an A+.

Made from 100% merino wool, these socks are odor-resistant, anti-microbial, durable, comfortable, and sustainable. When you wear the Farm to Feet Greensboro ¼ Crew, your heart and your feet can feel good.

Farm to Feet’s entire supply chain is domestic; socks are made using wool from American sheep that is processed into yarn and then made into socks in the Carolinas.If you want a sock that makes you feel like you are standing on a cloud, look no further! Despite the light cushion claim, the Greensboro is soft and comfortable – a great balance when pounding pavement.

I have noticed that my feet get pretty toasty in these socks – yet I have not gotten a single blister while wearing them.

Why are Good Running Socks Important?

As a runner, the right pair of socks can make a big difference in your comfort, performance, and overall experience.

A great pair of running socks will eliminate a few major issues:

• friction (blisters and black toenails)
• heat (discomfort, swelling, blisters)
• moisture (blisters, swamp foot bacteria, feeling cold)
• rubbing (blisters, raw skin)

One thing every runner should keep in mind when figuring out what the best running socks is for them is the material they’re made of.

Skip the cotton and be ok with spending a bit more for the right technical material and fit.

I repeat, stay away from cotton at all costs. Cotton absorbs a great amount of water and easily creates blisters on humid or wet days.

Merino wool, on the other hand, can be worn all year round because of its temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking, and odor-fighting properties. It’s a common material used to make many high-quality running socks.

You’ll notice above that the vast majority of running socks available on the market make use of a combination of synthetic materials, such as nylon, polyester, and spandex, which not only provide excellent value but also prevent irritation.

When it comes to moisture-wicking, opt for synthetic fabrics that, unlike cotton, repel rather than retain moisture. Polyester, for example, is good at absorbing moisture and rapidly evaporating it.

Runners are always thinking about what we put on our feet. I mean, there are stability shoes and carbon plate shoes and super speedy-looking yellow shoes. Now, you’ll have the right running socks to make the most of your miles in those shoes!

What to read next?

• Best HR monitors (from watches to straps)
• Best compression pants for running
• Best sunglasses for running

Other ways to connect with Amanda
Instagram Daily Fun: RunToTheFinish

Facebook Community Chatter: RunToTheFinish

Get more running tips: Pinterest

Get every new post delivered to your inbox