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Whether hitting up the trail, running a marathon, or jogging around the block, you need the best running socks of 2024.
Written by Constance Mahoney
(Photo/CEP)
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Socks are easy to take for granted — unless you regularly pound the pavement or trot on the trail. Runners’ feet put in dozens, maybe hundreds, of miles every month, so it pays to take care of them with the best running socks available.
Socks have evolved from plain cotton sweat-soppers to highly technical, sport-specific pieces of gear designed by and for runners. We looked around and put in hundreds of miles on pavement and trails to find you the best running socks in the game.
Current author Constance Mahoney is an avid runner who has completed races from local 5ks to trail ultramarathons. In 2021, she founded and continues to lead the Trail Sisters Crested Butte, CO. chapter. She doesn’t skimp on her footwear and knows the importance of comfortable, durable socks for protection over the long run.
Be sure to check out our handy comparison chart, buyer’s guide, and FAQ at the bottom of this article for help in dialing in the perfect fit.
Editor’s Note: This guide was updated on April 3, 2024 by expanding our testing notes for the Balega Hidden Comfort and the Swiftwick Vision Six Impression.
The Best Running Socks of 2024
- Best Overall Running Socks: Balega Hidden Comfort
- Best Budget Running Socks: Saucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Sock
- Runner-Up Best Running Socks: Swiftwick Vision Six Impression
- Best Compression Running Socks: CEP Tall Compression Socks 3.0
- Best No-Show Running Socks: Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Sock
Best Overall Running Socks
Balega Hidden Comfort
Specs
- MaterialPolyester
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Bulk-free cushioning
- Deep heel cup
- High, padded heel tabs keep the sock in place
Cons
- Expensive
Constance Mahoney
Balega is well-known in the running industry, and for good reason. When we know we’re going to be spending a lot of time on our feet, Balega’s Hidden Comfort socks ($16) are the ones we go to.
The cushioning is noticeable as soon as you slip them on, and they feel soft and comfortable all day. Somehow, they pull off feeling extremely cushy without feeling bulky.
The cushioning wraps around the toe cap to the top of the toe provide protective cushioning from the top of the shoe, while seamless toes prevent irritation. Ventilation panels around the top vent out sweat and keep the feet from overheating.
The polyester Drynamics fabric pulls sweat away from the skin and allows it to evaporate, helping prevent blisters and that terrible soggy sock feeling.
One thing to watch out for is the large heel tab. While it did prevent the sock from sliding down or bunching up, we did notice that it had a tendency to collect dirt and grit during runs. It won’t be an issue if you wear gaiters, but it’s worth considering.
That quibble aside, the perks far outweigh the bugs with the Balega’s Hidden Comfort socks. The fit is snug and supportive without feeling restrictive, thanks to the rib-band construction. Not only does that construction add comfort, but it also helps the sock keep its shape on long runs — it really feels like a second skin, making it the best sock for running on our list.
Best Budget Running Socks
Saucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Sock 8- or 16-Pack
Specs
- MaterialPolyester, spandex
Pros
- Unbeatable price for the quality of the sock
Cons
- They run long, so they can feel too big on longer feet
Constance Mahoney
At less than a buck a sock, you’re not going to find a better deal than theSaucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Sockeight- and 16-packs ($15-27). The polyester/spandex fabric wicks sweat away, while the Airmesh venting tech on the top of the foot lets your feet breathe when things start to heat up.
Cushioning doesn’t run the length of the foot, but it’s placed in high-impact locations. The cushioning runs from the ball of the foot to just over to the top of the toes and over the heel to keep your feet protected during a run.
One of our favorite features of these socks is the size of the heel tab. During testing, it was just big enough to prevent the sock from sliding down, but not big enough to act as a dirt funnel while you run. It’s just another detail that you don’t find in many socks in this price range.
There is a toe seam, but it lies flat to minimize the risk of irritation. Despite the flat seam, our tester had to adjust their socks to find the sweet spot to prevent rubbing.
That said, the Saucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Sock was an excellent moisture-wicker, did not shrink significantly after machine drying, and the padded heel tab keeps your heel safe from excessive rubbing. Which, considering its price, makes this sock a killer deal.
Runner-Up Best Running Socks
Swiftwick Vision Six Impression
Specs
- MaterialNylon, polyester, spandex
Pros
- Great design
- Solid cushioning
- Moderate compression
Cons
- Pricey
- Compression may feel tight on wider feet, so size up
Constance Mahoney
Coming in a close second is Swiftwick’s stylishVision Six Impression socks($22). If you tend to sweat more or run in hot weather, these socks are going to be your go-to.
These calf-high lookers sport structurally modified fibers that pull sweat to the outside of the sock, which bolsters Swiftwick’s reputation as the best moisture-wicking socks on the market.
Seamless toes keep irritation at bay, and the moderate compression gives the sock a comfortable secure feel without feeling too tight. Medium cushioning provides comfort without bulk on long runs.
The only time this sock fell short was during low-impact winter activities — our tester’s feet would get chilly during more laid-back winter workouts. But for trail running and other higher-intensity endeavors, these socks performed perfectly.
We love this version of the Vision Six series, as the Impression has wraparound designs based on national parks. Swiftkick offers socks with designs based on Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, Zion, Yellowstone, and the Great Smoky Mountain range. It’s also taking suggestions on other parks it should add, with more models coming soon.
Best Compression Running Socks
CEP Tall Compression Socks 3.0
Specs
- MaterialPolyamide, spandex
Pros
- Provides support during running, helps aid recovery after
Cons
- Pricey
Constance Mahoney
Compression socks are designed to apply pressure to your legs, helping to facilitate blood flow and keeping swelling to a minimum. Many athletes use compression after a workout to help speed up recovery, as the increased blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients to your muscles.
But why start after the workout? Noted compression company CEP’sTall Compression Socks($60) are made for use during your run, providing compression and keeping your blood flowing while you move. The compression also helps stabilize your muscles on the run, which provides a comfortable feel and extra support for your heels and arches.
The HeiQ Smart Temp climate management system keeps your feet cool (the company claims that it cools your feet up to 3.6 degrees). Plus, the padding along the footbed feels comfortable and helps prevent blistering on runs. These features cement the CEPTall Compression Socks socks as our choice for the best compression socks for running.
Best No-Show Running Socks
Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Sock
Specs
- MaterialNylon, polyester, spandex
Pros
- Provides support during running
- Encourages blood flow under arch
Cons
- Not the most durable socks out there
Constance Mahoney
TheFeetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Sock($18) have an anatomical design with right and left designated socks, making for a precise fit. Compression at the ankles provides support while cushioning along the foot provides comfort during repeated foot strikes.
The synthetic fibers repel sweat, wicking it from next to the foot to the outside of the sock, where it can evaporate. The venting at the top of the foot keeps your feet drier while you run.
In addition to the anatomical design, the sock has a protective heel pad and a seamless toe, which eliminates two of the most common points of irritation on a run. Compression bands run along the bottom of the socks to encourage circulation under the arch. One of our testers used these socks when he was getting over plantar fasciitis, which significantly helped overcome his injury. He also used several pairs of these while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, and while they didn’t survive as long as other socks he tried, they held their own.
The fit and features are excellent, but several pairs that we’ve tested developed holes at the toe or heel. This only happened on a few, while the others haven’t had any issues, so we’re chalking it up to random flaws in the material. If not for the occasional durability issue, the Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Sock would be contenders for the top spot on our list.
Best of the Rest
Balega Silver No-Show Running Socks
Specs
- MaterialPolyester, nylon, elastane
Pros
- Highly breathable
- Great fit
Cons
- All the mesh feels great in warm weather but feels too cold during runs in cold weather
Constance Mahoney
Named for the antibacterial silver ions encapsulated in the fibers, the BalegaSilver No-Show Running Socks($20) sport full mesh panels for plenty of ventilation, which felt great during triple-digit test runs in Northern California.
The light padding adds to the breathability and felt great on shorter runs. And, as we’ve come to expect from Balega, these socks provide some of the best fit and feel of any of the socks on our list.
A deep heel cup, seamless toes, and a soft-knitted top make the BalegaSilver No-Show Running Socks an extremely comfortable sock. Elastic bands of varying strength provide the right amount of support at the right place, while the high heel tab protects your heel from shoe rubs.
Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks
Specs
- MaterialCoolMax EcoMade, nylon, lycra
Pros
- Great blister protection in a hard-to-reach spot
Cons
- Light on the cushion
- Material between the toes takes up space in shoes’ toeboxes
- Takes time to put on
Constance Mahoney
One of the most common (and painful) places to get blisters during long runs or hikes is between the toes. Even if you’re not prone to blisters between the toes, it can occasionally occur during long runs and hikes as the feet start to swell and press against your footwear.
Injinji, the company known for its distinctive socks, splits the toe end of the Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks ($14) into five separate compartments, one for each toe.
This surrounds each toe in material and prevents any skin-to-skin friction that causes blisters over time. No more need for taping each individual toe.
Besides the obvious benefit, Injinji’s no-show socks sport the necessities like mesh panels for ventilation and compression in the arch for additional support. They even have a slightly taller heel tab that is handy when pulling them up after putting on your shoe.
It also ensures that it stays put and doesn’t slide down the heel cuff to prevent chafing. Lastly, they utilize COOLMAX EcoMade fibers to wick away sweat. While the Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks may be considered minimalist running toe socks, the design and fabric are quite technical.
WRIGHTSOCK CoolMesh II Quarter Socks
Specs
- MaterialPolyester, nylon, LYCRA
Pros
- Dual-layer design absorbs the friction that causes blisters
Cons
- Inner layer can bunch up and make it difficult to put the sock on
Constance Mahoney
The most unique aspect ofWRIGHTSOCK’s CoolMesh IIQuarter Socks ($15) is its dual-layer design. The inner layer is made of smooth, hydrophobic Dri-WRIGHT II polyester for a soft feel against the skin and to help pull moisture away from the feet.
The outer layer features a mesh weave to allow collect moisture from the outside of the inner layer and allow it to evaporate. Not only does this help keep feet cool and dry, but it also absorbs friction between the shoe and the foot. This prevents the shear effect in the skin that causes blisters.
The mesh panel at the top vents heat and moisture while the light cushioning helps absorb impact on runs. These features, combined with the dual-layer design, make the WRIGHTSOCK CoolMesh IIQuarter Socks a solid option.
Bombas Performance Ankle Sock
Specs
- MaterialPolyester, nylon, cotton, spandex
Pros
- Extremely soft
- Great fit
Cons
- On the pricey side
Constance Mahoney
The first thing you’ll notice when you put on theBombas Performance Ankle Sock($17) is that they’re the most comfortable socks you’ve ever worn. These lightweight running and workout socks are made with a cotton-polyester blend with generous cushioning in the forefoot and heel.
The temperature-regulating vents allow cool air to flow in during workouts, keeping your feet cool, while the moisture-wicking materials keep your feet dry.
The Bombas Performance Ankle Sock is contoured specifically to fit the left and right foot, ensuring a comfortable fit that doesn’t bunch up or wrinkle as well as minimizing blisters and hot spots. Additionally, the seamless toe and Y-stitched heel help minimize irritation.
PAPLUS Ankle Compression Sock
Specs
- MaterialPolyester, spandex
Pros
- Great price for compression socks
Cons
- Thin material sacrifices durability
Constance Mahoney
By far the least expensive compression ankle socks we’ve seen,the PAPLUS Ankle Compression Sockscome in multipacks that cost $20 or less, depending on the amount and size. The varying compression (from moderate to extra firm) provides support where you need it without feeling restrictive. The compression encourages circulation and helps prevent foot swelling on long runs.
We like the ankle version for its ability to support the foot without having to wrestle a full-length compression over your calves. This, along with the ability to buy multiple pairs at a low cost, makes it more feasible to wear a compression sock with every run.
The PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks has a mesh upper that provides venting and a raised padded ankle cuff prevents friction at the ankle. A seamless toe closure reduces irritation at the toes.
Thirty48 Elite Compression Socks
Specs
- MaterialPolyester, spandex, nylon
Pros
- Affordable
Cons
- Could use more padding on forefoot
Constance Mahoney
Designed specifically for left or right feet, each pair ofThirty48 Elite Compression Socks($12-27) aims for a perfect fit to minimize irritation and blistering. These knee-high compression socks provide graded compression through the calves down to the arch of the foot, facilitating blood flow during your run. If you wear them after runs, the increased circulation that the compression provides helps you recover faster and mitigates soreness.
The Thirty48 Elite Compression Socksare available in two-packs, so you can roll off the pair you just used in a run and put on a fresh pair to recover afterward. The wicking material and topside vents help regulate moisture, and the padded heel absorbs shock on runs.
Darn Tough Coolmax Run No-Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Sock
Specs
- MaterialPolyester, nylon, spandex
Pros
- The toughest socks we’ve ever used
- Plenty of venting on hot runs, but warm on cold runs
Cons
- A bit on the thick side
- Holds more moisture than a thinner sock
Constance Mahoney
The first thing that we learned when testing Darn Tough socks was that they live up to their name. Every pair that we’ve tested has endured everything we’ve thrown at them, from walking around a campsite with no shoes to filling longer socks with D batteries and slinging them across a park. TheDarn Tough Coolmax Run No-Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Sock($17) is no exception. We’ve put hundreds of miles on these socks and haven’t left a mark.
In addition to their outstanding durability, these socks fit like a second skin. There’s no bunching, wrinkles, or any abnormality that could cause irritation — even after a few hours on the trail. The vented upper lets hot air out and the seam fusion give it a totally seamless feel for comfort.
All of these features add up to a comfortable, bombproof sock that’s as comfortable at mile 20 as it is at mile one. The combination of toughness and comfort makes Darn Tough Coolmax Run No-Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Sock our pick for the best trail running socks on the market.
Running Socks Comparison Chart
| Running Socks | Price | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Balega Hidden Comfort Socks | $16 | Polyester |
| Saucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Socks | $15-27 | Polyester, spandex |
| Swiftwick Vision Six Impression Socks | $22 | Nylon, polyester, spandex |
| CEP Tall Compression Socks 3.0 | $60 | Polyamide, spandex |
| Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Socks | $18 | Nylon, polyester, spandex |
| Balega Silver No-Show Running Socks | $20 | Polyester, nylon, elastane |
| Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks | $14 | CoolMax EcoMade, nylon, lycra |
| WRIGHTSOCK CoolMesh II Quarter Socks | $15 | Polyester, nylon, LYCRA |
| Bombas Performance Ankle Sock | $17 | Polyester, nylon, cotton, spandex |
| PAPLUS Ankle Compression Sock | $20 | Polyester, spandex |
| Thirty48 Elite Compression Socks | $12-27 | Polyester, spandex, nylon |
| Darn Tough Coolmax Run No-Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Socks | $17 | Polyester, nylon, spandex |
How We Tested Running Socks
The GearJunkie crew is made up of a bunch of runners. From casual weekend warriors to serious running addicts, we have them all. Naturally, running socks fit right into our expertise. Our team sifted through hundreds of brands and sock variations. Our goal was to find the best of the best running socks, budget-friendly pairs, and everything in between.
Our crew tested running socks the only way we knew how: running a lot of miles in all different conditions. We wanted to know how fast each sock dried from creek crossings, sweaty track sessions, and humidity. We paid attention to seam placement and if the sock slid at all. We considered how compression and cushioning placement helped (or didn’t) over long runs. After each run and washing, we carefully inspected each pair to see if any deterioration or pilling occurred.
Constance Mahoney is an experienced runner who has completed races from local 5ks to trail ultramarathons. In 2021, she founded and continues to lead the Trail Sisters Crested Butte, CO. chapter. Constance has been a GearJunkie contributor since 2019, after she reviewed outdoor gear for FitnessTravelGear.com for two years.
Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Running Socks
Wicking & Breathability
One of the most important aspects of running socks is how well they regulate moisture. Moisture leads to friction, and friction is what causes the majority of blisters.
One way that socks eliminate moisture is by allowing excess heat to exit the sock (breathability), which helps prevent sweating in the first place. The other is by pulling (or wicking) the sweat off of the foot and moving it to the outside of the sock, where it can evaporate. Both of these features are essential when choosing a pair of running socks. Because of its toe sock design, the Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Sock can wick moisture away from in-between the toes, a common place for blisters to pop up. Keeping your feet cool is not only a way to minimize sweat, but it also keeps your feet comfortable and helps prevent swelling. At best, swelling is uncomfortable. At worst, it will cause your foot to press up against the sidewalls of your shoe, which is painful and adds friction points where blisters can appear.
Venting is easy to spot in running socks. Look for slits, waffled or checkered patterns on the top of the foot or around the midsole. Most socks will put the breathable material in this area because the laces are a more open part of the shoe and let the heat escape more efficiently.
As far as moisture-wicking goes, look for synthetic materials, which, unlike cotton, repel moisture rather than retain it. Materials like polyester are effective at pulling moisture off and evaporating it quickly.
Avoid cotton socks at all costs. Unless it’s bolstered by synthetic material, cotton will soak up water and retain it, leaving your feet vulnerable to blisters.
Fit
Socks that fit poorly are terrible for runners. Socks that are too tight not only cause discomfort but also press the toes together, which greatly increases the risk of blisters between the toes.
Socks that are too big will bunch or wrinkle in the shoe, which creates friction points where blisters can form. One tester wore socks that stretched out on a hike and bunched up underfoot, causing a 3-inch blister to form on his sole. You’re going to want to avoid that at all costs.
Most running socks are unisex, like Balega’s Silver No-Show running socks. The best running socks for men and the best running socks for women are the same, depending on how you plan on using them. Look on the packaging or online for size scales for both men and women.
Socks rarely come in specific sizes, so your options are going to range from XS to XL and above. Most socks stretch to accommodate different sizes, thanks to some percentage of stretchy fibers like elastane embedded in the material.
Any given sock will work for a range of sizes. For example, a size large may be for feet sized 10 to 12. Sock packaging and websites will list a scale to help buyers choose the right size.
Compression socks are a bit different since the socks are built to provide a tighter fit, depending on the compression grade. You’ll still have a similar sizing scale, but many brands suggest buying a smaller sock if you want additional compression or a larger sock if you want lighter compression.
Comfort
You’ll be spending a lot of time in your running socks, so you’re going to want comfortable ones. TheBombas Performance Ankle Sock and the Balega’s Hidden Comfort socks are about as comfortable as it gets. Besides finding the right fit, you’re going to want a sock that regulates heat and moisture well. Also, look for socks that will provide adequate padding for the pounding that your feet face during a run.
Most running socks are made with a synthetic material like polyester. These are effective at wicking away sweat but aren’t known for their softness. Higher on the comfort scale is a wool/synthetic blend. The natural fiber is softer, while still retaining the ability to breathe well and pull sweat from the skin.
Cotton is the softest material and feels great on the skin. However, it tends to lose its shape (which can lead to bunching), and it holds on to moisture. A few brands have managed to find the right balance between cotton and synthetic materials. The result is a comfortable sock that also wicks away moisture.
Overheating and sweat accumulation can cause discomfort and create blisters. Make sure that your socks are made of breathable material with breathable mesh panels. These are easy to spot. Look for a different pattern on the top of the foot. This indicates a more open weave than the rest of the sock.
Padding is key as well. Find a sock with padding running along the sole of the foot, which will absorb foot strike impact. This also serves to lengthen the sock’s lifetime, as that’s the most high-impact area of the foot. If you want the lightest sock possible, choose a sock that only has padding on the heel and forefoot.
Height
Running socks come in a few general sizes. There’s the no-show sock, which sits below the ankle; the three-quarter-length sock, which sits above the ankle; the crew, which falls just under the calf; and the knee-high, which sits right at the knee.
No-show socks are ideal for running in hot or moderate weather. They’re lighter and have less material. This means you can stash a spare in your running pack if you run through a creek. This also comes in handy when nature calls on the trail and you need to improvise some toilet paper.
When shopping for a no-show sock, make sure that it has padding on the back of the cuff, like the Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Sock. This added material helps prevent shoe rub on the back of your ankle, which can cause blisters.
Three-quarter-length socks are favored by trail runners. WRIGHTSOCK’s CoolMesh II has a higher cuff and is better at preventing trail debris, such as dirt or twigs, from getting inside the sock. Debris in your socks can force you to stop your run and get it out before it causes a blister.
Crew socks serve a similar function, adding protection for off-trail runs. TheVision Six Impression socks wick away sweat and moisture before it drips down into your shoe. The added height also helps protect ankles from ankle-biting bushes along the trail.
Knee-high socks take crew socks to the extreme. Knee-high styles are common in compression socks.Thirty48 Elite Compression Socksgo up around the calf and feature a graded compressive material that helps improve blood flow and minimize swelling of the calves and ankles.
Durability & Price
Running socks put in lots of miles on varied terrain, making them susceptible to more wear than other socks. Many companies use higher needle counts to create a thicker material or blend durable fibers to combat this.
Having a running sock fall apart can feel like a small disaster. Any hole puts your foot in contact with your shoe, creating a hotspot that can cause blisters. With many running socks sitting around $15, repeatedly replacing running socks can take a bite out of your wallet.
You can avoid this by reading reviews or by going with brands that are known for their durable socks. Darn Tough is our pick for the toughest sock on the market. It also offers a lifetime guarantee: If you ever wear a hole in one of its socks, the company will send you a new one.
That means you’ll never have to buy that sock again unless you want multiple pairs. For the record, we’ve never worn a hole in one.
Another option is to buy socks in multipacks. Many companies like Saucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Sock sell socks in eight- and 16-packsat a discounted price. The trade-off here is that the socks are often lower quality than the top-tier ones.
If you’re new to running, consider buying one higher-end pair of socks and a small multipack. This way, you’ll have running socks for the week and you can accumulate more high-end socks over time.Also, to help your socks last longer, make sure you wash them according to the product’s specifications. Dryers are often a good way to ruin high-quality socks. Here is a helpful article on how to wash activewear.
FAQ
Should running socks be thick or thin?
The thickness of a running sock depends on the wearer’s preference. Many runners prefer a thinner sock in most conditions, as feet tend to heat up during a run, and thin socks are better at venting heat.
A thicker sock is ideal for running in cold weather, as the extra material allows it to hold insulation better. But make sure that a thicker sock is made of sweat-wicking material.
Your feet may start out cold, but more often than not, they’ll start heating up midrun. A sweat-wicking material and a good venting system will keep your feet dry and prevent overheating when wearing thicker socks.
As far as padding goes, it’s helpful to have thicker material underfoot. Thicker sole material provides comfort and protection during runs, as they absorb shock from foot strike.
You can find socks with padding that runs along the entire sole or, if you’d prefer a lighter sock, on just the heel and forefoot. Many runners prefer full sole coverage, as the lack of padding on the midsole can lead to an uneven feeling underfoot.
Brands also offer socks with zero underfoot padding. This works well with runners who want to combine them with minimalist shoes for a more barefoot feel.
Do professional runners wear socks?
With very few exceptions, yes. Professional runners log hundreds of miles in training, and keeping their feet healthy during such heavy training loads is essential.
Socks help prevent blisters, which take time to heal. They cause discomfort that can alter a runner’s stride, which can cause injury over time. Blisters, while inevitable, should be limited as much as possible, and wearing socks goes a long way in doing so.
Also, many professional runners use compression socks to minimize fatigue during runs and races, as well as a way to speed up recovery between workouts.
We know of one exception to this rule. One of our writers knows a professional runner who chooses to train without socks, but races with them on. He does so purposefully to cause blisters and over time, build up calluses and, in his words, “to toughen up my feet.”
In addition to running, he’s also a professional hunter, often spending days in the woods. His purpose in building bulletproof feet is to prepare them during training for anything that may occur during his hunts. This is an extreme method of training — one that we don’t recommend — but it’s worth noting.
How long do running socks last?
The lifespan of a running sock varies widely depending on the quality of the sock. Lower-quality socks should get you at least a few months of use before they start to show wear. Any damage (such as holes and tearing) is a sign of poor workmanship or factory defect, and they should be returned for a refund or warranty exchange.
Quality running socks should get you a few years of steady use before you see any holes or they start to lose elasticity and get baggy — and the best ones never tear.
The one brand that we keep going back to is Darn Tough. The Vermont company uses large-gauge sewing machines to create a dense material without adding bulk, and the high-quality merino wool it uses is extremely durable. We’ve never had to replace a pair of Darn Tough socks unless we lost one in the wash or had the cat tear one to pieces.
The company is so confident in its work that they offer a lifetime guarantee. If a sock you ever buy from them ever gets a hole in it, it’ll replace it free of charge. If you buy the Darn Tough Coolmax Run No-Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Sock it won’t matter if you’ve had it for a year or 10 years — if you wear a hole in it, you get a new pair.
Why wear compression socks for running?
Compression socks use graded compression on targeted parts of the foot and calf. This compression facilitates blood flow and helps minimize swelling.
Runners use these as a way to help the circulatory system provide the muscles with oxygen and flush out lactic acid during runs. Compression also minimizes the repeated vibration that comes with running, which causes microabrasions in the muscle that can lead to fatigue. Our top pick for tall compression socks is CEP’s Tall Compression Socks. But if you are just looking for foot compression the PAPLUS’s Ankle Compression Socks is our suggestion.
Runners also use them for post-run recovery. Many runners will wear compression socks or use inflatable compression garments after runs to speed up post-run recovery and reduce soreness, as the increased blood flow helps carry nutrients to the muscles. This reduces soreness and lessens recovery time, especially after high-intensity workouts.
Are running socks worth the money?
Absolutely. Running socks go a long way in increasing the enjoyment and effectiveness of run training. First and foremost, they keep your feet cool and dry, removing the moisture that can add friction and cause blisters. They also act as an essential barrier between the foot and the shoe, eliminating friction and hot spots.
They are undoubtedly more expensive than regular socks, but can make the difference between a fun day on the trail, and painful blisters — or worse.
Additional padding on the soles of running socks provides essential cushioning that reduces foot strike impact as well. Compression socks help you run longer and recover faster. After your running shoes, a good pair of running socks is a runner’s most important piece of running gear.
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Constance Mahoney
15 articles
Constance Mahoney is a gear tester and reviewer for GearJunkie. Mahoney has been writing about hiking, trail running, and outdoor gear for several years. She’s the chapter founder of Trails Sisters Crested Butte. Based in Colorado, Mahoney is an avid angler, trail runner, photographer, and all-around family adventurer.
