- Best compression running socks: SwiftWick Aspire Four
- Best toe socks: Injinji Ultra Run
- Best for long-distance running: Smartwool Athlete Edition Run Print Crew Socks
- Best for cold weather: Smartwool PhD Cold Weather Mid Crew
- Best for hot weather: Drymax Extra Protection Hawks Hot Weather 1/4 Crew Socks
- Best for stinky feet: Balega Silver
- Best ankle-length socks: Bombas Merino Wool Running Ankle Sock
- Best for avoiding blisters: Runderwear Anti-Blister
- Best nonslip: Feetures Elite
- Best knee-high: Pro Compression Marathon
Socks. They can be colorful, fuzzy, or hung by a chimney with care. They help protect feet from blisters and shoes from stink. They can be very much in style and very much worthwhile!
For runners, socks offer important comfort and protection. The wrong socks can leave feet soaking in a pile of sweat and blisters, while a good pair will wick moisture away and reduce friction.
With so many sock options to choose from, shopping for the perfect pair can feel overwhelming.
After all, a range of heights offers various levels of protection, different amounts of compression to help with blood flow and offer support, and an array of fabrics, both natural and synthetic, to wick away moisture.
To help you decide which ones to buy, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best.
When determining what socks should make the cut, we considered:
- Materials. Not all materials are equal when it comes to running socks. The best running socks avoid cotton, which can absorb large amounts of water and cause blisters. Instead, we looked for Merino wool — the gold standard — or a mix of synthetic fabrics like nylon, spandex, and polyester that offer durability and value.
- Fit. Personal preferences for ankle- and knee-length sock cuts can vary, so we included options for everyone. Plus, as some shoes require socks with more padding than others, our list includes socks of varying thicknesses.
- Runner reviews. There’s nothing like knowing what fellow runners had to say about how their socks (and feet) held up after a run. Because we know you care about what other runners have to say, we highly valued runner feedback.
- Vetting. The socks on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.
Here are the 10 best running socks of 2022.
A note on price
General price ranges with dollar signs ($ to $$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.
Generally, list prices range from $13–$30, though this may vary depending on where you shop.
Pricing guide
- $ = under $20
- $$ = over $20
We use “men’s” and “women’s” in this article to align with how products are sold on retail sites, but that doesn’t mean you need to stick to one or the other. Choose the product with the fit, style, and features that work best for you.
Best compression running socks
SwiftWick Aspire Four
- Price: $
- Sizing: S, M, L, XL (men’s 3–15, women’s 5–15)
- Material: nylon, Olefin, spandex
- Key features: arch support, compression, double-cuff
Designed for runners who like extra support around their feet and ankles, these Aspire Four socks are described as a tight hug for your feet.
What’s more, because the cuff sits 4 inches (10 cm) above the ankle, this hug also extends to your lower leg.
Runners note that their mesh weaving helps wick away moisture and keeps your foot ventilated. Although, the cuff doesn’t have this same ventilation and can retain heat.
The socks are made from 67% nylon, 28% Olefin fiber, and 5% spandex. This blend creates a softness that adds a slight amount of cushioning.
However, keep in mind that the socks have less padding than others on this list.
Pros
- excellent moisture-wicking properties
- firm compression
- good elastic
Cons
- cuff can get hot on long runs
- minimal cushioning
Best toe socks
Injinji Ultra Run
- Price: $
- Sizing: S, M, L, XL (men’s 5–13.5+, women’s 6–12+)
- Material: Coolmax, nylon, Lycra
- Key features: arch support, heel tab, toe-style
Finding that you’re getting blisters from your toes rubbing against each other during runs? Toe-style running socks can help.
Even if you don’t have toe blisters, toe socks allow your toes to move and grip freely, which can improve your running experience.
Injinji Ultra Run socks are adaptable for long-distance running or hiking thanks to their breathable design, ergonomic fit, and extra cushioning.
The socks are made from 28% Coolmax, 67% nylon, and 5% Lycra and comes in a variety of patterns and heights.
Pros
- help reduce the likelihood of blisters forming between toes
- lots of fun colors
- available in long and short styles
Cons
- take longer to put on (and may not fit each toe perfectly)
- not the best choice if your running shoe has a narrow toe box
Best for long-distance running
Smartwool Athlete Edition Run Print Crew Socks
- Price: $$
- Sizing: men’s: M, L, XL (3–14.5), women’s: S, M, L (4–12.5+)
- Material: Merino wool, nylon, elastane, polyester
- Key features: breathable mesh, odor-resistant
Available in several fun prints, the Smartwool Athlete Edition socks are made with Merino wool — a gold standard in running sock materials — as well as nylon and elastane.
They have light cushioning underfoot with softer padding around the ankle and Achilles tendon.
While they work well year-round, if you live in particularly cold climates or are planning an Arctic trek, you’ll want a thicker sock, such as the Smartwool PhD Run Cold Weather Crew — which happen to be our choice for cold weather runs below.
Pros
- naturally odor-resistant
- reinforced, seamless toe
- lots of fun print options
- built to last
Cons
- expensive
- limited cuff height sizes available
Best for cold weather
Smartwool PhD Run Cold Weather Mid Crew
- Price: $$
- Sizing: men’s: M, L, XL (3–14.5), women’s: S, M, L (4–12.5+)
- Material: Merino wool, nylon, elastane
- Key features: warm, odor-resistant
Unlike the Athlete Edition Run socks above, the Smartwool PhD Run Cold Weather Mid Crew is designed to be thicker and retain heat during cold weather.
The socks also go a few inches above the ankle for added protection and offer light cushioning in the heel and toe.
Smartwool PhD Run Cold Weather Mid Crew socks are made from 56% wool, 41% nylon, and 3% elastane.
Because of the high amount of Merino wool, the socks wick moisture well and keep odor down.
Plus, even when they’re wet, runners note that the socks do a good job keeping your feet warm.
Pros
- retain heat well
- stretchy
Cons
- may be too thick for tighter shoes
- not great for warm weather runs
Best for hot weather
Drymax Extra Protection Hawks Hot Weather 1/4 Crew Socks
- Price: $$
- Sizing: S, M, L, XL (men’s 3.5–13, women’s 5–14.5)
- Material: Drymax Olefin, PTFE, polyester, spandex, nylon
- Key features: mesh ventilation, friction-reducing PTFE fabric
Thinner socks may sound appealing for warm weather runs, but many fail to provide appropriate padding for longer runs or trail runs. That’s where these socks stand out.
While the top of the socks have a mesh weave to release heat, there’s an extra layer of padding underneath that runs from the toe to the heel.
The socks are made from 36% Drymax Olefin, 26% polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), 22% polyester, 12% spandex, and 4% nylon — a combination that makes them durable but not particularly soft.
Pros
- mesh weave helps release heat on the top
- extra padding
- long-lasting fabric
Cons
- don’t work well on cold days
- not the softest option
Best for stinky feet
Balega Silver
- Price: $
- Sizing: S, M, L, XL (men’s 4.5–14, women’s 6–13+)
- Material: Drynamix, nylon, elastane
- Key features: odor-resistant, arch support, extra cushion
Dealing with stinky feet? The Balega Silver socks are designed with moisture-wicking fibers covered in silver ions to help cut down on the germs that lead to odor.
In fact, runners report that the socks can actually go several runs without starting to stink, though we still suggest washing your socks regularly.
The socks are made from 75% Drynamix, 23% nylon, and 2% elastane, and include a thicker cushioning underfoot with a breathable panel on top of the foot.
These no-show socks are available in several neon colors, though, you can’t buy higher cuff sizes.
Pros
- reduce foot odor
- feature cushioning underfoot from toe to heel
Cons
- low cuff height not suitable for trail running or adventurous hikes
Best ankle-length socks
Bombas Merino Wool Running Ankle Socks
- Price: $$
- Sizing: men’s: M, L, XL (6–16), women’s: S, M, L (4–17)
- Material: Merino wool, nylon, spandex
- Key features: arch support, odor-resistant, heel tab
While the Bombas Merino Wool Running Ankle Socks are more expensive than the standard Bombas Performance Running Socks, thanks to a mix of Merino wool and nylon, we think they’re worth it.
The improved fabric means better odor control, extra softness, and improved durability.
The socks also feature cushioning in the heel and toe with targeted compression in the arch of the foot. Plus, they still include Bombas’ signature honeycomb knit in the midsection to give a light airy feeling.
Furthermore, for every pair of socks you purchase, Bombas donates a pair to people affected by homelessness.
Pros
- targeted compression arch
- wide variety of color options available
- matching program to provide socks to individuals affected by homelessness
Cons
- run a bit warm due to the Marino wool
Best for avoiding blisters
Runderwear Anti-Blister
- Price: $$
- Sizing: S, M, L, XL (men’s 5–13.5, women’s 6.5–11+)
- Material: CoolPlus, Tactel, cotton, polyamide, polyester, elastane
- Key features: double-layered, heel tab
If you’re prone to blisters and not a fan of toe socks, you’ll want to check out the Runderwear Anti-Blister socks.
The socks are double-layered, so the layers of fabric rub against each other and reduce blister-causing friction on your feet.
Additionally, the socks have a reinforced heel and toe to minimize seams and provide comfort.
Specific left and right foot constructions help keep the socks in place, while moisture-wicking fabric works to keep your feet feeling dry.
The socks are made from a blend of 31% CoolPlus, 12% Tactel, 36% cotton, 13% polyamide, 5% polyester, and 3% elastane.
Just keep in mind there are many causes of blisters, so buying these socks isn’t a guarantee that your blister issues are gone for good.
Pros
- double-layered
- reinforced heel and toe
Cons
- too thick for tight-fitting shoes
- blisters may still occur
Best nonslip
Feetures Elite
- Price: $
- Sizing: men’s: M, L, XL (6–15.5), women’s: S, M, L (4–13)
- Material: polyester, nylon, spandex
- Key features: arch support, extra cushioning, heel tab
If you find that your feet slip despite wearing appropriately fitted running shoes with tightly tied laces, you’ll want to consider the Feetures Elite running socks.
The Elite line has targeted compression zones and a high amount of cushioning, which helps prevent the slippage some runners experience with other running socks.
The socks also feature a deep heel pocket and a snug arch around the foot that helps keep the sock in place.
Plus, they’re made using yarn from recycled plastic bottles.
Additionally, all of Feetures’ socks are seamless and designed with specific left and right foot constructions for optimal fit and maximum comfort.
Just keep in mind Feetures Elite running socks don’t offer the same level of moisture-wicking effects as some of the others on our list.
Pros
- specific left and right foot helps with fit
- padding covers tops of toes
- wide variety of color options
Cons
- limited leg support or coverage
- poor moisture-wicking properties for sweaty feet
Best knee-high
Pro Compression Marathon
- Price: $$
- Sizing: XS, S/M, L/XL (men’s 5–13, women’s 4–14)
- Material: polyester, nylon, spandex
- Key features: compression, moisture-wicking
These knee-high socks stand out because they offer graduated compression to help improve circulation and reduce pain in your feet. Plus, they offer strong moisture-wicking properties.
The Pro Compression Marathon socks are made of a polyester, nylon, and spandex blend and have a wide top cuff to allow maximum circulation. They also come in a large variety of style options.
They work well for people who enjoy biking and running, and reviewers mention that these socks are comfortable enough to wear all day long.
Pros
- graduated compression for pain relief
- wider calf widths also available for a custom fit
- lots of style options
Cons
- expensive
Feeling overwhelmed about selecting the perfect pair of running socks? Here are a few factors to consider:
- Intended use. Think about the type of running you intend to do — long distance, sprinting, trail, etc. You’ll want to choose a sock that’s designed to support this.
- Specific needs. Identify any specific problems you’re hoping to address with running socks, such as blisters or sweaty or stinky feet.
- Fit and style. Determine your ideal sock height, fit, and style. For example, some runners prefer ankle-length while others desire a knee-high pair.
- Current running shoes. One of the best ways to determine the right sock is by trying it on with your current running shoes. This will help you better identify the fit and amount of cushioning you need.
- Budget. Consider how much you’re willing to spend on a pair of running socks. It’s also worth taking the time to look for sales and do a little price comparison.
One last thing to keep in mind is that your perfect running sock may change if you switch up your running shoe — but don’t be scared by the change! It might take just a little trial and error to find the next sock that’s right for your new shoes.
What’s the difference between running socks and regular socks?
To help support and protect your feet, running socks typically have more compression around the arch and extra cushioning at the toe and heel than regular socks do. They may also have extra padding around the back of the heel to help prevent blisters.
Plus, running socks tend to be made from moisture-wicking fabric like Merino wool or have mesh panels, which can help keep your feet from getting too sweaty during long, hot runs.
Should running socks be thick or thin?
Sock thickness is largely a matter of personal preference.
Dr. Adam Hotchkiss, a podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon, explains that one of the purposes of running socks is to help “reduce friction between your skin and the interior surface of the shoe.” So the right sock thickness for you will also depend on what running shoe you plan to wear.
If your running shoes are a little roomy, you may want a thicker sock to keep your feet from moving around. If your shoes fit snugly, a thinner running sock may be a better option.
Should you wear compression socks for running?
Compression socks are probably more beneficial “during recovery rather than while actively running,” says Hotchkiss.
When you run, the muscles in your legs experience microscopic tears that may be accompanied by inflammation and fluid buildup.
By improving “venous and lymphatic return from the leg to the body,” compression socks can help reduce inflammation and move fluid out of your legs, which means quicker muscle recovery.
That said, some runners like the feeling and added warmth of running with compression socks, so choose the socks that feel most comfortable to you.
Socks are useful for keeping your feet warm and holding gifts by the chimney. For runners, they provide necessary support and protection.
With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, by using this list as a guide and testing out a few pairs, we’re confident that you’ll find a pair of running socks that works for you.
FAQs
What kind of sock is best for running? ›
The best fabrics
Polyester and nylon are popular synthetic fibres for running socks as they're both sweat-wicking, breathable, and more durable than cotton.
The thinner your socks are, the more breathable they are and the more natural they feel in terms of stride. The thicker they are, the more comfortable and protective they are. The thickness of your socks should therefore be adapted to your level, but also to your desires.
Are Bombas compression socks good for running? ›Made with a medium level of compression, these Compression Socks aren't too tight—they're just snug enough to feel supportive. Great for those who like traveling, running or if you have a job where you're standing on your feet all day, like nursing.
What socks are best to stop sweating? ›Moisture-Wicking Material
Moisture-wicking socks are made from fabrics like Merino wool, nylon and polyester that are designed to transfer sweat away from the skin so that it can evaporate.
Moisture-Wicking Material
Moisture-wicking socks are made from fabrics like merino wool, nylon, and polyester that are designed to transfer sweat away from the skin so it can be evaporated.
- Bombas.
- ModeSens.
- Fashion Nova.
- Savage X Fenty.
- Haoyiku.
Tabi are traditional Japanese socks worn with traditional Japanese sandals. Tabi socks present a split-toe and they are commonly white. They are worn by both men and women with traditional Japanese clothings, such as kimonos, in formal circumstances, like tea ceremonies.
How often do you change your running socks? ›It is important to note that athletic socks, although quite durable and reliable for athletic performance, tend to lose their threading over time and become unfit for better performance. It is recommended that you should replace your old pair of sports socks with a new one every 3 to 6 months.
What size running socks should I buy? ›Your socks should be the same size as your running shoes. 'Too big or too small can slide around and cause blisters,' advises Paterson. 'They should have a good fit, especially under the arch of the foot and around the heel.
What makes a running socks so special? ›Running-specific socks are designed to reduce blisters, wick moisture, and keep your feet more comfortable. And while running-specific socks may cost a bit more than generic athletic socks, the added durability can make them a more economical choice over time.
What material should running socks be made of? ›
Good running socks will mostly be made of synthetic fibers, like polyester and nylon, or a natural wicking material like merino wool. With these materials, sweat will be wicked to the outside of the sock and away from the foot, keeping it dry (unless you go through a puddle!).
What is the big deal with Bombas socks? ›Each one has a cushioned footbed where the material is thicker to provide even more comfort and extra support for your soles, so they're not aching by the end of a long day. And Bombas' "honeycomb support system," hugs the arch of your foot, keeping it stabilized while you're running around—literally or figuratively.
How do I choose running socks? ›Look for socks that contain materials like polyester, nylon and elastane. These materials are lightweight and can keep feet cool. Rather than retaining the sweat like cotton or insulating your feet like merino wool, synthetic fibres with moisture-wicking Dri-FIT Technology keep the feet dry.
Who should avoid compression socks? ›“If you have peripheral vascular disease affecting your lower extremities, you should not wear compression socks,” he says. “The pressure provided by compression socks may make ischemic disease worse.
What absorbs foot sweat? ›Deodorants and talc-free foot powders can help absorb sweat from your feet, and there are numerous over-the-counter solutions you can try out, says Dr. Lobkova. She recommends the Arm & Hammer Foot Powder, which contains a powerful combination of baking soda and cornstarch.
Are Bombas socks good for sweaty feet? ›Bombas uses the softest long staple yarns from the best cotton and merino wool producers in the world. We believe in the antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties of high-quality, natural fibers. Our socks contour to your feet, keep you dry all day, and protect you so you can keep doing your thing all day long.
How do I stop my feet from sweating in my socks? ›Wash your feet daily with an antibacterial soap; be sure to wash between the toes. Dry the feet thoroughly, then apply cornstarch, foot powder, or an antifungal powder to your feet. Wear wicking socks made of natural or acrylic fiber blends that draw the moisture away from your feet instead of trapping it.
Should you use dryer sheets on socks? ›Dryer sheets work well for most everyday items made of natural fibers, such as cotton shirts, pants and socks, but it's best to avoid using dryer sheets on athleticwear & microfiber, towels, flame-resistant clothing and water-repellent fabric.
What is the best material to wear if you sweat a lot? ›Cotton is the best fabric to protect against sweat because it helps keep your body cool. The Mayo Clinic recommends silk and wool as alternatives to cotton, too.
What material should I wear if I sweat a lot? ›Cotton. Lightweight and high-quality cotton is breathable. This type of material allows air to flow giving you the best chance to cool off and for the fabric to dry faster, which helps eliminate sweat stains. Clothes for sweating typically contain cotton or a mix of cotton within blends.
Are Bombas made in China? ›
Bombas socks are made “all over the world, including the US, Taiwan, China, and Peru,” to quote one of their FAQs.
Why are Bombas best? ›Bombas are comfortable and have a unique honeycomb design that supports the middle of the foot and is somewhat compressive. The resulting feeling is equal parts comfort and arch support, even if you have low arches. Bombas also has socks designed for different purposes, like tennis, running, cycling, and hiking.
Is Bombas doing well? ›From that first pair sold in 2013, the company is currently profitable. Bombas ratcheted up to over $100 million in revenue in 2018 and experienced 40% year-over-year growth between 2019 and 2020 as it added T-shirts and, most recently this January, underwear.
Do you need specific socks for running? ›A good pair of running socks can be just as important as a good pair of shoes. Running-specific socks are designed to reduce blisters, wick moisture, and keep your feet more comfortable.
Should you wear cotton socks when running? ›Cotton socks aren't good for running because they don't wick away moisture. Not cool. Cotton soaks up sweat and creates hot spots on your feet. The longer you run, the worse it gets.
What is different about running socks? ›Running socks offer an array of different cushioning around the ball of your foot and the heels for more underfoot protection but also protection from blisters.
Are toe socks better for running? ›Toesocks are an ideal choice for running, as they prevent blisters between your toes, keep your feet cool and dry, and allow you to utilize your entire foot and toes on pavement and trails.