The Ultimate Guide To Buying Running Socks

Not all socks are made the same, and when it comes to running socks, a good technical pair will make all the difference. We've put together a guide on how to choose the best running socks so you can keep your feet dry and comfortable, while avoiding blisters and rubbing. 

The right pair of running socks are vital for good performance, comfort and protection. They've been designed specifically to increase ventilation, wick moisture, and protect the most vulnerable spots on your feet. The importance of socks is often overshadowed by the quest to find the perfect pair of running shoes, however, without the support of some high-quality running socks, problems such as blisters, overheating and discomfort can sometimes persist. 

Generally, it is best to avoid cotton because it holds moisture and traps it against your skin, which causes blisters in the summer and coldness in the winter. Using technical synthetic materials instead will help to transport the sweat away from your skin.  

Running socks are designed to keep the feet dry and comfortable, therefore a seamless construction is ideal because it reduces the risk of chafing.

Whether you choose thick or thin socks depends on personal preference as both have their advantages and disadvantages. Remember that the thickness of your sock can affect the responsiveness of your running shoes so make sure you try them on together before buying.

Many running socks are designed to gently compress your muscles to improve blood circulation, reducing tiredness, and boost recovery time to keep you running further, for longer. Compression running socks can range from knee length to cover your calves to shorter, ankle length, just for your feet.

Look out for extra padding across the toes, heel, and ball of your foot to help minimise shock and protect high impact areas from blisters.

Elasticated material such as Lycra is often used to keep the sock in place when running as well as support the arch of the foot.

The same material is also used to grip the ankle, providing extra support for a comfortable run.

Blistering can be a runner’s worst nightmare, especially out on a long run. Some technical running socks use a two-layer system to help prevent blisters as the potential for friction is reduced by the two layers of material moving against each other, rather than against your skin. The only downside is that anti-blister running socks can be less ventilating and breathable than regular running socks causing your feet to overheat.

Trail running socks are designed with specific features to address the unique demands and challenges of trail running.

Odour resistant running socks are designed to help keep your feet cool and dry.