You can’t run, of course, without a good pair of running shoes. But what goes between your feet and your shoes—a pair of the best running socks—is crucial for a comfortable, effective workout. Socks wick moisture, provide light cushioning and help prevent chafing. Our top pick for 2024 is the Darn Tough Run Quarter Ultralightweight Cushion Sock, a soft, durable sock that’s made from merino wool to boost breathability and fight odor. But, we’ve gathered plenty more on this list for runners (and feet) of all kinds.
The right running socks can make a huge difference in your workout.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers
“Socks provide a smooth transition from your foot to your shoe—one that won’t chafe and reduces any friction points,” says Von Collins, editor at Complete Tri and author of Running Smarter: 21 Running Habits for Faster Times and Fewer Injuries. Ideally, your sock will provide “adequate coverage and a great fit so no gaps or doubled-up spots exist,” he explains. You don’t want a sock that slips down into your running shoes, bunches up around your midfoot or leaves too much of your ankle exposed against your footwear.
Collins also points out that while some runners might choose a highly padded sock, cushioning should largely be the shoe’s job. That means it’s OK to opt for a lightweight pair.
And finally, your running socks need to wick moisture to prevent sweaty feet and uncomfortable blisters. Fibers such as merino wool or a polyester blend are best. Before you wear a pair of fully cotton socks for your goal race, test them out on shorter run to make sure they don’t cause any problems.
Keep reading for the best running socks for recovery runs, ultramarathons and everything in between.
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REI
Darn Tough Run Quarter Ultralightweight Cushion Socks
Height: Quarter | Cushioning: Minimal | Material: Merino wool, nylon and Lycra
Running socks take a beating and, let’s be honest, they’re underappreciated. But Darn Tough socks go the extra mile thanks to their lasting durability. They’re, well, darn tough. The quarter ultralightweight cushion socks hit just above the ankle for a little extra protection (and style, if that’s your jam).
The merino wool is warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and has impressive breathability and natural odor resistance. The Darn Tough Run Quarter Ultralightweight Cushion socks also have a slight compression feel, keeping everything snug in place. But if they’re not for you, we also like Smartwool Performance Run Zero Cushion Low Ankle Socks that wick moisture and breathe rather well. Darn Tough beat out Smartwool’s running sock because of the Vermont brand’s unrivaled warranty—if your sock tears or falls apart after all those miles, swap it for a free pair, no questions asked.
Pros:
Merino wool keeps feet dry and comfortableQuarter height adds protection from chafingLightweight design is breathableDarn Tough brand is incredibly durable
Cons:
Some might not like light compression
Amazon
Adidas Superlite Performance No-Show Two-Pack
Height: No show | Cushioning: At heel and toe | Materials: Polyester, latex rubber and spandex
It’s not often you’ll find budget-friendly gear from trusted running brands, but the Adidas Superlite Performance No-Show socks are just that. The two-pack works out to be less than $6 per pair (depending on sales)—one for now, one for the wash.
The socks are no-show and incredibly lightweight, making them a good option for those hot summer months. The sizing is unisex, which makes shopping easy, but make sure your S.O. isn’t stealing your go-to socks.
Pros:
Inexpensive by a trusted running brandLightweight
Cons:
No-show might slip for some runners
Ibex
Ibex Light Cushion Performance Quarter Sock
Height: Mid Crew | Cushioning: High | Materials: Merino wool, nylon and Lycra spandex
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: It’s hard to beat merino wool for performance socks (or performance anything, really). Ibex has impressed with its performance line, including sports bras and socks.
Popular among hikers, the Ibex Light Cushion Performance Sock is an incredibly comfortable running sock, thanks to its 66% merino wool (higher than most wool socks) and plush cushion. The wool has a cooling effect, but the sock definitely isn’t lightweight, even though the phrase ‘Light Cushion’ appears in the name.
We love the reinforced toe and heel for durability, and the mesh venting for breathability. Even after your run, you won’t want to take these off. (And because wool is naturally odor resistant, we won’t tell if you don’t.)
Pros:
66% merino wool, higher than other wool socksPlush cushioning
Cons:
Some may prefer thinner socks
Amazon
Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Running Socks
Height: Crew | Cushioning: Medium | Materials: Nylon, merino wool, olefin, polyester and spandex
Trail running is a bit more technical than road running and requires different equipment that’s ready to tackle the terrain—socks included. “For trail runners, socks can provide the benefit of protecting your ankle and shin from twigs, plants and rocks,” explains Collins. “That is why a trail runner often wants a longer sock, whereas a road runner often wants a minimalist approach.”
Offering phenomenal coverage and stability in a crew-length design, Swiftwick’s Flite XT Trail Five sock adds support as you encounter rugged, uneven terrain. A robust elastic band around the ankle and heel minimizes unnecessary movement during your outdoor adventures, and a fiber lining about the heel and forefoot ensures a secure fit within your shoe to prevent blisters and ensure a stable, comfortable experience. While these socks are a bit warm and bulky for hot climates, they’re a solid choice for trail runners seeking above-the-ankle coverage in a dedicated performance sock.
Pros:
Merino wool fabric promotes airflow and reduces unwanted odorsIntegrated arch support Well-designed heel cup prevents bunching
Cons:
ExpensiveMedium cushioning might be too warm on hot days
Injinji
Injinji Run Lightweight Mini Crew Toe Socks
Height: High ankle | Cushioning: Light | Materials: Polyester, nylon, Lycra
We’ll be the first to admit that Injinji’s toe socks aren’t the most stylish pick on this list, but they offer serious benefits to runners of all abilities. Most importantly, the added fabric prevents blisters between your toes (no skin-on-skin contact) and allows your foot to splay as you step, promoting a more natural, stable position.
Whether you’re curious to try them or you’re already a die-hard fan, Injinji creates high-quality, durable socks that last hundreds of miles. A few design features help them stand out among the pack, namely the arch-support band, well-dispersed padding and a breathable mesh upper. Keep in mind that toe socks don’t provide as much warmth for cold weather runs because the fabric between your toes prevents them from sharing heat.
Pros:
Design engages your entire footPrevents blisters by eliminating potential hot spots between toesNecessary for barefoot-style shoes
Cons:
Harder to slide on than traditional socksSynthetic blend does not regulate temperature as well as merino wool
Neon Bandits
Neon Bandits The Ripple Sock
Height: Mid-ankle | Cushioning: Medium | Materials: Acrylic, polyester, nylon, natural latex rubber, wool, spandex
Neon Bandits prides itself on its knit-in design, which helps socks stay put and keep their shape. The socks’ underfoot cushioning makes for a comfortable ride, and the breathable mesh arch allows your feet to, well, breathe.
Although this sock isn’t as soft as others on this list, it’s designed for the long haul at a cheaper price point.
Pros:
Socks won’t slipComfortable cushioning
Cons:
Not as soft as other socksSome may prefer a lower cut
Amazon
Balega Hidden Comfort Performance Running Socks
Height: No show | Cushioning: High | Materials: Polyester, nylon, Elastane
Balega socks are synonymous with marathon race expos. For well over a decade, that’s where you can find the sock’s booth with a “buy three, get one free” advertisement on the display of its award-winning sock.
Balega Hidden Comfort socks are plushy (but not bulky) underfoot, making your feet feel pampered even when they’re working hard. The Hidden Comfort line is durable, too, making these a great pick for short runs, long runs, and lounging, and they should last for years and years.
Pros:
Cloudlike cushion without bulkMoisture-wicking
Cons:
No show might be too low for some
Wide Open
Wide Open Lightweight Micro Crew Socks
Height: Micro crew | Cushioning: Light | Materials: Wool, nylon and spandex
Like running shoes, there is no one-size-fits all, when it comes to sock width. That’s why the creators of Darn Tough socks launched Wide Open, athletic socks that stretch to 4E width, providing a more comfortable fit and experience for folks with wider feet and calves.
Like standard-width running socks, the Wide Open line has a plethora of options that include no-show, micro crew, crew, light cushion, more cushion—you name it.
The merino wool keeps feet warm and dry, thanks to its moisture-wicking capabilities. And like all Darn Tough socks, the Wide Open line comes with a lifetime warranty, just in case you run too hard.
Pros:
Designed for wide feet, up to 4E widthMerino wool keeps feet dry Seamless designLifetime warranty
Cons:
More expensive than other socks
Amazon
Smartwool Run Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Sock
Height: Crew (Mid Ankle) | Cushioning: Medium | Materials: Wool, Nylon, Elastane
Someone once told me, “There’s no bad weather. There’s just bad gear,” and I mostly agree. Smartwool is known for harnessing the power of merino wool across all of its gear—cold- and warm-weather—but its Run Cold socks are exceptional at keeping your feet warm.
The crew height, which is making a comeback in recent years, adds extra material, which your ankles and lower calves will appreciate during those sub-freezing miles.
The Run Cold sock’s medium cushion underfoot makes for a more comfortable ride, and the merino wool will keep your feet dry and odor-free.
Pros:
Provides incredible warmth Moisture-wickingComfortable cushion
Cons:
A more expensive sock
Tracksmith
Tracksmith Speed Crew Sock
Height: Mid-ankle | Cushioning: Minimal | Material: Polyamide, elastane
The Tracksmith Speed Crew Sock is one of the best lightweight performance running socks out there. The slightly form-fitting sock locks your feet in place, and the lightweight design keeps them cool and dry. Plus, the snug fit prevents any mid-run wrinkling.
The crew height adds a little extra protection if you’re on the trails or if it’s a little chilly out. Plus, it looks nice.
Pros:
Barely there feelSnug fit
Cons:
NarrowPricier than other similar socks
What To Consider When Buying Running Socks
Running socks look similar from one pair to the next, but your perfect pair depends on your needs as a runner. Here are a few key features to consider when shopping for the best running socks.
Materials
Moisture-wicking and thermo-regulating fibers, like merino wool, are ideal for running in all conditions—especially hot and humid environments. Merino wool can wick away sweat (which would otherwise cause blisters), cooling your feet as the moisture evaporates. However, this natural fiber does not hold its shape well, so it’s often blended with stretchy synthetic materials like nylon, elastane and spandex.
Polyester is a synthetic substitute to merino wool, and it’s more affordable. If you buy a fully synthetic sock and frequently run in hot temperatures, you should look for one with ventilated panels to enhance breathability. If you primarily run in cooler weather, breathability is less of a concern, but still worth considering, especially if you run hot.
Sock Height
The height of the sock is ultimately dictated by your personal preference and running style. Many road runners prefer ankle or no-show socks that minimize coverage and potential distractions, while some trail runners may opt for a higher cut to protect their ankles and shins from sticks, rocks and debris. Higher cuts, like crew or knee high socks, can be beneficial when combined with compression fabrics to enhance blood flow to your legs and feet.
If you’re leaning toward low ankle socks, look for a pair with heel tabs, which prevent them from slipping into your shoes as you run.
Cushioning
Cushioning absorbs shock from harsh impact, so sock manufacturers add it to areas of the foot that constantly strike the ground, like the heel and toes. Some socks feature cushioning only in these high-impact areas, while other socks are fully cushioned, even around the arch. In addition to the protection that cushioning provides, it can add warmth for running in cold weather.
Although some runners love heavy cushioning because it adds comfort, others prefer minimally cushioned socks. Cushioning reduces breathability and can add bulk, so socks with medium-to-high cushion tend to retain moisture for longer periods of time and hold in heat. Minimal-to-light cushion socks are more breathable and allow you to obtain a more snug fit within your running shoe.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
At Forbes Vetted, our writers cover topics in which they’re well-versed, either through research or their own experience. We’ve covered fitness gear extensively, including tested pieces and sourcing top picks from experts.
The author, Heather Mayer Irvine, is a regular Vetted contributor, whose reporting specializes in the fitness and running arenas. For this article, she used her decades-long experience as a runner to choose the best running socks. Meanwhile, Vetted’s gear editor, Cam Vigliotta, has over a decade of experience running competitively and casually, and he holds a degree in sports medicine. He reviewed this list of the best running socks for accuracy and fairness.
How We Chose The Best Running Socks
In addition to using my own feet-on experience with running socks, I chose socks that are designed by trusted running and fitness manufacturers, recommended by fellow runners and raved about on the internet.
Should Runners Wear Thick Or Thin Socks?
When runners choose the best running sock for them they might prefer thick socks in the colder months and thin socks in the warmer months. Thicker socks provide more padding, which some runners may prefer.
If you opt for thicker socks, make sure your feet have enough room to splay out in your running shoe. Thinner socks tend to be more breathable, but if they’re thin because they’re cheaply made, that will likely lead to blisters and holes.
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