What Everyone Ought to Know About Running Socks

A good pair of running socks can mean the difference between a blissful run and painful blisters. Most are synthetic and designed to wick sweat away from your foot instead of absorbing it. Cotton socks absorb sweat and moves against your foot creating friction and blisters.

For me they are much more comfortable than cotton socks. Depending on the type you buy they may have extra cushion on the balls and heals of your feet. They fit more closely to prevent chafing and blisters giving you the oh-so-comfy glove-like fit. And many have strategic seam placement or are seamless, again to reduce chafing and blisters and make the sock more comfortable.

My running socks outlast any cotton socks I own or have owned. They keep their shape and softness much longer. As a matter-of-fact, I really just only buy running socks anymore. The initial price increase is more than worth it in the long run (no pun intended!)

Keeping all that in mind, I have gone through hundreds of pairs of running socks over the years. Some really good; some not so good. There was a pair in particular that I absolutely loved. I bought them at a tri store in Vegas and the gal helping me recommended them. I took them home, opened the package, threw it away and wore the socks. After a few wears I found myself wanting to wear them every time. They were lightweight, snug and super comfortable. Because I threw away the packaging and the brand was nowhere on the sock, I don’t know what kind they were and have been looking for a replacement ever since. I guess it’s the sock that got away!

So I’ve done a better job at tracking the socks I like best. I currently have three different pair in my sock drawer I wear with different running shoes and the type of run I’ll be doing that day.

Most Comfortable: That title goes to Thorlo Experia Micro Mini Crew Sock. The added cushioning at the ball and heal of my foot and the snug, tight fit around the arch is incredible. They also come in lots of fun colors. I pull these ones out when I’m wearing my Asics Gel Kayano’s and running six plus miles.

Barely There: When I’m wearing my Brooks PureConnect, which are a snug fitting minimalist shoe, I wear the Drymax Run Hyper Thin Mini Crew Socks. These keep your feet super dry even on the hottest day and you don’t even realize you have them on.

Everyday Pair: The Drymax Run Lite-Mesh Mini Crew Socks are a little thicker than the Hyper Thin version and not as soft or thick as the Thorlo’s which make for a great ever day sock. I wear them running AND with casual attire! The only challenge I have with these is when I wear them with the Brooks PureConnect I get a blister on the back of my Achilles.

There are literally hundreds of styles and brands to choose from so I suggest you pick out a pair you think you’ll like, or start with one of my suggestions above, and go from there. Just remember, when you do find “the one” be sure to take note and don’t let it get away!

I’m always looking to try new socks so tell me some of your favorites in the comment field below!