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What are the best running socks in 2023?
Running is a great workout that can improve your cardiovascular health, increase stamina, and lower stress. However when it comes to running, a lot of people focus on picking the best running shoes while frequently ignoring the significance of picking the best pair of socks. Running in the proper type of socks can significantly impact how comfortable and effective your runs are.
To help you navigate the many options out there, we have rounded up the best running socks in the post for you:
QUICK RECOMMENDATIONS
Check out this quick list of our favorites if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full top 6 list with in-depth reviews.
#1: Balega Silver Compression Fit Performance No Show Athletic Running Socks (Best overall)
#2: Injinji Women’s Trail Midweight Mini-Crew Socks
#3: Darn Tough Women’s Ultra-Lightweight Run Sock
#4: Balega Blister Resist Performance Running Socks
#5: Thorlos Experia Xccu Thin Cushion Running Low Cut Socks (Best value)
#6: Swiftwick- ASPIRE ZERO Running & Cycling Socks
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best running socks:
Material
Your running socks’ material can significantly impact how comfortable and breathable they are for your feet. Choose socks made of fibers that wick away moisture, such as wool, nylon, or polyester. Throughout your run, these materials serve to wick moisture away from your skin and keep your feet dry. Cotton socks should be avoided as they have a tendency to retain moisture, which can lead to blisters and discomfort.
Cushioning
While running, the correct amount of cushioning in your socks’ soles can aid lessen impact and absorb shock on your feet. But, your personal preference and the type of surface you are running on may affect the amount of cushioning you require. To provide more support, look for socks with additional padding in the foot’s ball and heel.
Fit
Running socks should be snug but not too tight to prevent pain and circulation problems. For added support and durability, look for socks with a reinforced heel and toe area. Also, a proper fit might aid in avoiding additional foot ailments like blisters.
Height
There are several different heights of running socks, including crew, knee-high, and ankle. Select a height that gives you the best comfort and the appropriate level of coverage for your needs. Because the height of the sock can effect how the shoe fits, take into account the style of running shoes you intend to wear.
Your comfort and performance can be greatly affected by your choice of running socks. Look for socks that are moisture-wicking, have extra padding, are well-fitting, and are the appropriate height. Blisters, foot fatigue, and an overall better running experience can all be helped by wearing the appropriate socks. Happy running!
Here are the 6 Best Running Socks in 2023:
1. Balega Silver Compression Fit Performance No Show Athletic Running Socks
The Balega Silver No Show Tab running socks are specially designed to provide the highest level of performance compression. The Silver No Show Tab running socks offer an antibacterial, hygienic environment to keep feet clean, dry, and free of smells, mold, and fungi because they are made of silver ions, which are encased in the exclusive Drynamix yarn.
- Excellent heel fit
- No slip
- Perfect amount of cushion
- Not too hot or too cold
- Exceptional breathability
- Only available in no show height
2. Injinji Women’s Trail Midweight Mini-Crew Socks
Designed and cushioned for women who run far and hike fast on shifting, uneven trails, Injinji’s Women’s Trail Midweight Mini-Crew delivers comfort and protection with agility and support. The double-cuffed mini-crew height maintains the sock comfortably in place, lessens chafing, and seals out dirt, sand, and debris. It is snug, but not binding. COOLMAX wicks away moisture, nylon adds durability, and the slimmer profile with enhanced stretch is uniquely made to fit women’s feet and toes. The Injinji’s distinctive design wraps fabric around each toe to reduce blisters, allow a natural splay, and more efficiently remove sweat. Arch support is built in, mesh at the top enhances breathability. The women’s Trail Midweight Mini-Crew Socks from Injinji are excellent for both road and trail running as well as cycling, training, fitness, backpacking and many more activities where your feet may benefit from extra cushioning.
- Prevents blisters between toes
- Pairs well with wide toebox shoes
- Vents well
- May not be best in hot temps
3. Darn Tough Women’s Ultra-Lightweight Run Sock
Put on these ultra-lightweight Merino Wool socks for blister-blasting protection and sweat-wicking capability you won’t believe. This minimal running sock is hard at work in the background keeping your feet in place and protecting you from dirt so you can simply set your best speed.
- No bunch
- Breathable
- Reduced odor
- Lots of options (men’s/women’s, height, cushioning)
- Darn Tough warranty
- Could last longer (but comes with great warranty)
4. Balega Blister Resist Performance Running Socks
Balega Blister Resist Socks are the ideal marriage of nature and technology. The Blister Resist is the ideal sock for year-round exercise because it has both Drynamix, a specialized moisture management fiber made to keep feet dry and cool, and natural mohair fibers to keep feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- Great fit
- Wonderful blister protection from padding
- May have less impact support than other socks
5. Thorlos Experia Xccu Thin Cushion Running Low Cut Socks
Anatomically designed foot protection pads for impact absorption and blister and irritation prevention. You can run, walk, and play for longer thanks to the multi-spot design.
- Great value for the price
- Padding in the right places
- Form-fitting and supportive compression
- Not as technical as other socks
6. Swiftwick- ASPIRE ZERO Running & Cycling Socks
For a responsive feel, ASPIRE is constructed with tight compression and a thin profile. In order to decrease fatigue during endurance exercises or extended periods spent on your feet, a firm compression supports each contour of your foot. The contoured fit prevents any slipping, twisting, or bunching in your shoes. Your feet will stay dry and cool thanks to the use of the patented Olefin fiber, which wicks moisture swiftly. Blisters, hot spots, and sweaty, stinky feet are a thing of the past. The zero cuff height extends barely above the shoe and sits below the ankle.
- Thin profile and cuff height are great for warmer temps
- Enhanced venting
- Great for sweaty feet
- May not be comfortable for some runners due to not having much cushion
