The best running socks worth wearing

I consider myself a utilitarian and severely dislike purchasing items good for only one purpose. So when I’m buying socks, I look for a pair that can do everything I can. Balega makes amazing socks, and these Enduro V-Tech socks fit the bill. There are more features on this sock than you’ve ever seen, and your feet will praise you for buying them.

The quarter length offers security and peace of mind knowing the sock wont slip with the elastic rib top, allowing you to focus on that next checkpoint. Made from a unique combination of polyester, nylon, and elastane, these socks feature Drynamix moisture management fibers. This means you’re less likely to get blisters. Of course, the medium level cushioning plays a role there too, as well as reducing your foot and body fatigue on long runs. If your body doesn’t feel as beat up after running, then you’ll have a faster recovery.

Not everyone is baller enough to drop a Jackson on a single pair of socks. Yeah, I’m talking about our junior enlisted warriors. Some people would rather spend their money on other cool gadgets instead, like that high APR Mustang. Normally, this means you get something of lesser quality that falls apart rather quickly, but that’s not the case here. The cushion and comfort are easily comparable to moderately priced running socks.

You could easily replace these socks if they weren’t as durable as they are. Owning a few pairs myself, I can attest to their durability and versatility. Bonus points go to the no show level that keeps you looking cool while staying cool.

These polyester/cotton blended socks feature spandex to offer a sporty compression feel. This is complemented nicely by the medium cushion level that offers just enough to feel great, while not being bulky or cumbersome. You’re sure to feel comfortable while running, but they work great for regular workouts and day-to-day activities. The dark colors offer service members the option of wearing these with their PT uniforms, so say goodbye to the cuffed boot sock.

We’ve all seen the rise in awareness of trash, and it’s become popular for companies to dedicate themselves to using sustainable materials for their products. One of the leaders in the running sock world is Rockay, which has taken an ethical approach to its consumer-driven business. There’s even a no-questions-asked guarantee for life to give you some peace of mind.

If you didn’t already know that these socks were made from recycled materials, you wouldn’t even guess it. The sleek design is on par with all the other socks we’ve reviewed, even surpassing many with a completely seamless construction. Mesh zones have been incorporated to increase ventilation and prevent blisters. There’s even compression in the arch for support and a reinforced heel for extra durability. You’ll be ready to tackle anything with the performance cushioning built in.

Guys like fancy cars, boats, watches, guns, and all sorts of toys and trinkets. But when it comes to socks, we’re really just looking for something that gets the job done and lets us focus on the task at hand. Under Armour has built a reputation for manufacturing clothing that exceeds expectations. Indeed, this is how they were able to partner with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for his Project Rock line of apparel and gear.

UA socks are simple and efficient, featuring a blend of polyester and spandex, and your feet will quickly appreciate this purchase. Once you feel the compression around the arch, this design offers extra support for lengthy runs. The lower profile equals less material, which means less weight and more freedom to move. This gives you the freedom to wear them while running, hitting the gym, or crushing that at-home workout. A keen feature you’ll notice is the seamless toe that eliminates chafing. It’s easy to like these simple socks, and for those on active duty, the dark colors allow you to wear them during organized PT.

Ladies know all too well that men’s gear is generally too big, too bulky, or just doesn’t fit right. Thankfully, there has been a ton of research and development to create gear specially designed for women. Smartwool is a socially conscious company that’s done a great job developing products for women, like the PhD Run Light Elite.

At the forefront of this sock is the Merino wool. While there is nylon and elastane as well, the Merino wool sets it apart. Grown from Merino sheep, this wool is lighter and softer than traditional wool, but with all the same benefits. It wicks away sweat in the heat, while keeping you warm in the cold. Even though this sock has a Light Elite cushion, the soft wool will have you thinking otherwise.

These low rise ankle socks sport a seamless toe to avoid nasty chafing. Women will also benefit from the specially designed and placed mesh ventilation zones. An added benefit of the wool and anatomical contours is that you’ll see an extended-use life out of these socks. Of course, the color options are more stylish and numerous than men’s socks, if that’s important to you, with seven available choices. To get the best out of intentionally designed socks, you’ll want to match them with a set of women’s running shoes made just for you too.

With a claim like 100 percent waterproof, you might be asking if Randy Sun is just a modern day elixir peddler. Yet these socks in fact are waterproof. Utilizing a three-layer system, your feet will stay dry from outside sources as long as it is below the cuff of the sock. The outer layer is made from durable Nylon with a lycra blend, while the inner layer is made from Coolmax and elastane. These two layers sandwich a waterproof membrane that keeps water out while remaining breathable.

These socks are designed to be multi-functional, not specifically for running. However, if you’re concerned about getting your feet soaked while out on a trail or during the rainy season, they’ll work just fine.

On the opposite end of the spectrum from waterproof are quick-drying socks. You can’t always avoid getting wet, and when you do, the last thing you want is your socks to hold onto all that water. That’s just a breeding ground for large and painful blisters, especially if you’re in a warmer climate.

Mesh socks offer excellent ventilation, which is essentially an escape route for water. Saucony knows running and designed these no-show socks to exceed expectations in any weather. Constructed from polyester and spandex, you’ll notice the softness and slight compression for support around the arch. This also means there is no cotton, which can hold 24 to 27 times its own weight in water. Not only are these socks allowing water to escape, but they also aren’t trapping as much as other socks. Rounding off the design is a light cushioning to increase comfort and decrease recovery time. This nicely complements the seamless construction.

The U.S. military has a unique relationship with reflective gear. Needless to say, it’s important to be visible while training, especially if you’re out there alone reciting that mantra to prepare for the marathon you regret signing up for. Having reflective socks is just one option available to you, and the ReflecToes are worth a glance.

At first, you’ll notice the obnoxiously bright yellow color, although other colors are available. This is a passive feature that works better in the daytime. What really makes these socks shine is the use of directionally oriented mirrors built into the fabric. Instead of relying on a reflective spray or fabric, there are actual mirrors, which means 10 to 50 times more light is reflected back. The only way that a car’s driver won’t see you is if they’re blinded by your socks.

All joking aside, these socks are designed for performance for either running or cycling. So you can be sure that the moisture-wicking material will last step after step after step. Make sure to read the washing instructions though, because there are some special instructions for the cotton/polyester/spandex blend.

There are many advantages to wearing compression socks, namely that they increase circulation and improve recovery. They are great for those with medical needs, but athletes and runners have been using and benefiting from them for years.

CEP specializes in making compression clothing, so it isn’t just a feature for them to add on. This sets the athletic compression socks apart. Rising to just below the knee, these socks offer 20 to 30 mmHg of graduated compression, which means that you’ll notice more squeeze near the ankle. The seamless construction is sure to help you step up your game by preventing chafing and blisters. Available in nine color options, there is nothing to stop you from overcoming that obstacle.

If you run long enough, then you’re bound to develop blisters at some point. Those daring enough to sign up for Ragnars, Spartans, and other races are sure to experience them. Choosing a pair of socks that actively fight the development of blisters plays as vital a role as selecting the right pair of shoes.

Balega socks are definitely premium running socks, and the “blister resist” is no joke. To start, these socks are built with a seamless toe box that eliminates the potential of chafing and blisters on the toes. The heel features a tab to prevent chafing from the back of the shoe and keep the socks riding high miles down the road. Balega uses a proprietary fabric called Drynamix to wick away moisture, keeping your feet cool and dry. To top it all off, the mohair and wool make these socks incredibly soft.

Few things are more frustrating than spending good money on a pair of socks that fall apart fast. Your money ought to buy you something that’ll last, or at least a darn good warranty program. Enter Darn Tough socks that provide just that. Even if the socks don’t hold up, there is a lifetime guarantee to fix or replace them, easy as pie. With these socks made in Vermont, you might think these socks were made just for hikers — think again.

The micro-crew is a unique length, just shy of traditional crew length below the calf. This offers a little protection from dirt and debris while running, as well as extra material to keep you warm. Darn Tough socks feature Merino wool as a vital component in the construction, which blends nicely with the nylon and lycra for a soft and secure feel. You won’t have to worry about chafing with a seamless toe and the breathable mesh fights blisters.