Do you know, your choice of running socks can make the difference between a comfortable, pain-free run and a painful one. Wearing the wrong type of socks can lead to foot blisters, chafing, corns, and other issues. Some runners run in the wrong socks for years. Now we will show you how much better your feet could feel in the right running socks.
The essentials of running socks
Running socks come in many different types of material, thicknesses, and sizes. Here are some tips on what to look for to keep your feet dry, happy, and blister-free.
1. Materials of running socks
- Say no to cotton
The most important factor to choose socks is the material. As a rule of thumb, stay away from materials like cotton. Because cotton is porous and water absorbent. When your feet are wet the socks get damp and retain the smell. When feet wear damp socks for a long time, this will be an ideal environment for bacteria, blisters. In addition, when using cotton socks in winter will make you feel wet and cold. Of course, cotton will be cheaper than other materials, but spend money choosing other materials that are worth it.
- Effects of materials
Our feet hold up to 250000 sweat glands, so choose materials that are engineering, lightweight and equipped with excellent perspiration absorption. High-performance socks specially designed for runners can remove moisture from the foot area and create a comfortable, dry feeling.
Ideal running socks are made from materials such as acrylic, CoolMax and polyester. Polyester and nylon are popular synthetic fibers for running socks because they are both sweat-absorbent, breathable and more durable than cotton. Some high-performance socks are also designed with mesh ventilation. Also, consider looking for fabrics with anti-odor properties to keep your feet clean and fragrant.
About other running gear read: Essential Running Gear List That You Need for Training
2. Thickness of running socks
Like the sock thickness and size, it is also designed with varying degrees of cushioning. Different socks materials and styles create different levels of cushioning.
Thick socks often have heel and toe padding, providing more comfort under the feet and more cushioning, however, this can make it difficult to get used to a new pair of socks. In general, socks are good for the cold season. Thin socks, on the other hand, will give you a better sense of the road surface but can lead to excessive running friction, especially making you more prone to puffing.
In general, the type of socks that are right for you depend the most on each person’s taste. Ultra-thin socks, for example, may not be comfortable for many people while a pair of shoelaces can affect the fit and comfort level of a shoe. But be careful to choose a pair of socks with moderate cushioning at all points of contact around the foot and points of high impact.
3. Anatomic shape
If you’ve been wearing shapeless tube socks for running, you run the risk of having the fabric bunch in your shoes and irritate your skin. Running socks are constructed to hug the contours of your feet so this potential source of blisters is eliminated.
Look for running socks that have an elastic arch lock to keep your socks in place. Some are designed specifically for men and women to match the typical shapes of feet for each gender. However, you can even find socks labeled for the left foot and right foot.
These socks may even provide the sensation of added arch support while running. The actual support they offer is minimal but they may be able to boost your comfort level.
4. Other features of right running socks
- Anti blistering
Blistering is a nightmare for runners, especially for a long time. Some engineering socks use a 2-layer system to help prevent blistering because the frictional effect is reduced by the two layers of material moving together, rather than against your skin. The downside of these 2 layers is that the socks are less ventilated and breathable than the regular running socks.
If you tend to get blistering, consider doing any of the following to limit the friction between your foot and the inside of the shoe:
-
- Choice of anti-bulging socks with a two-layer system;
- Wear a second layer of socks for extra protection
- Wear thicker socks.
- Different Heights
Running socks come in various heights, from no-show to knee-highs. If you prefer no-show socks, just make sure that they have a tab that goes above your running shoe and over your Achilles, so your shoe isn’t digging into or irritating your skin.
Here are some of the main types
-
- Reach below the knee to cover all calves
- Calf length
- Ankle length
- The sock is a bit higher than the shoe
- Compression
Compression running socks or compression sleeves have become popular with runners. Undoubtedly, these socks have a very snug fit and may take longer to put on. Some are even made out of medical-grade materials. In fact, they are designed to help return blood flow uphill to your heart. Some people often use compression socks for post-run recovery, and while some runners wear them during workouts, you should get adjusted to using them regularly before committing to them for a long run.
Top 5 true running socks that are advised by athletes
1. Swiftwick Pursuit Ultralight
Price: $19.99
Swiftwick Pursuit Ultralights – “Minimalist” wool socks
Top performance in trail gear now means rugged, ready to handle kilometers, and also light and streamlined. Shoes, hydration bags, jackets, and more are all on board, using the best technologies available to reduce your load and help you navigate the trail comfortably. That is why the product comes in.
The Pursuit Ultralight is extremely light, ensuring a great fit in any performance shoe. The addition of Olefin makes the sock lighter while the wick will be wet and dry quickly.
2. Smartwool PhD Pro Endurance
Price: $25.95
Smartwool PhD Pro Light Crew features a blend of synthetic merino wool with powerful cleaning capabilities and an optimized design capable of insulation over a wide temperature range.
It has a medium level of cushioning underfoot (although it’s called a lightweight sock) with strategically positioned vents over the top of the foot and throughout the shaft.
It is one of the most economical of all types of hiking socks.
3. Asics Cushioned Low Cut
Price: $10.00
Material – 81 percent acrylic, 17 percent polyester and 2 percent spandex – smooth, cushioned and cozy. The fitted y heels keep them in a comfortable position the entire time you wear them. The ankle pads also help resist any friction, which always comes in handy when running for longer. However, although the socks have padding at the sole, this cushioning is quite thin. This is suitable for those who like thin socks.
The Asics Cushion Low-Cut Socks are the cushioned, blister-preventing, and affordable active socks for marathon runners.
4. Darn Tough Run Ultra-Light Cushion
Price: $17.95
This seamless sock feels very comfortable on your feet without the ability to rub. There’s also a nice soft cushioning along the bottom of the sock for added protection when running long distances.
Another common favorite feature of the Darn Tough Vertex No Show Tab Ultra-Light Cushion is its ability to effectively absorb moisture.
In addition, Merino Wool’s breathing properties help you finish the race as comfortably as possible.
5. Rockay Accelerate
Price: $16.95 – $45.76
Rockay is a new company operating in Denmark whose mission is to declare itself “producing the best running products the world has ever seen while helping save our planet”. For those who are willing to pay a higher premium for luxury goods supporting a certain purpose, this might be a sure option for you.
Rockay comes in a variety of XS to XL, coming in 4-16 men’s and 3-15.5 women’s (US) sizes.
It is made of 66% Polyamide, 30% Organic Merino Wool and 4% Elastane. Wool covers the toe and heel, while an area of compressed material stretches across the arch of the foot, creating a unique design that meets the needs of each area of the foot.
The socks are thin enough for me to be able to carry them with the Nike Epic React without feeling tight, while still offering comfort above average. They also have perfect ankle height.
In conclusion, when shopping for running shoes, make sure you try on shoes with the socks you’re going to be running in because some socks will require you to go up a half-size. Hope you will find the best!
Read more:
Cold Weather Running Gear: Must-Have Winter Items Checklist
Best Reflective Running Gear To Run At Night And Early Morning
