As a runner, you know that every detail of your equipment matters. You carefully select your shoes for the perfect fit and wear clothes that won't chafe, hold on to sweat, or slow you down. So why settle for made-for-the-masses socks that slip, blister, trap heat, and cause discomfort? You deserve better! You deserve today’s best running socks designed with every technical advantage runners require to go the distance in comfort. You just need to know what to look for.
Let’s discuss the six key features the best running socks will offer.
The Best Running Socks Will Have These Six Things
1. Breathable, Sweat-Wicking Materials
One prominent feature of well-built running socks is the fabric they are made from. We’ve tested numerous materials and found that a few were better than most.
For example, cotton socks aren’t very good at wicking away moisture. When your feet create heat and sweat forms in a cotton sock, it has nowhere to go. Depending on the climate, you’re either left with cold, wet feet, or hot, sweaty, heavy socks. Either scenario does not make for a comfortable run. One natural fibre that does make an excellent running sock is Merino wool.
Merino wool is designed by nature to wick away moisture in the heat, insulate and maintain body warmth in the cold, and resist odour no matter the temperature. Merino wool is also naturally durable, soft, and lightweight. Our collection of Merino 10 running socks combine the natural advantages of Merino wool with super soft, sweat-wicking TENCEL fibres to ensure your feet stay dry and as temperature-regulated as possible in any weather or terrain.
Another superstar material for running socks is nylon. This quick-drying synthetic material is excellent at wicking away moisture to keep feet dry. Because nylon provides a better stretch than cotton, it’s also a favoured material to prevent slippage, blistering, and discomfort. Nylon is also a lightweight material, which some runners prefer.
2. A Seamless Toe
If you've ever gone for a run without wearing proper socks, you know how pivotal seam placement can be. Seams that rub and move around cause friction between your foot and the shoe, resulting in blisters. And runs with blisters? That can make a mile feel like a marathon. Seamless toe socks help to minimise friction, slippage, and bunching, which allows you to perform your best. We design all our running socks with a seamless, Perfect Toe® design so you can make strides without thinking about your feet.
3. Friction-Fighting Heel Tabs & Designs
Any runner knows that where there is friction, there is bound to be a blister. A pitfall of most conventional socks today is the lack of heel protection, and another reason why made-for-the-masses socks make poor running gear.
Technical running socks designed with heel tabs help reduce the opportunity for friction between the heel of the shoe and the ankle, in turn minimising sock slippage and blisters. Even when your feet are sweating, heel tabs help keep your sock in place. So if you're looking for a good pair of running socks, choose ones with a no-show heel tab that sits below the ankle for maximum comfort.
Not crazy about heel tabs? No sweat! All of Feetures running socks are designed with Y-Heel Construction, Arch Band Support, and Heel Hugger technology to protect against sock slippage inside of your shoes. While heel tabs will maximise heel comfort, you can still get a well-fitting, stay-put running sock in the tab-free style you prefer.
4. Superior Cushioning
In your search for the best running socks for men and women, you’ll come across ultra-thin socks and highly cushioned pairs. How do you know which is best for you? Consider the climate and type of running you’ll be doing. Both thin and thick socks offer benefits to runners. For example, thin socks provide a lighter, cooler feel, while thicker socks offer maximum cushioning, comfort, and extra protection in high-impact areas.
A thin pair of running socks can provide the protection you need without restricting your feet if you're going for a run in the summer heat. If you’re pounding the pavement in colder weather, a little extra cushioning can make all the difference. At Feetures, our men's running socks and women's running socks are available in Ultra-Light, Light, Cushion, and Max Cushion to meet your needs and preferences.