Having the right running kit can change the way you run. From trainers to provide a balance of bounce, shock absorbance and support, to leggings and vests to keep you cool and sweat-free, whatever the weather.
So why shouldn’t we take the same care when it comes to our socks? Product expert at Runners Need Christian Allen stresses “the right pair of running socks is vital for good performance, comfort and support because they have been designed specifically to increase ventilation, wick moisture and offer support in all the right places”.
He adds, “the importance of socks is often overshadowed by the quest toâ¯find the perfect pair of running shoes, however, without the support of some high-quality running socks, problems such as blisters, overheating and discomfort can sometimes persist”.
The right sock for your foot and running style will impact your performance. Whether leisurely 5ks, competitive sprinting or marathon training, you need the best support and comfort at all times, and this in turn will prevent any sprains, strains or more serious damage to your body post-run.
What to look out for when choosing your running socks?
Fabric: Check the material of your socks. Technical synthetic materials are best, with sweat-wicking and breathable features. Christian suggests avoiding cotton as ”it holds moisture and traps it against your skin, which causes blisters in the summer and coldness in the winter”. Look out for seam-free toes to avoid any uncomfortable bumps or chafing under your trainers.
Length: Choose between shorter ankle ones to fit under your trainers with high heel tabs to avoid your trainers rubbing against your skin, or longer compression-style socks to cover your whole calf. This depends on what style you are looking for and prefer.
Features: Have a look at the benefits of each sock – do they provide ankle support to keep your foot in place while on the move? Do they provide compression to avoid injuries? Have they got anti-blister and anti-odour properties? Are they lightweight, breathable or waterproof? How cushioned are they – this is a very important one. The more cushioned they are in the high-impact areas, the more comfortable your run will feel and the less stress and impact your feet will take.
Now see our pick of the best running socks to help you with choosing the right ones…
Best running shoes for men 2022
Best running shoes for women 2022
Best running books to inspire and motivate you
Best trail running shoes for towpaths, hill-climbs, off-road runs and more
Best running shorts for women to invest in for summer runs
Best running headphones of 2022: Wireless earbuds that are great for exercise
Balega Hidden Comfort Limited Edition Running Socks
Add a playful detail while on the move with Balega’s colourful selection of limited-edition running socks – we love the neon/aqua or scuba/coral styles. Not only will your feet light up, they will also be protected from the miles trodden in with the super comfortable fabric and under sole cushioning – so no blisters here.
The high heel tab and low modulus elastane also prevent the socks from slipping around and provide a structured but non-restrictive fit. Made from a super soft and sweat-wicking fabric, exclusively for Balega, along with reinforced microfibre mesh ventilation panels – pop on your feet and keep them cool and dry however sweaty you may get!
Buy now £14.00, Amazon
Bombas Women’s Performance Running Quarter Socks
Lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking, these socks are an excellent option for every type of runner, whether jogging around the park or competing in a competitive race.
From the seamless toe design, eradicating any annoying bumps under your trainer, to the Honeycomb Support System protecting your arches, they will keep your feet secure and comfy while completing your laps. There are also temperature regulating vents to allow continuous airflow to prevent sweaty feet. As a bonus, with every pair purchased from Bombas, one pair of socks is donated to the homeless.
Buy now £16.00, Bombas
Balega Blister Resist Crew Socks for Men and Women
The clever combination of mohair and Drynamix in Balega’s running sock is an ideal mix to provide the perfect blister-resistant option for active runners with sensitive feet.
Mohair – a natural soft fibre – regulates the temperature of your feet, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter, while Drynamix – a high-performance synthetic yarn – focuses on keeping moisture away from your skin.
The seamless toes also minimises friction and any chafing on top of the foot, while the high heel tab and arch support with compression keeps them from slipping with a snug fit.
Buy now £14.50, Amazon
Sweaty Betty Crew Running Socks 2 Pack
Sweaty Betty offers a lovely sustainable option with the Crew running socks, made from 71 per cent recycled polyamide. Choose one of the chic colour block designs such as regatta blue or opal green and slip on for a padded fit to protect your feet while hitting the parks and streets. The material features breathable mesh panels with extra cushioning at the sole and heel for a super comfortable fit, eliminating any unwanted rubbing.
Buy now £25.00, Sweaty Betty
Saucony Women’s Socks (Pack of 6)
Have a pair of socks ready for every run thanks to Saucony’s convenient multipack. Simply pull on to experience the ultimate comfort while running with their target zone cushioning in high-impact areas and mesh ventilation for enhanced breathability. The RunDry Moisture Management will keep your feet dry throughout your training, and along with their arch support for a secure fit, they are a durable, long-lasting option.
Buy now £21.78, Amazon
Nike Trail Running Crew Socks
Specialising in sporting design and innovation, Nike has taken insight from trail runners around the world to create running socks for off-road trails. Made with NikeGrip yarn, your feet will keep securely in place with grips underfoot and heavier yarn wrapped around the arch for optimum support.
The wool blend fabric will regulate temperature throughout the different seasons and remain breathable with continuous airflow. The heel tab and longer length will help keep dirt out and prevent any painful trainer rubbing.
Buy now £19.95, Nike
Hilly Marathon Fresh Socklet
Head out on your run armed with Hilly Marathon’s fresh socklets – complete with ventilation panels, seamless undertoes and anatomical cushioning, they’re a great option for all distances and types of running. Featuring a Polygiene odour control treatment, your feet will remain fresh as you rack up the mileage.
Buy now £12.00, Runners Need
Rockay Vigor Compression Socks
Eliminate aches and pains post-run with Vigor’s compression socks. The socks are crafted from the label’s sustainable performance fabrics that also have a lovely skin-feel, they are made up of 100 per cent recycled materials with 16-23 mmHg graduated compression.
This means that the socks will increase blood circulation while running and limit vibrations up the leg which will work to promote a speedy recovery with reduced fatigue and muscle trauma. The running essentials also feature an anti-odour coating and anti-blister cushioning.
Buy now £16.00, Amazon
Stance Independence Tab Socks
Enjoy every step of your run wearing Stance’s uniquely-designed socks, engineered with FEEL360 technology for climate control to keep you comfortable whatever the conditions. The performance cushioning will protect your feet from impact along with performance arch support to fight off strains and injuries. They are lightweight, breathable and offer good value for money.
Buy now £8.80, Runners Need
Under Armour Unisex Core Ultra Low Socks
Nab a trio of Under Armour’s sweat-wicking running socks and keep your toes, soles and arches cool, dry and light throughout your sprints and jogs. The Heat Gear fabric will acclimatise to your feet, while anti-odour technology will prevent the growth of unpleasant aroma-causing microbes. This is further enhanced by mesh panels to encourage breathability. Pull on to feel the strategic cushioning in high-impact areas and feel the arch support to provide long-lasting comfort.
Buy now £8.00, Amazon
