Running in running shoes alone will drastically increase your risk of injury, blisters, and hot spots.
The next most important thing you should get after your running shoes is a pair of running socks.
Running socks will ensure your shoes fit properly and also provide cushion and support for your feet. Proper running socks are specially designed to remove moisture and provide comfort and protection against common running injuries.
There are literally thousands of running socks to choose from, so how do you find the best running socks for your feet?
Below I’ll show you how to pick the best running socks for your feet and your running needs so you can get out there and start focusing on enjoying your run.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks | Best Overall |  |
| Balega Blister Resist No Show | Budget Pick |  |
| Drymax R-Gear No Show Running Socks | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks
Pros:
- Unisex design
- Superior moisture-wicking capabilities
- Breathes well
- Provides the perfect amount of cushioning and support
The Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks are an unisex design that are suited for both male runners and female runners. They have a seamless design that offers a superior level of comfort and support for all day use.
The Hidden Comfort socks have superior moisture-wicking capabilities and they breathe well so your feet stay dry. In addition, they have a cushioning that provides the perfect level of cushioning and support so you stay energized throughout the day.
What’s great about these socks is the fact that they are super thin and lightweight. This makes them the perfect socks to wear not only for running, but also for other activities like cycling, training, yoga, hiking, or just casual wear.
2. Feetures Elite Max Cushion No Show Tab Sock Block
Pros:
- 4″ in length, ideal for running
- Silicone grippers for peace of mind
- Extra cushioning in the ball of the foot
- No-show length, perfect for athletic shoes
- Great colors and materials
Cons:
- Only three colors to choose from: white, black, and gray
- Can be difficult to put on
The Feetures Elite Max Cushion No Show Tab Socks are long and thin to conform to the shape of your foot. They’re also made from Coolmax fabric, which provides a soft and breathable feel. The socks come with a tab on the heel that’s made from silicone. This feature allows you to take the socks on and off while running without having to stop and lose your momentum.
The socks are also made from fabric that includes reinforced stitching to prevent rubbing and blistering. They come in a variety of colors, but you’re limited to the selections on Amazon. The socks are thin and light, making them ideal for running.
3. Feetures Unisex Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab Sock Solid
Pros:
- Great comfort
- Superior moisture-wicking
- Great traction
- Moisture-absorbing
- Anti-bacterial
- Good sizing
- Very durable
- Perfect for everyday and exercise use
- Does not wear out
- Fit is comparable to other more expensive socks
The Feetures Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab Socks are top-notch running socks with a hint of stability as well as breathability. They offer cushioning near the sole, the Achilles tendon, and the instep, but are lightweight. They feature a ventilated mesh heel and arch design. This allows your feet to breathe while in use.
They have a longer and thicker toe to protect you from blisters and pain. The top portion has a bacterial control which is great for preventing odor. These are superb socks, both durable and comfortable. The seams are well-placed to reinforce the stretches where you need it most.
The Feetures Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab Socks have great cushioning around the ankle which is a nice feature. Elite socks are similar to athletic socks where they are getting an additional layer of cushioning to protect your feet. As mentioned, they have anti-bacterial properties which helps protects your skin from bacteria and odor.
4. Thorlos
Pros:
- They’re soft yet durable
- They add extra cushion for better shock absorption
- The sizing runs large, so they’re great to wear with sneakers or cross trainers
- The durability factor
- They’re designed to control moisture management, which can result in extended comfort
- They’re very affordable
Cons:
- They’re not made to be worn on long runs
- They’re a bit heavy
Thorlos socks are some of the best socks for ultra-runners, considering their silver-ion technology that is designed to reduce odor and moisture. Moisture-wicking and odor-resisting, you can wear Thorlos socks on a long run or a short jog. Lightweight and durable, Thorlos run socks can be worn with any running shoe and are one of the top-rated socks for comfort.
5. Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks
Pros:
- Unisex design
- Superior moisture-wicking capabilities
- Breathes well
- Provides the perfect amount of cushioning and support
The Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks are an unisex design that are suited for both male runners and female runners. They have a seamless design that offers a superior level of comfort and support for all day use.
The Hidden Comfort socks have superior moisture-wicking capabilities and they breathe well so your feet stay dry. In addition, they have a cushioning that provides the perfect level of cushioning and support so you stay energized throughout the day.
What’s great about these socks is the fact that they are super thin and lightweight. This makes them the perfect socks to wear not only for running, but also for other activities like cycling, training, yoga, hiking, or just casual wear.
6. Drymax R-Gear No Show Running Socks
Pros:
- No-show socks are the best way to keep your feet cool and keep your running comfortable
- Ultra-thin
- Fabric is lightweight and extra breathable
- Good moisture-wicking qualities
- Easy to clean and maintain
- The colors stay true after multiple washes
- The fit is not tight, and they stay on your feet comfortably
- The socks are made of high-quality material
- The packaging of the socks is sturdily done
- The socks are nicely delivered in a resealable plastic package
7. Feetures High Performance Cushion No Show Tab Sock Solid
Pros:
- The proven Feetures merino wool blend for maximum comfort
- The tabless design reduces blisters and the cushioning minimizes shock to your arch for a smooth run
- The seamless construction reduces chafing
- The high-tech CoolMax keeps your feet cool
- You can select a similar design for men or women
- Feetures is offering a Two-Year Warranty
Cons:
- Be on the lookout for sizes that are too small, as the stitching can dig into the skin.
This Feetures No Show tab sock is a great option for those who want a sock that won’t bunch up under your footgear and is effective at keeping sweat from your skin. This sock has proven itself to be the best for runners, as it is ultra-thin with a low-slumber design.
The top of the sock is made from a special cushion layer that reduces the shock felt by the arch of the foot, while a second layer of merino wool is there to keep the foot warm and dry.
The seamless construction prevents chafing whether you wear flip flops or high-top boots, and the toe, heel, and ankle are all reinforced for durability. This is a well made, high-quality sock that will last for many days on end of comfortable running.
8. Injinji Run 2.0 Lightweight No-Show Toe Socks
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- High-quality material
- Reliable company
- Prevents blisters
- Perfect for ambidextrous people
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Not warm enough for winter
The Injinji Run 2.0 Lightweight No-Show Toe Socks are a great choice for people whose feet get sore easily, or for anyone who wants a little extra cushioning.
The Injinji socks are made out of a nylon/Lycra blend, which is soft and helps to prevent blisters between the toes. They also include a patented SmartWool lining, which provides a comfortable feeling and excellent moisture management.
The Injinji socks are designed to be used for running, fitness, hiking, cycling, travel, cross training and other similar activities.
9. Thorlos Experia
Pros:
- Rated highly for blister prevention
- Ultra-lightweight
- Excellent support
- Fit a wide range of feet
- Stay in place and are well-ventilated
- Made from breathable fibers
- Great customer service from Thorlos
- No noticeable odor and feet remained dry
- Seem to hold up well
- Amazing cushioning
Cons:
- Runs slightly large
- If you have wide feet, they can potentially feel a bit tight
Reviewers love how sturdy these running socks feel on their feet yet they are still very lightweight. They also receive frequent compliments on how clean and fresh their feet smell after a run.
Many runners and reviewers agree that these socks are the most comfortable they’ve ever worn. Their proprietary cushioning system, as well as their extra thick construction and heel zones, make them exceedingly cushy.
A few reviewers report that these socks run just a bit larger than expected, so it’s important to size them correctly. For those with very wide feet, this can mean they feel a tad tight.
10. Balega Blister Resist No Show
Pros:
- Well ventilated
- Very absorbent
- Breathability
- Minimal toe seam
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- Compression is not that great
- Quality control is questionable
Wearing the right socks can make a big difference in the way your foot feels when running. If you have ever experienced blisters or sores on your feet, wet socks after a workout, or just a general uncomfortableness, you know that to get running socks right, you need socks that are constructed with the material that is ideal for your needs. The right socks will decrease the chances of blisters, sores, and wet socks after your workout.
This next item on our list of best socks for running are the most important factor when choosing the right socks:
They are extremely comfortable, they keep your feet cool and dry on the hot days, and they won’t chafe your ankles.
11. Nike Mens Elite Lightweight No-Show Tab Running Socks
Pros:
- They are very lightweight and comfortable
- Cushioning is just right to protect feet from blisters and chafing
- Conforms to your feet
- Great for low impact outdoor runs
- Excellent breathability
- They stay in place perfectly
- They don’t require any break-in period
- Fit true to size
To make the list of top running socks your feet will definitely have to feel good in these Nike men’s no-show anti-blister running socks.
The Nike Elite Lightweight No-Show Tab running socks are made with Dri-FIT fabric that wicks away sweat to keep your feet dry and cool. The over-the-calf design and cushioning provides excellent support for those long distance runs. Also, heel and toe reinforcements keep these running socks snug yet comfortable to minimize slippage.
12. Drymax R-Gear No Show Running Socks
Pros:
- Well-made from quality material and construction
- The pack comes in a versatile combination of colors
- A microfiber mesh upper that keeps moisture away from your feet
- A special footbed that supports the arch area
- Stretchy toe seams so you can freely reposition the sock
- Sizing for men & women
- Will keep your feet cool, dry, and blister free
- Fits nicely inside any type of athletic shoe
- Seamless toe area
Compression Arch Support with Ultra-Lite Arch Support, 5-8.
The Drymax R-Gear No Show Running Socks are one of the most effective compression socks out of the bunch. Compression foot socks relieve soreness, pain, and swelling in the foot. Since these socks come in a 2-pair and 3-pair package, you can use these socks as a base layer on top of your foot.
This will add breathable protection from blisters and calluses as well as rash prevention. The only drawback to this sock is that it is a bit tight around the foot. Otherwise, these are a great pair of socks that offers a lightweight compression sock that is free of blisters.
13. Feetures – Elite Ultra Light
Pros:
- Reduced foot slipping
- The material wicks away moisture
- Very light weight
- Great quality
- Ultra thin supportive sock
- No show tab
Cons:
- Veins on the bottom of feet can show through the socks
- Some found the mediums were too small
Feetures is a company that has been manufacturing the best quality socks for your feet since 1982. Their Ultra Light No Show Tab socks are the most popular and best-selling socks available on the market to date. The socks are lightweight and have been specially designed to fit both men and women.
The material is crafted with high-quality chemicals that keep moisture away from your skin, which can cause sweat, odors, and blisters. You won’t feel these materials on your foot. The socks are also designed to be the correct fitting. They are made extra thin to allow your shoes to fit more comfortably.
The socks come in three colors: power purple, navy-blue, and black. All of them will not get lost because they are No Show Socks for men and women. The power purple color is exclusive to Feetures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best running socks?
Running socks may not be a huge purchase, but they sure are a very important one. Unfortunately, you can’t simply pick them up anywhere, so you need to consider a few things. This involves checking the length, material content, and if they include any other running accessories.
The best running socks are made from moisture wicking materials and have a seamless toe box. This is one of the most important features to look for. The sock, especially the toe area needs to be seamless for a number of different reasons.
This is because the toes and toes areas of your feet probably need the most support. It is also the most sensitive area of your feet, so you need the least amount of interference as possible. Seams can cause blistering, and there are even more concerns if the seams are located in the toe area.
What socks do runners wear?
As runners, we tend to spend more and more time getting new gear every year. While you don't need to upgrade your gear at the drop of a hat, when it comes to socks, buying the best running socks will do wonders for your running journey.
For us, it's all about having a great fitting sock that moves with us when we're running. We've all had a pair of socks that have left blisters and sore spots after running, and we've all sought out the best socks for running.
As we all know the ins and outs of running, we are familiar with how one tiny thing can niggle. We are always on the lookout for the best running socks.
Highly recommended for long-distance runners, these socks are a cross between a running sock and a hiking sock. They are thin enough to be worn on a regular run, but have an extra layer of protection for comfort during longer distance runs.
Are running socks worth it?
Running socks are pretty inexpensive and they are a relatively small thing to add to your running gear.
There are actually some interesting benefits of wearing running socks.
Below are some of the most crucial benefits:
Should running socks be thick or thin?
Running socks should not be too thick or thin. It is best to get socks that are accommodating and comfortable. You will be able to feel your feet and even more comfortable, when you are running.
Thick running socks are not the best for running. It will make your feet feel heavy and even much more tired even as you run.
Running in short socks is also not recommended. It is hard to check the soles of your feet while you are running. You might get some wounds on your foot if you run in shorts.
So what if it is not comfortable if it has a good support and you can handle it, still, it is important that you check it first if it is comfortable to the feet or not.
Conclusion
You’ve got to have the right gear if you’re planning to go running. And one of the most important pieces of that gear is your socks.
There are several good options out there, but we’re going to narrow them down to two categories – compression socks and the others. What’s the difference between the two? Well, compression socks are designed to compress your foot, not necessarily to protect it. And the others are designed to do both.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks | Best Overall | |
| Balega Blister Resist No Show | Budget Pick | |
| Drymax R-Gear No Show Running Socks | Upgrade Pick | |