Running socks might seem like a straightforward enough product, but the wrong ones can slow you down and leave your feet blistered. Knowing what to look for in the right pair of running socks is vital to the quality of your workout (and your wind-down after).
The running socks you choose to wear can mean the difference between having a comfortable, pain-free run and a painfully dreadful one. By wearing the wrong running socks for even a mile, you can suffer from blistering, chafing, foot odor, and other unpleasant and painful problems. And it’s not that uncommon for runners to wear the wrong running socks for years without ever realizing how much of a difference the right pair of running socks can make.
Choosing the Best Running Socks for You
Running socks come in a variety of styles, materials, thicknesses, and sizes. So, how do you know which running socks are right for you? Here are some tips on what to look for in your next pair of running socks.
1. Consider the material.
This is really The material of your socks is what gives you breathability, keeps you dry, and protects your skin from chafing, itchiness and irritation.
First of all, we recommend that you stay away from 100% cotton running socks. When 100% cotton gets wet, it stays wet – so if your feet sweat or you step into a puddle, that moisture will stay with you. This can not only cause discomfort but can also cause blisters and sores.
Instead, try synthetic materials and blends. The best running socks are made using synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, spandex, X-Temp, CoolMax and other fibers. These fibers will wick away moisture as you go while staying breathable and comfortable.
2. Choose the right anatomic shape for your feet.
If you’ve been wearing plain cotton tube socks for running, it’s likely that the fabric has been bunching up around your arches and irritating your feet.
Well-made running socks are constructed to hug the contours of your feet, so you won’t experience discomfort or blistering.
Running socks are also designed specifically for men and women to match the typical foot shapes of each sex.
3. Remember, size matters.
If your socks are too small, they can restrict your circulation. And if they’re too large, they’ll bunch up, rub against your skin, and cause sores. When you’re buying running socks, read the fit information and make sure you’re choosing the right sock size for your shoe size.
4. Look for other features.
Based on your specific needs and preferences, you can choose running socks with a variety of different features. Here are a few of the most popular sock features among runners and athletes:
Compression
Compression running socks are popular among runners because they help redirect more blood flow uphill to your heart.
Cushioning
Some runners prefer socks with padded soles, which can give the heels a little extra cushion. Other socks have small cushioning panels at the top back of the ankle, which protects the skin from coming into correct contact with the shoe.
Elastic
Many running socks have elastic strips or inserts along the tops and the arches to keep your socks in place while you run. If your socks stay in place, they won’t slide down or twist around your arches to expose the back of your foot to your shoes or cause discomfort while you run.
Height
Running socks come in a variety of heights, from no-show and ankle height to crew length and knee-high. If you prefer lower cut no-show socks, there are styles available with a tab that goes right above the back of your running shoe to make sure your shoe doesn’t dig into your skin.
Find a better fit,
Tomima