After all those unwanted pairs in your Christmas stocking over the years, you’d never of guess that one day, you’d be reading about socks. : )
But, it’s a piece of running kit that’s often overlooked. A combination of the right running shoe, and a specifically design running sock is going to make your new-found hobby much more enjoyable.
The perfect combo will help reduce or prevent:
- Sweating
- Blisters
- Hot feet
- Athlete’s food
But, we didn’t write up a stupidly long “165 Of The Best Running Socks” article; there’s really no need.
Instead, we’ve wrote a quick review – 6 of the most well known running socks used for to reduce blisters, known for breathability and to help with hot feet whilst running.
We’ve also added our “Top Pick” at the end of the article.
The Best Running Socks This Year
1. Thirty48 Running Socks
Our pick for: Best Running Socks To Reduce Sweating
Let’s start with a brand that specialises, in socks; Thirty48.
That’s right, all they sell is socks. They obviously enjoyed their Christmas stockings more than we did.
They’ve created specifically designed socks for sports such as hiking, biking and of course, running.
Not the main priority with running socks, but all Thirty48 products do look cool, and you can tell they are exceptionally high quality.
More importantly, the moisture wicking properties help keep sweat at bay. And, that means you can say bye-bye to blisters and athletes foot.
That’s the beginning of keeping you comfortable. The arch of the sock is elastic for a perfect fit and each pressure point has more than sufficient padding.
Plenty of styles to choose from – a great unisex running sock.
2. 2XU Compression Performance Running Socks
Our pick for: The Best Running Socks For Hot Feet
I’m a huge fan of compression clothing of any kind. Applying minimal (but equally distributed) pressure across an area of the body helps to improve blood flow. This can help with issues like cramp, or knee pain.
In the case of the 2XU Compression Performance sock, it’s going to help with hot feet, as well as reducing the chance of injury.
The problem with a lot of compression clothing, is it’s not running specific. And, that means it’s not breathable.
Well, all hail 2XU, as they’ve produced a compression sock specifically for running, and that means it’s completely breathable, and has moisture wicking properties to keep your feet dry.
They’re not cheap, but if you’re struggling with hot feet whilst running – truly worth the cash.
3. Smartwool Phd Light Elite Low-Cut Running Socks
Our pick for: The Best Trail Running Socks
Merino wool is a material that’s commonly used in hiking and mountaineering gear. There’s a good reason for that; the moisture wicking properties of Merino wool are second to none. To a point where even if you end up with soaking wet feet, clothing can be dried off in a matter of minutes.
And, that’s why I’d suggest this sock if you run regularly in light rain, or run boggy trails.
4. Feetures Elite Max Cushion
Our pick for: The Best Running Socks To Prevent Blisters
Next, we’ve got the Feetures Elite Max Cushion. They’re construction is unique. They call it “Sock-Lock Support”. Essentially, it offers compression across the foot, but only in certain areas that are prone to blistering. These same areas are also given extra padding.
If you’re a runner that’s suffering with blisters, then this is the sock for you.
5. Balega Hidden Comfort Running Sock
Our pick for: The Best Cheap Running Socks
There’s little in the way of price difference between our top 6 running socks. The Balega is the cheapest option, but not by much.
The Balega running sock has a few real strengths:
- It’s one of the most comfortable socks on our list.
- It’s cheap.
- They have over 1,800 reviews online.
They’ve focused on all the finer details to ensure optimal comfort for runners. And, this is helped along by their aerating polyester and thick padding.
Suitable for runners who tend to run a little heavy footed.
6. Bridgedale Speed Trail Running Sock
Our pick for: Best Running Socks To Prevent Athlete’s Foot
Although Bridgedale have aimed this at the trail running market – we think it’s got a much better use.
The Bridgedale Speed Trail Running Sock is the perfect sock to help reduce and prevent athlete’s foot.
It’s Merino wool construction means it’s not just going to allow moisture to evaporate quickly, but also stop any unwanted dirt or water entering the sock.
This is all coupled with a healthy amount of padding, especially on the balls of your feet.
Our Top Pick: The Best All-Round Running Sock
We’re looking at a close toss-up here between the Balega Hidden Comfort and the Thirty48 sock.
But, we just can’t argue with a brand that has a singular focus like Thirty48 has.
Either are an excellent choice, but Thirty48 gets our vote.
What’s Next?
Looking for some new gear for your 2020 runs?
