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Everyone would agree that the most important item of kit for running is running shoes, but second to that is the socks. So, what's the difference between an ordinary sock and a running sock?
Running socks have many benefits and they tend to be more durable than average socks, as they're not 100% cotton. They're made from the best breathable, wicking fabrics such as polyester and nylon. They are constructed in a way that draws away moisture from the feet to keep them cool and dry, in order to improve comfort and minimise risk of blistering. They can also be your all-round socks if you run daily, or are always active and on your feet all day.
Cool or Wet Weather / Warm or Hot Weather / Compression / Blister Prevention / Trail Running / Marathon Running
How thick should running socks be? And what length of socks is best for running?
There's no right or wrong answer here, it's really personal preference. Depending on the weather or how hot your feet get, you may prefer thin or thick, no-show, anklet, or crew length. Some runners wear thin toe-socks all-year-round. Saying that, there are some elements to consider before you buy a pair of socks.
Running socks come in varying levels of thickness – from extra thin to thick and padded. Usually in warmer weather your feet expand, so it helps to wear thinner socks to allow space in your shoes. Obviously, this becomes more important the further you run, as the extra padding could offer blister protection. Of course, if your feet are very narrow or get cold, you may well prefer to wear a thicker sock all through the year.
Running socks are available in 3 different lengths, either no-show socklets which come just above the shoe line, anklets just above the ankle, or crew which come up to the calf. In winter it's good to go with something above the ankle because we do lose heat through our ankles. If you tend to get colder, try using running tights or higher socks.
Another type is compression socks, which are particularly good for helping with calf tightness and shin splints. Look out for toe socks too – designed originally for Vibram Five Fingers shoes, but also very popular now with distance runners in general.
Best Running Socks for Cool or Wet Weather
Generally, in the winter people prefer to wear a slightly thicker more padded sock. Some of the socks also have merino, which helps to keep the feet warm. Some wool content in a sock is also brilliant if your feet get wet – it helps to stop them feeling wet, as well as stopping them getting cold.
The Thorlo Experia socks have great cushioning and more padding in the heel and forefoot than any of the socks mentioned so far. Another favourable brand with similar amount of padding is Balega. If your ankles tend to feel more sensitive to the cold, you might want to try one of the socks below which come up a little further, minimising the gap between your socks and your tights… Brrrrr. I've been loving the Stance crew length socks the most during the colder months. Plus they come in a variety of awesome colours and designs!
The Hilly Supreme sock comes up past the ankle and has a 50% wool content. It is also anatomically designed – i.e. the right and left socks are a different shape. It is also anti-microbial and so non-smelly – quite an important feature for a sock that might get wet.
The Injinji Trail sock is our slightly padded – and so slightly warmer – five-finger sock. It also comes up past the ankle, with a wide ankle band that helps to keep the sock in place and keep out the mud.
Best Running Socks for Warm or Hot Weather
The Injinji toe socks are innovatively designed to reduce friction and promote natural movement. Helpfully preventing blisters making them a popular choice among runners, hikers and athletes. Offering various styles suited for different activities, all aimed at providing superior foot protection and comfort. Would you try them out?
The Stance running socks are made of an air channel cushioning and air vents to help keep your stay comfy and cool, supported by good wicking fabric. Anatomically designed sock with a slightly reinforced heel to toe – perfect good-looking socks that are available now in 3 different lengths.
Feetures Elite Light is another great thin sock that comes with a little bit of padding under the bottom of the foot, around the toes and heels.
Best Compression Socks
Compression socks help to support your muscles and reduce fatigue.
It's important that they fit well but are not too tight as the idea is to improve circulation rather than cut it off. So, get a tape measure, measure around the broadest part of your calf, and then match that against the size guide on the individual sock pages.
If you have a sock that you love and works for you, but find you get tight calves, the calf sleeves may be the way to go.
Best Running Socks to Prevent Blisters
The Twin Skin socks are great for longer distances or those prone to blistering, as the two layers rub against each other, rather than against your feet.
The Injinji toe socks come in different weights and lengths, as well as in unisex and female specific fitting. They are a great sock to wear, even if you don't use five-finger shoes. They can help prevent blistering from toenails rubbing on the adjacent toe. They have a meshy upper to help with ventilation.
Best Socks for Trail Running
Surely you have wondered – why do trail runners wear long socks? Crew socks are mainly used to protect the lower legs from potential scratching from bushes and harsh terrain. Meanwhile long compression socks and compression sleeves will offer muscle support to help improve blood circulation and reduce fatigue. However, you may still prefer the breathability of anklets if you're running in particularly warm conditions.
Keep your comfort when running through the hills and uneven terrains with twin socks, toe socks and padded technical socks. These will provide a bit more cushioning and coverage – reducing the chance of blisters and discomfort.
Which socks are good for rain or wet trail running?
There will be circumstances where you will be running in mud or heavy rain, so you could go for military grade MVP (Moisture Vapor Permeable) socks like the Sealskinz collection. These socks are completely waterproof and breathable. Plus, they are made with bamboo or merino wool for moisture control, insulation, and comfort. We assure you that they will change your outings in winter – no more cold, wet feet!
Best Socks for Running a Marathon
Preparing the kit for your race can be crucial, but with so many miles behind you, you probably already have an idea of what you find most comfortable in your training.
Any technical sock with good breathability, cushioning and drying properties will be good. As mentioned above, to prevent blisters you could try twin skin or five-finger socks. Compression and nicely padded options are also good over long distances.
Look out for minimal seams, soft fabrics and anti-odour treatment to keep your feet fresh and comfortable for longer. Anklets and crew socks are recommended to avoid unwanted surprises when socks slide down. If you tend to overheat or run in hot weather, no-show socks with a heel tab may come in handy.
As with running shoes, the fit and feel of running socks is extremely individual. The best thing to do is try a couple of different types at our store if you can, and see what you like best. Either way, these suggestions should help you with your preferred choice of socks.
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Cary LabdonMay 1, 2020 at 5:22pm
HelloIf I am between sizes where socks are concerned, should I buy the bigger size pair or the smaller size pair?
Thanks in advance
Cary Reply
Shankara SmithMay 1, 2020 at 6:29pm
Hi Cary,
I would always go bigger. Some brands come up small (Hilly) but even with those that run true to size there’s nothing more annoying than having to tug a sock to fit your heel. If they are a bit generous the amount of stretch in them will mean there’s no rucking and over washes they’ll often contract a bit anyway.
Kind regards
ReplyShankara