The 6 Best Running Socks of 2024 | GearJunkie Tested

Socks are easy to take for granted — unless you regularly pound the pavement or trot on the trail. Runners’ feet put in dozens, maybe hundreds, of miles every month, so it pays to take care of them with the best running socks available.

Socks have evolved from plain cotton sweat-soppers to highly technical, sport-specific pieces of gear designed by and for runners. We looked around and put in hundreds of miles on pavement and trails to find you the best running socks in the game. We found excellent running socks for warm weather, long-distance runs, compression, and more.

There’s not one great sock for everybody, but we’ve learned that there are great socks for all kinds of runners. And we’ve got a solid selection of the best right here. Be sure to check out our handy comparison chart, buyer’s guide, and price & value sections at the bottom of this article for help in dialing in the perfect fit.

Editor’s Note: This guide was updated on November 4, 2024, by adding the Near Earth The Distance Running Sock, the Swiftwick Flite XT, and the Bandit Cushion Run Current Quarter Crew.

Balega is well-known in the running industry, and for good reason. When we know we’re going to be spending a lot of time on our feet, Balega’s Hidden Comfort socks ($16) are the ones we go to.

The cushioning is noticeable as soon as you slip them on, and they feel soft and comfortable all day. Somehow, they pull off feeling extremely cushy without feeling bulky.

The cushioning wraps around the toe cap to the top of the toe to provide protective cushioning from the top of the shoe while seamless toes prevent irritation. Ventilation panels around the top vent out sweat and keep the feet from overheating.

The polyester Drynamics fabric pulls sweat away from the skin and allows it to evaporate, helping prevent blisters and that terrible soggy sock feeling.

One thing to watch out for is the large heel tab. While it did prevent the sock from sliding down or bunching up, we did notice that it had a tendency to collect dirt and grit during runs. It won’t be an issue if you wear gaiters, but it’s worth considering.

That quibble aside, the perks far outweigh the bugs with the Balega’s Hidden Comfort socks. The fit is snug and supportive without feeling restrictive, thanks to the rib-band construction. Not only does that construction add comfort, but it also helps the sock keep its shape on long runs — it really feels like a second skin, making it the best sock for running on our list.

At less than a buck a sock, you’re not going to find a better deal than the Saucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Sock eight- and 16-packs ($15-27). The polyester/spandex fabric wicks sweat away, while the Airmesh venting tech on the top of the foot lets your feet breathe when things start to heat up.

Cushioning doesn’t run the length of the foot, but it’s placed in high-impact locations. The cushioning runs from the ball of the foot to just over to the top of the toes and over the heel to keep your feet protected during a run.

One of our favorite features of these socks is the size of the heel tab. During testing, it was just big enough to prevent the sock from sliding down, but not big enough to act as a dirt funnel while you run. It’s just another detail that you don’t find in many socks in this price range.

There is a toe seam, but it lies flat to minimize the risk of irritation. Despite the flat seam, our tester had to adjust their socks to find the sweet spot to prevent rubbing.

That said, the Saucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Sock was an excellent moisture-wicker, did not shrink significantly after machine drying, and the padded heel tab keeps your heel safe from excessive rubbing. Which, considering its price, makes this sock a killer deal.

If you tend to sweat more or run in hot weather, Swiftwick’s stylish Vision Six Impression socks ($22) are going to be your go-to.These calf-high lookers sport structurally modified fibers that pull sweat to the outside of the sock, bolstering Swiftwick’s reputation as the best moisture-wicking socks on the market.

Seamless toes keep irritation at bay, and the moderate compression gives the sock a comfortable, secure feel without feeling too tight. Medium cushioning provides comfort without bulk on long runs.

The only time this sock fell short was during low-impact winter activities — our tester’s feet would get chilly during more laid-back winter workouts. But for trail running and other higher-intensity endeavors, these socks performed perfectly.

We love this version of the Vision Six series, as the Impression has wraparound designs based on national parks. Swiftkick offers socks with designs based on Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, Zion, Yellowstone, and the Great Smoky Mountain range. It’s also taking suggestions on other parks it should add, with more models coming soon.

Near Earth is a brand you may not have heard of, but if our experience with The Distance Running Sock ($24) is any indication, you’ll be hearing about them a lot in the future.

Our testers always view newcomers to the category with a healthy bit of skepticism, but that trepidation quickly dissipated once they got their hands on the socks. The quality is immediately evident, from the packaging to the design to the hand-feel of the socks themselves. They’re softer than most high-performance socks and are comfortable from the first wear.

Once you pull the sock on, you see just how much detail went into it — from targeted compression around the midfoot to breathable, over-engineered upper sections that vent heat away from the foot. Few socks we’ve worn balance the softness of a cotton sock with the fit and function of performance running socks.

They are made with a true anatomical fit, meaning they are left- and right-specific. Compression and padding are strategically placed to support the toes and midfoot, a feature we found invaluable over the distance of a long run.

The Distance Running Sock is one we will be filling our sock drawer with for years. It may not have the compression of the Swiftwick Flite XT or the cushioning of the Bandit Cushion Quarter Crew. Still, the attention to detail and balance of comfort and performance make these stand out in a crowded category.

Compression socks are designed to apply pressure to your legs, helping to facilitate blood flow and keeping swelling to a minimum. Many athletes use compression after a workout to help speed up recovery, as the increased blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients to your muscles.

But why start after the workout? Noted compression company CEP’s Tall Compression Socks ($60) are made for use during your run, providing compression and keeping your blood flowing while you move. The compression also helps stabilize your muscles on the run, which provides a comfortable feel and extra support for your heels and arches.

The HeiQ Smart Temp climate management system keeps your feet cool (the company claims that it cools your feet up to 3.6 degrees). Plus, the padding along the footbed feels comfortable and helps prevent blistering on runs. These features cement the CEP Tall Compression Socks socks as our choice for the best compression socks for running.

The Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Sock ($18) has an anatomical design with right and left designated socks, making for a precise fit. Compression at the ankles provides support, while cushioning along the foot provides comfort during repeated foot strikes.

The synthetic fibers repel sweat, wicking it from next to the foot to the outside of the sock, where it can evaporate. The venting at the top of the foot keeps your feet drier while you run.

In addition to the anatomical design, the sock has a protective heel pad and a seamless toe, which eliminates two of the most common points of irritation on a run. Compression bands run along the bottom of the socks to encourage circulation under the arch.

One of our testers used these socks when he was getting over plantar fasciitis, which significantly helped overcome his injury. He also used several pairs of these while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, and while they didn’t survive as long as other socks he tried, they held their own.

The fit and features are excellent, but several pairs that we’ve tested developed holes at the toe or heel. This only happened on a few, while the others haven’t had any issues, so we’re chalking it up to random flaws in the material. If not for the occasional durability issue, the Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Sock would be contenders for the top spot on our list.

Named for the antibacterial silver ions encapsulated in the fibers, the Balega Silver No-Show Running Socks ($20) sport full mesh panels for plenty of ventilation, which felt great during triple-digit test runs in Northern California.

The light padding adds to the breathability and felt great on shorter runs. And, as we’ve come to expect from Balega, these socks provide some of the best fit and feel of any of the socks on our list.

A deep heel cup, seamless toes, and a soft-knitted top make the Balega Silver No-Show an extremely comfortable sock. Elastic bands of varying strength provide the right amount of support at the right place, while the high heel tab protects your heel from shoe rubs.

One of the most common (and painful) places to get blisters during long runs or hikes is between the toes. Even if you’re not prone to blisters between the toes, it can occasionally occur during long runs and hikes as the feet start to swell and press against your footwear.

Injinji, the company known for its distinctive socks, splits the toe end of the Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks ($14) into five separate compartments, one for each toe.

This surrounds each toe in material and prevents any skin-to-skin friction that causes blisters over time. No more need to tape each individual toe.

Besides the obvious benefit, Injinji’s no-show socks sport necessities like mesh panels for ventilation and compression in the arch for additional support. They even have a slightly taller heel tab that is handy when pulling them up after putting on your shoe.

It also ensures that it stays put and doesn’t slide down the heel cuff to prevent chafing. Lastly, they utilize COOLMAX EcoMade fibers to wick away sweat. While the Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks may be considered minimalist running toe socks, the design and fabric are quite technical.

The most unique aspect of WRIGHTSOCK’s CoolMesh II Quarter Socks ($15) is its dual-layer design. The inner layer is made of smooth, hydrophobic Dri-WRIGHT II polyester for a soft feel against the skin and to help pull moisture away from the feet.

The outer layer features a mesh weave that collects moisture from the outside of the inner layer and allows it to evaporate. Not only does this help keep feet cool and dry, but it also absorbs friction between the shoe and the foot. This prevents the shear effect in the skin that causes blisters.

The mesh panel at the top vents heat and moisture while the light cushioning helps absorb impact on runs. These features, combined with the dual-layer design, make the WRIGHTSOCK CoolMesh II Quarter Socks a solid option.

The first thing you’ll notice when you put on the Bombas Performance Ankle Sock ($17) is that they’re the most comfortable socks you’ve ever worn. These lightweight running and workout socks are made with a cotton-polyester blend with generous cushioning in the forefoot and heel.

The temperature-regulating vents allow cool air to flow in during workouts, keeping your feet cool, while the moisture-wicking materials keep your feet dry.

The Bombas Performance Ankle Sock is contoured specifically to fit the left and right foot, ensuring a comfortable fit that doesn’t bunch up or wrinkle as well as minimizing blisters and hot spots. Additionally, the seamless toe and Y-stitched heel help minimize irritation.

By far the least expensive compression ankle socks we’ve seen, the PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks come in multipacks that cost $20 or less, depending on the amount and size. The varying compression (from moderate to extra firm) provides support where you need it without feeling restrictive. The compression encourages circulation and helps prevent foot swelling on long runs.

We like the ankle version for its ability to support the foot without having to wrestle a full-length compression sock over your calves. This, along with the ability to buy multiple pairs at a low cost, makes it more feasible to wear a compression sock with every run.

The PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks have a mesh upper that provides ventilation. A raised padded ankle cuff prevents friction at the ankle, and a seamless toe closure reduces irritation at the toes.

Designed specifically for left or right feet, each pair of Thirty48 Elite Compression Socks ($12-27) aims for a perfect fit to minimize irritation and blistering. These knee-high compression socks provide graded compression through the calves down to the arch of the foot, facilitating blood flow during your run. If you wear them after runs, the increased circulation that the compression provides helps you recover faster and mitigates soreness.

The Thirty48 Elite Compression Socks are available in two-packs, so you can roll off the pair you just used in a run and put on a fresh pair to recover afterward. The wicking material and topside vents help regulate moisture, and the padded heel absorbs shock on runs.

The first thing that we learned when testing Darn Tough socks was that they live up to their name. Every pair that we’ve tested has endured everything we’ve thrown at them, from walking around a campsite with no shoes to filling longer socks with D batteries and slinging them across a park. The Darn Tough Coolmax Run No-Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Sock ($17) is no exception. We’ve put hundreds of miles on these socks and haven’t left a mark.

In addition to their outstanding durability, these socks fit like a second skin. There’s no bunching, wrinkles, or any abnormality that could cause irritation — even after a few hours on the trail. The vented upper lets hot air out, and the seam fusion gives it a totally seamless feel for comfort.

All of these features add up to a bombproof sock that’s as comfortable at mile 20 as it is at mile one. The combination of toughness and comfort makes Darn Tough Coolmax Run No-Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Sock one of our favorite trail running socks on the market.

The Swiftwick brand recently got a facelift (their new designs are killer), but their DNA is the same: they make some damn good socks. This holds true with the Flite XT ($24), a mid-crew sock tailor-made for running on and off the trail.

The medium cushioning underfoot is just enough to provide some extra comfort without unnecessary bulk — our testers have had no issues with these socks on runs ranging between 3 miles and 23 miles.

We think the moderate compression is enough to make a difference but won’t make you feel like your foot is being squeezed to death. Compression is a considerable benefit, but it’s a no-go if it keeps you from freely moving your forefoot. The Flite XTs toe the line perfectly between too loose and too tight.

Some of GearJunkie’s staff members have been wearing Swiftwick running and cycling socks for over a decade — one of our testers even has a pair he got nearly 10 years ago that is still going strong. When it’s all said and done, longevity is probably one of the brand’s greatest strengths. You can wear Swiftwicks into the ground with complete trust that they’ll pop back into shape and retain their compression for years.

All in all, if you’re looking for a go-to sock for every kind of run, from the track to the trail and everywhere in between, the Flite XT is a perfect choice. The price may seem high, but considering their durability, buying a couple of pairs you know will last is a no-brainer for us.

It’s impossible to talk about running socks (or all running apparel, for that matter) without mentioning Greenpoint, Brooklyn’s own Bandit Running, specifically their flagship sock, the Cushion Run Current Quarter Crew ($36 for a two-pack).

The sock is one of the most well-cushioned on our list, but that doesn’t mean it lacks performance. The material is exceptionally cool considering its thickness, and we found that the sock retained its shape after dozens and dozens of wears and washes.

One of the best things about the sock is its perfect height. You may scoff at this, but as much as socks provide a much-needed touch point between your foot and your shoe, they’re also an accessory that’s used for self-expression.

If you don’t love socks that go way up your calf or show off too much ankle, the Quarter Crew is the Goldilocks fit — just high enough to keep your ankles clean without veering into full-on compression sock territory. The subtle branding is just enough to be recognized by others who know what’s up but won’t detract from your running kit as a whole.

Since they are heavily cushioned, you will want to be careful on wet days — they can scrunch up a bit in the toes when they get soggy, making your toes and forefeet susceptible to blisters. However, we found them to be great on hot days and long runs (just avoid puddles).

The Cushion Run Current Quarter Sock is supremely comfortable, and while it may not be the perfect sock for race day, it’s not trying to be that. It’s a reliable everyday sock that just might find itself on your feet when you’re not running, too.

The GearJunkie crew is made up of a bunch of runners. From casual weekend warriors to serious running addicts, we have them all. Naturally, running socks fit right into our expertise. Our team sifted through hundreds of brands and sock variations. Our goal was to find the best of the best running socks, budget-friendly pairs, and everything in between.

Constance Mahoney is an experienced runner who has completed races from local 5Ks to trail ultramarathons. In 2021, she founded and continues to lead the Trail Sisters Crested Butte, Colo. chapter. Constance has been a GearJunkie contributor since 2019, after she reviewed outdoor gear for FitnessTravelGear.com for two years.

Will Porter is a writer and gear tester who has been running competitively for 20 years, from junior high cross country to his first ultramarathon in 2024. He’s tested gear on the streets of New York City, the foothills of Boise, Idaho, and the coastal mountains in Marin County.

He has been writing and reviewing gear since 2019. Socks have always been one of his biggest running headaches, so it’s safe to say he’s a well-versed expert in the subject.

We tested running socks the only way we knew how: running many miles in all different conditions. We wanted to know how fast each sock dried from creek crossings, sweaty track sessions, and humidity. We paid attention to seam placement and if the sock slid at all.

We considered how compression and cushioning placement helped (or didn’t) over long runs. We carefully inspected each pair after each run and washing to see if any deterioration or pilling occurred.

One of the most important aspects of running socks is how well they regulate moisture. Moisture leads to friction, and friction is what causes the majority of blisters.

One way that socks eliminate moisture is by allowing excess heat to exit the sock (breathability), which helps prevent sweating in the first place. The other is by pulling (or wicking) the sweat off of the foot and moving it to the outside of the sock, where it can evaporate. Both of these features are essential when choosing a pair of running socks.

Because of its toe sock design, the Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Sock can wick moisture away from in-between the toes, a common place for blisters to pop up. Keeping your feet cool is not only a way to minimize sweat, but it also keeps your feet comfortable and helps prevent swelling.

At best, swelling is uncomfortable. At worst, it will cause your foot to press up against the sidewalls of your shoe, which is painful and adds friction points where blisters can appear.

Venting is easy to spot in running socks. Look for slits, waffled or checkered patterns on the top of the foot or around the midsole. Most socks will put breathable material in this area because the laces are a more open part of the shoe and let the heat escape more efficiently.

As far as moisture-wicking goes, look for synthetic materials, which, unlike cotton, repel moisture rather than retain it. Materials like polyester are effective at pulling moisture off and evaporating it quickly.

Avoid cotton socks at all costs. Unless it’s bolstered by synthetic material, cotton will soak up water and retain it, leaving your feet vulnerable to blisters.

Socks that fit poorly are terrible for runners. Socks that are too tight not only cause discomfort but also press the toes together, which greatly increases the risk of blisters between the toes.

Socks that are too big will bunch or wrinkle in the shoe, which creates friction points where blisters can form. One tester wore socks that stretched out on a hike and bunched up underfoot, causing a 3-inch blister to form on his sole. You’re going to want to avoid that at all costs.

Most running socks are unisex, like Balega’s Silver No-Show running socks. The best running socks for men and the best running socks for women are the same, depending on how you plan on using them. Look on the packaging or online for size scales for both men and women.

Socks rarely come in specific sizes, so your options are going to range from XS to XL and above. Most socks stretch to accommodate different sizes, thanks to some percentage of stretchy fibers like elastane embedded in the material.

Any given sock will work for a range of sizes. For example, a size large may be for feet sized 10 to 12. Sock packaging and websites will list a scale to help buyers choose the right size.

Compression socks are a bit different since the socks are built to provide a tighter fit, depending on the compression grade. You’ll still have a similar sizing scale, but many brands suggest buying a smaller sock if you want additional compression or a larger sock if you want lighter compression.

You’ll be spending a lot of time in your running socks, so you’re going to want comfortable ones. The Bombas Performance Ankle Sock and the Balega’s Hidden Comfort socks are about as comfortable as it gets. Besides finding the right fit, you’re going to want a sock that regulates heat and moisture well. Also, look for socks that will provide adequate padding for the pounding that your feet face during a run.

Most running socks are made with a synthetic material like polyester. These are effective at wicking away sweat but aren’t known for their softness. Higher on the comfort scale is a wool/synthetic blend. The natural fiber is softer, while still retaining the ability to breathe well and pull sweat from the skin.

Cotton is the softest material and feels great on the skin. However, it tends to lose its shape (which can lead to bunching), and it holds on to moisture. A few brands have managed to find the right balance between cotton and synthetic materials. The result is a comfortable sock that also wicks away moisture.

Overheating and sweat accumulation can cause discomfort and create blisters. Make sure that your socks are made of breathable material with breathable mesh panels. These are easy to spot. Look for a different pattern on the top of the foot. This indicates a more open weave than the rest of the sock.

Padding is key as well. Find a sock with padding running along the sole of the foot, which will absorb foot strike impact. This also serves to lengthen the sock’s lifetime, as that’s the most high-impact area of the foot. If you want the lightest sock possible, choose a sock that only has padding on the heel and forefoot.

Running socks come in a few general sizes. There’s the no-show sock, which sits below the ankle; the three-quarter-length sock, which sits above the ankle; the crew, which falls just under the calf; and the knee-high, which sits right at the knee.

No-show socks are ideal for running in hot or moderate weather. They’re lighter and have less material. This means you can stash a spare in your running pack if you run through a creek. This also comes in handy when nature calls on the trail and you need to improvise some toilet paper.

When shopping for a no-show sock, make sure that it has padding on the back of the cuff, like the Feetures Elite Max Cushion No-Show Tab Sock. This added material helps prevent shoe rub on the back of your ankle, which can cause blisters.

Three-quarter-length socks are favored by trail runners. WRIGHTSOCK’s CoolMesh II has a higher cuff and is better at preventing trail debris, such as dirt or twigs, from getting inside the sock. Debris in your socks can force you to stop your run and get it out before it causes a blister.

Crew socks serve a similar function, adding protection for off-trail runs. The Vision Six Impression socks wick away sweat and moisture before it drips down into your shoe. The added height also helps protect ankles from ankle-biting bushes along the trail.

Knee-high socks take crew socks to the extreme. Knee-high styles are common in compression socks. Thirty48 Elite Compression Socks go up around the calf and feature a graded compressive material that helps improve blood flow and minimize swelling of the calves and ankles.

Running socks put in lots of miles on varied terrain, making them susceptible to more wear than other socks. Many companies use higher needle counts to create a thicker material or blend durable fibers to combat this.

Having a running sock fall apart can feel like a small disaster. Any hole puts your foot in contact with your shoe, creating a hotspot that can cause blisters. With many running socks sitting around $15, repeatedly replacing running socks can take a bite out of your wallet.

You can avoid this by reading reviews or by going with brands that are known for their durable socks. Darn Tough is our pick for the toughest sock on the market. It also offers a lifetime guarantee: If you ever wear a hole in one of its socks, the company will send you a new one.

That means you’ll never have to buy that sock again unless you want multiple pairs. For the record, we’ve never worn a hole in one.

Another option is to buy socks in multipacks. Many companies like Saucony Performance Heel Tab Athletic Sock sell socks in eight- and 16-packs at a discounted price. The trade-off here is that the socks are often lower quality than the top-tier ones.

If you’re new to running, consider buying one higher-end pair of socks and a small multipack. This way, you’ll have running socks for the week, and you can accumulate more high-end socks over time. Also, to help your socks last longer, make sure you wash them according to the product’s specifications. Dryers are often a good way to ruin high-quality socks. Here is a helpful article on how to wash activewear.

While the actual price range for running socks isn’t that wide, the differences between cheap and expensive socks are expansive. There’s nothing worse than getting to the last few miles of a race and succumbing to blisters or water-logged feet. Here are the differences in what you get based on what you’re willing to spend.

Socks that cost less than $10/pair are what we’d consider bargain prices. Don’t get us wrong, bargain socks are not a bad thing. In fact, one of our testers still likes to run in a standard pair of Hanes crew socks. However, when you spend less, you’re going to get less.

Cheaper socks are generally made out of cotton, which doesn’t dry very quickly and can get scrunched up easily. They don’t hold up to frequent washing, and, in general, the construction of a sub-$10 sock isn’t going to be up to par with the big boys.

We’ll call the mid-tier anything that runs you between $10 and $20. There are some absolutely outstanding socks in this category (which you’ll be well-acquainted with if you read the whole guide). This is where you start to get some premium materials, better moisture-wicking properties, and run-specific features like targeted compression and cushioning. Mid-tier socks will last longer than budget socks and, in many cases, last longer than premium socks that are geared more toward performance than longevity.

Premium running socks are the ones that set you back more than $20/pair. This is a growing category, and while you may not initially feel good about dropping a 20-spot (or more) on one pair of socks, you’ll immediately be able to feel the difference.

Two of our absolute favorites, the Swiftwick Flite XT and the Near Earth Distance Running Socks are $24, and after testing, we can confidently say they’re worth it. They’re made to last and provide the best features of all the socks we’ve tested.

Similar to the best running shoes, some expensive socks are designed for race day and won’t last as long as some cheaper options, but they won’t be lacking in performance. Consider this when you start looking at options tailored for racing.

If you’re new to running, consider buying one higher-end pair of socks and a small multipack. This way, you’ll have running socks for the week, and you can accumulate more high-end socks over time. Also, to help your socks last longer, make sure you wash them according to the product’s specifications. Dryers are often a good way to ruin high-quality socks. Here is a helpful article on how to wash activewear.

The thickness of a running sock depends on the wearer’s preference. Many runners prefer a thinner sock in most conditions, as feet tend to heat up during a run, and thin socks are better at venting heat.

A thicker sock is ideal for running in cold weather, as the extra material allows it to hold insulation better. But make sure that a thicker sock is made of sweat-wicking material.

Your feet may start out cold, but more often than not, they’ll start heating up midrun. A sweat-wicking material and a good venting system will keep your feet dry and prevent overheating when wearing thicker socks.

As far as padding goes, it’s helpful to have thicker material underfoot. Thicker sole material provides comfort and protection during runs, as they absorb shock from foot strike.

You can find socks with padding that runs along the entire sole or, if you’d prefer a lighter sock, on just the heel and forefoot. Many runners prefer full sole coverage, as the lack of padding on the midsole can lead to an uneven feeling underfoot.

Brands also offer socks with zero underfoot padding. This works well with runners who want to combine them with minimalist shoes for a more barefoot feel.

With very few exceptions, yes. Professional runners log hundreds of miles in training, and keeping their feet healthy during such heavy training loads is essential.

Socks help prevent blisters, which take time to heal. They cause discomfort that can alter a runner’s stride, which can cause injury over time. Blisters, while inevitable, should be limited as much as possible, and wearing socks goes a long way in doing so.

Also, many professional runners use compression socks to minimize fatigue during runs and races, as well as a way to speed up recovery between workouts.

We know of one exception to this rule. One of our writers knows a professional runner who chooses to train without socks, but races with them on. He does so purposefully to cause blisters and over time, build up calluses and, in his words, “to toughen up my feet.”

In addition to running, he’s also a professional hunter, often spending days in the woods. His purpose in building bulletproof feet is to prepare them during training for anything that may occur during his hunts. This is an extreme method of training — one that we don’t recommend — but it’s worth noting.

The lifespan of a running sock varies widely depending on the quality of the sock. Lower-quality socks should get you at least a few months of use before they start to show wear. Any damage (such as holes and tearing) is a sign of poor workmanship or factory defect, and they should be returned for a refund or warranty exchange.

Quality running socks should get you a few years of steady use before you see any holes or they start to lose elasticity and get baggy — and the best ones never tear.

The one brand that we keep going back to is Darn Tough. The Vermont company uses large-gauge sewing machines to create a dense material without adding bulk, and the high-quality merino wool it uses is extremely durable. We’ve never had to replace a pair of Darn Tough socks unless we lost one in the wash or had the cat tear one to pieces.

The company is so confident in its work that they offer a lifetime guarantee. If a sock you ever buy from them ever gets a hole in it, it’ll replace it free of charge. If you buy the Darn Tough Coolmax Run No-Show Tab Ultra Lightweight Running Sock it won’t matter if you’ve had it for a year or 10 years — if you wear a hole in it, you get a new pair.

Compression socks use graded compression on targeted parts of the foot and calf. This compression facilitates blood flow and helps minimize swelling.

Runners use these as a way to help the circulatory system provide the muscles with oxygen and flush out lactic acid during runs. Compression also minimizes the repeated vibration that comes with running, which causes microabrasions in the muscle that can lead to fatigue.

Our top pick for tall compression socks is CEP’s Tall Compression Socks. But if you are just looking for foot compression the PAPLUS’s Ankle Compression Socks is our suggestion.

Runners also use them for post-run recovery. Many runners will wear compression socks or use inflatable compression garments after runs to speed up post-run recovery and reduce soreness, as the increased blood flow helps carry nutrients to the muscles. This reduces soreness and lessens recovery time, especially after high-intensity workouts.

Absolutely. Running socks go a long way in increasing the enjoyment and effectiveness of run training. First and foremost, they keep your feet cool and dry, removing the moisture that can add friction and cause blisters. They also act as an essential barrier between the foot and the shoe, eliminating friction and hot spots.

They are undoubtedly more expensive than regular socks, but can make the difference between a fun day on the trail, and painful blisters — or worse.

Additional padding on the soles of running socks provides essential cushioning that reduces foot strike impact as well. Compression socks help you run longer and recover faster. After your running shoes, a good pair of running socks is a runner’s most important piece of running gear.