Best Running Socks of 2024

Socks are arguably one of the most important pieces of running gear, and choosing the best running socks for your unique needs is worth thoughtful consideration and a bit of investment. Well-constructed, tailored running socks are generally more expensive than cheaply woven silhouettes — for good reason. Each athletic stocking we put on featured a scientific curation of fibers for moisture management, heat transfer, placement and depth of cushion, and height, designed for specific conditions: toasty canyons, winter storms, steep and rocky trails, or dusty singletrack. A better-made sock also survives more miles through the wilderness than a bargain option.

The problem with top-tier running socks is that a handful of pairs could cost a lot of cash. How do runners choose which styles to buy? We produced this guide to help jumpstart your decision-making process. Over many months, our squad of professional, competitive, collegiate, and recreational trail runners and ultrarunners pulled on a range of hosiery for hundreds and hundreds of miles. From dusk to dawn, we ran across the Rocky Mountains, Cascade Mountains, and all over the Western United States through gloppy mud, sunbaked singletrack, snow, and rain.

At the top of our list is the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five, which has an excellent fit and wicks away moisture quickly and efficiently. The CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0 were a close runner-up, while the Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock was our favorite wool-blend sock. Scroll through to see all our recommendations for the best running socks for various conditions. Also, learn more about our testing methodology, read our advice for choosing your next running socks, and see our frequently asked questions about running socks at the bottom of this guide. And if compression socks are your thing, check out our best compression socks buyer’s guide.

Best Running Socks of 2024

• Best Overall Running Socks: Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five
• Best Running Socks — Runner-Up: CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0
• Best Running Socks for Hot Weather: Drymax Hot Weather Running ¼ Crew
• Best Running Socks for Cold Weather: Swiftwick Pursuit Four
• Best Wool Running Socks: Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock
• Best of the Rest Running Socks: Smartwool Run Ankle Socks, Swiftwick Aspire Five, Paka Crew Socks, Injinji Sport Original Weight Crew, Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew, Stance Performance Crew Socks

Best Overall Running Socks: Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five ($27)

Pros:

• Snug and secure
• Manages moisture super well and dries fast
• The moderate cushion is not too thick or too thin

Cons:

• Higher cost

The Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five is a snug-fitting running sock with a soft feel, excellent breathability, and thumbs-up ankle protection. Designed for hiking and trail running, they incorporate materials and a knit design to wick moisture, prevent blisters, and provide extra support on uneven terrain. Swiftwick achieves this through a blend of merino wool and olefin fibers, which have natural wicking properties, and nylon, polyester, and spandex, which are breathable and quick-drying. The material is light and slightly compressive.

This sock has moderate cushioning beneath the arch and heel, which we found provides adequate protection mile after mile and on rocky descents. The fabric below the forefoot and heel has alternating rows of cushion that feature a proprietary grippy fiber to reduce friction and prevent bunching that can result in blisters. It also makes them a good option for ski touring if you pair them with full-length long underwear. This cushion design works with the merino and olefin blend in the footbed to wick moisture and keep feet dry. The top of the sock is a slightly thinner mesh that increases the overall breathability of the sock, and the snug compression around the arch and ankle feels like a nice, firm hug. While these socks do not have significant compression, they provide enough of a squeeze to feel supportive. They are also tight enough to count on them not to move around inside your shoes without feeling constrictive.

Although many of us trail runners love this sock’s extra height and ankle protection, other options exist in this line of socks. A Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Two hits just above the ankle bone. Finally, Swiftwick’s non-trail version of this sock, the Flite XT, has also been a longtime favorite among iRunFar testers and is available in a Zero no-show height and the Five, a crew-height sock.

Material: 38% nylon, 24% Merino wool, 22% olefin, 13% polyester, 3% spandex

Shop the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five

Best Running Socks — Runner-Up: CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0 ($20)

Pros:

• High level of compression at the ankle
• Comfortable, squeezy, no-budge fit
• Breathable and quick-drying

Cons:

• Not a standout for durability

The CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0 are the kind of running sock you can tug onto your feet and completely forget they’re there. They don’t budge or wrinkle inside your shoes. If they get wet, they dry out quickly and breathe well. CEP’s line of socks provides significant compression, though the actual squeeze you feel will depend on the sock. For example, the tall, calf-height socks feel the most compressive because they cover the most surface area. The mid-cut, or crew height, sock, which is our favorite, and the ankle and no-show socks aren’t as compressive as the calf socks, but they provide more squeeze than your typical running sock.

Claimed benefits of compression generally include increased blood circulation, reduced swelling and pain, and increased support, but the scientific evidence of using compression clothing while running for performance enhancement is inconclusive. But, compression socks can often help address issues relating to inflammation, such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. That said, one primary benefit of this sock for every day, uninjured runners is that it feels very comfortable over many miles of rugged trail, through dust and creek crossings, and across snow and rocky mountain passes.

These socks have targeted support in the arch and ankle, with dedicated left and right socks. They’re designed with a slightly padded footbed and mesh panels for ventilation. CEP also has an ultralight run sock that’s even thinner and performed well in testing but got thrashed by rugged trails. Our slightly thicker mid-cut socks started showing some pilling and snags in high-wear areas around the ankles, but only after we put hundreds of miles on them in all weather and trail conditions.

You can learn more about compression socks at our best compression socks guide. While compression isn’t for everyone, these are a great option if you’re looking for extra foot support. Once on, we found them to stay put on our feet and didn’t experience any blisters or material bunching issues. They also dried quickly after splashing through multiple creek crossings during a hundred-mile race and remained comfortable for thirty straight hours of wear.

Material: 86% polyamide, 14% spandex

Shop the Men's CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0Shop the Women CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0

Best Running Socks for Hot Weather: Drymax Hot Weather Running 1/4 Crew Socks ($26)

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Excellent ventilation
• Tenacious, long-lasting fabric

Cons:

• Not a sock for colder days
• It looks thick and cumbersome
• Pricier

The Drymax Hot Weather Running 1/4 Crew Socks are lightweight, very breathable, and resist heat buildup during hot, sun-exposed runs and races. The upper side of the sock features a mesh weave that dumps heat. A consistent layer of moderate padding stretches along the bottom of the foot, from heel to toe, beneath the metatarsals, which provides excellent protection and comfort. According to the Polymer Properties Database, the fabric blend includes a Teflon fiber — polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) — that is among the best synthetic materials for minimizing friction. The PTFE is located in the heel, forefoot, and toe areas, making them super durable.

One professional mountain runner and product tester has used a pair of these socks for three years and notes no visible wear and tear. He added, “The slim fit works well with snugger-fitting shoes,” and the lower quarter-crew length sits an inch above the ankle, which is generally preferable for toasty jaunts. The fiber blend also includes olefin, which wicks moisture and sweat. Our team experienced no blisters, slippage, or lingering odors after pounding countless miles in these socks. The interior of the toebox was smooth and went unnoticed. The only downside to these socks is that they aren’t very soft, and testers sometimes describe them as coarse to the touch.

Material: 36% Drymax olefin, 26% polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), 22% polyester, 12% spandex, 4% nylon

Shop the Drymax Hot Weather Running 1/4 Crew Socks

Best Running Socks for Cold Weather: Swiftwick Pursuit Four ($20)

Pros:

• Soft, fuzzy, and cozy interior 
• Wool has natural temperature-regulating properties
• The cuff feels snug and secure

Cons:

• Slightly thicker design is too warm on the hottest days

The Swiftwick Pursuit Four is a moderately cushioned sock that’s technically a year-round sock, but we especially love it for colder weather. This sock is mostly merino wool, with nylon and spandex added for more softness, stretch, durability, and compression. The inside of the sock feels fuzzy and soft, making us crave those brisk shoulder-season runs. At the same time, it hugs the foot enough so that it doesn’t feel bulky or bunchy. 

Merino wool is a natural fiber known for its temperature-regulating properties. It provides warmth in cold conditions, cooling in hot weather, and wicks moisture well regardless of the temperature. The downside of wool is that it can feel scratchy or coarse, though modern merino wool is far from the wool used in older clothing items, and this sock is incredibly comfortable. Wool is also typically not as durable as synthetics, though wool blended with nylon, polyester, spandex, or other materials is comparable. This sock has wool wrapped around a blend of nylon and spandex, and the material gently squeezes the foot, providing slight compression around the midfoot and cuff. This design and a seamless toebox help keep the sock in place, reducing the likelihood of developing blisters. 

While this sock can perform throughout all seasons, its moderate cushioning and cozy, fuzzy feel may feel too warm for runners during the summer heat, especially if you prefer thin socks under a more snug-fitting shoe. This line of socks is available in six heights ranging from zero (no-show) to twelve (calf height), providing ample options for just about anyone. 

Material: 63% merino wool, 35% nylon, 2% spandex

Shop the Swiftwick Pursuit Four

Best Wool Running Socks: Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock ($20)

Pros:

• Lifetime guarantee
• 100% Responsible Wool Standard certified materials

Cons:

• There is no cushioning on the sole

Named the best sock in the iRunFar best wool running apparel guide, the Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock is a favorite for many reasons. We found them incredibly comfortable, and we love that Darn Tough guarantees these socks for life. If you wear holes in them, you can send them back, and they’ll send you a new pair. These merino-blend socks are 55% nylon, 38% merino wool, and 7% Lycra, making them durable and stretchy while maintaining all of wool’s moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties. Many runners gravitate toward wool socks because they tend not to pick up smells, and fastpackers, who will wear the same socks multiple days in a row, love the material. Several cooling panels around the sock increase its breathability and allow them to dry quickly. Made of thin fibers, this sock doesn’t feel like a bulky wool and lives up to its ultra-lightweight name. The crew length reaches about six inches above the top of a shoe, providing plenty of protection from any trailside brush or rocks.

The socks provide extra support under the arch, and this material also helps prevent bunching during long runs. There’s no extra padding on the sole, which might be an issue for people looking for extra cushion. However, the minimal amount of material keeps the socks from slipping around and provides a skin-tight feel. This helps prevent blisters and other skin irritation.

Darn Tough is a privately owned company that makes all of their socks in Vermont using 100% Responsible Wool Standard certified wool, so you can feel good about wearing them. Plus, they look good and come in a few different color schemes.

Material: 5% nylon, 38% merino wool, and 7% Lycra

Shop the Men's Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-lightweight Running SocksShop the Women's Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-lightweight Running Socks

Best of the Rest Running Socks: Smartwool Run Ankle Socks ($20)

Pros:

• Sufficient ankle protection
• Stink-resistant and durable wool blend
• Cuff stays put

Cons:

• Not as durable as full synthetic socks

For runners who want a high-quality, no-frills sock without a lot of cushion, fancy tech, or a super tall cuff, the Smartwool Run Ankle Socks are our top recommendation. Although these wool socks are relatively thin, they’re still fairly durable thanks to a mix of nylon and elastane blended with the merino wool. That said, they probably won’t last as long as a sock made of purely synthetic materials. But, since they’re almost fifty percent wool, they naturally resist odor-causing bacteria and don’t get as stinky as some fully synthetic socks. Finally, although they have a bit of targeted cushion under the ball of the foot and the heel, our testers favored this sock for its breathability and lack of bulkiness or wrinkles. The 3.25-inch cuff stays put and provides enough ankle protection on the trail, while the seamless toe design gives toes room to wiggle and helps to prevent chafing.

“I’d say they’re just a super solid pair of durable socks that seem to last for a long time, especially for relatively thin wool,” reported one tester who wore these socks while running and fastpacking all over Colorado and southern Utah. “They don’t bunch up at all and don’t get gross and damp during long days out.” What more could a runner want from their socks?

In addition to being comfortable, breathable, and reliable, these socks are made in the United States and are available in a handful of fun patterns and colors. And, if you’re wondering what to do with older Smartwool socks that are taking up space in the bottom of your drawer, Smartwool will take them off your hands — er, feet. Through their Second Cut Project, Smartwool partners with ThredUp to keep lightly used socks from the landfill by reselling them. You can also return your old and worn-out socks to them for recycling. Learn more on their website.

Material: 45% merino wool, 31% nylon*, 21% recycled nylon,3% elastane

*Specific percentage of recycled nylon will vary as Smartwool transitions to 100% recycled nylon

Shop the Smartwool Run Ankle Socks

Best of the Rest Running Socks: Swiftwick Aspire Five ($19)

Pros:

• Soft and sleek
• Breathable
• Durable

Cons:

• None yet

Although most of the socks in this guide are crew socks, we especially love the Swiftwick Aspire Five for everyday, year-round running on roads and trails. Designed for breathability and compression, Swiftwick’s Aspire line targets runners and cyclists. Introduced in March 2024, our testers have barely bothered to remove the new five-inch cuff height socks since getting their feet in them.

This sock is a soft, breathable all-arounder with enough squeeze to feel supportive and features a nylon and olefin blend that is durable and offers sweat-wicking performance. A small amount of spandex around the mid-foot and ankle maintains a hug-like fit where you want it most. Thinner knit-mesh material around the top of the foot and under the toes maximizes the sock’s breathability; indeed, our testers experienced no soggy feet.

Even after a few hundred running miles and countless trips to the gym in these socks, they are ones that our testers repeatedly wash and reach for again and again. The sock feels substantial enough for long runs and colder weather, yet it’s breathable and fast-drying, so it never feels too warm on sunny desert singletrack or hot pavement. For fans of the ultralight Stance Performance Crew Socks listed below, these socks provide similar thickness, stretch, and comfort, yet so far, have proven more durable.

Finally, it’s worth noting that while we love these socks for all types of running, as well as activities like cycling and lifting weights at the gym, they don’t boast special features like the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five’s targeted ribbed cushioning above or the silky softness of the Paka Crew Sock below. Nevertheless, this is a sock you can put on daily and forget about it as soon as you lace up your shoes. You can’t go wrong with these if you don’t want to overthink your sock choices too much.

Material: 79% nylon, 18% olefin, 3% spandex

Shop the Swiftwick Aspire Five Socks

Best of the Rest Running Socks: Paka Crew Socks ($20)

Pros:

• Velvety soft and supple
• Made with sustainable materials
• Good value and a lifetime guarantee

Cons:

• Lacks compression of other socks in this guide

The Paka Crew Socks are supremely soft running socks that are comfortable, lightweight, and breathable. Yes, even our feet deserve buttery smooth apparel, and this sock wraps our feet in silky soft alpaca wool while providing all the performance we need in a running sock. You will remove these socks from their packaging and not want to put them down because they feel velvety and plush. These socks are also available in an ankle version, which is equally soft, stretchy, and a favorite at iRunFar.

These socks are made in Peru using a blend of alpaca wool, Tencel, which is a fiber derived from eucalyptus wood pulp, nylon, and spandex. Both alpaca wool and nylon are soft, lightweight fibers, so this medium-cushion sock feels very smooth and light. Likewise, Tencel, a brand name for fibers called lyocell, is known for its super-soft feel and sustainability since it usually comes from sustainably harvested trees and produces less toxic waste in manufacturing than other synthetics. It’s also worth pointing out that Paka is a certified B-Corporation, which means it’s met high standards for supply chain practices and the materials they use.

These socks are constructed with thinner knit paneling around the midfoot and above the toes, with slightly thicker cushioning beneath the ball of the foot, around the heel, and behind the ankle. Like sheep, alpaca wool has natural temperature-regulating properties, keeping you warm in cold temperatures and wicking sweat on hotter days. It also dries quickly and resists odor-causing bacteria. By blending alpaca wool with nylon and spandex, Paka can increase the durability and stretchiness of these socks. On that note, while these socks fit comfortably against the foot, they don’t provide any compression, and they’re among the stretchiest socks in this guide. In fact, we noticed our feet sliding around a bit inside these socks when we wore them without shoes. That said, we did not experience any bunching or hot spots once we put shoes on and took to the trails.

Material: 41% alpaca fiber, 8% Tencel, 50% recycled nylon, 1% spandex

Shop the Paka Crew Socks

Best of the Rest Running Socks: Injinji Sport Original Weight Crew ($14)

Pros:

• Great cushion and breathability
• Solid moisture transfer
• Excellent coverage and protection
• Great value

Cons:

• Toe socks aren’t for everyone
• Short and tiny or high-volume toes are the least compatible with these socks

If you haven’t tried toe socks, the Injinji Sport Original Weight Crew is worth a closer look. If you’ve already converted to toe socks, there’s a solid chance you have a drawer full of these socks or perhaps their close cousins from the brand. For some runners, toe socks are the answer to staying comfortable and blister-free on their longest ventures and daily miles. Theoretically, fabric wrapped around each toe keeps digits from brushing against each other, reducing friction, chafing, and blisters. The design also helps splay the toes out, encouraging them to engage while running.

Our testers say this sock is protective, comfortable, cushioned, and breathable. It has a super soft, lightweight fabric around the toes, and its stretchy fit reaches up to mid-calf height, putting it among the tallest of the crew socks in this guide. Since this extra-tall crew height could make the sock more or less appealing depending on the length of your lower leg and personal preferences, it’s worth pointing out that this weight of sock is also available in a mini-crew that hits above the ankle and a no-show version. In testing, the moisture transfer in these socks was excellent, and they never got drenched with sweat. The fabric didn’t slip and never bunched. By the end of long runs, these socks held onto their elasticity and didn’t smell.

When it comes to toe socks, Injinji’s offerings are widely loved and runner-approved. That said, toe socks like this may take some getting used to, and some runners will feel uncomfortably aware of the fabric between their toes, especially on a sustained, steep, and technical descent. As such, toe socks may not be the right solution for every runner. Nevertheless, they’re a worthy consideration for your sock drawer — and at a very reasonable price for a pair of socks, they’re worth a try if you’re curious.

Material: 78% CoolMax EcoMade (polyester), 18% nylon, 4% Lycra

Shop the Injinji Sport Original Weight Crew Socks

Best of the Rest Running Socks: Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew ($20)

Pros:

• Outstanding balance of light cushion and moderate compression
• Snug, no-budge fit

Cons:

• Solid sock, but not a standout in any one area

The Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew is another great crew sock ideal for the trails. It has light cushioning with targeted compression around the arch and maintains a snug fit that doesn’t create hot spots. It also has an anatomical design with a dedicated left and right sock. Like the top picks in this guide, this sock hugs the foot comfortably, wicks sweat, and dries quickly. It doesn’t slip, or bunch and its crew height provides extra protection from rocks, mud, dust, and brush on the trail.

This sock is lightweight and breathable, thanks to thin mesh panels across the top. Its footbed, toebox, and cuff have slightly more cushioning and support than other parts of the sock. The arch has some ribbing for targeted compression, and the heel cup cradles the heel to provide a secure, supportive fit. The toebox is slightly more roomy than other socks in this guide, giving the toes enough space to wiggle and splay. Without squeezing too much, this crew sock provides a hug-like fit and doesn’t shift around. This great everyday running sock performs well on everything from short, easy runs to mountain ultras. Additionally, while we love these specific socks, Feetures offers a range of sock heights and cushion options ranging from ultralight no-show to max cushion synthetic or Merino crew socks, all designed for running and other active use. Finally, these socks come with a lifetime guarantee, so if you don’t like them, they’re easy to return or exchange.

Material: 91% nylon, 9% spandex (these percentages have some minor variation depending on color)

Shop the Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew

Best of the Rest Running Socks: Stance Performance Crew Socks ($20)

Pros:

• Different cushioning options
• Highly breathable
• Reflective logo

Cons:

• Not a standout for durability

With five inches of cuff height above the ankle, the Stance Performance Crew Socks are ideal for runners logging long miles on dusty trails who want a thin sock or those traveling through mud who need a quick-drying sock. These socks are made of an Intraknit nylon-blend material and treated with an antimicrobial FreshTek moisture-control coating to help prevent sock stink by reducing bacterial growth rate.

One of our ultrarunner testers has put hundreds of trail miles on the ultralight version of this sock, running over volcanic scree and granite-strewn ridges, through creek crossings, and even traversing cow pastures while racing in Europe. While the sock remained incredibly comfortable and the cuff showed only minor wear, eventually, holes started appearing in the toes. This is not totally unexpected for such hard wear, but we’ve found that other socks in this guide have held up a little better on similarly rugged terrain. It’s worth noting that Stance offers a lifetime guarantee, so you can return socks that don’t meet expectations.

These socks provide a hug-like squeeze around the mid-foot and heel with just the right amount of wiggle room in the toes. They are exceptionally breathable on the hottest days, and we had no reports of blisters or hot spots. Finally, although this is a thin sock with less cushioning underfoot than other options we tested, Stance offers variations with light- and medium-cushion levels as well as other sock heights, like the no-show Performance Tab Socks ($14), which have also been very popular among the iRunFar testing team.

Material: 71% nylon, 19% polyester, 5% elastane, 5% combed cotton

Shop the Stance Performance Crew Socks

Comparing the Best Running Socks

SOCK	PRICE	WEIGHT	CUSHION	MATERIAL
Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five	$27	Medium	Light	Nylon, merino wool, olefin, polyester, spandex
CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0	$20	Light	Medium	Polyamide, spandex
Drymax Hot Weather Running 1/4 Crew Socks	$26	Light	Light	Olefin, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyester, spandex, nylon
Swiftwick Pursuit Four	$20	Light	Medium	Merino wool, nylon, spandex
Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock	$20	Ultralight	None	Nylon, merino wool, Lycra
Smartwool Run Ankle Socks	$21	Light	Light	Merino wool, nylon, elastane
Swiftwick Aspire Five	$20	Light	Light	Nylon, olefin, spandex
Paka Crew Socks	$20	Medium	Medium	Alpaca, Tencel, nylon, spandex
Injinji Sport Original Weight Crew	$14	Medium	None	Coolmax, Nylon, lycra
Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew	$20	Light	Light	Nylon, spandex
Stance Performance Crew Socks	$20	UL, L, M	UL, L, M	Nylon, polyester, elastane, cotton

Buying Advice: How to Choose Running Socks

Sock Material 

The best running socks feature a blend of synthetic and natural materials. All socks need a percentage of nylon, polyester, or elastic to retain their shape, stretch, durability, and elasticity. Some of our favorite socks incorporate merino or alpaca wool, like the Smartwool Run Ankle Socks and Paka Crew Socks. Studies show that natural fibers grown by animals, like wool, minimize odor and benefit those struggling with eczema. According to Woolmark, a nonprofit organization that works alongside Australia’s 60,000 woolgrowers to research, develop, and certify wool, wool fibers are moisture-wicking and breathable. Most wool socks, including the Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock, wrap merino wool around a synthetic fiber, like nylon, to keep the wool fibers next to the skin but take advantage of the durability and stretchiness of the synthetic fiber.

A handful of our choice socks include unique fibers like olefin and Tencel from eucalyptus that enhance specific characteristics like breathability, moisture management, and next-to-skin feel. We recommend avoiding cotton socks. Cotton retains moisture, so as your foot builds heat in a running shoe, you’ll likely experience hot spots or blisters.

Seams

One of the worst feelings in a sock is when the seams are irritating or abrasive.

Manufacturers generally knit running socks as a tube and finish them off via a seam in the toe. The toe seam rests in a slightly different location for each sock, depending on the manufacturer’s design, but is usually above and on top of the toes with a closure alongside the outermost toes. The heel pocket also has a y-shaped seam.

Not every seam is created equal. Some seams are flatter and softer than others. The seams on the best running socks go completely unnoticed. Toe socks such as the Injinji Sport Original Weight Crew have no seams.

Moisture Wicking

In running socks, the majority of moisture-wicking yarns are synthetic. Synthetic fibers are fairly hydrophobic, so they resist the penetration of moisture. They are woven to allow capillary action between the fibers to move water away from your skin and to the outside of the material, where it can evaporate. However, wool also has moisture-wicking properties since the surface of the wool fiber is hydrophobic while the core is hydrophilic. This evolutionary setup allows wool to use capillary action to move water away from the skin. When running in hot weather, we found that the material of the Drymax Hot Weather Running 1/4 Crew Socks outperformed every other sock we tested.

Thick Versus Thin Socks

Generally, the best running socks are thicker for more wintry conditions — like cold temperatures, rain, and snow. Our testers chose the Swiftwick Pursuit Four as their favorite cold-weather socks and frequently reached for the Paka Crew Socks as well. Thicker socks often pair better with roomier trail running shoes with a wider toebox. Light- or medium-weight hot-weather socks with a medium level of cushion feel thicker than socks with an ultralight or thin cushion. A trail runner’s ideal amount of cushion depends on personal preference, foot health needs, and foot type. Narrow and low-volume feet often find that thicker socks take up volume and provide a more secure fit in particular shoes. On the other hand, runners with high-volume feet sometimes prefer thinner socks because their feet fill most of a shoe’s interior.

We asked the experts at Smartwool for their advice on choosing the best running socks. “Cushioned socks help provide extra comfort, performance, and additional padding and protection in key areas. Socks with thicker cushioning typically pack more durability and longer comfort — that is, if you’ve got the right footwear on. If your foot feels cold and squished, your sock might be too thick for your shoe. The right cushioning will help protect your feet and keep them comfortable while you’re on the move.”

Thin, super-breathable socks are often a good choice for warmer conditions. Thin socks with minimal cushion, like the Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew, also work well with narrower, more precise footwear. For some runners, minimal socks provide a sense of enhanced foot control inside their footwear while running technical terrain, especially if traversing loose rock or scrambling off-trail. If your feet swell on runs or during a race, it’s important to account for the available real estate inside your shoe, and a thinner sock might be a better choice.

Sock Height

The best running socks come in various sizes for various applications, from neighborhood sidewalks to rugged mountain ridges. No-show and extra-low cuts sit at and below the ankle, and a quarter-length sock rests above the ankle. A crew size hits beneath the calf, and an over-the-calf or knee-high sock reaches just below the knee.

Generally, a taller sock such as a quarter-length or crew-height, like the Stance Performance Crew Socks, is desired for trail running and ultrarunning to cover and protect the ankle and lower leg from flying dirt and pebbles, tall grass or brush, and abrasive rocks in outdoor terrain. That said, a low-cut sock has its purpose on particular runs, especially on the track or road with no vegetation or when it’s really hot. Some people love socks that disappear into the shoe. The lowest-cut sock we included in this guide is the Smartwool Run Ankle Socks, which even provide a reasonable amount of ankle protection. Again, this is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

On the opposite end of the spectrum from no-show socks, knee-high socks provide the most protection against the elements, so some trail runners and ultrarunners wear tall socks. Over-the-calf socks inherently feel warmer than shorter pairs. Tall socks can also feature graduated compression: they are tightest at the ankle, become gradually looser further up the leg, and typically provide 20 to 30 millimeters of mercury of compression. We did not test knee-high socks for this guide, but you can learn more about compression options in our best compression socks guide. The downside of knee-high socks is that they can feel too hot during summer.

Our top-ranked socks are in-between knee-high to no-show. Our highest-rated, favorite socks for most of our runs from mountains to deserts are a range of crew heights that rise three to five inches above the ankle. Our favorite overall sock is the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five.

Durability

The most durable running socks employ a blend of synthetic fibers, which help the sock maintain its form and support. Synthetic fibers are more robust and stretchy and have a longer lifespan than natural fibers such as sheep or alpaca wool. This explains why every sock in our guide holds a percentage of synthetic material, even when mixed with natural fibers. A synthetic blend coupled with natural fibers is still a top choice for run socks because natural fibers provide specific qualities such as moisture transfer, breathability, odor resistance, or softness. Our favorite wool-blend sock is the Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock.

Performance socks such as the ones in this guide feature abrasion-resistant fibers in high-use areas of the foot that normally wear down, like beneath the toe, Achilles area, and heel. The CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0 use synthetic fibers designed to withstand friction to create a comfortable and highly durable sock.

Why You Should Trust Us

We began this guide by polling the 20-plus-person iRunFar team with hundreds of years of running experience about their preferred running socks. We also researched dozens of the highest-ranked, most popular, and top-selling socks for runners. In doing so, we honed a list of running socks for regimented testing. In the initial creation of this guide, six product testers covered hundreds of miles with the first round of socks. Since then, iRunFar’s team of regular gear testers and its buyers guide team members have been constantly testing running socks, and we periodically update this guide according to our testers’ feedback.

We covered rocky and smooth trails through high-altitude deserts and mountain slopes, sandy singletrack, granite canyons, sun-beaten loops, dense aspen groves, snowy post-holing ventures, and mud-caked or water-logged routes. On some runs, we pounded the pavement and packed dirt. Our runners endured frigid rain, blasts of snow, sunshine at 14,000 feet, and lip-chapping gales. We tracked miles through various environments across the San Juan Mountains, Elk Mountains, and Front Range of Colorado, as well as mountains and deserts throughout Utah, Wyoming, Montana, and the scree-strewn slopes of Oregon’s Cascade volcanoes. In addition to testing socks on shorter daily runs, we wore a number of the socks included in this guide during race and FKT efforts, including Western States, IMTUF, Hardrock 100, and Nolan’s 14.

We meticulously examined the socks throughout each run and ranked each sock on breathability, moisture transfer, cushioning, overall protection and comfort, and durability. A handful of socks scored high in many, but not all, traits, while others we tested didn’t make the cut.

Frequently Asked Questions about Running Socks

Should running socks be thick or thin?

The perfect amount of material in a running sock depends on personal preference, including a runner’s preferred footwear. Running shoes with a narrower toebox and more streamlined fit often pair best with lighter-weight socks like the Smartwool Run Ankle Socks or ultralight Stance Performance Crew Socks. Also, some runners’ feet swell in hotter conditions or during long-distance runs, so thicker socks can become too cumbersome. That said, the added warmth provided by a slightly thicker sock like the Swiftwick Pursuit Four is ideal in winter running conditions.

It’s important to ensure your sock fits well and is neither too tight nor too bunchy. “Socks that are chronically too tight can cause joint and myofascial tension in the foot,” says Joe Uhan, a physical therapist, coach, ultrarunner, and regular contributor to iRunFar through his Stay the Course column. Uhan recommends natural fiber socks like the Smartwool Run Ankle Socks and a fit that doesn’t take effort to pull on or bunch up and cause irritation.

How long do running socks last?

The lifespan of running socks depends on many factors, including the quality and type of materials woven into the sock and how a runner uses the socks. All fibers break down over time from sunlight, moisture, the oils of human skin, the inherent friction inside our running shoes, brushing against shrubs, and wash-and-dry cycles. Socks made of synthetic fibers, such as the Drymax Hot Weather Running 1/4 Crew Socks, are generally more durable, stain-resistant, and longer-lasting than natural ones. The socks in this guide feature entirely synthetic or natural and synthetic fiber blends, and none have lower-than-expected lifespans.

Additionally, following your socks’ laundering instructions can help them last longer. For instance, socks with terry loops will re-fluff when dried in a dryer, and their care instructions will note to tumble dry. Other socks, especially wool blends such as the Swiftwick Pursuit Four, which is 63% merino wool, shouldn’t be machine-dried because high heat affects the fiber integrity. The Feetures Elite Ultra Light Mini Crew above should be washed inside-out in cold water and hung up to dry. Also, using a harsh detergent can decrease a sock’s perceived functionality, as the detergent’s residue can reduce the sock’s breathability.

Wearing the proper size sock and trimming your toenails can also help reduce wear. And, of course, walking inside or outside in socks without shoes on can also deteriorate the fabric. While we are elated when our run socks last two or three seasons, we’re not surprised if they’re barreled after one.

Should I wear compression socks for running and recovery?

Between runs, compression socks can support blood circulation in a runner’s legs, which helps prevent and reduce swelling. Some evidence from the Cleveland Clinic, a premier academic medical center based in Cleveland, Ohio, also shows that compression socks worn during a run can positively impact performance on the athlete’s next run and aid recovery. The thick material and tall socks can also help protect the lower leg and ankles from shrubs, sunshine, rain, snow, or harsh wind.

Most importantly, if compression socks make you feel good during a race or on a run, adding them to your kit is likely a good idea. The best compression socks for running are the ones that fit your feet and calves. They should feel snug but not too tight. Again, physical therapist Uhan recommends wearing compression socks as needed and not spending too much time in very tight socks. He says, “Some compression, used intermittently and at times of acute/subacute injury, is useful, but constant compression will limit tissue (and fluid mobility of all kinds). Key fascial layers that extend from feet upward to the trunk can get too tight and stiff with prolonged compression use.”

Compression socks feature a range of tightness levels from eight millimeters of mercury (mmHg) to 50 mmHg. Silhouettes made for runners, such as the tall compression socks made by CEP or Pro Compression, typically offer 20 to 30 mmHg. Such socks also generally feature graduated compression, meaning they are tightest at the ankle and become gradually looser further up the leg.

The CEP The Run Compression Mid Cut Socks 4.0 provide some compression around the ankles. Our testers liked these socks because they fit well, didn’t slide or bunch, and dried quickly during long trail runs with stream crossings.

If you’re curious about compression socks, we recommend talking with your physical therapist or healthcare provider before investing. According to the Oklahoma Heart Institute, some people with diabetes can experience complications while using compression socks.

Should I wear special socks for cold and hot weather?

For the most part, it’s a matter of simple comfort. When you run in hot weather, it’s best to pull on your most breathable, moisture-wicking socks. When you run in cold weather, thicker socks that are still fairly breathable and moisture-wicking will be ideal. If precipitation occurs, choosing a pair that retains heat even when wet, such as socks with a natural fiber blend, like wool or alpaca, is a good idea. We chose the Darn Tough Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock as our favorite wool-blend sock.

A taller sock height is a good choice for cold weather. In hot weather, shorter socks are generally more comfortable, though choosing a sock cuff that’s so short it doesn’t stay fixed against the ankle can lead to the sock sliding down and bunching. Shorter socks also don’t protect against vegetation or rocks. Our favorite socks for cold weather are the Swiftwick Pursuit Four, and we love the Drymax Hot Weather Running 1/4 Crew Socks in warmer seasons.

Can socks help prevent blisters?

Friction while running — when a part of the foot rubs against another part of the foot or the socks and shoes you’re wearing — can cause blisters for a runner. Some runners experience blisters on their heels, while others find the painful nuisance on their toes or even the soles of their feet. Choosing socks and shoes that fit well — and fit well together — is important to prevent hot spots that become blisters. If the hosiery has too much material or is too loose, the fabric can slip or shift, and repeated shifting and rubbing can cause a hotspot that develops into a blister. The snug fit and slight compression of the Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five can keep feet free from blisters by minimizing rubbing.

The sock fibers can make a difference, too. One of our sock testers experienced blisters directly under her forefeet caused by the socks she wore during downhill sprints that day. They feature nylon (75%) and elastane (13%), and the bottom of the sock was too slick for the specific mechanics of the workout. The best way to prevent horrible blisters is to take your socks out for a variety of shorter runs, from speedy sprints on flat paths to steep climbs and downhills, to ensure your feet and choice footwear operate well with that sock. And if you begin to experience hot spots or blisters, stop and address them immediately.

Morgan Wolf, Product Manager at Swiftwick, suggests finding socks that fit well and incorporate materials that work well for your feet. “For all runs, runners should look for moisture-wicking, well-fitted socks to prevent blisters, which are often caused by the combination of friction, pressure, and moisture. Socks, like shoes, are sized to your foot, and having an improper fit may lead to blisters, so make sure that the socks you choose are not too tight or too loose,” Wolf explains. “In addition, look for breathable, moisture-wicking fibers, such as Olefin, which moves moisture away from your skin, greatly reducing the likelihood of chafing and overheating your feet.”

Finally, after choosing their favorite footwear and socks, some runners also apply powder lubricant to the inside of their socks or a gel lubricant like Body Glide or Squirrel’s Nut Butter to their feet before running. Hydration and electrolyte imbalances may also contribute to blisters.

Read our in-depth article on blister care and prevention to learn more.

Call for Comments

Is there a pair of excellent running socks that has improved your runs? Share it in the comments below so we can consider it for future updates to this guide.