running socks

24 best socks for runners 2024 UK

24 best socks for runners 2024 UK

Key Takeaways

  • Running socks are an important part of your overall comfort and performance, thanks to moisture-wicking materials, cushioning and support, and breathability.
  • Choose the best running socks. Choosing the right pair of socks is essential.
  • We’ve listed some important features of running socks, guarantee warmth and comfort, and blister-free performance.
  • All of these features work together to reduce friction and blistering, providing the best run you’ve ever had.
  • The best running socks are made with a blend of moisture-wicking, breathable materials, including natural fibers and synthetics.
  • These technologies are advancing all the time and improving their effectiveness.
  • Learning about the different sock types and features will help you choose the best socks for you.
  • In this manner, you can choose socks that best fit your individual requirements.
  • The fit and thickness of running socks were key factors as well when it came to comfort and performance.
  • Proper fit prevents the socks from slipping down during your run.
  • The thickness of the socks is very important in delivering cushioning sensorial and keeping the feet cozy.
  • From ankle vs crew vs no show socks, styles cater to personal taste and functional requirements.
  • Personal comfort is paramount, as well as the type of running activity you’ll be in, so finding the right style is important.
  • To help get the most life out of your running socks, wash them and store them properly.
  • With proper care and maintenance, your socks will go the distance!
  • We’ve found that doing the following goes a long way in ensuring their performance and in turn, their longevity.

Once you’ve tracked down the best running socks, it can literally change the life of any runner. High-quality running socks deliver the softness and support your feet crave, keeping blisters at bay and your game at its best.

Designed with advanced moisture-wicking, cushioned technology to prevent the friction caused during long, punishing miles. The right pair should fit your feet snugly without any bunching or sliding. The smarter decision is to spend your time where it counts!

Whether you’re a marathon enthusiast or a casual daytime jogger, the right socks can set you up to have every run be your best run. Whether you prefer solid colors or bold graphics, you’ll discover a pair of socks that match your personal vibe and performance requirements.

Investing your dough in the best running socks will be essential. This one small change will revolutionise the way you run. It simply becomes your go-to sock, making you feel amazing with every move you make.

What Are Running Socks?

Definition of Running Socks

For the serious runner, running socks feature blister protection and cushioning. They tend to be heavily cushioned to reduce impact.

In addition, they provide arch support for added stability as well as moisture-wicking fabrics that wick sweat so it doesn’t build up and cause blisters. These socks are available in them all: synthetic, wool and blends.

One typical example is 39% Coolmax Polyester, 58% Nylon and 3% Lycra. This special blend provides a snug fit that reduces movement between your sock and foot, keeping blisters at bay.

If you’re a fan of trail running or ultramarathons, check out the Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew socks. Their patented design allows your toes to spread naturally.

This added space allows your feet to flourish, creating a world of difference during your run.

Importance in Running Activities

We cannot underestimate the importance of running socks. A good pair of running socks offers much more than warmth and moisture-wicking.

Durable and cushioned, they provide a snug, moisture-wicking fit to keep blisters at bay. These socks have an excellent fit and feel.

Their moisture-wicking properties help runners avoid annoying hotspots and blisters, keeping them energized and irritation-free during long runs.

Balega Blister Resist running socks are well known for their longevity. They’re strong enough to take a beating on 97 kilometres without losing any comfort or support along the way.

In fact, running socks are equally important to your performance as shoes. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend park run or training for your next ultramarathon, running socks make a world of difference.

It’s because they protect and pamper your feet!

Key Features and Benefits

1. Moisture-Wicking Properties

With running socks, dry feet are happy feet. The socks’ moisture-wicking capabilities immediately draw sweat away from your feet. This not only keeps you comfortable, it helps stop sweat from pooling and forming blisters.

DryMax Running Mini Crew, $14.99 DryMax’s all-star quick-drying performance makes these socks a must-have for any runner. Its blend of Coolmax Polyester, Nylon, and Lycra helps make it a perfect sock for warm, high-output runs. 

Dry max running socks

This is a game-changer for keeping you comfortable on even your longest runs. This feature is key to ensuring your comfort. Along with the quality of your shoes, it’s the second most important factor in keeping your feet happy, healthy, and blister-free.

2. Cushioning and Support

The amazing cushioning they offer keeps your feet comfortable and protected while absorbing the impact of each step. With soft, targeted cushioning, the Thorlo Experia XCCU are great for those long runs on the asphalt or trails.

Thorlo Experia XCCU

The Balega Silver No Show provides soft cushioning that feels amazing on your feet. Its rugged build makes it your go-to companion for any course you choose to conquer.

These cushioned socks give your feet the support they need while keeping them comfy all day long. By reducing this extra unwanted strain, they help make every mile more enjoyable.

3. Breathability and Ventilation

Breathability is key to keep your shoes cool on the inside. Ventilation A sock with good ventilation improves performance.

The Aspire Zero delivers amazing ventilation, keeping air moving in and around your feet at all times. This cools and dries them fast, even after the most intense workouts.

The Aspire Zero socks

These socks feature strategic mesh panels for ventilation. With maximum airflow, sweat doesn’t build up and your feet stay cool and dry for long wear all day.

4. Durability and Longevity

The best running socks are an investment, and durability for the long haul is a necessity to get you through hundreds of runs. The Darn Tough Run Coolmax No-Show Tab Ultralight are extremely durable and come with a Darn Tough’s unconditional lifetime guarantee.

In addition, the Thorlo Experia XCCU is great for well over 60 miles. It’s crammed at the bottom of a suitcase and it survives! Longevity saves you money.

Darn Tough Run Coolmax

As a bonus, it saves your brain, providing peace of mind that you’re always getting no-nonsense performance day in and day out.

5. Seam-Free Design Advantages

A seamless construction means pressure points won’t form, which will make blisters and irritation a thing of the past. This design innovation creates a more snug fit, wrapping comfortably around the shape of your foot.

As with all Injinji socks, the Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew has a formfitting design that allows your toes to splay freely. This design provides the best comfort for runners who want to run more naturally.

Injinji socks

This design innovation provides a more fluid, natural-feeling run.

Materials and Technologies

Natural Fibres in Running Socks

Natural fibres, especially merino wool, seem to have mythical qualities associated with them that make them the best running sock. Read on to find out why the answer is merino wool-the ultimate running sock fabric.

From a performance standpoint, it’s incredible at keeping moisture away from your body, and it stays warm, even when wet. Darn Tough Run Ultra-Light micro crew socks are thin, ultra-comfortable and packed with run-friendly features.

As I mentioned earlier, they prevent blisters. When your feet stay dry you’re naturally more comfortable, even on those cold, wet runs. Cotton is your absolute worst choice when it comes to running socks.

It’s terribly breathable, so it traps all that moisture, causing a breeding ground for sweat and blisters during those summer months. In the winter, it makes for an extremely unpleasant journey.

Synthetic Materials and Blends

Synthetic materials and blends continue to be a popular choice in the creation of high-performance running socks. The Balega Silver socks, for instance, use 75% Drynamix Polyester, 23% Nylon and 2% Elastane.

That combo is what gives it the best breathability and moisture-wicking abilities in the game. A second excellent example would be Wrightsock Coolmesh II quarter socks, 39% Coolmax, 58% Nylon, 3% Lycra.

These two materials provide incredible breathability, so your feet will be nice and cool when the weather heats up and stay warm when it’s cold. Similarly, the Injinji socks are form fitting with a 70% Polyester, 27% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex composition.

Innovative Sock Technologies

Advanced technologies in performance running socks take sock comfort and performance to another level. The Vectr 2XU running sock features 2XU’s new innovative X-Lock technology.

Best of all, this technology provides exceptional ankle and arch support, controlling foot movement during activity and reducing the risk of injury. Keep those temps in check, and run smart when it’s scorching outside!

With a mesh-knit cooling panel, these Injinji Performance Trail Midweight socks let your dogs breathe easy. The Swiftwick Aspire Zero socks feature a lightweight, low-cut design.

Plus, with light to medium compression, they’re perfect for your hot-weather adventures.

Comfort, Fit, and Performance

Importance of Proper Fit

A well-fitting sock goes a long way no matter what – it’s a necessity for every runner. How socks fit your feet makes a big difference in performance. Beyond performance, it plays a big role in your comfort and health.

Socks that fit poorly will cause blisters and foot pain. With the right fit in a shoe, all you have to think about is your run. The Swiftwick Aspire Four socks are so tight they’re almost like a second skin.

With their compressive fit, they provide you with that comfortable, second-skin feel. They give you the best support while still keeping you comfortable and not feeling constricted. This kind of fit is especially nice for comfort throughout the distance of a long run.

Plus, when you’re sure you won’t be worrying about your socks slipping, you increase your confidence. This means you can focus completely on your best efforts.

Sock Thickness Considerations

Thickness plays a huge role in comfort, fit, and performance. Colder weather means thicker socks, but if it’s hot, the thin socks will give you breathability. They feature an innovative design that wraps around the top of the foot, under the arch.

Thinner socks are better on hot days where breathability is a must. Darn Tough Run Ultra-Light micro crew socks — Constructed with merino fabric, these socks are seriously as light as a feather. They trap warmth close to your feet, even if they are exposed to moisture.

Midweight alternatives such as the Injinji Performance Trail Midweight socks offer excellent all-round adaptability. Since they’re so good looking, you’re going to want to wear them running, hiking and out on the town!

Performance Enhancements from Design

Thoughtful design improvements can make the difference between a just okay sock and a must-have piece of running apparel. Balega Silver socks are consistently touted by outdoor and running media as their top choice.

They’re known for their moisture-wicking and quick-drying abilities. These features combine to help cool and wick moisture away from the foot, helping to reduce blistering and irritation.

Injinji Performance Trail Midweight Crew socks perform beautifully in the comfort category. Their abundant, meticulous design works wonders in providing advanced performance, comfort, and fit.

Sock Geeks is redefining the running experience with its innovative approach to performance socks. Crafted with precision and designed for athletes, Sock Geeks’ products combine advanced moisture-wicking materials, targeted cushioning, and seamless construction to ensure unparalleled comfort and support. Their range is tailored to meet the needs of casual joggers and marathon enthusiasts alike, offering styles that prevent blisters, enhance breathability, and deliver optimal arch support. With a commitment to durability and sustainability, Sock Geeks stands out as a brand dedicated to keeping runners’ feet happy and healthy. Discover how Sock Geeks is setting a new standard in running gear.

Types of Running Socks

Ankle Length Socks

Ankle length socks are the most popular length runners by a wide margin. This cut of sock is a great combination of protection and mobility. This type of shoe stops at or just above the ankle. These are great for runners who want more warmth without the bulk.

The Balega Blister Resist Quarter socks are one of the clear winners in this category, offering plenty of support and comfort. Blister-prevention socks are designed specifically to keep blisters at bay, a frequent issue for runners. If you want a sock that can withstand anything the mountains can throw at you, the Swiftwick Aspire Zero is the long-distance runner’s sock of choice.

They haven’t lost their quality even after running over 322 kilometres.

Crew Length Socks

Crew length socks go up to about the middle of the calf. Their cushioning and warmth make them a great choice for trail runners and those looking for added protection from nature’s debris and elements. The Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew socks are tough to beat for style points.

Their Merino wool, nylon, and elastane blends give you unbeatable comfort and durability. They’re particularly perfect for long-distance runs, defending your feet from top to bottom. The 1000 Mile double layer socks are an enduring favourite.

They offer absolute blister protection and comfort through even the longest of runs.

No-Show Socks

No-show socks are designed to be invisible under trainers, perfect for runners seeking a sockless experience. Balega Silver No Show socks are making happy feet all around! They’re then expertly crafted from a high-tech blend of Drynamix Polyester, nylon, and elastane for a snug, blister-free fit.

Perfect for runners who want low-profile cushioning, the Swiftwick Maxus One socks provide the perfect comfort without the extra weight. Darn Tough Run Coolmax No-Show Tab Ultralight socks are super comfortable. Given their second-to-none durability, they’re the best socks for running every day.

Choosing the Right Running Socks

Assessing Personal Needs and Preferences

Whether you run a marathon or enjoy a leisurely jog, comfortable running socks help enhance your experience. They can help you perform harder, faster and longer. The right pair will change everything about your running. You’ll love the increased breathability, moisture-wicking function, and arch support.

If you always find yourself running in wet, rainy environments, look for socks that have more breathability built into them. The moisture-wicking technology will ensure that your feet stay dry and comfy. Still other socks use blister-reducing technologies. They utilize friction-reducing materials or seamless designs, which really creates all the difference in comfort.

Whatever you do, don’t make the cotton mistake when it comes to running socks. When running, it takes in water and becomes a breeding ground for painful blisters.

Tips for Trying on Socks

That’s why shopping socks in person before purchase is a smart move. Watch out for size, and make sure it fits good and feels good in the toe and ankle area. The best way to prevent this kind of rub is to choose a sock with a seamless construction.

Here’s a few general guidelines on thickness. Consider weather—Go with thicker socks on colder winter days, or if you live in a warmer climate go with thinner socks. To help make sure they last for as long as possible, wash your socks inside out on a cool setting.

Don’t use fabric softener, and they should stay in top form. This allows you to alter their performance to suit your needs. It doubles their natural life expectancy to about 373 to 497 miles.

How to Choose the Right Size

Selecting the appropriate size is extremely important. Avoiding blisters and other general sock discomfort starts with the fit of your sock, so this is a key step. You need socks that are snug, but not so snug that they cut off circulation.

If you can’t keep them up without a lot of effort, they’re too large. Rotating three or four different pairs, as I did this year, allows you to get more miles out of each pair.

Choosing the right thickness and breathability to combat the elements goes a long way. You can run comfortably, whatever the weather.

Care and Maintenance

Washing Instructions

If you want to keep your favorite pair of running socks comfy and functional, follow these basic care tips. That way, they’ll be running their fastest for thousands of miles to come! When it’s time to clean your Balega socks simply throw them into a cold wash with like colours.

The best way to wash your socks is with a mild detergent! That precise process preserves the quality and hue of the yarns. To preserve their shape and elasticity, air-drying is highly recommended. Prevent against heat shrink or other damage.

If you hang them on a line or lay them flat, the direct heat won’t warp or shrink them. Plus, it’s always a good idea to rotate between 2 or 3 pairs of socks. Don’t put them all through the ringer at once!

Giving them a bit of time to rest and recover will do wonders for their longevity. If you’re doing long runs regularly, like when you’re training for a marathon, it’s time to swap out your socks. Make it a point to do this every six months to year for best results.

That way you’ll be sure to be training with the most supportive, impact-reducing and performance-enhancing gear.

Storing Tips for Longevity

To maximize longevity, proper storage is just as important as washing. Ship them in a dark, stable temperature environment. Keep your materials in a cool, dark place – light and humidity can be pretty harsh and can do lifelong damage to materials.

Fold them up properly to ensure they last longer. Don’t wad them up into a tight ball, that will ruin the elastic. Be aware that wear and multiple washings can alter the thickness and degree of breathability in your socks.

Keep in mind that your feet will swell some while running. Not to mention that the best running socks are going to shrink a little every time you do laundry. Keeping at least two pairs of shoes in rotation is smart too.

It’s what keeps you rolling fast and feeling fresh over the long haul.

Testing Running Socks

Methodology for Evaluating Performance

We put running socks through the wringer, literally and figuratively. We trust a team of independent testers to put each sock through the ringer. Then they take a pair and compare them head to head on five main performance metrics. That way we ensure we’re testing every aspect of what makes a running sock great.

Our sock testers are experienced sock performers, such as accomplished sock performers, Andy Wellman and Amber King, who are familiar with running gear from foot to head. For example, they run the socks through extreme conditions on all types of terrains from rocky mountains to hiking paths. This demanding testing ensures their flexibility and performance aren’t compromised over time.

Unlike other sock companies who market test their socks in just one climate, we put our socks to the test in both extreme heat and extreme cold. This process provides us the best sense of how they’ll perform across diverse, real-world terrains.

Factors Considered in Testing

Durability is honestly one of our largest factors. Finally, after around 48 kilometres of testing, we check each sock for any damage or defects. These socks are tested over a longer period, around 320 kilometres, to see how they hold up in the long term.

The Swiftwick Aspire Zero put on a display of incredible durability. Even after many miles and several washes, the sock showed little signs of wear. Comfort is by far the most important aspect when choosing socks.

Balega Blister Resist Quarter, Balega Silver No Show, and Darn Tough Run Coolmax No-Show Tab Ultralight are examples of socks that provide superior arch support and a supportive fit. With their breathable design, runners can find their cool, even on the hottest days.

That’s because we research and rank every product with hands-on, real-world testing. This helps us deliver the most relevant and informative content that you can put to use in your everyday life.

Here’s the Top 20 Running Socks for Runners 2024 UK, each with detailed descriptions and relevant website links:

1. DryMax Running Mini Crew

Designed for runners who push their limits, these socks excel in quick-drying performance, keeping your feet dry and blister-free even on long runs. The Coolmax Polyester, Nylon, and Lycra blend ensures a snug fit, reducing movement to prevent friction.
Price: £12.99
Website Link

2. Thorlo Experia XCCU

These lightweight socks offer targeted cushioning in high-impact zones, ideal for long runs on asphalt or trails. Moisture-wicking technology keeps your feet dry, while the sleek fit reduces bulk for comfort and performance.
Price: £14.99
Website Link

3. Balega Silver No Show

Known for their soft cushioning and anti-microbial silver ions, these socks prevent odor buildup and provide superior comfort. Their seamless design eliminates irritation, perfect for long runs.
Price: £13.00
Website Link

4. Aspire Zero by Swiftwick

These socks feature ventilation panels to promote airflow, keeping feet cool and dry. The compressive fit ensures they stay in place during vigorous activities, perfect for speed-focused runners.
Price: £14.00
Website Link

5. Darn Tough Run Coolmax No-Show Tab Ultralight

Built for longevity, these socks come with a lifetime guarantee. Their ultra-lightweight design and Coolmax fabric ensure a breathable, comfortable running experience.
Price: £16.50
Website Link

6. Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew

With a unique toe-sock design, these socks reduce friction and promote natural toe splay, ideal for trail runners. The midweight cushioning and moisture-wicking fabric add comfort on rugged terrains.
Price: £15.99
Website Link

7. Balega Blister Resist Quarter

Engineered to prevent blisters, these socks combine mohair and Drynamix fibers for moisture management. Their plush cushioning and seamless design provide unmatched comfort for long-distance runs.
Price: £13.50
Website Link

8. Wrightsock Coolmesh II

These dual-layer socks excel in blister prevention and breathability. Lightweight and snug, they’re perfect for warm-weather runs.
Price: £12.00
Website Link

9. Vectr 2XU Running Sock

Incorporating X-Lock technology, these socks offer exceptional ankle and arch support. Targeted compression and breathable panels make them ideal for high-performance runners.
Price: £18.00
Website Link

10. Injinji Performance Trail Midweight Crew

Designed for trail enthusiasts, these socks feature mesh-knit panels for ventilation and a midweight build for added comfort. Their toe-sock design promotes natural movement and blister prevention.
Price: £16.50
Website Link

11. Swiftwick Aspire Four

With a compressive fit that wraps around your foot like a second skin, these socks offer support and comfort over long distances. Seamless construction and moisture-wicking fabric ensure endurance.
Price: £15.99
Website Link

12. Darn Tough Run Ultra-Light Micro Crew

Crafted with merino wool, these socks provide lightweight warmth and moisture-wicking properties. Their ultra-light design makes them suitable for both trail and road running.
Price: £18.99
Website Link

13. Balega UltraGlide No Show

With advanced padding and friction-reducing technology, these socks excel in high-mileage runs. Their no-show design and seamless construction ensure a comfortable fit.
Price: £12.99
Website Link

14. Thorlo Experia Multi-Sport Socks

Versatile and durable, these socks are designed for multi-sport activities. Their targeted cushioning and moisture-wicking capabilities make them a reliable choice for runners and active individuals.
Price: £15.99
Website Link

15. Injinji Run Lightweight Mini-Crew

With a toe-sock design and lightweight fabric, these socks reduce friction and promote natural toe movement, perfect for runners seeking breathability and comfort.
Price: £14.50
Website Link

16. 1000 Mile Double Layer Socks

These dual-layer socks provide unparalleled blister protection and comfort. Ideal for endurance runners, they offer cushioning and support for the toughest trails.
Price: £12.00
Website Link

17. CEP Compression Socks

Designed for long-distance runners, these socks improve circulation and reduce muscle soreness. Their snug fit and breathable fabric make them perfect for recovery and performance.
Price: £19.99
Website Link

18. Stance Tab Socks

Combining bold designs with functional features, these socks offer targeted compression and cushioning. Stylish and comfortable, they’re a great choice for performance runners.
Price: £14.00
Website Link

19. Balega Silver Socks

Combining Drynamix fibers with silver ions to combat odor, these socks are moisture-wicking and feature reinforced heels and toes for durability.
Price: £13.50
Website Link

20. Farm to Feet Damascus Lightweight Crew

Made with merino wool, these socks offer natural odor resistance and temperature regulation. Their lightweight design ensures comfort and durability on trails.
Price: £17.50
Website Link

Conclusion

Once you find the right best running socks, it’s an epiphany moment for your run. When you run on cushioned feet, you’ll feel the soft-yet-stable support of breathable quality running socks with every step.

Materials such as merino wool and synthetic blends wick moisture and help fight against blisters. Other styles, such as ankle or crew lengths, provide complimentary styles to match individual style and functional needs.

Just like anything else, you need to take care of your gear, and it will outlast you. That way, you’ll never be without clean and fresh equipment! It always does, and it takes some trial and error to determine what’s going to work best for you.

When you are willing to invest in the best running socks, you are going to give your performance a boost while keeping your feet happy. Ready to take your best running sock experience to the next level?

Shop our best running socks and see it for yourself. Your feet will thank you for it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes running socks different from regular socks?

The main difference between running socks and regular socks, like increased cushioning, moisture-wicking, and arch support, makes running socks the comfortable choice.

These moisture-wicking running socks are specially designed with runners in mind to help wick sweat away from skin, reducing friction and preventing blisters.

With their plush performance running experience and just-right security, they bring the best to every run.

What materials should I look for in running socks?

Skip the cotton socks and pick polyester or nylon blends.

Both these fabrics wick moisture and dry quickly.

Breathable, temperature-regulating merino wool socks provide all-day comfort.

They help manage odors, keeping you feeling fresh all day long.

How do I choose the right fit for running socks?

So you want to make sure your socks, like compressive running socks, fit snug without being restrictive.

Look for a size corresponding to your shoe size and one that won’t leave you with extra material that can rub and cause blisters.

What are the benefits of compression running socks?

Compression running socks improve circulation and reduce muscle soreness, which is why they’re the perfect choice for any long-distance runner.

These technical socks deliver performance calf compression to help runners bounce back quicker post-run, while delivering a super soft run feel.

How often should I replace my running socks?

Replace them every 6 to 12 months.

Please do it earlier if you start to wear them down, such as worn out fabric or elastic that has lost its bounce.

What’s more, frequent replacement is your secret weapon to enjoying the benefits of high-performance comfort.

Can I machine wash my running socks?

Do not iron, do not tumble dry, machine washable on a gentle cold cycle.

Never use a fabric softener.

To keep your socks in top condition, make sure you air dry, or tumble dry on low to avoid shrinking and damaging elasticity.

Are there different types of running socks for different conditions?

Opt for lighter-weight options, such as breathable running socks, in the summer and warmer, thermal designs when the weather turns cold.

Rainy weather calls for waterproof socks, while an anti-blister sock with additional padding is better for long runs.


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