10 Best Adidas Socks Reviewed & Compared
By Alice Rhoades
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Socks are rarely the star of the show and most people prefer convenience and affordability over style and specialization. To tick these boxes we often purchase basic socks in bulk and use them indiscriminately for every activity. While this may make losing a sock less devastating, there are a few features athletes may consider paying a bit more for. For people who have yet to invest in activewear socks, you may be amazed at the difference a few extra dollars can make in comfort and construction. You may not even be aware of all the features and design elements available to combat the issues that plague athletes feet.
Moisture-wicking material, strategically placed padding and arch compression are common traits that do not cost a lot and can significantly enhance comfort and reduce blisters. For days you will be on your feet longer, having socks that are designed to fit each foot will offer more support for natural movement. While you may not run twelve miles every day, specific running socks are nice to have on hand when you do.
Athletic socks can cost upwards of $30 for just one pair and while you may not need specialized socks for every activity, it is nice to have a few high quality pairs to get you through long runs and tough workouts. Adidas offers an affordable range of options from solid basics for everyday to highly specialized socks for long runs and everything in between. We have evaluated their line of socks for the best options for runners; breaking it down by feature so you can determine what is worth spending more.
- Energy No Show
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Our rating - Supportive compression
- Price: See Here
- Superlite Prime Mesh Low Cut
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Our rating - Lightweight
- Price: See Here
- Traxion Menace High Quarter
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Our rating - Arch support
- Price: See Here
10 Best Adidas Socks
1. Energy No Show
These Energy Running socks are composed of 90% Polyester, 7% Spandex, and 3% Natural Latex Rubber with Adidas’ Climalite technology. The anatomical design is specific to right and left feet featuring compression throughout the sock for support and increased cushioning in the forefoot and heel to reduce friction and blisters. The Traxion heel and extended tab prevent these no-show socks from slipping as you move.
Comfort:
The compression fit is snug without being too tight and adds support in all the right areas. The additional cushioning at high pressure areas also enhances the comfort in these well-designed socks.
Moisture Wicking:
The largely polyester fabric wicks moisture away from the feet to keep them cool and dry.
Style:
These socks are available in black, gray, navy and white with added color to highlight the key features. The ankle tab will stick out of shoes but is not very noticeable.
Value:
The quality design features and attention to detail in these socks make it worth investing in a pair or two. They are a bit expensive in comparison to those available in value packs but they will make a difference on long run days.
- Supportive compression throughout
- Moisture wicking
- Cushioning in high pressure areas
- Heel tab
- Stays in place
- Expensive
2. Superlite Prime Mesh Low Cut
These Superlite Mesh Socks are made with Adidas’ Climalite fabric consisting of 79% Nylon, 17% Polyester, 3% Spandex and 1% Rubber. They feature mesh uppers, targeted cushioning in the toes and heels as well as arch compression. Smooth seams reduce risk of blisters and irritation.
Comfort:
Runners appreciate the snug fit created by the arch compression. Comfort is enhanced by the added padding in the toes and heels as well as the soft, lightweight feel of nylon blend.
Moisture Wicking:
The Climalite fabric works well to let feet breathe but the high percentage of nylon does absorb sweat and feel a bit damp with hot workouts.
Style:
These socks are available in black, gray and white with small amounts of color around the heel and toe.
Value:
Only available in 2 packs, these socks are a bit more expensive but they do have all key features of a solid running sock.
- Mesh upper
- Cushioned at heel and toe
- Soft feel
- Lightweight construction
- Compression at the arch holds socks in place
- More expensive
3. Traxion Menace High Quarter
These High Quarter socks are made of 75% Polyester, 17% Natural Latex Rubber, 9% Spandex, and 5% Nylon. They have an anatomical construction that is specific to right vs left with compression around the arch and padding at the forefoot and heel. Traxion areas on the sole increase grip to prevent feet from sliding around.
Comfort:
Reviewers note that the right/left specific fit helps create support and cushioning right where you need it. This creates a very comfortable feel that sets these socks well above the less specialized options.
Moisture Wicking:
Climalite threads wick away sweat to keep feet dry.
Style:
These socks are available in black and white with gray stripes along the foot bed to highlight design features. They will hit higher up on the leg with contrasting stripes wrapping around the ankle.
Value:
These socks are sold per pair and are a bit pricey. However, you can see where your money is going with the specialized fit and extreme comfort.
- Left/right specific fit for added comfort
- Arch support
- Moisture wicking
- Traxion heel
- Added cushioning in forefoot and heel
- Expensive
4. ClimaCool Superlite Low Cut
Adidas’ ClimaCool fabric is made up of 58% polyester, 40% cotton and 2% elastane. This sock has 360 degree ventilated upper with added cushioning in the heel and toe.
Comfort:
The thinner upper helps the foot breathe while thicker material in the toe and heel add padding to create a comfortable sock for running, walking and standing.
Moisture Wicking:
The polyester in these socks helps to wick moisture. Runners do not notice increased friction or blisters despite the addition of cotton.
Style:
These socks are available in a variety of colors with a brightly contrasting bottom and three stripe wrapping up from the arch. The low cut version will peek up over trainers to show off a brightly colored Adidas logo at the ankle.
Value:
Available in 3 packs, these are a great value for the moisture-wicking ClimaCool technology and added padding in high pressure spots.
- ClimaCool fabric wicks moisture
- Cushioning at heel and toe
- Thin upper for added breathability
- Slightly more expensive
5. Superlite Low Cut
These socks are constructed of 58% polyester, 40% cotton and 2% elastane with strategic padding placed at the heel, ball and toes and 360 degree ventilated uppers.
Comfort:
The ventilated upper wraps around the foot and allows it to breathe from the top while thicker material in the toe and heel add cushioning and durability.
Moisture Wicking:
Runners love the breathable upper area and moisture wicking fabric to keep feet cool during summer runs.
Style:
These socks are available in a few classic colors with a contrasting bottom and three stripes wrapping up from the arch.
Value:
The Men’s superlite are available in 3 packs and are a great value for moisture-wicking and breathable workout socks. Unfortunately, they are not the most durable socks out there and some users note pilling and thinning after regular wear.
- Wicks moisture
- Cushioning at heel and toe
- Thin upper for added breathability
- Not the most durable
6. Cushioned Low Cut
These Low Cut socks are made up of 71% Acrylic, 24% Polyester, 3% Spandex, and 2% Natural Latex Rubber. They feature thicker fabric throughout the sole of the sock for added padding as well as 360 degree compression around the arch for a snugger fit.
Comfort:
The full-footbed cushioning makes these socks feel thicker and more plush than the Superlite line. They are very comfortable and the compression surrounding the arch holds the sock in place while providing some support.
Moisture Wicking:
The acrylic and polyester blend works well for wicking moisture from the skin. However, these thick socks are not as breathable through the uppers as the Superlite line.
Style:
These socks are available in plain black and white as well as gray and white with colorful stripes that wrap around from the ball of the foot. The low cut will show over gym shoes with a small adidas logo at the ankle.
Value:
These cushioned socks are available in 3 packs and are a great value for a comfortable everyday sock.
- Very comfortable
- Inexpensive
- Cushioning throughout the footbed
- Moisture-wicking material
- Not as breathable
- Thick material
- Not specially suited for running
7. Superlite No Show
Adidas’ Superlite socks are constructed from their Climalite fabric which consists of 97% Polyester, 2% Spandex, and 1% Natural Latex Rubber intended to wick moisture and fight odor. The updated version of this sock features arch support with a knit-in textured 3 stripe.
Comfort:
These socks are a bit thin but stay in place well during runs. The shape is great for athletic wear and reviewers do not note any slippage around the ankle. They are a great, basic option for running but they do not have much cushioning on the bottom as seen in more specialized running socks.
Moisture Wicking:
The Climalite fabric works to wick away moisture and decrease odor. Reviewers note improved moisture-wicking over cotton socks as these do not create blisters with running.
Style:
When worn with shoes, these no-show socks will just be visible above the ankle. So, with the large selection of neutral and bright color options, these socks will offer a small pop of color or blend in completely.
Value:
Sold in value packs of six, these are affordable but basic socks to fill out your wardrobe. Some users note the material feels quite thin but they hold up well to tough workouts despite the price.
- Fit well
- Stay in place
- Breathable
- Affordable
- Good basic
- No cushioning
- Thin material throughout
8. Climalite X II Mid-Crew
These crew socks are constructed of 69% Microacrylic, 22% Polyester, 4% Nylon, 3% Rubber and 2% Spandex. They feature compression around the arch for support and some ribbed cushioning along the footbed for non-slip shock absorption.
Comfort:
The cushioning along the footbed and snug fit around the arch creates a comfortable and supportive feel without sacrificing breathability.
Moisture Wicking:
The microacrylic and polyester blend works to wick away moisture and keep feet dry during exercise.
Style:
Available in neutral gray, brown and navy blue, these crew socks take on the appearance of light hiking socks.
Value:
These socks are sold in value packs of two. Users tend to notice holes developing in the heel and toes with regular use.
- Comfortable
- Ribbed cushioning for shock absorption and grip
- Moisture wicking
- Breathable
- Arch compression
- Expensive for the quality
- Not very durable
9. Cushioned Quarter
These socks are a blend of cotton, polyester and spandex. They feature thicker fabric throughout the footbed and 360 degree arch compression.
Comfort:
The cushioning over the entire footbed makes these socks feel comfortable and well-padded. Users note the compression surrounding the arch holds the sock in place while providing minimal support during exercise. Be aware of the snug fit when ordering as some men find they do run a bit small or may shrink due to the cotton.
Moisture Wicking:
The moisture wicking fabric does its job to keep feet dry but the thicker material and increased padding may add a bit more heat to your workout.
Style:
These socks are available in a few classic color combinations with an adidas logo on the ankle and three stripes wrapping up from the ball of the foot.
Value:
Price may range based on color but these socks are sold in value packs of three and are a great option for comfortable socks.
- Very comfortable
- Inexpensive
- Cushioning throughout the footbed
- Moisture-wicking material
- Not as breathable
- Thick material
- Not specially suited for running
- Run small/may shrink
10. Superlite Speed Mesh Super No Show
The Climalite fabric consists of 79% Nylon, 17% Polyester, 3% Spandex and 1% Rubber. The Superlite Speed Mesh sock features a mesh upper, arch compression and strategically placed cushioning at high impact points.
Comfort:
The soft nylon blend and cushioning creates a comfortable feel. The arch support helps keep socks in place but some women find that the low height of these super no-show socks can cause them to slip off the heel with certain shoes.
Moisture Wicking:
Mesh uppers add breathability and the climalite fabric works to wick away some moisture. However, the heavy percentage of nylon can lead to some moisture absorption during sweatier workouts.
Style:
These super no show socks wrap just around the foot for an invisible appearance to let your shoes stand out on their own.
Value:
These socks are sold in 2 packs and are a bit more expensive than some of the others listed. However, the durability of the nylon fabric and attention to detail in the construction help to justify the added cost.
- Mesh upper for breathability
- Do not show at all
- High nylon percentage for soft feel
- Cushioning at the toe and heel
- May slip off the heel
- More expensive
- Do not wick moisture as well as polyester
The Metrics We Used to Determine the Best Adidas Socks
Construction
Similar to other activewear, a good pair of socks will be designed with movement and sweat in mind. The construction and materials are chosen to improve comfort and reduce issues such as blisters or odor. When considering the construction, we looked at the fabric blend and features that elevate each of these socks above the plain cotton variety.
Most big activewear brands have created and trademarked unique fabric blends to help keep you cool or warm depending on exercise. Adidas utilizes their ClimaLite and ClimaCool technology in many of their socks to help keep feet cool and dry. ClimaLite is their trademark fabric blend that helps wick moisture away from skin to the outside of the garment. With the moisture on the surface of the clothing, it will evaporate more quickly keeping you cooler. ClimaCool technology goes a bit above the fabric blend with areas of ventilation for added breathability.
The fabric blend used largely influences the sock’s ability to wick away moisture, fight odor and maintain its shape. Common materials found in these blends are polyester, nylon, acrylic, cotton, and spandex.
- Polyester is a synthetic fabric favored for outerwear due to its moisture repelling properties. Polyester threads are more breathable than nylon and they work well to wick moisture away from the skin to keep feet dry.
- Also synthetic, nylon is softer and more durable than polyester. It adds some stretch to socks allowing them to provide more compression and elasticity. Nylon blends are generally breathable and do not foster microbial growth but may not be as effective at removing moisture as polyester blends
- Acrylic fabric is hydrophobic and will repel moisture but may foster bacterial growth and have higher likelihood of developing odor.
- Cotton has a tendency to absorb moisture giving it a wet feeling when you sweat. It is not typically the first choice for activewear socks but it can be useful in combating odor as it does not foster microbial growth like its synthetic counterparts.
- Spandex (or lycra) is another synthetic fabric that is commonly found in activewear and makes up a smaller percentage of most Adidas socks. Spandex provides stretch and elasticity to workout gear to create compression and help fabric maintain its shape.
In addition to the fabric, many activewear socks feature construction details to add comfort and support throughout your workout. One common design feature is the addition of padding in high impact areas such as the forefoot and heel. This added thickness helps to reduce impact on the foot and adds some durability to areas that would otherwise wear down more quickly. Compression features around the arch are also fairly common and can help keep socks in place and provide a bit of support during long workouts.
Comfort
Sore feet and blisters can distract from any workout. The best activewear socks have padding and compression in the right areas to provide support and cushioning where it is needed so you can avoid distraction and focus on the task at hand.
Moisture Wicking
When socks become wet the friction on your feet increases, leading to blisters. Controlling moisture and allowing feet to breathe reduces that friction and chance of blisters, improving comfort overall.
Style
Style may not be your top concern for a garment that will mostly be covered by your shoes. However, whether your goal is to blend in or add a pop of color, it never hurts to buy clothes you are excited to wear. Adidas style is often understated and classic. Most socks feature the recognizable adidas logo and classic three stripe design.
Value
Many Adidas socks are available in value packs to make stocking up easy. They range in price from about 3 dollars to 15 dollars per pair and typically correlate with the complexity and specialization of the design.
Other Things to Consider
Height
Adidas makes socks of varying ankle heights to accommodate different shoes and styles. This is largely personal preference but for this list we looked for the favorite height for each style. If you find a sock with all the right features but are deterred by the height, check to see what else is available.
Footwear
A great pair of socks is nothing without a great pair of shoes. Consider the shoes you are already using for exercise. How do they fit? Do they have any problem areas? Properly fitting footwear will be the best defense against issues or blister areas.
Activity
The price you pay for a pair of socks often correlates with the number and quality of specialized design features. When you are out on long runs or sweating buckets at the gym, these features can save your feet from pain and fatigue. However, if you are casually running a few miles or putting in some time on the elliptical, shelling out extra cash for left/right specificity may not be worth it. Consider what you need your socks for and buy accordingly. For many athletes, stocking up on affordable basics and investing in a few specialized pairs for tough days will be most economical.
FAQs
Q: How do men’s and women’s socks differ?
A: In general, the only functional difference between men’s and women’s socks is the sizing as women tend to have smaller feet than men. Some women also note that men’s socks may feel a bit thicker and more padded than the women’s version, but this is largely based on the style and brand. The only other difference seems to be the styling as women’s socks tend to have more color and more feminine design. Many men and women find socks “intended” for the opposite gender work great for them. So, don’t let the gender on the label hold too much influence over your decision but do order a size up or down accordingly.
Q: What size do I need?
A: Sizing will vary based on style. Typically the more specialized socks such as the Energy Running Socks will offer a few options for sizes that cover a range of shoe sizes. Socks with more basic design often come in one size that covers most people–typically around 5-10 for women and 6-15 for men.
Q: Should I have different socks for running and cross-training?
A: This answer depends largely on personal preference and activity level. Many runners love to have socks specialized for running, particularly on long run days. Running socks tend to have thinner material and less padding and more focused padding. Other people prefer a bit more cushioning during their runs and find having all-purpose athletic socks are comfortable for both running and cross-training.
Sources
- , Uniform Fabric Technologies: Dri-FIT, ClimaCool, DryCELL, etc., Web Page, Jan 01, 1970
- , Fabric Guide, Web Page,
- , What is Acrylic Fabric?, Web Page,
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