10 Best Basketball Socks Reviewed and Compared
There’s constant running, jumping, pivoting, and arm movement. All of this needs to be supported by athletic apparel and gear that’s made specifically for the sport. Basketball has been around for a long time, and most major brands have a line of gear tailored specifically for the sport.
We’re always hearing about the latest basketball shoes, but far too many athletes are overlooking their socks. With new technological advances and sports sciences, socks are being made to enhance performance and reduce the rate of injury. Surprisingly, socks can complement shoes, and act as an additional support system for your feet. If you’ve ever played basketball, then you know how important this is.
We looked at the best basketball socks on the market and created our review list using a strict set of criteria. There are still a lot of options out there, but hopefully this gives you a solid place to start.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Basketball is a consistently high impact interval sport. You’re constantly moving, changing direction, and jumping.
This puts more stress on your feet and requires superior shock absorption. While a good pair of basketball shoes can provide the primary protection, your basketball socks will need to enhance this. The very best socks will be comfortable before, during, and after the game. They need to be free of seams, and resistant to slipping.
Comfort isn’t all about padding, it also includes breathability and moisture wicking capabilities. Trying to play with feet that are drenched in sweat can be dangerous and cause unnecessary injuries.
Comfortable basketball socks should move with you and provide ongoing support until the last buzzer.
Breathability
Since basketball is an active sport where athletes work up a sweat, the socks need to be breathable to allow for air to get in and sweat to escape out. How breathable is the option? How well does it perform in this category?
The best basketball socks are usually made out of synthetic materials or wool blends. All of these things promote airflow around the foot, and don’t lock in heat and moisture. When choosing the right socks for you, look at what they’re made of and compare this to other user reviews. We tried to include only the socks that promoted superior breathability during high-impact sports.
Advanced Features
Keeping your feet as cool and dry as possible is incredibly important when playing basketball. The right materials will go beyond breathability and draw moisture away from the surface of the skin.
This moves it to the outside of the sock, where it can be easily evaporated. If you’ve never dealt with a case of athlete’s foot, then count yourself lucky. Trying to participate in any sport with sweaty feet can lead to a buildup of bacteria and fungi.
This can cause a number of different infections and keep you off the court until you’ve healed. Dry feet are happy feet!
Durability
How well is the sock construction? Is it durable enough to last for more than one wear?
We know that your sports gear needs to be as tough as you are. This includes the socks that you wear. No one wants to spend money on a product that tears or wears through after just a few uses.
Most people are willing to pay a little bit more for quality, but poorly made products defeat the purpose. The socks that we included were made to last and can stand up to even the toughest plays.
Size
Sports and athletic socks typically come in three different heights when it comes to length: low, mid and crew cut. The most common is crew cut, meaning they reach the middle of shins.
These options cover the ankle, protecting it as well as keeping the sock in place, as opposed to lower cut styles. Mid-cut socks are a bit higher than low cut, being a great Goldilocks option since they aren’t too high and not too low.
Finally, low cut socks are essentially no-show options that look like the athlete isn’t wearing any socks at all. The length is mostly based on preference.
10 Best Basketball Socks
1. Rockay Razer
A new addition to this brand is the Razer. This sock may be new to the market, but it aligns with our core values and high standards. Made with 100% recycled materials, Razer seems to be a sock that creates the perfect balance between performance and protection for the runner and athlete. It ends up being a great pick as a basketball sock too.
Read moreComfort
The underneath cushioning system was designed to create comfort where it is needed most—from the heel to the toe. The arch compression and mesh technology allow for a snug fit. Also, it will enable your foot to feel fresh, cool, and dry.
You will find that this running sock is the ideal length and that helps keep debris at bay while running on the trail.
Quality is a priority, and this sock is comprised of a high density knit that ensures durability and also adds to the softer feel.
Value
Serious runners expect more from a running sock, and thus price point will be different from those individuals selecting socks for daily use. With that said, Razer offers both high quality and comfort at a competitive price to other trail running socks in its league.
2. Under Armour Heatgear Crew
These athletic crew socks are soft and comfortable, yet feature a synthetic blend of materials that adds to its durability. It excels in its moisture management system. This includes the company’s HeatGear tech that keeps the feet cool, while also wicking away sweat. It has arch support and a compression fit around the ankles.
Read moreComfort
These are one of the most feel-good socks to have on when doing just about any activity. It has Dynamic arch support that helps reduce foot fatigue, with a cushion that is strategically placed. This means all the padding needed in the right places without the added bulk when in the sneaker.
Breathability
Its name says it all. This sock from Under Armor features its proprietary fabric technology called HeatGear that helps keep the consumer cool and dry when in warm conditions. The fabric wicks away sweat and dries quickly. It also has panels throughout the sock for enhanced ventilation. It also has anti-odor tech for an added bonus.
Cost and Value
Another fairly priced sock pair on the list. These socks have a crew cut, ideal for basketball because it protects the shins and won’t slip down. It has the company’s logo on them, but is simple in style and comes in white. It has a nice snug fit, and really grips at the calves.
3. Flare Quarter
Flare is the name of Rockay’s newest Quarter length running sock. Made from a super high density knit and 100% recycled materials, this performance sock is durable and made with comfort in mind.
Read moreComfort
Flare comes with cushioning underneath the toe and heel area for added comfort where it is needed most.
Breathability
These performance running socks promote the balance between breathability and keeping feet feeling alive with its mesh to regulate temperature and arch compression.
Quality
Many factors went into designing a performance running sock like Flare, including the additional length which helps with keeping the foot warm on those cooler days. Also, this sock comes up high enough to offer added performance and protection.
Value
These are best for players who hit the court a lot. As they have a higher price tag, their overall durability will stand up to repeated use.
4. Nike Performance Cushion Crew Training
These socks have a snug fit that provides the support needed when playing ball. It is equipped with Nike’s Dri-FIT tech that wicks moisture away to keep the feet dry after working up a sweat running full court. These are durable socks, with a reinforced heel and toe. It also has rib cuffs for an even more tight fit.
Read moreComfort
Nike is known for its high-quality athletic apparel, even down to the toes. That means consumers can trust that these socks are ultra comfortable—so feel free to wear these just around the house. When not having a lazy day, these feel great on the court. The fabric itself is super soft and it has a durable construction so no holes or rips surface.
Breathability
These socks are equipped with Nike’s Dri-FIT technology that wicks away moisture to keep the feet dry. It’s stitching makes them nice and airy, with lots of ventilation.
Cost and Value
Some may consider these pair of socks priced on the high end. They are available in either black or white, these socks look good on and perform even better. Design-wise, there is the iconic Nike swoosh on the top of the sock. It has rub cuffs that provide arch support and provides a snug fit.
5. Adidas Team Speed Crew
Designed for both basketball and soccer, these are a comfortable and high performing sock that is a great buy. That’s because it has lots of cushioning to protect against impact, with extra grip and stability in high impact areas like the Achilles. It features the company’s Climate tech to keep the feet dry and prevent overheating. It also has a left and right specific fit.
Read moreComfort
These Adidas socks are so comfy that the consumer will want to wear them both on and off the court. These feel great on, featuring cushioning on the footbed and around the ankle so that jumping won’t take a major toll or cause foot pain while being comfortable in basketball shoes. These also have lots of support in the arches and even the ankles.
Breathability
As much as these socks are comfortable, they are also breathable. It includes Climalite sweat-wicking fabric that helps to get rid of moisture so that the feet aren’t sweaty during a game or practice. It has mesh panels throughout the sock for even more airflow.
Cost and Value
The product is not cheap as compared to others on the list. However, These they look great on, available in a few colors and include stripe designs throughout. It has arch and ankle compression that enhances the fit, with a light and right specific sock to further provide a truer to foot shape fit. There are traction areas on the bottom of the foot and the heel for better grip in the show.
6. Thorlo Basketball Over Calf
These are a great option for those looking for added comfort and protection. It has a higher height to protect the calves, yet is extremely breathable so working up a sweat isn’t a problem. It has the most cushion on the footbed on this list, so get ready to play for hours without foot pain.
Read moreComfort
These socks from Thorlo are among the most comfortable options on this list, excelling in this category way past options like the Baseline and CHALKTALK socks. It is just full of padding, proving maximum protection that allows athletes to play longer and be harder on their feet without problems. Its thick padding is strategically placed for optimum comfort. It is made of the company’s THORLO acrylic fabric keeps its softness, even when wet from sweat.
Breathability
Even though these are thicker socks, they are still breathable. This means it combines the best of worlds, comfort without the socks being too thin and the ventilation needed to keep things cool and sweat-free. The fabric that covers the legs has lots of ventilation, too so that wearing longer socks in length isn’t too warm.
Cost and Value
These socks aren’t the most fashionable, but they do function well so sometimes sacrifices are needed at a fair price tag. That doesn’t mean they are ugly or unwearable, just simply plain looking. They are available in white or black, and for men and women. Lengthwise, these socks are much higher, not going over the knee but well past the ankle.
7. Mpeter Elite Compression
Available in many different color options, these socks feature compression features for support and increased recovery post-workout. The material is soft, yet stretchy and has a high ankle cut.
Read moreComfort
These socks are made in part of cotton, making them nice and soft, as well as spandex which makes it stretchy. They are foot-hugging, comfortable in a basketball or running sneaker. There is enough cushion without the sock being bulky. There are a bit thick and the padding helps to take pressure off the feet.
Breathability
These socks feature moisture-wicking fibers with lots of ventilation to enhance airflow. It has a nice combination of padding and areas for the feet to breathe.
Cost and Value
These socks are a bit shorter in length that Nike Elite or Versatility crew socks in comparison, but fairly priced when compared to the two. They also aren’t as good as these Nike options, but for its price tag, it does perform well—a great option to have in the sock drawer during basketball season. These are also a very versatile pair, great for baseball, gym workouts, soccer and more. It is stretchy and has a snug fit, best for shoe sizes 7 to 13. Best of all, it’s available in multiple color options for men and women.
8. Baseline 2.0 Athletic Crew
This is a great option for both men and women, with lots of attractive features like a stylish look. More importantly is its moisture control and anti-microbial properties so stinky socks isn’t a problem. It is comfortable, breathable and has a nice stretch.
Read moreComfort
These socks are a bit thinner than other options, more comparable to the ChalkTalk SPORTS Basketball Socks. This means they aren’t the best when it comes to protecting the shins, but they are great for shooting some hoops casually. It does hug the feet nicely and is comfortable on with a good amount of stretch. The material is durable, and these will last an entire season.
Breathability
Since these socks are thinner, they are more breathable with lots of mesh, so perform well on this front. It does include moisture and odor control that includes antimicrobial properties.
Cost and Value
Apart from their affordable price tag, these socks have slim and snug fit, with ergonomic cushioning that prevents blisters from forming. It has compression features on the arches and heel and toes support. They have a stylish design on the back with two-toned colors.
9. Hellomama Compression Sock
Athletes know the importance of good footwear and this includes your socks as well! The Hellomama Compression Socks are a great choice for any player who wants quality and durability while still looking cool and stylish at the same time!
Read moreKeep Yourself Comfortable
These comfortable graduated compression socks are made with 80% cotton, 15% spandex fabric and 5% rubber. They are made fort he athlete or the individual who is always on the go and are a perfect balance of compression and comfort. You can’t go wrong with these socks.
Moisture Control and Breathability
Thanks to their advanced design and material blend, the Hellomama Compression Socks offer something many athletic socks are lacking- moisture control! These socks help keep your feet dry and comfortable by pulling sweat and moisture away from your feet all day long!
Advanced Features to Look For
These knee-high support socks go a long way in helping to provide a comfortable softness and support to your legs and feet when they are worn. With a sure that fit that prevents sliding and bunching and advanced quick dry features these are a great pair of socks to have on hand!
Socks that Last With Good Durability
Athletes put their gear through a lot of their socks are one of the pieces of gear that takes a lot of abuse but don’t get much thought. Hellomama Compression Socks are durable and made to last so you can focus on other more important things than worrying about a hole in your sock.
Size and Style that Rocks
There are a number of sizes to choose from so there should be no problem finishing a pair of these cool and stylish socks that fit you just right. They are a smart choice for any basketball player or athlete to have on hand. These compression socks will not disappoint you!
10. Champion Crew
With lots of cushioning to prevent injury and increase comfort when going for that 3-pointer, these socks fit well, are breathable and are durable. It has a high ribbed cuff to keep it up and compression arches for a secure fit. These are affordable and super soft on.
Read moreComfort
These Champion socks are a clear winner in the comfort category. It is made of polyester and spandex, soft with a great amount of stretch. It has lots of cushioning that is strategically placed throughout the sock in the highest impact areas. These feel great on, especially when running back and forth on the court, staying in place without being too tight.
Breathability
These socks perform well when it comes to its amount of breathability. It has Champions' Vapor tech that helps to regulate temperature. This tech also lifts moisture away from the skin so the feet aren’t clammy. The stitching around the calves is designed in a way to allow for airflow.
Cost and Value
These socks have a crew cut, resting higher than the ankle without being too high and are quite farily priced. It has a left and right specific sock, allowing for a better fit. It has compression features around the foot for added arch support and a secure fit. The socks are available in blue and white or black and red options.
Sources
- , Basketball: Choosing Basketball Socks - Power Forwards/Centers, Forwards, and Guards, Sports Website
- , Can a Pair of Socks Really Make a Difference in Athletic Performance?, News Website
- , Thorlos - Proprietary Protection Yarns Explained , Company website
- , nder Armour HeatGear vs. ColdGear, Sports Website
- , For College Basketball Players, Skin Is No Longer In, News Website
