10 Best Invisible Socks Fully Reviewed
Jennifer Frazier
EJ Callanan
In a Hurry? The test winner after 15 hrs of research
They don't slip and bunch up inside the shoe
Great breathability
No baggy areas in the fit
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ROCKAY Accelerate -
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Balega Hidden Comfort -
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Thorlos Experia XCCU -
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Saucony Performance Comfort Fit -
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Feetures! High Performance Cushion -
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Injinji Run Lightweight -
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Thirty 48 Ultralight -
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Champion -
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Softbreath Performance -
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Hanes Active Cool
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
Our Favorite Invisible
1. ROCKAY Accelerate
They don't slip and bunch up inside the shoe
Great breathability
No baggy areas in the fit
Could use a few more color options
With the needs of fellow runners in mind, ROCKAY, as a new brand created a minimalistic design with optimal support, performance, durability, and of course comfort, all in a cut that is nearly invisible with many of the running shoes out there. Even Business Insider wrote about these socks!
Read moreMoisture Control
Made with moisture-wicking, durable merino wool, This new brand's premier offers a design that falls under the collar of most running shoes, yet stays put, without slipping down and bunching up inside the shoe.
Breathability
Even taking your shoe off doesn't take the socks with it. And on the breathability end, the Accelerate is well vented throughout.
Cushioning
The sock is constructed with compression zones in all of the appropriate areas, all designed to provide only the amount of compression that is needed, without overdoing it. Even though the goal is to have a sock that doesn't show, a good thing to think about is issues with blisters or rubbing around the heel.
Comfort
Arch support is also included in a wraparound band and they've thrown in a mesh top for additional breathability. The Accelerate has a decently designed tab to prevent those problems as well. This sock has it all and is comfortable to boot!
2. Balega Hidden Comfort
Dense cushion design with 2-needle-count fabric
Drynamix moisture-wicking fibers keep feet cool and dry
Reinforced microfiber mesh ventilation panels allow air flow to feet for added comfort
Enhanced elastane and seamless reinforced toe and heel prevent sock from falling into shoe
Pay attention to sizing when purchasing - even a half size too big could cause rubbing
Balega's Hidden Comfort sock puts everything into its name. This sock is the epitome of comfort from a dense, durable material combination to a microfiber, breathable mesh and a heel tab with elastane to keep the socks where they belong. They have truly thought of everything. Did I mention that they hand sew their seamless toe and heel enclosures so there is no rubbing and potential blisters?
Read moreThe Balega Hidden Comfort is a thicker, more cushioned version of earlier designs. They have created a proprietary mix of wicking fibers, called Dynamix, to pull the moisture away from the foot and keep things running perfectly. With significantly less rubbing, chafing, sweating and slipping, this sock is exactly what you need for any distance and any weather.
Moisture Control
Balega's proprietary wicking combination, Dynamix, is woven into the fabric throughout the sock, pulling moisture away from the foot and keeping it dry and cool.
Breathability
The Hidden Comfort is constructed with specially constructed ventilation panels that are made of microfiber and reinforced, allowing maximum airflow around the foot, keeping things cool and reducing discomfort due to sweat and slipping.
Cushioning
Balega's Hidden Comfort is a more cushioned version of previous socks they have produced but that doesn't take away from the quality at all. Focusing on the sole, heel and toe area, they are reducing shock on impact as much as possible without creating a bulky sock.
Comfort
The combination of breathability, cushioning, protection and support is what places the Balega Hidden Comfort in the forefront of this genre of socks. They pay extra attention to the small details, keeping the sock in the right place, providing for airflow and reducing shock impact. This is the ideal combination in a running sock.
3. Thorlos Experia XCCU
Highly cushioned
Achilles Support
Superior breathability and moisture wicking properties
Somewhat pricey compared to others
This is a more luxurious version of the Thorlos ranking lower on the page. Offering durable support throughout the foot, the Thorlos Experia XCCU sock is made for people who like to stay in continuous motion. Thorlos uses synthetic materials to improve its moisture wicking properties and provide superior cushioning. It may be slightly thicker than what you’re used to, but there’s a definite purpose behind it. This extra layer of shock absorption takes some of the stress off your joints, and the no slip design keeps it right where you want it.
Read moreThe unique blend of silk and wool combined with synthetic materials create a breathable environment inside of the shoe. These socks focus on padding at the ball of the foot and at the heel in order to promote better form and to provide superior comfort. This particular model also provides additional cushioning to support the Achilles tendon. With an aerodynamic design and an array of color choices, it’s easy to see why the Thorlos Experia XXCU has made the list.
Moisture Control
The unique blends of yarn and synthetics wick moisture away from the foot into the outer sock, reducing odors and discomfort from sweat and rubbing.
Breathability
An engineered mesh top allows air flow into the sock and around the foot for extensive breathability and odor reduction.
Cushioning
High impact areas are covered with additional cushioning from the SoftAir Plus yarn used in this design. While the entire sole is covered, the heel and forefoot are slightly thicker, allowing maximum protection in both areas.
Comfort
Encompassing the entire sock, the operative word is comfort. The Asics Kayano Single Tab checks all of the boxes and then some. Keeping the foot cool and comfortable, adding cushion and reducing blisters and rubbing, this sock is more than equipped to take you on your longest run yet.
4. Saucony Performance Comfort Fit
Breathable mesh fabric on top
Excellent arch support
Perfect for the gym or trail
Moisture-wicking technology
Questionable durability with prolonged use
Saucony has built a name on fantastic athletic shoes and apparel. They are expanding that reputation with these comfortable, breathable and affordable socks. The Performance Comfort Fit comes in a multi-pack, making them instantly less expensive than a few others on our top ten list. But, that might make you wonder about the product and durability. Don't worry. They can still withstand many, many miles without failure or sock-related problems. Saucony continues to provide high performance, high-quality material.
Read moreIf you're looking to stay dry, comfortable, and protect your feet, you're in the right place. The Saucony Performance Comfort Fit is the full package. With mesh breathability on top, arch support below, moisture control all over and extra cushioning in the sole, this sock is exactly what you need for the gym, the trail or the road.
Moisture Control
Ultra-wicking fibers are woven into the entire sock for Saucony's Performance Comfort Fit sock. This "run dry moisture management" system is designed to wick moisture away from the foot into the outer portion of the sock, reducing odor, discomfort, and chafing.
Breathability
The top of the sock is designed with a breathable air mesh for maximum airflow, keeping the foot cool and dry, evaporating moisture as quickly as it is produced.
Cushioning
Light cushioning over the entire sole of the sock works to decrease the shock impact of each footfall without taking too much space inside the shoe.
Comfort
With so many great design elements, the Performance Comfort Fit sock by Saucony is one of the better options. Moisture-wicking fibers, mesh top for extra air ventilation, cushioned sole, and arch support, what more could you possibly need for a perfect run?
5. Feetures! High Performance Cushion
Lycra power bands hug entire foot for a snug foot
iWick fibers pull moisture away from skin for a cool, dry feel
Y-heel design keeps sock from sliding down into shoe
The Perfect Toe provides a seamless toe box with no rubbing or chafing
Take care when washing because these may shrink under high heat
Feetures wants you to go faster, longer and smarter. They designed their High Performance sock to help you do all that and more. It is full of design elements that will protect your foot and improve your run at the same time. From the Y-heel construction that will keep the sock from slipping into the shoe to the ankle tab designed to protect your Achilles from rubbing blisters to their Perfect Toe that has no irritating seam to upset your foot after the pounding you put on the road. This company's "sole purpose" is to make your feet more comfortable and they back that claim up with physical evidence.
Read moreWhile keeping the original design of Lycra bands that shape to the contour of the foot, Feetures has added a few key elements that make the High Performance line a definite upgrade. They set up the high-density knitting machine with 200 needles for added comfort, added a Y-heel to hold the sock in place, added the Perfect Toe and eliminated the irritating seam, and added more cushion to the high impact areas. If they did any more, it would feel like you're running on a cloud.
Moisture Control
The entire foot is woven with iWick fibers that wick moisture away from the skin and into the outer layer of the sock. They've also added a mesh construct on the top of the foot for increased airflow and to allow some of that moisture to evaporate faster.
Breathability
The mesh construction on the top of the Feetures High-Performance Cushion sock allows increased airflow into the sock, keeping the foot cool and comfortable.
Cushioning
High impact areas of the foot are covered by a high density cushioning in addition to the 200-needle knit construct that is durable and supportive.
Comfort
The Feetures High Performance line is designed for exactly that, comfort. With the Y-heel, they've removed the frustration of invisible socks sliding into your shoes while on a run. With the extra cushion for the high impact areas of the foot, they are reducing shock on feet, joints, and knees, and fighting foot fatigue. With the Perfect Toe and Achilles tab, there are no seams and no rubbing to create blisters and chafing. This sock is extremely protective and comfortable.
6. Injinji Run Lightweight
Separate toe sections relieve rubbing and reduce blisters
Mesh top increases breathability
Additional coverage over Achilles to reduce rubbing
Supportive band provides additional arch support
Separating toes can take a little getting used to for comfort
Lightweight design doesn't provide excessive cushioning
Injinji embodies a spirit of innovation. In that spirit, they set out to create an athletic sock that fits like a second skin but protects the foot while removing moisture. They have done everything they set out to do, and then some. With the Injinji RUN Lightweight sock, they have pulled no punches. The 200 needle-count on these socks contribute to the extreme light weight and durability Injinji is known for. They've separated the toes and wrapped them in wicking material so there is no sweat, no rubbing, and no blisters. Arch support is also included in a wraparound band and they've thrown in a mesh top for additional breathability. This sock has it all and is comfortable to boot!
Read moreThe Injinji RUN Lightweight socks are made to utilize the entire foot. With toes operating individually, the foot is allowed to splay naturally with each step. The wicking around the toes keeps them dry, prevents rubbing and makes blisters almost non-existent. A slight heel tab does the same for the Achilles and a band wraps around the foot, providing additional arch support. These socks are stretchy and comfortable.
Moisture Control
The RUN Lightweight sock is 27% fiber and 68% COOLMax technology. The entire sock wicks moisture away from the foot, effectively reducing moisture retention, foot odor and discomfort. The top is also mesh, allowing additional airflow to keep the foot cool and dry.
Breathability
The top of the Injinji RUN Lightweight is a full mesh design, other than the supportive arch band, allowing additional air to flow into and around the foot space.
Cushioning
Since this is a lightweight sock, there is not much additional cushioning to be added. The 200 needle-count design does create a smooth, durable sock but does keep it feeling skin-like and less cushioned.
Comfort
Overall, this sock is extremely comfortable, like wearing a lightweight, airy glove on your foot. The separation of the toes reduces rubbing and provides additional moisture-wicking, for a more comfortable forefoot and a better run. The arch support and mesh design on the top of the sock also fit seamlessly but provide that extra hold that our arches need when we've been on the road or trail for a while.
7. Thirty 48 Ultralight
Seamless toe for reduced friction and chafing
Moisture-wicking, lightweight mesh for increased breathability and comfort
Second Skin technology for an anatomically correct fit
Heel pull tab for ease of use
Snug design may translate as a tight fit. Size up for additional space.
Thirty 48's goal is to design a state of the art, comfort-filled sock that provides support, contours to the foot, wicks moisture from the skin and allows the foot to breathe. They have accomplished their goal and exceeded it with the Ultralight running sock. Their proprietary blend fabric pulls the moisture away while increasing circulation to keep the skin cool and dry. Anatomically Targeted Cushioning provides denser cushioning to the foot pad and heel as well as the Achilles. This additional cushioning also helps to reduce the shock impact on feet, legs, and joints.
Read moreThe Thirty 48 Ultralight Running sock is a combination of technology and common sense. They have added cushioning where it matters most, softening shock results to the body and wicking away moisture at the same time. They have introduced a mesh technology that increases airflow while removing sweat from the scene of the crime. And they have focused on comfort, removing the seams that can rub and irritate skin, causing blisters or chafing.
Moisture Control
Thirty 48's high tech moisture wicking and dissipating fabric, which is a proprietary blend of nylon, lycra spandex, wick poly, and cotton, draws moisture away from the skin, increasing circulation, and keeping skin dry and comfortable. Reducing moisture will decrease the growth of fungus and bacteria, keeping feet healthier as well.
Breathability
The stretchy ultralight fabric has such a lightweight design that air flows smoothly over the top of the foot. In combination with the increased circulation from the wicking material, the breathability on the Thirty 48 Ultralight running sock is well beyond expectations.
Cushioning
Denser padding in the heel and toe relieve stress and shock from each foot strike that typically hurt or damage feet, legs, and joints. Additional padding in the Achilles area also protects from bruising and blistering.
Comfort
Overall comfort from advanced technological material as well as cutting edge moisture wicking and breathable fabric is exactly what Thirty 48 had in mind. They are snug to the foot with a seamless toe enclosure reducing possible foot pain and abrasions.
8. Champion
Great value
Really comfortable
Come in a pack of six
Good all around pair of socks
Not the most durable option
These well-made socks come in a pack of six pairs so you get a great deal on great socks. They're made of a blend of materials that make them good for running, other athletic activities, and just for getting around town in. They get good marks from reviewers for being thick and comfortable, although some questioned their overall durability over time.
Read moreBreathability
The 21% polyester in the material blend gives these some moisture wicking capabilities but if that's your most important feature in a pair of socks there are better options.
Support
They provide decent hold for your arches and will help your feet to feel good even after a long day standing, running, walking, etc.
Comfort
This is where these socks really shine. Over and over again reviewers praised these socks for how good they felt. They are thick and your feet will be happy when you're wearing them.
Use
These are a great general purpose product. You can wear them while running, at the gym, running errands, or just while puttering around the house. A nice choice when you don't want to have to think about what socks you're wearing and you just want to go.
Bottom Line
This option is a good value from a well-known and respected company. They're good for all-around use and can be used for sporting activities such as running as well as everyday activities and even going to work if you're able to wear casual sneakers there. They won't wow anyone with any one aspect in particular, although the comfort level is high, but they're a good value and it makes sense to order a pack since you can never really have enough socks.
9. Softbreath Performance
Secure fit that won't shift mid-run
Soft, cushiony bottom
Mesh design, breathable top
Rear tab to prevent Achilles blisters and rubbing
Recommended for more casual runners over longer, more strenuous runs
Unisex design, so be sure and get the right size
Softbreath Performance Running Socks are as cool and comfortable running in the middle of summer as they are strolling through town, taking in the sights. The cotton/polyester/spandex/elastic blend makes for a soft, cushioned sock but also a stretchy, great fit, even after months of wear.
Read moreThe challenge in designing a sock for runners specifically, is to combine the right materials, making it soft enough, cushioned enough, with enough support and stretch for the foot, while allowing the right amount of airflow to the foot to reduce sweating and chafing. Softbreath has done just that with their Softbreath Performance Running Socks.
Moisture Control
The inclusion of cotton in the overall concept not only adds cushion, it absorbs a good amount of moisture, wicking it away from the foot. The design on the top of the foot features two mesh sections, allowing air flow in and over the foot to reduce sweating and chafing.
Breathability
The mesh top allows air movement through the sock and over the foot, reducing sweat and odor while keeping the foot cool and dry.
Cushioning
The mix of materials, with a heavy focus on cotton, allows for a soft, cushioned feel to the bottom of the foot as well as the heel and toe area. A rear tab along the Achilles heel cushions the foot and keeps it from rubbing against the shoe, preventing blisters.
Comfort
The cushioned feeling on the bottom, the mesh design on the top, and the overall construction of the shoe with cotton, elastic and spandex, creates an incredible sock that almost makes you forget you're wearing socks. Your feet stay cool and dry but feel like they're supported and protected.
10. Hanes Active Cool
Actively help your feet stay cool
Affordable
Comfortable
Breathable
Not super durable
This is a cool (literally) option that responds to the temperature of your feet to helps them stay cool. They also have anti-odor technology and a no-seam toe that helps make them really comfortable. They're well-cushioned on the bottom which helps them to be really comfortable and while they're 55% polyester for breathability they also have spandex throughout for good fit and support.
Read moreBreathability
They're mostly made with synthetic materials which helps them allow moisture to escape from next to your skin to the outside air where it can dry naturally.
Support
Although the spandex content is only 1% of the total materials, it is thoughtfully placed throughout the sock to help give your feet and arches stay in a good place.
Comfort
The bottoms are well cushioned, which users really enjoyed and said helped them to stay on their feet for extended periods of time without a lot of discomfort.
Use
These are great for running, working out at the gym, CrossFit, or even just doing errands or working around the house.
Bottom Line
These are a great pick for people who live in hot climates and like to stay active. They have a good mix of breathability, comfort, and are very versatile. Plus you can get them in a 12 pack which makes them a great value.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Breathability When your socks are breathable and prevent the buildup of moisture, you’re less likely to experience discomfort.
Extra moisture that accumulates in your socks and shoes can contribute to bacterial and fungal growth. If you’ve never dealt with athlete’s foot, then count yourself lucky. The burning and itching can put you off of running for days. When your socks are breathable and prevent the buildup of moisture, you’re less likely to experience this type of discomfort. It also prevents infections from setting into blisters or other open areas on the foot. Keeping your feet healthy is paramount to good running performance. The type of materials that a pair of socks is made from is what makes them breathable or not. Synthetic fibers such as polyester are more breathable than natural fibers like cotton. This is because synthetic fibers, unlike natural ones, cannot absorb moisture so it passes around the fibers to the outside air where it can dry naturally. Keep in mind however that if the apparel is placed in the dryer and it shrinks the weave will tighten so moisture may not be able to escape as easily and what was once a highly breathable item isn't as moisture wicking as before.
This technology is built into the very fibers of the socks we selected. It pulls excess moisture away from the feet, keeping them dry and comfortable when running, avoiding slipping inside the shoe as well as friction generated from the extra movement. This is a requirement for anyone running more than 5 feet and for anyone wearing shoes over a prolonged period of time.
Support Having the right support is important to get the best experience possible and socks can play an important role in this as well!
Whether you’re a zero drop, minimalist runner or someone who loves a Cadillac of comfort on your foot, the cushioning in your sock is still important. Typically, they are lightweight but add padding to the key points of the foot, the heel and toe/pad area. This small amount of extra padding will not only give your foot a soft hug every time you put them on, but it will also have an impact on the shock your joints and legs experience with each step. Although this might not seem like a big deal, when you multiply even just a small impact over the thousands and thousands of steps taken over a run, especially a long one, it adds up to a big difference when it comes to the wear and tear on your muscles, ligaments, and joints.
Comfort If you have breathability and moisture wicking as well as good cushioning, the sock will likely be comfortable.
This final criterion is a combination of everything that has been mentioned thus far. If you have breathability and moisture wicking as well as good cushion, the sock will likely be comfortable. But we went a step further. We needed this particular style of a sock to stay up on your heel and not slide down into the shoe. We also found a few pairs that were seamless to reduce potential irritation and chafing.
Experienced runners have their own ways of doing things. This includes the type of gear that they choose and what they wear while they’re running. Some prefer a minimalist approach, while others like as many advantages as they can have. Aside from our initial criteria, we tried to include a few other factors that might matter. Obviously, things like durability and value will matter to most consumers, but you may have additional concerns. Read through the reviews, and don’t be afraid to do little more research if you still have questions.
Use Running is a high impact and rigorous sport. It requires repetitive movement and an impressive amount of physical stamina.
Running also requires the help of reliable apparel and running gear. An article of clothing that’s comfortable under other circumstances can be completely obnoxious when you’re trying to run for any length of time. One of the most distracting and uncomfortable things you can deal with mid-run is a sock that slipping out of place. Or one that gets a hole and catches your toe repeatedly. Not only do they bunch up and cause issues with your stride, but they can also expose sensitive parts of your foot to friction and blistering.
Bottom Line All of these socks have been tried and tested under stressful conditions and proven themselves to be the very best.
Invisible socks are made to be less intrusive and have a lower cut than standard products. If you’re looking for something warmer, then you may prefer tube socks, but most runners don’t want to deal with the fabric sliding down their calves midstride. Not only do they use less fabric, but they also use synthetic materials that increase cushioning and breathability. You don’t have to worry about moisture gathering in your shoe, which can lead to excessive friction and injury. Most runners think that their shoes are the most important element when it comes to gear. Overlooking socks is a huge mistake, and invisible socks can make all the difference in the world.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Breathability Support Comfort Use Bottom Line 
It requires repetitive movement, and an impressive amount of physical stamina. It also requires the help of reliable apparel and running gear. An article of clothing that’s comfortable under other circumstances can be completely obnoxious when you’re trying to run for any length of time. One of the most distracting and uncomfortable things you can deal with mid-run is a sock that slipping out of place. Or one that gets a hole and catches your toe repeatedly. Not only do they bunch up and cause issues with your stride, they can also expose sensitive parts of your foot to friction and blistering.
Most manufacturers discourage the use of fabric softeners. Turn the socks inside out and do not use hot water or high heat dryers. Especially if they contain a high amount of synthetic fibers such as polyester and/or spandex we highly recommend letting them air dry instead of putting them in the dryer at all in fact. This is because synthetic fibers can't absorb moisture so it simply passes around them to the air where it can dry naturally. But if they shrink in the dryer the weave will be tighter and moisture can't escape as easily.
Other Factors to Consider
Durability You should check the product’s durability, as it is a very important factor to consider. Knowing if this particular model has any design defects or people are wearing through them in one long run could be key information that would have an effect on your decision.
The last thing you want are socks that develop holes mid-run. Distance runners understand the importance of having gear that’s as durable as they are. This means that the socks need to be made of strong material, and able to withstand repetitive friction. Not all fabrics are created equal, and getting a superior product is definitely worth the price. We looked at the length of time a product is expected to last, and the types of abuse that it can withstand.
Maybe you’re looking for more of a value. Multi-packs are available in many brands, so you should check for them both online and in the stores.
Ease of Use Experienced runners have their own ways of doing things. This includes the type of gear that they choose and what they wear while they’re running. Some prefer a minimalist approach, while others like as many advantages as they can have. Aside from our initial criteria, we tried to include a few other factors that might matter. Obviously, things like durability and value will matter to most consumers, but you may have additional concerns. Read through the reviews, and don’t be afraid to do little more research if you still have questions.
Your running habits may vary. You may love mud runs, trail runs, city runs and the occasional marathon. Some people prefer a different sock for each activity. Take a look at your own preferences before jumping into some of the pricier socks. They’re more of an investment, so it’s good to do a little research. While we love to research the latest and greatest and offer them to you here, you should always compare your personal needs to the description to see if it’s the right fit for you. In the end, your goals are the main priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best running socks are made from synthetic materials such as polyester, acrylic, and some form of wicking synthetic because they’ll wick away moisture. Look for a breathable material that has an anti-chafe element.
Socks are worn to absorb sweat and provide warmth in the cold but running socks amp that up to still keep feet warm but to be breathable and reduce sweat and odors, to add support and be a barrier to avoid blistering and chafing.
Ideally, the sock will be so comfortable you don’t even think about them on your feet while running. And while they are hiding in the shoe, they are reducing the possible blisters and chafing, they’re allowing the foot to breathe while removing moisture as soon as it’s produced, reducing odors and keeping fungi at bay. But they are also providing additional support along your arch and midfoot. Socks are doing many jobs to help your run.
This will depend on the brand, model, your running style, and terrain. If you’re running more elevation, you might see more wear than if you were running a straight race. Also, keeping toenails trimmed would reduce additional holes to the toes. Proper washing and care also ensure they will last as long or longer than the manufacturers claim.
Almost all running socks have a manufacturer website so you’d have to look online. The Top 10 list here is available online. You can also go into any sporting goods store to the shoe section and you’ll find a selection of running socks and even many of the big box stores are now stocking a smaller selection of running shoes.
We have established criteria in the article above but you should also take into account the type of running you’re planning to do, the weather, and the shoes you’ll be wearing. If you’re doing a half marathon in the early spring when it’s still a bit cool and you have extremely lightweight shoes, you may want warmer socks with a bit more cushion. But you’ll have to establish your own list of requirements and then, looking through each sock’s description, find the perfect fit for you.
Sources
- , 10 Best Athletic Socks for Running, Inspirational Health Website, Jan 20, 2017
- , The Best Running Socks You Can Buy, News and Health Website, Jan 19, 2018
- , How to Wash Running Socks Properly, Aug 08, 2012
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