10 Best Moisture Wicking Socks – 2024 Buying Guide
Sweaty feet will not only lead to odor problems but also encourage fungi to grow and increase blisters. The best way to combat this issue is by finding the best moisture-wicking socks available to keep your feet dry and healthy. And healthy feet are vital for a runner.
Not all athletic socks have moisture-wicking features and the ones that do don’t always prevent blisters let alone stinky feet. We gathered up only the best moisture-wicking socks so our readers only have the very best to choose from.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Breathability
Since this is a list of the best moisture-wicking socks, we had to make this factor the top one on our list. While by now we all know what moisture-wicking is, do you know what makes a pair have that quality? Let's break it down; moisture-wicking socks and other sports apparel are typically made out of synthetic fibers. Synthetic fibers literally cannot absorb moisture. They just can't do it. So when sweat or other moisture is on your skin it hits the synthetic fibers in the fabric and because it can't be absorbed it passes around the fiber to the outside air where it can dry naturally. As long as the weave of the fabric isn't too tight then bam, you've got a breathable piece of gear! However, if the fabric is tightly woven it makes it more difficult for moisture for escape. Sun protective clothing, for example, is tightly woven to prevent UV rays from being able to pass through it. The downside of this is that it makes this type of gear less breathable than other types of apparel. Another thing to keep in mind is that if you put the piece of apparel in the dryer and it shrinks this will also tighten the weave and making it less breathable than before. This is why it's a good idea to let your moisture-wicking socks and other breathable apparel air dry instead of putting it in a dryer.
Comfort
When we're looking at socks, shirts, or just about any other type of athletic apparel, comfort is one of the top factors that we look at. This is because it doesn't matter how breathable, durable, stylish, reflective, or how good the price is if you don't feel good when you wear it nothing else matters. When it comes to moisture-wicking socks, there are several factors that make a pair comfortable. The first thing is the type of material they're made of. As mentioned above in the breathability section, you want the socks to be made of mostly synthetic fabrics because that's what will make them moisture-wicking but you also want that material to be soft so it feels good against your skin. Another thing to look for is a design where the seams lie flat against your skin to help prevent chafing. The ultimate is a seamless toe-box, but these type of socks are rare, and as long as the seams are well-made and thoughtfully placed you should be happy. Another thing to look for when it comes to this factor is a cushioned heel. Even though it may seem like such a thin addition to the socks that won't make a big difference, when you're running, walking, or otherwise taking thousands of strides a little thing can add up to a big difference.
Fit
This factor has a couple of different aspects to it. The first thing to think about is getting the size right. This is pretty simple and goes along with your shoe size. Be sure to get the correct size when you order and you should be alright in this regard. The next thing to think about is a little bit trickier to nail down. Most of the socks on this list have a small amount of spandex or lycra in the material blend to make them conform to the size and shape of your foot. Some socks also have compression zones to give added stability and healing in some cases.
Another thing to think about when it comes to fit is what your intended use for the socks is. For example, if you're looking for socks for hiking a thicker option can be a great choice because they offer added comfort and cushioning for those long miles over variable terrain and because your boots may stretch out as they break in but a thick pair of socks can make up the difference. If you're looking for a pair of socks for long distance running, however, a thin pair will fit in your shoes better and be an overall better option because they'll be lighter in weight and stay in place better than thick ones which will help you to avoid chafing, hot spots, and blisters.
Durability
How tough and long-lasting a pair of socks is depends on the quality of the materials, how well they're constructed, and how thick they are. Unfortunately, thin socks just aren't as durable as thicker options. But sock makers have made major strides (pun intended) when it comes to making thin socks that still last a long time. You can help make your socks last-lasting by taking good care of them and washing them after each use. This is important because when small dirt particles get in the fabric they become abrasive and act kind of like sandpaper, abrading the fibers of the socks and causing them to wear down prematurely. Be sure to follow the care instructions that come with the socks and to ideally let them air dry to prevent shrinkage which can tighten the weave on the socks and negatively impact their breathability.
Value
Value is not the most elusive attribute, but it does come down to us having to make a few calls. What constitutes good value? And what attributes of the socks should be valued over others?
How many times am I going to get out of this sock? If a sock has long lasting durability it gains value. The longer you can go with a product performing well, the more it becomes worth your investment. Getting 5 years out a 15 dollar pair of socks is better than getting 6 months out a 3 dollar pair.
How well the sock washes also lends to its durability. If the sock doesn’t last more than a few months without becoming over dirty, or even worse smelly, then it probably doesn’t deserve a place on this list. Washing well isn’t strictly cleanliness though. An article of clothing washing well also refers to its durability. If the socks start to fall apart after three or so washes then that is another red flag.
Socks are also unique in how we approach value because they are often sold in multiples. So we have to consider the quantity as well as the quality of socks you will receive for the amount you pay in the socks overall value.
10 Best Moisture-Wicking Socks
1. Swiftwick FLITE XT Zero Tab
These socks have great grip along the heel and toe box, super-soft cushioning under the arch area, added arch support up top, and a breathable upper to wicks sweat and moisture away from feet.
Read moreBreathability
The blend of moisture-wicking materials in the base of this sock helps to move moisture away from your foot. When I popped off my running shoes, my feet were hot but perfectly dry.
The thicker materials on the underside of the foot run a little hot, but the Fiber First moisture-wicking blend helps to keep feet dry.
Comfort
The comfort level of these socks is insane. The topside of the sock runs fairly par for the course. It is composed of super light and stretchy fabric that feels cool and breathable. It even has a ribbed band that runs on the topside of your arches for extra compression and support. The toe seam is top-notch, and the ankle band provides modest compression without feeling too tight or constricting.
Fit
These socks host a blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex that stretches over your feet for a contoured fit that locks in place.
Durability
The durability is assured thanks to the quality of the materials used as well as the one of a kind construction and design (no seams, reinforced heel tab with extra grip).
Value
The Swiftwick FLITE XT Zero Tab may cost more than an average pair of socks, but these offer so much more in terms of breathability, comfort and fit than most athletic and moisture-wicking socks out there!
2. ROCKAY Agile Ultra-Mesh
The Agile Thin Running Sock compliments your comfort by offering a thin material that is breathable and natural. The minimalist design that this product offers is not only ultra-light material but also gives the benefit of compression, helping runners on their long journey.
Read moreBreathability
The recycled materials used to make these moisture-wicking socks are made from ocean plastics that are spun into a soft fabric that allows the runner's feet to breath. There are different areas in the product that offers a mesh system that allows the runner's feet to also have constant breathability.
Comfort
These Agile Thin Running Socks will not only make a huge impact on our marine life but also our feet. They offer a solid support system in the arch and gives you plenty of padding in the sole while maintaining its ultra-light design and feel.
Fit
The sleek design is also more comfortable and includes a tab on the back to preventing blisters while keeping them from slipping down your feet Design is important, but the design is key when it comes to comfort.
Durability
These socks features eliminated the seam in the toe section to not only allow for maximum comfort while out on long runs but also prevent rips and tears during those rough days.
Value
These cost a little more than some of the other moisture-wicking socks on the list, but you can also count on these socks on lasting longer as well.
3. Dickies Dri-Tech Moisture Control Crew
These socks are equipped with dri-tech moisture management fibers that wicks wetness away to keep the feet free from getting damp. It also has lots of ventilation channels to increase airflow and circulation. These socks are machine washable, durable, and comfortable.
Read moreBreathability
These socks are made with moisture control fibers, making them great for keeping feet dry for those with sweaty soles, when at work and when working out. This is via its Dri-Tech material that wards off moisture. Also aiding in this is its breathability. It includes ventilation channels that are engineered for promoting air circulation, while further controlling moisture.
Comfort
Made with polyester, cotton, nylon, and spandex, these do a great job on the comfort front. They have a reinforced heel and toe, along with full cushioning throughout.
Fit
These socks are crew length, great for hiking and when paired with boots. It fits shoe sizes 6-12, and as expected from Dickies, are very durable. It features compression at the arch that hugs the foot to help keep it in place.
Durability
Dickie's is well-known for their high-quality, durable, and affordable work gear and these socks are no exception. Reviewers said a lot about how durable they were, and our research makes us think they're probably the most durable sock on our list.
Value
Again, Dickie's is known for durability and value, and these socks deliver both.
4. ROCKAY Accelerate
The Accelerate from ROCKAY is a result of very experienced runners collaborating in order to produce a sock which meets all the requirements they want, including the ability to wick moisture from next to the skin to the outside of the sock to cut down on sweat collection. Check out this article here.
Put together by going solely off of feedback from runners, the brand is able to mold their design around what simply works best as far as support, comfort, performance, and durability are concerned. So far, it seems to be working.
Read moreBreathability
Merino wool is a natural master in the art of temperature regulation and moisture wicking. That, in addition to well-designed zones to promote breathability, appropriate compression and ideal support, you end up with all the right parts put together right.
Comfort
Preventing over-heating and having a good way for moisture to keep from collecting in the sock is an absolute must for keeping you comfortable. The alternative weave and well-designed ventilation really work well in this sock. The breathability, in all, does a great job.
Fit
We all hate socks that sag and fall during a run. In fact, it really just flat out ruins it, then on top of that, you open up the door to fun things like blisters. Well, we really don't see this problem at all with Rockay. And yes, there are still socks that will get lost in your shoes, even today.
Durability
Durability is also super important, so the merino wool used in the construction also helps here as well. Wear and tear are still going to happen; however, the overall thought put into the materials and design shows through the huge amount of testing that this first run for the brand has gone through.
Value
Although they're just a tad more expensive than some other options on this list, the ROCKAY Accelerate was designed to give you a great value because of how well they do their job and hold up over time without totally breaking your wallet.
5. Copper Fit No Show
These are one of the best performing socks when it comes to moisture wicking systems. That’s because it has breathable, mesh venting on the bottom of the foot that allows for air circulation to keeps things cool and controls moisture. It also has copper to block odors from forming and for its antibacterial properties. Heel tabs keep the sock in place if the foot does get a little hot and sweaty.
Read moreBreathability
Infused with copper that is woven and activated into the fabric, these socks provide odor resistance to keep smells away and moisture at bay thanks to its moisture wicking fabric. These are among the best options for preventing sweaty feet thanks to its breathable mesh at the bottom of the foot to allow for ventilation to keep things cool.
Comfort
Made with polyester, these socks have extra cushioning on the footbed, making them much more comfortable than other options without being too thick and bulky. This also makes them great for long walks, running and every day wear.
Fit
With arch compression, these socks provide support as well as a secure fit. Its heel tab prevents the sock from falling down or chafing. A S/M fits women’s shot sizes 6-10 and men’s 5-9. The L/XL fits women’s 10-13, and men’s 9-12, and is true to size.
Durability
Unfortunately, durability is an issue with these socks. Reviewers loved their other features and performance, but several people seemed to experience issues with small rips and holes.
Value
For those with truly smelly feet, these can represent a good value proposition because the copper really does work well to control odors. For people with the usual amount of stink to their feet, they may not be the best value because of the durability issues.
6. Balega Hidden Comfort
This option is one of the most popular socks for runners. That’s because it does an excellent job at keeping keep cool and dry, as well as being comfortable and not bunching up in the shoe. It has the company’s Drynamix polyester that controls moisture and pushes it out to evaporate. It also has other features like cushioning on the soles and a reinforced heel.
Read moreBreathability
The Balega Hidden Comfort socks are made with Drynamix synthetic material that wicks away moisture. These socks also feature a mesh construction for ventilation on the top of the foot to make sure the feet don’t get too hot and sweaty. These are the best for runners since it does such a great job at keeping the feet dry and preventing blisters from forming.
Comfort
These socks are a hand-linked seamless toe closure to keep the feet feeling nice and comfy and without blisters. Best of all its is plush cushioning under the sole for added comfort without being bulky.
Fit
These socks fit great, thanks to its elastane that is throughout the sock that provides more structure. Snug without being tight, these socks don’t bunch up and feature a heel tab to further prevent sliding.
Durability
Reviewers found that these socks were of about average durability in this category. We recommend hand washing and air drying super thin socks like these to help maximize their longevity.
Value
Because of their performance values, reviewers felt that this sock was a good overall value, although people did need to buy a size up a lot of the time to get the best fit for them, so be aware of that.
7. FOOTPLUS
Footplus offers runners a good variety of styles to choose from which allows you to find something that meets your specific needs. Made from a polyester and elastane with copper, these provide a sturdy construction while still maintaining a soft feel.
Read moreBreathability
These feature a special mesh construction that allows air to easily flow throughout and keep your feet dry and odor-free.
Comfort
A cushioned sole not only gives runners more comfort but it also reduces shock. It also features arches made from spandex for extra flexibility.
Fit
The design includes hand-lined seamless toes that provide plenty of wiggle room. And you don’t have to worry about your sock slipping down thanks to the heel tab.
Durability
Polyester is known for its durability and ability to take a beating, so if you plan on hitting some rough paths, these are a great choice to wear.
Value
You get a great bargain with these socks. They come in packs of three and six for a really reasonable price.
8. ROCKAY 20Four7
The 20four7 sock is designed for maximum comfort for all types of running activities! With this product, you will want to keep these socks on at all times, for everything that you plan to do. Being that these socks are made from 100% recycled materials, they also make a large impact on helping marine life and saving our planet. You can't go wrong with the 20four7!
Read moreBreathability
The 20four7 offers a variety of breathability options. Not only does this product offer several areas of mesh, but it is also made from merino wool which offers natural breathability, amongst other benefits.
Comfort
As it states in its name, these socks are so good, you will want to wear them 20four7. This product offers cushion on a performance level. You will be able to maximize comfort with the cushion alone but added to that, there is a seamless toe. This will help prevent the annoyance of blisters and discomfort on runs. Being that it is one of the most comfortable socks on the market, you will not be disappointed!
Fit
With the design of this product, these socks are made to fit like a glove with total comfort. There is some elasticity that allows great flexibility and prevents slipping, which allows assists in preventing blisters. There is a natural and comfortable fit with the 20four7.
Durability
Rockay has made a name for itself when it comes to producing high-quality athletic socks and these are no exception. The unique material blend not only ensures a soft and comfortable experience but one that will outlast the competition.
Value
As one of the top players in the industry, you can count on getting more than what you pay for. They use recycled items that offer compressive and cushioning benefits to improve your overall performance.
9. Wigwam At Work DuraSole
Wigwam consumers are loyal to the brand because of the high quality and high-performance standards of their socks. This is definitely the case with these popular socks that include the company’s patented Ultimax moisture control tech. This tech uses specific fibers that reject and evaporate any perspiration on the sock extremely easily. These socks are also comfortable, durable, have odor protection and great for everyday wear.
Read moreBreathability
At first glance, consumers might wonder just how well these perform when it comes to controlling moisture. But give these socks a chance. Although these look like thicker winter/fall socks, this option will keep feet cool and dry no matter what the season is. It is equipped with Wigwam’s patented Ultimax technology, which consists of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic fibers that push sweat away from the fabric of the foot bottom so that it can evaporate quickly. The fibers itself is breathable, and it also features an odor guard to warn off smelly feet and more serious issues like athlete’s foot.
Comfort
These socks are extremely comfy. They are made with materials including cotton to make it soft to the touch, with cushioning that is specifically featured in zoned throughout the sock to make it as comfortable as it can be on the feet.
Fit
The At Work DuraSole sock have a higher cut, making them perfect for the winter, hanging out at home, or when wearing hiking or snow books. It has a two-toned color that sign hat makes them stylish and attractive for both men and women.
Durability
Like most of their products, customers and reviewers found these Wigwam socks to be durable, especially when considered from the context of moisture-wicking socks.
Value
Most people thought that these socks from Wigwam offered a good value for the money spent because of their combination of durability and performance at a fair price.
10. Pure Athlete
These low-cut socks are made with a unique and innovative material blend that includes high-quality merino wool, polypropylene, nylon, and spandex. This mix gives it durability, warmth, breathability, and comfort, everything you need in a good pair of running socks. These socks can be used in the summer and winter and feature hydrophobic properties that repel water for drier feet.
Read moreBreathability
The high-grade wool is popular among running enthusiasts due to its moisture-wicking properties and these socks are a perfect example of that. The anti-odor technology keeps your feet from smelling as well.
Comfort
The heel and toe feature special cushioning that helps prevent blisters from forming and causing you discomfort.
Fit
The nylon and spandex material mixed allows the socks to stretch and snugly fit your feet for better comfort and increased performance.
Durability
The seamless design and premium wool used in the construction of these socks make them a very durable product and a perfect choice for the toughest terrains.
Value
These are made from a well-known company that has a reputation for making socks for all types of athletes and activities. You can count on getting your money’s worth with this item.
