10 Best Quarter Socks Tested and Reviewed
By Melanie Green
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A good pair of socks is important for optimal performance as a runner. Choosing the right sock is almost as important as selecting the right shoe. For some runners its important for your running socks to complement your running style but also be able to work with your shoes.
While there are many different styles of socks, the quarter sock has the best combination of attributes available. They have the protective qualities of longer athletic socks and the minimalist benefits of no show socks.
Sometimes it can be difficult to sort out what socks are meant for running from what are meant for everyday wear. Which is why we have constructed this list with socks that suit the runner lifestyle. The two big things to look for are moisture wicking and protective features. We picked socks that best embody these criteria from a wide selection of brands and price points. So we are confident that any runner, no matter the background, will be able to find the right socks on this list.
- ASICS Intensity
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Our rating - Moisture control
- Price: See Here
- Prince Performance
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Our rating - Shock absorption
- Price: See Here
- Balega Enduro V-Tech Athletic
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Our rating - Comfortable padding
- Price: See Here
10 Best Quarter Socks
1. ASICS Intensity
ASICS Intensity socks are available in sizes up to extra large in four color combinations. These socks tend to run about the right size listed, although a slightly thicker weave make them feel a little small in tighter shoes. They don’t suffer from shrinkage issues either if properly washed.
Features
These socks use the Y heel design to add flexibility and provide a better fit in the heel area. Moisture control fabrics help keep your feet cool and dry even in intense running. There is added support in the heel and arch to help keep the sock in place and to protect your feet.
Specs
ASICS Intensity socks are made of polyester, nylon, and spandex for a flexible feel. A moisture control system moves moisture away from your feet quickly. These socks also use a seamless toe construction to reduce their size in the toe box and avoid blisters.
Value
In terms of value, these socks are a great all-around alternative to lower cut running socks. They offer many of the same comfort and health features while providing a different fit for those looking for something else. If you are looking to try a quarter sock instead of your normal socks, the ASICS Intensity Quarter Socks are a great place to start.
- Quarter construction adds ankle protection and comfort
- Added padding and comfort features improve your overall endurance
- Moisture control helps your feet stay dry in the thicker construction
- Added padding may make these socks tight in tighter shoes
- Thick ankle band may make your ankle warm in warmer weather
2. Prince Performance
Prince Quarter Performance Athletic Socks run a bit loose. However, this can be a benefit when wearing loose shoes designed for other sports. They are available in men's sizes 6-12.
Features
These quarter socks hae reinforced padding on the heels for added support in intense running and other sports that require hard stops. They are made of spandex and other materials that conform to the shape of your foot for a better fit. They also move moisture away from your feet for added comfort.
Specs
The Prince Men's Quarter Performance Athletic Socks are made predominantly of polyester with spandex and rubber components. A smooth toe seam prevents blisters in the toe box. Vents along the arch help ventilate your socks and keep your feet healthy.
Value
In terms of value, these socks work best for sports that involve running in short bursts. The added padding works as shock absorbers which protect your feet. The moisture control also helps keep your socks dry to prevent blisters from constant direction changes.
- Moisture control protects your feet from blisters
- Shock absorption improves your overall comfort
- Spandex offers a better, more flexible fit
- Design may not be optimal for long-distance continuous running
- Sizes tend to run loose
- Improper washing could change the fit
3. Balega Enduro V-Tech Athletic
The Balega Enduro V-Tech socks are available in small and medium sizes. There are two color options available. The addition of an extra deep heel and non constricting compression bands make these socks run slightly big.
Features
These socks use non constricting compression bands to help your feet keep their shape under pressure. An extra deep heel pocket improves the overall fit and adds protection against hard shocks. A medium volume construction makes these socks fit well on most foot shapes.
Specs
The Enduro V-Tech Quarter Socks are made of Drynamix, polyester, nylon, and elastane. The VT-ech arch support system adds the needed arch support to reduce pain from foot bending. Added padding in the heel and under the balls of your feet reduce foot stress over long runs.
Value
In terms of value, these socks offer the most value as endurance running gear. The added features help you maintain your endurance so that you can handle longer runs in comfort. They are great for marathons and other distance runs that would normally wear your feet out quickly.
- Increased padding and comfort features improve your endurance
- Moisture control is great for your overall foot health
- These socks are more durable than many other options
- They can be pricey per pair
- Added support may not appeal to all runners
4. Rockay Accelerate
The Rockay have a wide arrange of sizes from extra small all the way to extra large, so any runner should be able to find a proper fit. The Rockay are built for a snug fit no matter what the size so that you will have no issues with slippage.
Features
The Rockay socks feature a specialized padded toe and heel in their design. This is specifically implemented in order to manage and prevent blisters and hot spots, which can be one of the most difficult things a runner can be forced to endure. The Rockay also has excellent moisture control and wicking, which not only helps prevents blisters but is great for preventing all sorts of bacteria born infections and other rashes.
Specs
Rockay socks are made from merino wool, which are great for running wear. This special and specific wool has amazing moisture management properties. Merino wool also doesn’t hold in odor which we know is a great plus for running socks.
Value
These socks do a slightly higher than average price but they more than deliver on that in quality of materials and design. The thing that does raise the value of Rockay socks from great to amazing is their lifetime guarantee. So when investing in a pair of Rockay socks, you have a pair of great socks for life.
- Excellent arch support
- Snug no slip fit
- Breathable
- Good moisture control
- Comfortable
- High quality materials
- Lifetime guarantee
- A little pricey
5. HUSO Striped Print Athletic
The HUSO Athletic Quarter Socks are available in men’s sizes 6-11 and women’s sizes 5.5-12 (US measures). The stitching is thin so that they fit well in most shoes.
Features
These quarter socks have a unique tie-dyed look. Reinforcement padding in the heel and under the balls of the feet add extra support where needed. Sorbtek fabrics in the construction control moisture and keep your feet dry.
Specs
The HUSO Athletic Quarter Socks are made of Sorbtek, spandex, elastic, and polyester. Sorbtek is great for moving moisture away from your feet. Added cushioning in the right places greatly improves your comfort.
Value
These socks are at their best for running and hiking with a different look. The added support makes a big difference in improving your comfort. The moisture control also improves your comfort over long distances, which makes them great for hiking in uneven terrain.
- Unique look helps you keep your own style
- Moisture control improves long-term wear comfort
- Added padding makes these socks very comfortable
- Thicker feel may not appeal to some runners
- Padding can be too thick in some areas for high-speed runners
- Padding makes these socks run tight
6. Balega Blister Resist
These Balega socks are available in sizes up to extra large. With a medium volume construction, they fit comfortably on most runners in most shoe constructions.
Features
They have extra padding across the soles. The addition of a high heel tab keeps them from sliding down into your shoes. Drynamix also helps control moisture. Combined with Drynamix, mohair helps prevent friction blisters on your feet.
Specs
The Balega Blister Resist socks are made of Drynamix, mohair, wool, acrylic, nylon, neofil, and elastane. The heel pocket is extended for a better feeling fit. A medium volume construction fits most runners’ feet more comfortably.
Value
These socks are great for running in more extreme conditions. The combination of blister-resistant fabrics, moisture control design, ventilation, and added support padding makes these socks more effective at protecting your feet.
- Added foot protection for extreme running speed or distance
- Blister-resistant design helps you keep running on a regular basis
- More comfortable in low profile running shoes
- Thickness may cause rubbing in the toes which can cause blisters
- May not fit well in tighter running shoes
- Sizes run a bit small
7. Gold Toe Harrington
The Gold Toe Harrington Quarter Socks are available in sizes up to double extra large. The extra padding may make them run tight. In looser shoes like hiking boots, these socks fit well.
Features
Added padding across the entire sock makes these socks great at absorbing shocks. In colder weather, they can keep your feet warm and dry with aquaFX cotton. A pull-on closure makes them slide on easily and stay in place.
Specs
Gold Toe Men's Big and Tall Harrington Quarter Socks are made mostly of cotton with added polyester, nylon, and spandex. Thick padding offers extra comfort over long periods. Moisture control helps keep your feet clean and dry under most circumstances.
Value
In terms of value, these socks are best when you are doing a slower, but physically intensive sport like hiking. They are great for keeping your foot comfortable with extra padding. Plus, they are exceptionally great at keeping your foot warm in cold weather.
- Socks hold their shape during machine washing
- Socks provide cushioning for the entire foot and ankle
- Aqua FX cotton absorbs moisture to keep your feet dry
- Design is not as conducive to running, although it can be used for hiking or slower motion sports
- Design makes these socks warm even in cold weather, which can cause overheating
- Thick construction may run tight
8. Feetures! Elite Light Cushion
Feetures! Elite Light Cushion Socks are available in sizes up to extra large. With extra padding on the sole, these socks can feel tighter than other options.
Features
These socks have added padding across the sole which acts as a shock absorber and helps you maintain your endurance. The addition of Sock-Lock technology adds a level of compression where you need it to keep your feet comfortable over long distances.
Specs
These Feetures! quarter socks use high density cushioning in an anatomical design to provide support where you need it most. Venting helps keep your feet cool. Compression bands support your arches for a more comfortable feel.
Value
In terms of value, these socks are great for runners that are not getting enough support from their socks. These socks add superior support through clever design changes that make them more comfortable. For runners with sensitive feet or that push the limits of their endurance, these socks will help you avoid fatigue and injuries.
- Anatomical design keeps support where it is needed
- Added padding improves your overall endurance
- Temperature control keeps your feet cool and dry
- Added padding makes these run small in tighter shoes
- Added padding may feel restricting or heavy to some runners
- Improper washing will damage these socks
9. James Fiallo
The James Fiallo are sold to fit shoe sizes 6 to 12 and have no complaints or issues on the way that they fit.
Features
Fiallo socks are well cushioned socks that are designed to both be breathable as well as expertly wick sweat from your feet. These are essential features to a high performing running sock.
Specs
These socks are constructed from high quality, comfortable materials and are made up of 85% polyester and 15% spandex.
Value
Not only do these socks perform well and contain all the essential features of a good running sock, but they sell in packages of a dozen pairs for an extremely affordable price, adding value on top of value.
- Very comfortable
- High quality
- Affordable
- Well cushioned
- Good wicking
- Breathable
- Durable
- Quality may vary from pair to pair
10. Drymax Run Hyper Thin No Show
The Drymax Hyper Thin are designed to be elastic and thin so as to both fit snugly as well as minimize interference. The Drymax come in a ranges of sizes that fit from 6 to 13.
Features
The Drymax are designed to be very breathable, many report it keeping their feet exceptionally cool. The Drymax also lives up to its name, being one of the better socks when it comes to managing dampness, both caused by sweat as well as outside forces.
Specs
These socks are constructed from 73% olefin,11% polyester,11% nylon,5% elastane in order to maximize elasticity, breathablility, and moisture control.
Value
While these socks do perform exceptionally well, they are pretty high on the scale in terms of cost per pair. On top of that, there are some accounts of them wearing through rather quickly, which is important to consider with a high cost item since its more of an investment. Overall this is a high quality sock that’s price would normally be worth it, but has some durability issues to consider beforehand.
- Thin and stretchy
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Good moisture management
- Very breathable and keeps cool
- Good blister prevention
- Deals with wetness well
- Questionable durability
- Pricey per pair
The Criteria We Used to Find the Best Quarter Socks
The criteria below were crafted to ensure that the list we assembled is a definitive assessment of what makes a good quarter running sock. To assure our readership that we have only selected the best of the best for our list we have broken down the finer point of our criteria below. We do this so that you can have a more comprehensive understanding of our system and will be able to make a decision that suits you best.
Size
Size is an important aspect to consider with any piece of athletic gear, but essentially so with socks. Socks that are too tight can cause pain and aggravation, too loose and the socks won’t serve their protective purpose. This list will contain socks that have a track record of fitting perfectly.
Features
When choosing by features, not only do we have to be attentive to choosing socks with beneficial features but we have to sort the options out that are more superfluous with what they implement in their designs. It isn’t helpful to pay for something you don’t need. This will ensure that only the socks that can best serve the runners reading this list end up on it.
Specs
What the sock is constructed from and why. These are two important questions that we believe are essential to answer when considering putting a sock on this list. We will only select socks made from materials that are protective, comfortable, and deal with dampness properly since socks constructed with these attributes will be well suited for running.
Value
While we do examine the cost of a sock compared to its features to determine its value it is also important to remember that socks are sold in packages. How good of a deal you are getting when comparing the numbers of socks that come in the package to the price is another aspect of value. Once we take into account when assessing if a sock should be on this list.
Other Important Factors to Consider
When it comes to buying a new pair of quarter socks, it is important to find a pair that you’ll find comfortable to wear for every run. To do this, you’ll need to understand your own preferences when it comes to running socks. However, here are two important factors to consider in your buying process for quarter socks.
Style
There are a variety of styles available in quarter socks. This includes the color of the socks or if they have any patterns. All of the socks in this guide have the quarter sock style.
Blister Protection
One of the most common challenges runners face is getting blisters when they run since blisters from where your shoes rub on your feet. The socks you choose to wear can be an effective form of protection against blisters. Some of the quarter socks on this list have additional cushioning, special synthetic fabric, and other features to protect against blisters. No matter what other features you would like in your socks, blister protection is an important one to look for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What material are the socks made from?
A: Most running socks are made from synthetic materials with moisture-wicking properties that can keep your feet dry. Cotton socks should be avoided for running because cotton doesn’t wick moisture away.
Q: Is there ventilated mesh?
A: Ventilated mesh is sometimes added to running socks to help keep your feet even more comfortable and dry. It enables more air flow through the sock. If you sweat a lot when you run, ventilated mesh might make you more comfortable.
Q: What kind of padding and support does the sock offer?
A: To promote comfort, some running socks have extra padding in the heels or pads of the feet. This can give you extra support and protection against blisters when you run.
Q: Why should I wear compression quarter socks?
A: Compression socks can increase circulation in your legs while you run. Unfortunately, there are not many compression socks in the quarter style because the compression should ideally take place in your calves. If you’d like to try out compression quarter socks, start with an individual pair to see if you notice the difference. Many runners who want to go with a compression sock choose a crew style.
Q: Does the quality matter when it comes to quarter socks?
A: Yes, though only to a certain extent. When you purchase any running socks, you want to make sure that you have a sock that can provide you support and moisture-wicking properties when you run. However, there are some quarter socks that are overpriced simply because of their brand without delivering extra features. In this case, you could end up overpaying for socks that are more or less the same than those offered by competitors.
Q: Does the sock run large or small?
A: It is extremely important that you find socks that fit. Some brands run larger or smaller. It is worth reading through customer reviews to see if the socks run large or small, as well as trying on the socks.
Sources
- , The Best Basketball Socks – A Definitive Guide, Website, Jan 07, 2018
- , NIKE DRI-FIT HALF-CUSHION QUARTER, E-Commerce Website, Jan 07, 2018
- , 10 High-Performance Socks for Runners, Runner's World, Oct 28, 2016
- , 10 Best Athletic Socks For Running, Blog, Jan 07, 2018
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