We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
Running socks are an essential part of a runner's kit. They protect your feet from blisters, provide support, and keep your feet dry and comfortable during a long run. With so many different brands and types of running socks available, it can be challenging to choose the right ones for you. To help you out, we've put together a list of the best running socks by brand, ranking them from one to five.
Staff Pick
Outway Socks
Best Overall Running Sock
Moisture-wicking breathable materials to keep your feet cool and dry. Excellent arch support and cushioning to reduce the risk of blisters. Stylish designs in a range of colors.
Runner Up
Balega Socks
Seamless Design
Pros
- Synthetic & Natural Fibers
- Excellent moisture management
- Seamless design to reduce risk of blisters
Cons
- Sizing runs small
- Can be narrow for very wide feet
Honorable Mention
Smartwool Socks
Most Padded Running Sock
Pros
- Mesh venting zones for optimum maximum breathability
- Seamless design to reduce risk of blisters
- Stylish designs and range of colors
Cons
- May not provide as much cushioning as some other options on the market
- Pricey
- Can be narrow for very wide feet
Honorable Mention
Injinji Socks
Minimalist Toesock
Pros
- Unique toe-sock design to reduce the risk of blisters and other foot injuries
- Excellent moisture management and durability
- Stylish designs and range of colors
Cons
- Toe-socks can take a little getting used to
- May not provide as much cushioning as some other options on the market
- Can be narrow for very wide feet
What We Looked For
- Fabric Choosing the right fabric is crucial when it comes to running socks. It's important to select a material that can absorb moisture and sweat effectively.
- Cushioning Cushioning is vital to the overall comfort of a running sock. Running puts a lot of pressure on your feet, and cushioning can help absorb some of that impact.
- Breathability Breathability is an essential factor to consider when selecting running socks. A sock's breathability is determined by the fabric and cushioning.
- Durability Running socks are subjected to a lot of wear and tear, so it's important to choose a sock that can withstand the demands of the activity.
Good socks are important for runners because they provide crucial support and protection for the feet.
Running involves a lot of impact and pressure on the feet, which can lead to blisters, chafing, and even injuries like plantar fasciitis. High-quality running socks can help prevent these issues by providing adequate cushioning, support, and breathability.
Investing in good quality running socks can make a significant difference in a runner's comfort and performance.
1. Outway Performance Socks
Our first overall pick is the new Outway Running Socks. These socks are designed with additional cushioning and arch support to help reduce the strain from impact on longer runs. I love Outway socks and would recommend any of their socks for the average runner. But the new Running Crew Socks are perfect for the runner putting on those extra miles and looking for a touch more support.
Staff Pick
Outway Socks
Best Overall Running Sock
Moisture-wicking breathable materials to keep your feet cool and dry. Excellent arch support and cushioning to reduce the risk of blisters. Stylish designs in a range of colors.
Tested & Approved
Outway Socks are designed to give the best combination of comfort & performance. Every pair of socks is full of often-forgotten features like arch support, calf compression, seamless toe design & moisture wicking material.
2. Balega Socks
Balega's Blister Resist Quarter Socks perfectly blend nature and technology to create the best anti-blister quarter running socks. These socks keep out grit and grime while adding additional security and comfort with enhanced elastic grip construction in the quarter sock rib top.
Runner Up
Balega Socks
Seamless Design
Pros
- Synthetic & Natural Fibers
- Excellent moisture management
- Seamless design to reduce risk of blisters
Cons
- Sizing runs small
- Can be narrow for very wide feet
3. Smartwool Running Socks
Running is all about your feet pounding the pavement, so anything you can do to help ease up on that pressure can make your endeavor that much more enjoyable. That's where Smartwool's Athlete Edition Run Crew Socks come in. With their 4 Degree Elite fit system, mesh zones for added breathability, and a Virtually Seamless toe, this sock brings the comfort.
Honorable Mention
Smartwool Socks
Most Padded Running Sock
Pros
- Mesh venting zones for optimum maximum breathability
- Seamless design to reduce risk of blisters
- Stylish designs and range of colors
Cons
- May not provide as much cushioning as some other options on the market
- Pricey
- Can be narrow for very wide feet
4. Injinji Socks
The Run Lightweight No-Show Wool sock was built for comfort, feel, and performance across a range of temperatures, distances, and terrains. This ultra-thin, minimalist toesock packs in the benefits of Merino wool, with superior softness, exceptional odor resistance, and temperature regulation.
Honorable Mention
Injinji Socks
Minimalist Toesock
Pros
- Unique toe-sock design to reduce the risk of blisters and other foot injuries
- Excellent moisture management and durability
- Stylish designs and range of colors
Cons
- Toe-socks can take a little getting used to
- May not provide as much cushioning as some other options on the market
- Can be narrow for very wide feet
Outway Socks is the clear winner in my books.
Between you and me, I'm actually a little addicted to Outway Socks. They are constantly releasing some of the coolest designs on the market and I can't help but scoop up every one of their product drops.
I run every single morning and the first thing I do is grab my Outway Socks, the only sock I look forward to putting on.
So do yourself a favor and head over to Outway and grab your first pair today… if anyone asks tell them Scott sent you.
Scott Adamson
The Journey Senior Commerce Editor
Staff Pick
Outway Socks
Best Overall Running Sock
Moisture-wicking breathable materials to keep your feet cool and dry. Excellent arch support and cushioning to reduce the risk of blisters. Stylish designs in a range of colors.
Read more
Vuori: Comfortable, Versatile Athleisure Wear
These stylish athleisure threads are designed with comfort and versatility in mind. Dress them up or down while you hit the gym or the town.
The Best Running Gear for 2023 (Mens Edition)
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, having the right equipment can help you achieve your goals and make your running experience more enjoyable.
Sock Showdown: Outway vs. Stance
Outway has taken the sock market by storm so we decided to compare them to the big boys over at Stance Socks.
Stay Stylish and Comfy in the Best Athleisure Wear Brands of 2023
There's no reason for stylish clothes to be uncomfortable. Keep it comfy and fashion-forward in the best athleisure wear brands of 2023.
