Why You Need Running Socks
Running-specific socks can make a surprisingly big difference in your running experience
We all know that person who will drop over $200 on running shoes without batting an eye but will refuse to spring for a good pair of running socks. Running in great shoes and bad socks is like buying the freshest, highest-quality ingredients and then smothering them with ketchup. It'll do the job, but the experience definitely won't be as good as it could have been.
A good pair of running socks can be just as important as a good pair of shoes. Running-specific socks are designed to reduce blisters, wick moisture, and keep your feet more comfortable. And while running-specific socks may cost a bit more than generic athletic socks, the added durability can make them a more economical choice over time.
Designed to Perform
Materials Best Suited for Running
That cheap pair of cotton socks isn't doing your feet any favors. Cotton holds onto moisture, heat, and friction, making you much more susceptible to blisters and hot spots. Running-specific socks are made of fibres designed to wick moisture away from your feet and dry quickly.
Synthetic Fibres:
Polyester, acrylic, and nylon are the main synthetic materials found in socks. They make up fabrics such as Coolmax, Drymax, etc. These fibres are designed to pull moisture away from the foot and are extremely fast drying, so they're especially good for wet weather or sweaty feet.
Merino Wool:
Nothing like the itchy sweaters your mum used to make you wear, these soft fibres are more breathable, durable, and moisture wicking. Merino wool regulates temperatures to keep your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and the natural odor resistance means that stinky feet will be a thing of the past. Merino wool is also better for the environment than petroleum-based synthetics as it is a renewable resource with less manufacturing waste.
Features to Keep Your Feet Happy
Different Sock Features
Running socks have specific features designed to improve your running experience. It all comes together to keep your feet blister free and happy all run long. Knowing the different features can help you decide which socks are best for your needs.
Cushioning:
Running socks offer different thicknesses of localized padding at the toe and heel for added cushion and underfoot protection from blisters depending on your running needs.
Mesh Ventilation:
Ventilation zones are built into many running socks to allow the sock to breathe where needed while still protecting in high-wear areas.
Arch Support:
Many running socks feature compression bands, which add support and improve the fit. Some of these socks may even help with preventing plantar fasciitis.
Seamless toes:
Designed to prevent uncomfortable bunching or rubbing at the end of the toes, most running-specific socks feature seamless designs.
Separated toes:
For those that are prone to blisters between their toes, Injinji socks feature separated toe pockets to prevent skin-to-skin friction and to wick sweat.
Two Layer:
Some socks are designed with two layers of material. This helps to prevent blisters by allowing the friction of movement to occur between the layers instead of between the runner's skin and the sock.
Compression:
Many running socks feature some level of compression. On top of providing a snug fit that keeps the socks from moving around, increasing compression can aid circulation as well.
Anatomical Feet:
Some running socks are designated for left and right feet. This provides a more personalized fit that gives better support to each individual foot.
