--- source_url: "https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20809978/the-best-socks-for-runners/" title: Best Running Socks for Blister Protection and Odor Control mirrored_at: 2026-08-04T01:08:47.647Z host: www.runnersworld.com cited_in_42a: true mirror_canonical: "https://index.42a.ai/www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20809978/the-best-socks-for-runners/index" --- > **Original source:** https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20809978/the-best-socks-for-runners/ Of all the gear the _Runner’s World_ team tests, I’d argue that socks are the most polarizing accessory as well as the third most important piece of gear behind [shoes](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a19663621/best-running-shoes/) and [sports bras](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a21731269/best-sports-bras/). I’ve had editors passionately rage against toe socks and dismiss anyone who wears no-shows. I’ve known runners who’ve had come-to-Jesus moments discovering run-specific socks are worth the extra bucks over a cheap bag of department store cotton socks. For those who prefer [minimum coverage over their legs](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22749888/running-shorts/) or need the extra protection on [trail runs](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22115120/best-trail-running-shoes/), there’s a sock that matches your preferred cuff length and [cushioning](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20865760/best-cushioned-running-shoes/). Not every runner is pro-crew and not every runner wants tight compression. We’ve included various socks for all kinds of runners on this list. ## Our Top 3 Best Running Socks - **Best Overall:** [Darn Tough Run Ultra-Light Cushion Quarter Running Socks](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MWWJRY7?tag=runnersworld-auto-20)​ - **Best for Everyday Running:** [Balega Enduro Running Socks](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09SQ1ZTJV?tag=runnersworld-auto-20)​ - **Best Value:** [Saucony RunDry Performance Socks](https://www.amazon.com/Saucony-Womens-Performance-Athletic-Assorted/dp/B06XBT1R3S/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20)​​ ## How We Tested Our team of experienced testers spent many hours and miles running year-round to evaluate how these socks fared in a variety of conditions—from hot and humid track workouts to bitter cold runs through the snow to rainy slogs on the trail. We also noted how well these running socks held up between multiple wears and washes. The pairs we’ve included in this list are some of the top performers across all of our tests, and we’ve indicated the qualities or conditions in which a specific sock excelled. That said, every running sock here strikes a good balance of odor control, moisture management, comfort, durability, and value for your runs. ![Five pairs of socks in various styles and colors displayed on legs.](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/5a832d07-797b-4187-a139-b9706b44390b.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:* "Five pairs of socks in various styles and colors displayed on legs.") Winston Zhou Socks come in various cuff heights. From left: no-show, low-cut, ankle, crew, knee. We start with our top three socks, which received high ratings for their durability, multi-use, and, above all else, comfort. We then listed our team’s favorite pairs by cuff height, from no-shows to knee socks. This way, you’ll be able to find the sock that’s right for you, whether you’re team ankle or crew. ## Full Reviews * * * ### Pros - Durable yet soft - Excellent moisture-wicking ability - Good odor control - Lifetime guarantee ### Cons - Fit isn’t specific to left and right feet - Limited color options ## Key Specs Cuff Heights No-show, quarter Cushioning Medium (also available without cushioning) Performance socks aren’t cheap, but rest easy knowing that if you ever poke your big toe through this merino sock you’ll get a replacement pair for free. But it’s unlikely you will wear this sock down; we found it to be the most durable, lightweight wool model. Darn Tough uses a high stitch count for the Run Ultra-Light, so it’s velvety soft against your foot and wraps the arch with just enough compression for a secure fit and a smidge of extra support. “I have a purple and green pair of Darn Tough socks that I’ve been wearing for almost three years, and they’re still as cushy as they were on the first run,” says one tester. “They’re my go-to for 20-milers during marathon training because they stay put and don’t bunch or slide, even when I’m moving for hours and my feet start to swell.” One tester who had a little extra space around the pinky toes thought left-right specificity could make the fit even better. [Shop Men’s at amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRK1PL1B?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) | [Shop Women’s at amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MWWJRY7?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) ### Pros - Secure fit around heel and ankle - Slightly snug arch compression - Cushioning feels plush yet lightweight - Excellent breathability on top of the arch ### Cons - Loose threads along inner stitching - No men’s- and women’s-specific fits ## Key Specs Cuff Heights No-show, ankle, quarter, crew Cushioning Medium We favor the Enduro for trail runs and during the colder months of the year. The sock is plenty cushioned like the [Hidden Comfort](https://www.amazon.com/Balega-Comfort-Athletic-Running-Seamless/dp/B0016CJIZE/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20), but its taller height options offer more protection from dirt and debris, and also help keep chilly air from nipping at your ankles. The majority of the Enduro’s cushioning uses Balega’s Drynamix polyester yarn, which feels soft and smooth and wicks moisture away from the foot to prevent blisters. But when compared to wool socks we’ve tested, it doesn’t perform as well in terms of durability and odor control. Though we haven’t put any holes in the Enduro after seven months of running, Balega only guarantees its pairs for a year. Now 37% Off ### Pros - Sold in bulk; 8, 16, 24 pairs - Available in extensive sizes - Mesh ventilation and arch support ### Cons - Low durability ![Image no longer available](https://www.runnersworld.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/eye-regular.e612290.svg) ## Features at a Glance Cuff Heights Low-cut Cushioning Light You _can_ buy quality running socks and save. Saucony’s RunDry Performance socks come in packs of 8, 16, or 24 pairs. A downside is low durability. Pairs began to fray after two years’ worth of wearing. It’s a good thing you can buy these in bulk. The no-shows have a heel tab to provide some cushioning in the area and prevent blisters from forming. Targeted compression for arch support is one reason this multipack isn’t like the Hanes bag you get at Walmart. RunDry Moisture Management (Saucony’s moisture-wicking fibers) and air mesh venting serve as sweat and odor control. [Shop Men’s at amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/Saucony-Ventilating-Performance-Comfort-No-Show/dp/B01D2GRTIE/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) | [Shop Women’s at amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/Saucony-Womens-Performance-Athletic-Assorted/dp/B06XBT1R3S/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) * * * ## No-Show ### Pros - Heel gripper prevents slipping - Durable construction - Flat-knit toe seam ### Cons - No cushioning - Wide open collar Cuff Heights No-show Cushioning Zero Besides wearing these inside loafers and Mary Janes, these socks by Smartwool are great for racing flats, which tend to be extremely minimal and tight. Think of these as a shield against foot odor in your track shoes. The durable wool material draws away moisture, preventing the inside of your shoe from going swampy. The inside of the heel has a gripper to stop slippage, because no runner likes their socks bunching down to their arch midrun. * * * ## Low-Cut ### Pros - New eco-friendly cushioning - Fit is relaxed (less compressive) without bunching inside shoe - Multiple color options - Does not slip down inside the shoe ### Cons - Doesn’t come in a crew-height version - Sizing runs a bit small for some ## Key Specs Cuff Heights Low-cut Cushioning Max The Maxus is Swiftwick’s plushest, coziest sock to date. It’s the pair we’ll grab most frequently for Sunday [long runs](https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a34789560/long-run/)—or days when we know we’ll be spending a lot of time on our feet—and we want to supplement our shoes with as much cushioning as possible. That much hasn’t changed. However, Swiftwick did recently give the Maxus an important update by switching to a new material called Repreve. It’s a recycled fiber that’s more sustainable and saves the plastic equivalent of one water bottle. Initially, we worried the new construction would impact the socks’ durability and cloud-like softness. Rest assured, after six months of testing, the Maxus is still our dream sock for big mileage. Testers who loved the original model noted no drop in comfort or quality whatsoever. ### Pros - Cushioning targets heel and toe for comfort without bulk - Achilles tab effectively reduces slippage - Good odor control - Seamless toes ### Cons - Longer dry time - Runs a bit large for some ## Key Specs Cuff Heights Low-cut, ankle, quarter, crew Cushioning Medium (zero cushion also available) Even socks with thick cushioning can efficiently wick sweat away from your skin, which helps prevent blisters from forming on your feet. Just take this plush Smartwool pair, for example—it was the top performer overall in our moisture-wicking test. Made from a soft, cozy blend of merino wool, nylon, and spandex, it was also one of the most comfortable we tested, with targeted underfoot cushioning that didn’t feel bulky or take up too much room in our shoes. Plus, the 56 percent wool construction really cuts down on stink. We found that even after four wears back-to-back, the sock smelled immensely better than standard cotton or polyester models that endured the same sweaty treatment. The only downside was that the Smartwool’s thicker cushioning took longer to dry once it got wet in our follow-up tests, so it’s not the best sock to wear on rainy runs when you’ll be splashing through puddles. [Shop Men’s at amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LF63FGB?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) | [Shop Women’s at amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LDZKG3P?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) * * * ## Ankle ### Pros - Dries fast and wicks moisture well - Very secure inside shoe; no sliding - Good odor control - Heel fit is snug and not baggy ### Cons - Limited color options - Not as durable as the original Flite XT model ## Key Specs Cuff Heights Ankle, crew Cushioning Medium Swiftwick dubs its latest creation, the Flite XT Trail, the “most technically advanced sock for hiking and trail running.” While much simpler socks have also excelled in our tests, this new model proved itself a cut above. The Flite XT Trail builds on [the original Flite XT model](https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/35496263-B4C5-4A9C-B5D9-AB1548F7DABA?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) from Swiftwick. Both pairs have portions of grippy fibrous material beneath the heel and forefoot, which help prevent your foot from sliding around inside your shoe. Combined with snug arch and ankle compression, this lends extra support for lateral movements in agility drills and circuit training—or for dodging rocks, roots, and potholes midrun. The trail-specific version, however, also incorporates merino wool that naturally controls foot odor and feels a little softer against the skin. All that comes together to make this one of the best socks we’ve run in. The material is thick, durable, and dries quickly after we soaked it in a rainstorm. Plus, there’s enough cushion so you’ll feel a little extra protection on longer runs, but it’s not too heavy or mushy. “My favorite thing about this sock is how it makes the fit of every running shoe feel a little more locked-in,” test editor [Morgan Petruny](https://www.runnersworld.com/author/217907/morgan-petruny/) says. “That’s especially helpful in some daily trainers where I have a little too much wiggle room. These socks take up that bit of extra space and grip the shoe’s insole without making my feet feel too cramped or sweaty—the material is durable and thick, but still breathes nicely.” However, after 15 months of running, we did finally put holes in our test pairs. Petruny says: “While there aren’t any signs of wear on the heels or toes, there’s a small rip on the inside of the ankle. It’s right over the ankle bone where the seams connect the heel cup to the rest of the sock. I only notice it when I pull the socks on, so it hasn’t yet affected their overall performance.” * * * ## Quarter ### Pros - Seamless toe prevents rubbing - Flexible, stretchy fit around foot - Moisture-wicking merino wool controls odor ### Cons - Still tight on wide ankles and calves ![Image no longer available](https://www.runnersworld.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/eye-regular.e612290.svg) ## Features at a Glance Cuff Heights Quarter Cushioning Light At first I was skeptical about Wide Open socks, especially when a couple of staffers said the fit was too loose and bunched at the toes. Clearly they weren’t [true wide-foot runners](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/g39135738/best-wide-toebox-running-shoes/). I’m now questioning several shoe reviews where I said the fit felt too narrow—because the reason may have been my constrictive socks. Wide Open crew socks are made of moisture-wicking merino wool and feel like a second skin when I run. They also come in cute patterns that I think those aforementioned staffers are a little jealous of. But when you live in a mostly non-wide sock world and find a pair like this micro crew, the comfort is worth the jealousy. I’ve reserved my pairs for races and need to get more so I’m not Wide Open-free until my clothes are out of the dryer. [Shop Men’s at amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/Wide-Open-Micro-Crew-Socks/dp/B0DHLVXS3R/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) | [Shop Women’s at amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/Wide-Open-Micro-Womens-Socks/dp/B0CRLGDPSF/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) Credit: REI ### Pros - Extra cushioning on footbed for padded support on the trail - Double cuff prevents sock from slipping and shields friction ### Cons - Toes bunch for folks with shorter digits Cuff Heights Quarter Cushioning Medium The midweight crew sock by Injinji offers protective padding for the trail. Think of the toe sock as an extra layer above your shoe’s outsole and midsole foam. The separated toes allow them to splay when you’re maneuvering over obstacles on the path. Sure, my partner teases me when I walk around shoeless at home wearing my toe socks, but the best thing about wearing them running is the barrier between each toe. No rubbing equals no blisters between my piggies. That protection isn’t just concentrated around the toe area. The sock also has a nice thick crew cuff that cushions your heel and ankle from chafing. * * * ## Crew Credit: Winston Zhou ### Pros - Soft, quick-drying material - Closed toe seams prevent friction - Cushioned soles - Cuff stays up ### Cons - Slightly thick for hot weather Cuff Heights Quarter Cushioning Medium Adorned with characters from Aesop’s fable “The Tortoise and the Hare,” the Pacer Crew is for all runners of all paces on the road and the trail. The sock’s height provides a generous layer when wearing high-top hiking boots. The crew-length cuff also stays up if you’re the kind of runner who wants Goldilocks coverage: not calf, not quarter. The terry loop cushioning feels luxurious underfoot without overcrowding the inside of your shoe. It’s my favorite sock for everyday runs and long runs. The merino wool prevents the inside of shoes from getting swampy and the characters around the cuffs provide a whimsical vibe when the going gets tough. [Darn Tough Pacer Crew Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a71295917/darn-tough-pacer-crew-sock-review/) ### Pros - Soft material and zonal compression - Breathable, even in high temps - Cushioning on the forefoot and heel ### Cons - Cuff height varies depending on runner’s height - Slips down on thick calves ![Image no longer available](https://www.runnersworld.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/eye-regular.e612290.svg) ## Features at a Glance Cuff Heights Crew to calf (depending on wearer) Cushioning High The brand known for its [low-cut no-show socks](https://www.amazon.com/ONDO-Merino-Wool-Show-Socks/dp/B0FH8TVCGP/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) also has a sportswear compression sock. The Contour Compression Crew is made of organic cotton that we found to be refreshingly breathable and quick-drying on both hot runs and snowy ones. The feel is softer than other compression socks we’ve tested, and the compression is more zonal as opposed to “how do put these things on and take them off” kind. “The compression is gentle in comparison to some other socks designed to do the same, but still supportive enough that I feel the benefits,” said Senior Features Editor [Pavlína Černá](https://www.runnersworld.com/author/251593/pavlina-cerna/). “I did a workout in them yesterday, and don’t feel much soreness today, so although I cannot say it was the socks, the positive association is there now.” The “crew” length is confusing. On my 5-foot frame, the socks were calf height. For our 5-foot-10 tester, she said the cuff length was indeed crew length. The Ondo sock stayed up during both of our runs. I tested it on an 18-miler and was impressed with how it kept my legs warm on a 37-degree early morning long run. Černá, on the other hand, experienced some slippage because the socks reached her mid-calves. ### Pros - Excellent heat management - Multiple cuff and color options - Targeted compression supports arch - Good odor control ### Cons - Some runners may want more cushioning - Unisex sizing isn’t immediately clear ## Key Specs Cuff Heights No-show, quarter, crew Cushioning Light (medium and max also available) Stance builds apparel that’s all about performance but doesn’t sacrifice style. This means you’re getting premium materials and workmanship with attention to the details—like left- and right-specific fits, antimicrobial finish, and woven channels to let air flow more easily through the cushioning. And with that, you still have the option to spice up your race or daily run with flowers, stripes, camo, Disney characters, and [dozens of artist collaborations](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stance.com%2Fcollaborations%2F). Made from a blend of nylon, polyester, and a pinch of spandex, the sock is smooth but not too slippery; news editor [Theo Kahler](https://www.runnersworld.com/author/234079/theo-kahler/) found the textured footbed and cushioning create just enough friction to keep him planted inside his trainers. “These socks hugged my arch and heels and didn’t move around at all—almost like a second skin,” says another tester, who wore the no-show height for both runs and [HIIT workouts](https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a62852530/what-is-high-intensity-interval-training/). Even runners who preferred more plushly cushioned socks were surprised by this thinner model’s support and comfort. “I especially appreciated these socks’ subtle compressive cushion that wraps around the arch,” says one tester, who spins extra miles on the bike during his [NYC Marathon](https://www.runnersworld.com/nyc-marathon/) training. “For that reason, they’ve also become my go-to pair for cycling. The socks help my cleats feel snugger without constricting my toes or the tops of my feet.” * * * ## Knee Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Calf height doesn’t slip - Not too compressive - Very durable ### Cons - One boring color Cuff Heights Calf Cushioning Medium I know it’s weird to wear rugby socks racing, but I’ve worn these, eh, Worn T3 socks for multiple half marathons and marathons. They’re the right amount of coverage when the weather is iffy-cold to temperate. The soles are moderately cushioned for impact absorption, making them great for Hyrox and HIIT. It’s a medium compression, which helps keep the cuffs up below your knees, as well as helps the blood circulate. The T3 doesn’t have me struggling to put these on and take them—a feature I appreciate post-26.2 when I can barely stand. No need to be humbled when I’m unable to remove my own socks. * * * ## What to Consider ![tall socks](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/tall-trail-socks-1627661698.jpg?crop=0.323xw:0.485xh;0.296xw,0.153xh&resize=980:* "RWD") Trevor Raab Taller socks can offer more protection against brambles and debris on trail runs. ![low socks](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/low-no-show-socks-latoya-1627661757.jpg?crop=0.388xw:0.259xh;0.310xw,0.701xh&resize=980:* "RWX") Parker Feierbach No-show and quarter-length socks can feel more breathable for the roads and track. * * * ## Running Socks Q&A ![Headshot of Cat Bowen](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/e517b516-4f09-461e-b6d3-e18d3a69be04_1610382655.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:* "Headshot of Cat Bowen") Cat Bowen, senior editor of commerce; reviews, is a seasoned runner with more than 20 years of distance running experience, including dozens of marathons, half marathons, and even a few ultra marathons. For over a decade, she has tested parenting, fitness, home, and running gear and written in-depth guides to help readers with their next purchase. Holding multiple advanced degrees and currently studying kinesiology, Cat Bowen brings research-backed insight to all of her guides. Passionate about women’s health and neurodivergent inclusion, she advocates for closing research gaps and helping others—especially AudHD people—find joy in running and fitness. ![Headshot of Amanda Furrer](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/834ca306-afa9-4d8c-acdb-b604ad955588_1651178293.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:* "Headshot of Amanda Furrer") Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron. ![Headshot of Jeff Dengate](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/6573d334-f73a-4213-be2b-8a1c1c67ba14_1525786413.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:* "Headshot of Jeff Dengate") Jeff is Runner-in-Chief for _Runner’s World_ and the director of product testing. He has tested and reviewed running shoes, GPS watches, headphones, apparel, and more for nearly two decades. He regularly tests more than 100 pairs of shoes each year, and once had a 257-day streak running in different models. Jeff can usually be found on the roads, racing anything from the mile to a marathon, but he also enjoys racing up mountains and on snowshoes. When he’s not running, you’ll probably find him hanging from a ladder making repairs and renovations to his house (he’s also director of product testing for _Popular Mechanics_).