Best Running Socks 2022

Buyer's Guide | Fleet Feet

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The best running socks for you are really a matter of opinion.

You have to consider different levels of cushion, taller or shorter lengths, and natural or synthetic fibers. With those three basic considerations taken care of, you can start to choose the socks that best fit your feet, style and running conditions—or know which socks to give as gifts for runners.

Running a marathon? High-cushion running socks can offer you a bit more comfort over the long haul. Hitting the trails? A quarter-length or crew cut sock will keep out dirt and debris better than a low-cut or no-show sock.

Like choosing the right running shoe for your unique foot and gait, though, there isn’t one best sock for everyone. Instead, there are plenty of durable, comfortable and high-quality socks to choose from.

Here are our picks for the best running socks:

Balega Hidden Comfort

There’s a reason the Balega Hidden Comfort is one of the best-selling running socks on the market, and the secret is in its name: comfort.

Balega spins the Hidden Comfort from premium, moisture-wicking fibers that make the sock super soft and keep your feet dry. Designers also gave it a high heel tab to keep your Achilles covered and made a seamless toe to prevent hot spots (and blisters).

But maybe our favorite part about the sock is the cushioning. The Hidden Comfort adds thick cushioning around your entire foot for a cozy and premium feel.

Shop Balega Hidden Comfort

Balega Blister Resist

Nothing cuts a run short quite like a blister. Enter mohair.

Balega weaves natural mohair into the Blister Resist to give it a soft and smooth feel while making it more durable than standard socks. Plus, mohair has natural anti-microbial properties, meaning they’ll fight funk on their own without any added chemicals.

Another perk: The Blister Resist comes in no-show, quarter and crew lengths so you can find the right fit.

Shop Balega Blister Resist
A product photo of the Feetures Elite Quarter running sock

Feetures Elite

Feetures makes the Elite for both of your feet. The socks are made with specific left and right shapes that conform to each of your feet to prevent any extra bagginess, which can cause blisters.

The Elite also has a seamless toe that won’t irritate your digits, and it sports a high heel tab to keep the sock from slipping down into your shoe. Targeted compression and moisture-wicking fibers make the Elite a premium running sock.

We love that the Elite comes in multiple cushions—Ultra Light, Light and Max— and heights, as well as a merino wool version that naturally wicks sweat and wards off odor.

Shop Feetures Elite
A pair of black CEP The Run Compression Tall Cut Sock 4

CEP The Compression Run Tall Sock 4.0

We love compression, and CEP knows how to bring the pressure.

CEP knit their Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0 to help enhance both performance and recovery. The true graduated medical grade compression stabilizes muscles and accelerates the removal of lactic acid to keep your legs fresh.

Utilizing Smart Dry Extreme Air Technology, these socks will keep your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Plus, they have been redesigned to make them more breathable than ever.

Train and recover like a pro in the CEP Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0. Learn more about compression socks and how they work.

Shop CEP The Compression Run Tall Sock 4.0

Swiftwick Aspire Zero

Swiftwick's Aspire Zero is a solid all-around running sock that also works for other endurance sports.

Contoured compression dials in the fit so the Aspire hugs the unique shape of your foot. That means there's no dead space and no bunching that can lead to chafing and blisters. Each sock is knit with a blend of nylon, olefin and spandex, so they wick moisture away from your feet and feel soft against your skin.

The no-show length sits just below the ankle, so it stays out of sight and out of the way.

Shop Swiftwick Aspire Zero

Standing Behind Our Picks:

Not loving your socks? Don’t sweat it. Fleet Feet's return policy means you can test drive your shoes and gear without risk. If you’re not happy with the way your gear performs, looks or fits, we’ll take it back within 60 days. Plus, you’ll get free return shipping on all fleetfeet.com orders. That's our Happy Fit Guarantee.