Do Running Socks Make a Difference? 4 Traits to Look For

If you’re a runner, you know that a good pair of shoes and socks can make the difference between a good run that gets your heart pumping and one that leaves you limping around for the next few days because of blisters. Looking for the perfect pair of running socks can be overwhelming, but you can narrow your search by looking for a few main features. In this article, we’ll go over four traits you should be looking for when searching for your next pair of running socks and whether compression socks are necessary.

Do Running Socks Make a Difference?

When designed correctly, running socks can enhance your running performance, increase comfort, and reduce the risk of blisters. A great pair of running socks will improve your running experience by wicking away moisture, providing more padding, reducing the chance of friction, and protecting your feet from blisters.

Should You Wear Compression Socks While Running?

Most runners don’t need to wear compression socks while running, but they can assist with increasing blood flow. If you have issues with your circulation, then compression socks are a great choice for running. However, runners who don’t have issues with poor circulation don’t need to wear them. Since compression socks can be uncomfortable and don’t provide optimal blister protection, many runners prefer non-compression socks.

Four Traits to Look for When Buying Running Socks

As you search for a great pair of running socks, it’s important to pay attention to a few factors. Review four of the most important traits to look for when buying running socks below:

1. Material

When selecting a running sock, you’ll want the material it’s made out of to be temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking, and durable. Merino wool is an excellent choice as it offers all of the previously mentioned properties. While Merino wool is good for year-round wear, a sock made purely out of Merino wool is typically better for colder runs.

If you’d like even greater cooling and moisture-wicking properties for spring and summer runs, socks made out of a blend of Merino wool and synthetic material can be a great alternative. By choosing a sock with synthetic yarns and Merino wool, you’ll get all of the benefits of Merino wool’s moisture-wicking properties with a little added breathability!

2. Seamless Design & Extra Padding

Another essential feature to look for in a running sock is seamless design. Unlike regular socks with potentially irritating seams, seamless socks do away with friction and pressure points, reducing the risk of blisters and ulcers. Socks featuring a seamless design will keep your feet feeling healthy and less beat up so you can stick to your running schedule and reach your goals on time.

Along with a seamless design, a good running sock will usually have extra padding in the heel and ball of the foot to help support the wearer’s feet. This extra cushion will assist with shock absorption, offer extra comfort, and help protect the vulnerable areas of the feet from injury. When searching for running socks with additional padding, socks made with a double-layer design are often your best bet.

3. Non-Restrictive Elastic

One of the things most folks who dislike compression socks say about them is how tight they feel on their legs. If you don’t enjoy wearing compression socks, you’ll want to make sure that the elastic in the socks you’re buying is manufactured to provide a gentle, secure fit without being too tight. 

A non-restrictive elastic design will help prevent pressure points, enhancing the overall feel of the sock and reducing the risk of complications. The lack of tight bands around the top of a sock ensures proper circulation, which will help your legs not get fatigued while you’re out running.

4. Anti-Blister Technology

Finding a pair of running socks that offer guaranteed blister protection is crucial for long-distance runners and those who’ve had issues with blisters in the past. If you can find running socks that harness anti-blister technology, your feet will be far more protected against the three main causes of blisters—friction, moisture, and heat.

Choose Wrightsock for Anti-Blister Diabetic Socks

If you’re shopping for a quality pair of men’s or women’s running socks, choose Wrightsock. We offer a wide range of supportive socks manufactured to the highest standard, and our anti-blister socks are designed for all types of weather. Our Coolmesh II Lo Quarters are perfect for warm weather running as they offer comfort, breathability, and padding without sacrificing what makes our anti-blister socks so great. 

We also have a crew version of the Coolmesh II for folks who want a little more warmth when they’re out for a run. Additionally, our double-layer socks have a No Blister Guarantee, meaning we’ll give you your money back if you get a blister while wearing them.

Browse our selection of running socks today. If you have any questions or want help choosing a pair, please contact us.