What Socks to Wear With Track Spikes

If you’ve just purchased a pair of track spikes and plan on wearing them soon, you might wonder if track and field socks are necessary. You might also be interested in knowing more about how you pick the right socks to wear with your new track spikes to ensure you’re not distracted by ill-fitting socks while out on the field. As you prepare to hit the field with your track spikes, take a moment to learn more about why wearing socks with track spikes is important and how to pick the right ones.

Do You Wear Socks With Track Spikes?

If you’re wondering if you should wear socks with track spikes, the answer is a resounding yes! Though you don’t have to wear socks with track spikes, wearing the right ones can significantly enhance your performance, comfort, and foot health. 

Why Wear Socks With Track Spikes?

While you consider wearing socks with track spikes, find out more about the four main benefits of wearing socks with track spikes below:

• Blister Prevention: When you don’t wear socks with your track spikes, the chances you get a blister rise dramatically. Since socks act as a barrier between your skin and the shoe, they reduce friction that results in painful blisters. While you may only want to go with thin track-and-field socks for your track spikes, the extra bit of protection can go a long way to keep your feet blister-free.
• Moisture Management: The right socks wick away sweat, keeping your feet dry and reducing the risk of fungal infections. Instead of letting your sweat pool into your socks, a great pair of track and field socks will keep your feet dry and comfortable, even in hot weather. 
• Comfort: A well-fitted sock provides additional cushioning, enhancing overall comfort during races and training sessions. If you don’t want to be distracted by pain in your feet while you run, a comfortable pair of socks can help!
• Support: High-quality running socks offer arch support and reduce strain on your feet. These qualities are essential for maintaining performance and avoiding injuries.

What Socks Do You Wear With Track Spikes? 4 Features to Look for in Track Socks

When selecting socks to wear with your track spikes, you can find a wide variety of them on the market today. To narrow down your search, take a moment to review the following four features to look for in track and field socks:

• Material: As you search for track and field socks, it’s best to pick those made out of moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester, nylon, or merino wool. These materials excel at wicking away moisture and providing enough breathability to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Avoid cotton or standard wool socks, as they can retain heat and moisture.
  
• Fit: Choose socks with a snug fit that won’t bunch up or slip inside your track and field shoes. Thin socks in the right foot size can be an excellent option for a secure fit that doesn’t take up too much space in your track spikes.
• Cushioning: While track spikes are designed to be lightweight, socks with a bit of cushioning in the heel and forefoot can provide extra comfort without harming performance.
• Height: Ankle-length socks are popular among track runners for their balance of protection and breathability. However, some runners prefer no-show socks for a more minimalist feel.

3 Tips for Wearing Track Socks

Alongside looking for the features listed above, you’ll want to follow a few tips after you purchase a pair for improved comfort and performance. Check out the three main tips to follow while wearing track socks below:

• Try Before You Race: Always test your socks during training sessions before wearing them in a race. Doing so can ensure your track and field socks are comfortable and won’t hold you back out on the track when the stakes are the highest.
• Consider the Weather: In hot weather, you’ll want to go with lightweight, breathable socks. In colder conditions, you might want to choose socks with a bit more insulation, such as those made with Merino wool.
• Change Regularly: Running socks, especially those used for track spikes, can wear out quickly. Once you find the right track and field socks for you, stock up on them to ensure you always have another pair when one wears out.

Find Your Next Pair of Track and Field Socks at Wrightsock

Wearing the right socks with your track spikes can significantly improve your running experience. At Wrightsock, our socks are designed with a snug fit, the right amount of comfort, and moisture-wicking materials. While we made our name with anti-blister double-layer socks, we also offer a variety of single-layer socks perfect for track spikes.

Review our collection of Ultra Thin Lo Quarter Socks today. If you have any questions or want help choosing a pair, please contact us.