Let’s face it, the sock is a critical component to a running outfit. To my knowledge, unless your keen on running barefoot, in sandals like the Tarahumara Tribe of Mexico, ancient Greek soldiers like Pheidippides, or in a pair of Vibram FiveFingers, the majority of you out there prefer to run with a darn good sock. Because there is nothing worse than suffering from irritation or a blister on the foot that’s been caused by a bad sock. Just because you make an effort to get in your daily cardio fix, doesn’t mean you should suffer. So, let’s have a look at the best rated running socks for 2019. You’ll find them to be adequately sufficient for mountain, desert, and pavement terrain, as well as stand-up throughout different seasons and in all kinds of weather. Without further adieu … please meet the following great socks:
Thorlos Experia XCCU (lightweight)
The Thorlos Experia is a multi-sport and top sock performer. It makes a great overall running sock with a very tailored fit to the foot. The mix is 66% THOR WICK COOL, 20% Nylon, 1% Elastic, 13% Polyester. Padding is present in all the right places to protect the metatarsals and go easy on the Achilles. Areas without padding is thin and highly breathable mesh to keep your foot dry. The sock comes in a range of sizes and lengths in many different colors $12.00
Balega Silver No Show (midweight)
The Balega Silver No Show is like cuddling in bed with your favorite stuffed animal (yes, adults can too). The synthetic material is made from 75% Drynamix Polyester, 23% Nylon, and 2% Elastane – which is super soft and makes your foot feel like it’s in a snug onesie. It is fitted with a compression like feel throughout certain key areas. The protective padding underneath makes this sock versatile and a good choice for hitting both trail and road $15.00
Feetures Merino 10 (lightweight)
The Feetures Merino 10 has a unique mix of Merino wool and synthetic and its comfort should be emphasized. The sock features (no pun intended) plush cushioning in the forefoot and heel and is constructed with a padded tab to protect the lower ankle from a high-backed shoe (or just make it easier to pull off). A high-density configuration wicks away moisture and gives adequate breathability to the foot. The padding together with a compression-like fit around the arch, this sock is a solid comfortable option for trail and road runs $17.00
Swiftwick Aspire Zero (ultralightweight)
This might be your go-to sock for maintaining dry feet. The sock is composed of 55% Nylon, 40% Olefin, and 5% Spandex. The olefin fibers are hydrophobic and when combined with the Nylon, it keeps feet dry and happy. The Swiftwick Aspire Zero has a great specific fit which means the sock won’t move around on your foot – even during long and hard runs – which is the number one cause of blisters and sore spots. Just make sure you pair it with a snugger shoe and it’s probably best worn in warmer weather and on softer terrain $12.00
Darn Tough Coolmax Vertex (ultralightweight)
This comfortable lightweight running sock also lives up to its name, Darn Tough, ranking high it high in comfort and durability. It sports a specific fit, and together with some precise padding and elements of compression, this is a well-balanced sock. The sock stays put while running and retains its shape. The mix of 53% Nylon, 41% Coolmax Polyester, and 6% Lycra Spandex feels lighter-than-air and dreamy on the foot. A true no-show toe seam prevents bumps and thus chafing. The other cool thing is that Darn Tough offers unconditional lifetime guarantee which backs its products 100% of their lifetime $15.00
Some other good options also include the following:
- Darn Tough Coolmax Vertex Tab No Show Ultra-Light Cushion
- Smartwool PHD Run Ultra Light Micro
- Balega Hidden Comfort
- DryMax Running Mini Crew