Running socks for every circumstance
It's hard to define the best running socks. It all depends on the type of training, the weather, the surfaces, or your personal preferences.
Besides Nike running socks or socks of adidas, we have other, specific running socks with unique features. Think of Drymax, Smartwool, Falke or Injinji. Don't you know these quality brands yet? Let's change that.
How are running socks different?
Drymax running socks
- Perfect for running or walking in wet circumstances
- Technical two-layer construction
- Keep your feet dry, even when water seeps into your shoes
- Fit close around your feet and stay in place while you move
Smartwool running socks
- Perfect for long slow distance runs or longer activities
- Merino wool regulates temperature
- Antibacterial and moisture-absorbing functions
- Fit close, but not too tight
Falke trail running socks
- Perfect for shorter runs or interval trainings
- Polyamide fabrics for a moisture-wicking effect
- Smooth and thin character
- Fits nice around your ankles
Injinji trail running socks
- Perfect for long slow distance runs, longer activities, especially in summer
- Moisture-wicking and breathable function
- Somewhat thicker than a regular running sock, but not warmer
- Fit less tight, but don't sag
Running socks compared - experiences from Runners' lab expert Ben
About The Drymax Speedgoat
"The Drymax Speedgoat is a technical sock made up of two layers. The first layer, which sits directly against your foot, contains a water-repellent fiber called Drymax. This fiber ensures that your foot stays dry even in wet conditions. The second, outer layer contains a water-absorbing fiber. Thanks to the combination of these two layers, only the very limited amount of water reaches the foot. This significantly reduces the risk of blisters and discomfort."
"I put it to the test and exercised several times in wet conditions (cross-country skiing, running in the rain, etc.). The rougher feel of the outer surface doesn't reflect the sock's comfort. Inside the sock, there's a pleasantly soft cushioning that is just soft enough for me. It also fits snugly and stays perfectly in place around my feet."
"And when it comes to puddles? They were no match for me and my Drymax socks. Even when water gets into the soe, the sock stays in place, preventing the foot from sliding around. I also didn't feel any suction or sogginess after stepping out of a puddle. Once home, the shoe and insole were completely soaked, but surprisingly, my foot was almost completely dry."
About Smartwool
"Smartwool has long been one of my favorites - not just in socks, but in clothing as well. Smartwool socks are made of approximately 50% Merino wool. In addition to its antibacterial and thermoregulating properties, this material also has moisture-absorbing capabilities. This means that a merino wool sock can absorb more moisture compared to a synthetic one."
"I often reach for a pair of Smartwool socks when heading our for a run or trail run. They feel really comfortable on my feet and fit nicely without being too tight. Personally, I've never experienced blisters or discomfort from these socks. During a river crossing, however, the sock did absorb moisture quickly, and it took a few hundred meters before the soggy feeling went away. The sock also stayed cold for a while afterwards, and after the run my feet were still a bit damp - which isn't all that surprising when you run straight through a river."
About Falke Trail
"The Falke Trail socks are synthetic socks made primarily of polyamide. Polyamide is a fiber known for its excellent moisture-wicking properties."
"As soon as I put the socks on, I noticed they're much smoother and thinner compared to other socks. They fit well, with a bit of extra tension around the ankle. It's also a lightweight sock that feels comfortably soft. That soft material also helps prevent blister. However, while running, I did notice some movement inside the shoe due to the socks's smooth texture - especially when wet. As a result, my feet felt damp when I took the socks off."
About Injinji Trail
"Injinji is a sock that stands out not only because of its materials but also becaust of its unique look. The socks are made with, among other things, Coolmax - a moisture-wicking and breathable polyester fiber. In addition, the socks have individual toe compartments, which is ideal for reducing friction between the toes."
"This trail version of the Injinji socks is a bit thicker, which took me some time to get used to it. There's quite a bit of fabric between your toes. That said, the socks feel very soft and comfortable. if you're worried that the separate toes might cause irritation, I can definitely say that's not the case. Once you start running, you forget your toes are separated - it feels very natural. The socks fit less tightly around the foot compared to others, but it doesn't slip down. Moisture is well absorbed, and even when wet, the sock stays securely in place. Especially in warm summer conditions, I was pleasantly surprised by how breathable it is. While this is the thickest sock of the four reviewed, it's by no means the warmest."
These are just recommendations, based on our own experiences and the technical features of the socks. It's possible that this can differ from your personal preferences. That's why it is important to test yourself what feels comfortable.
Do you want some extra advice for your personal running situation? Ask our Runners' lab advisors online via the Live WhatsApp. You can also visit one of our Runners' lab stores.