What are the best running socks?
The best running socks are hard to define. It all depends on different aspects. The type of activity, the surface and surroundings, the weather, your personal preferences... play a big role in the choice of running socks.
Our Runners' lab expert - and also sock expert - Ben shares his experiences.
Different running socks and their features
Runners' lab offers different running socks. Other brands, other fits, other qualitites. That means you definitely find the pair of socks you need. But it makes it harder to choose the right socks.
We compare the different types of socks with all specific features and benefits, to make it easier for you.
Drymax running socks
"The Drymax Speedgoat from our Runners' lab assortment is a very technical sock, made out of two layers. The first layer, right against your foot, contains a water repellent fiber (called Drymax). That fiber keeps your feet dry, even in wet circumstances. The second, outer layer, has a water absorbing fiber. The combination of both layers avoids that your feet meet the water. That reduces the risk of blisters and irritations."
"I put it to the test. I went sporting in wet circumstances (cross-country skiing, running in the rain etc.). The outer layer feels a bit rough, but that says nothing about the comfort of the running socks. Inside, their is a soft cushion inside. Plus, the socks fit nice around my feet and don't sag.
"And when it comes to puddles? They weren't safe for me and my Drymax running socks. Even when their was water inside my shoes, the socks seal perfectly around my feet and ankles. Plus, I didn't experience a soggy feeling. When home, my shoes and insoles were soaked, but my feet was surprisingly dry."
DRYMAX IN SHORT:
- Perfect for running or walking in wet circumstances
- Technical two-layer construction
- Keep your feet dry, even when water seeps into your shoes
- Seal close around your feet and stay in place while you move
| Drymax in our webshop |
Smartwool running socks
"Merino wool has long been one of my favorites. Not only in socks, by the way, but also in clothes. The Smartwool running socks consist for +/- 50% of Merino wool. This fabric is antibacterial, thermoregulating and moisture-absorbing. That means a Smartwool sock will absorb more sweat compared to synthetic socks."
"I often take my Smartwool socks for (trail) runs. They fit comfortable around my feet and seal close without feeling too tight. Personally, I never experienced blisters or pain in these socks. During a river crossing, the socks did absorb moisture and it takes a few hundreds of meters before the soggy feeling was gone. The socks feel cold, and after running, my feet where somewhat moistened. But in fact, that's not that weird, knowing I ran fully through a river."
SMARTWOOL IN SHORT:
- Perfect for long slow distance runs or longer activities
- Merino wool regulates temperature
- Antibacterial and moisture-absorbing functions
- Fit close, but not too tight
| Smartwool in our webshop |
Falke trail
"The Falke Trail running socks of Runners' lab are synthetic socks, mainly consisting of polyamide. Polyamide is a moisture-wicking fiber."
"The moment I put on the socks, I noticed that they are smoother and thinner compared to other socks. They fit closely nice around my feet, with a bit of extra tension around the ankle. The softness of the socks avoid blisters."
"During running, I experienced a bit of movement in the shoe, especially when the sock is wet. I blame the soft character for that. My feet felt somewhat moistured when I took the socks off."
FALKE TRAIL IN SHORT:
- Perfect for shorter runs or interval trainings
- Polyamide fabrics for a moisture-wicking effect
- Smooth and thin character
- Fit nice around your ankles
| Falke in our webshop |
Injinji trail
"The socks of Injinji distinguish themselves from other brands with the fabrics, but especially with their looks. The socks are made out of Coolmax, which is a moisture-wicking and breathable polyester fiber. Beside, the socks have seperate toes. That creates a dubble layer around your toes, ideal to diminish the friction."
"The trail version of Injinji socks are somewhat thicker. It took me a little while to get used to it, but the socks feel nice and soft around your feet."
"When you think the seperate toes will lead to irritation, I can debunk that idea. During running or hiking, I experience a very natural feeling. I really forgot the fact that my toes are not together."
"The socks fit less tightly around your feet, but surely don't sag. They also absorb moisture and don't move in your shoe when they are wet. Especially in summer, when temperatures rise, I was surprised by the breathable character. This socks are the thickest of the four I discussed here, but everything but the hottest."
INJINJI TRAIL IN SHORT:
- 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
| Injinji in onze webshop |
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.
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