The Best Running Socks You Can Buy, According to Avid Runners

Whether you prefer long trail runs or jogs around the neighborhood, the right gear will help you make the most of your workouts. And while many of us put quite a bit of thought into the running shoes we choose, socks often get overlooked. But between sock lengths, materials, and other features, like cushioning and arch support, there are plenty of factors to consider when selecting a pair of running socks. Luckily, we've rounded up six of the best options out there, according to customer reviews from runners who've actually tested them out.

We even broke down our favorite socks by category:

  • Best Overall: Saucony Men's Mesh Ventilating Comfort Fit Performance No-show Socks
  • Most Durable: Stance Run Tab ST Socks
  • Best Quarter Length: Feetures Adult High Performance Cushion Quarter Socks
  • Best No Show: Drymax Sport Hyper Thin Running v4 No-show Socks
  • Best for Warm Weather: Wrightsock Coolmesh II Tab Socks
  • Best for Cold Weather: Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Mid Crew Socks

Keep reading for the best running socks, based on customer reviews.

Best Overall: Saucony Men’s Mesh Ventilating Comfort Fit Performance No-show Socks

Amazon's number one best-selling running socks, this pack of six pairs is a must-have for avid runners. They're made from a polyester and spandex blend that regulates moisture and temperature, thanks to wicking fibers and mesh vents, keeping your feet cool and dry.

Over 19,000 shoppers have given these socks a five-star review, with customers raving about their comfort and fit. "[The socks] fit great, offer really nice support on my arch, and feel incredible while running — it's pretty unusual for a sock to actually SUPPORT your entire foot, but these can do it," one reviewer wrote.

To buy: amazon.com, from $14 for six pairs

Most Durable: Stance Run Tab ST Socks

These ankle-length socks provide lightweight cushioning and arch support that will assist you throughout your runs. Performance mesh and channeled air cushioning also ensure that your feet will stay dry and avoid overheating. Plus, these socks have Stance's InfiKnit lifetime guarantee, meaning that on the off chance that they rip or tear, the brand will replace them.

Shoppers also love how supportive these socks are. "Super comfortable with the perfect amount of cushion," one reviewer wrote. "I'm a fairly avid runner/hiker and immediately felt how these socks absorb moisture and stay dry during my workout."

To buy: stance.com, $15

Best Quarter Length: Feetures Adult High Performance Cushion Quarter Socks

If you prefer running in quarter-length socks, you can't go wrong with this pair from Feetures. These socks provide targeted compression that focuses on the arch for comfort and support. They're also designed to contour specifically to the left and right foot, which allows for a better fit and reduced risk of blisters.

Shoppers rave about just how comfortable these socks are. "These have been my go-to running socks over the last [five] years, that includes [four] international marathons and over 10,000 training miles. High on comfort & durability, offering cushion without added bulk," one reviewer wrote.

To buy: amazon.com, from $13

Best No Show: Drymax Sport Hyper Thin Running v4 No-Show Socks

Finding a pair of no-show socks that provides enough support and stays securely on your foot can be quite the challenge. But these socks from Drymax feature an anti-slip heel that keeps them in place. There are also mesh stripes on the top of the sock that provide comfortable air flow.

And reviewers confirm that these socks live up to their no-show, secure-fit claims. "This is the next best option to wearing no socks with running shoes," one shopper wrote.

To buy: zappos.com, $33 for three pairs

Best for Warm Weather: Wrightsock Coolmesh II Tab Socks

These impressively breathable socks are our warm-weather pick since they feature moisture-managing fibers that help feet stay cool and dry. A heel tab prevents blistering and makes these socks easy to take on and off. Reviewers on Zappos' site specifically compliment the double layer, which makes these socks so comfortable: "The fabric is soft, keeps my feet dry, and the double layer prevents rubbing and blisters."

To buy: zappos.com, $14

Best for Cold Weather: Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Mid Crew Socks

For a pair that will keep your feet warm and dry on all your cold-weather runs and hikes, look no further than these calf-length socks from Smartwool. They're made from a blend of wool, nylon, and elastane that provides moisture, temperature, and odor control.

Reviewers have raved about how comfortable these socks are; one said, "Love these socks! I've worn them for 3-4 days on backpack trips and they remain as comfortable on the 4th day as on the 1st."

To buy: amazon.com, $22

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