A Guide to Running Socks for Women

If you’ve got an expensive pair of running shoes but are still running in cotton socks I’ve got news for you: You might as well be running in heels. Okay, maybe not that extreme, but you are not doing your feet any favors. The wrong running socks can make the best running shoe uncomfortable and purposeless. Socks are a piece of running gear that are almost as necessary as running shoes themselves.

More Reasons for Investing in Running Socks

Cotton socks are some of the most prevalent socks on the market. They are cheap and get the job done for most people just getting through the day. Runners, however, sweat a lot more than people “just getting through the day” and the cotton fabric holds moisture. The moist cotton then chafes against your feet creating blisters and general discomfort.

Additionally, these socks–especially after some use–do not hold their shape and do not always fit snugly. A lose sock may slip into your shoe or create bunching, which again promotes blistering and bruising.

Elements of the Best Running Socks

In your search for the best running socks that will protect your feet from blistering you want to look for he following elements:

• Sweat-wicking materials to pull the sweat to the outside of the sock so it can evaporate quickly;
• A snug fit, with support and flexibility. Look for elements that will keep the socks in place and protect all the vulnerable areas of your feet. If you have high arches you may want to look for arch support as well.

Those are your requirements, now you must decide what you prefer in a sock. Do you like them low cut, ankle-length, or higher? Do you like thick or thin socks? You have many choices for fabrics including wool, bamboo, and synthetic wicking materials. You also have your choice of patterns and colors if you want to be stylish.

Caring for your Running Socks

Proper care of your running socks will extend their lives dramatically. Some people report that they still have the same running socks after 10 years! To keep your socks in good shape, machine wash them on a warm cycle using a mild liquid detergent. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. You can either dry your socks on a line or use the dryer on low. High heat will degrade the fibers in your new socks.

If you continue to have blisters with new socks, try applying BodyGlide or Vaseline to those tender spots.