What are the best running socks for comfort and performance in 2026? These are nine of our favourites
A good pair of running socks are key for maintaining foot comfort when running. Here are nine of the best tried and tested socks for running...
We put so much time, effort and money into purchasing the best running shoes, yet often seem to ignore the value of picking the best running socks for our feet.
Running socks can have a huge impact on the comfort and support that our feet are subjected to. So with that in mind, we’ve pulled together a list of the best running socks on the market right now.
Underneath all of these reviews, you’ll also find our guide to how we tested and also our advice on what to look for when buying running socks.
Why you can trust 220 Triathlon
Our team of experts rigorously tests each product and provides honest, unbiased reviews to help you make informed decisions. For more details, see how we rate and test products.
At a glance: best run socks tried and tested
The Smartwool Run Targeted Cushion Ankle (buy) are our favourite run socks for targeted cushioning, comfort, and quality.
The Sealskinz Holverstone (buy) are super comfortable for running, keeping your feet warm and dry for wet, cold winter runs.
The Stance Run Crew Sock (buy) are best suited to autumn and spring running, providing some warmth, good support, and non-slip features.
The Inov-8 TrailFly Mid Socks (buy) are lightweight and breathable, the mid-length avoids debris ingress, and two-pack offers great value.
The Smartwool Run Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Socks (buy) are stylish, comfortable, and a pleasure to run in.
For a bargain price, the Asics Cushion Quarter Socks (buy) are comfortable and cool.
If you like to coordinate your socks with your run outfit, there should be a match in the On Running Logo socks (buy) colour palette.
The Darn Tough Grit Micro Crew Ultra-Light (buy) have padding under your feet to support your arches.
The fabric blend and airy construction of Adidas Terrex Heat.Rdy Trail Running Agravic Crew (buy) the lets sweat escape from your feet.
Best socks for running in 2026
Best overall run socks

1. Smartwool Run Targeted Cushion Ankle
220 Triathlon verdict
Want cushioning and comfort in abundance? Then look no further… Score: 92%
Pros
- Cushioned
- Comfortable
- Quality, soft feel
Cons
- Too warm in the heat
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | 55% Merino Wool, 42% Nylon, 3% Elastane |
| Sizing | S-XXL (unisex) |
That sounds like a lot for a pair of socks, and it is, but these are some of the most comfortable run socks I’ve ever run in.
The material is a mix of merino wool, nylon, recycled nylon and elastane, but it feels luxuriously soft against the skin.
The toe seams are also virtually unnoticeable, while the dedicated cushioning on the ball and heel of the foot helps provide a comfortable ride without adding much bulk.
The fit is decent and supportive, too, and I experienced zero bunching during our test runs. Moisture management is also pretty good, but not quite on par with some thinner socks on test.
Given their slightly thicker nature, they may also get a bit warm at the height of summer. Other lengths are also available.
Best waterproof running socks

2. Sealskinz Holverstone
220 Triathlon Verdict
Not cheap, but if you want to run and keep your feet warm and dry, a game changer. Score: 90%
Pros
- Comfortable
- Very waterproof
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Could be too warm in summer
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | Nylon outer, bamboo inner |
| Sizing | S, M, L, XL (unisex) |
These waterproof Sealskinz Holverstone run socks are an absolute lifesaver when running on flooded winter trails. A waterproof inner membrane combines with a nylon outer and soft bamboo inner to create a comfortable, water-tight and effective seal. They may be overkill in summer, but time will tell.
Best autumn run sock

3. Stance Run Crew Sock
220 Triathlon verdict
Comfy and supportive but best for autumn, winter and spring. Score: 85%
Pros
- Comfy and supportive
- Don’t slip down
Cons
- Can get sweaty
- Prone to absorb water
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | 73% nylon, 18% polyester, 5% cotton |
| Sizing | S, M, L (men's and women's) |
The Stance Run Crew Socks have been reliable throughout a damp winter and spring test period.They stay in place well, utilise lightweight cushioning to enhance comfort and are supportive, too.
I liked the subtle style and they dealt with sweat rather well, though they’re not exactly thin or lightweight, so may be a bit warm in the height of summer. If you get caught in a heavy downpour, like I did, they do soak up quite a bit of water, too, which isn’t the case with thinner options.
Best looking running socks

4. On Running Logo Socks
220 Triathlon verdict
Great looks and fabrics, with comfortable padding. Pricey, though! Score: 84%
Pros
- Padded and comfortable
- Made from natural materials
- Good warmth
Cons
- Pretty expensive
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | 59% cotton, 37% recycled nylon, 4% elastane |
| Sizing | XS-L (unisex) |
Available in 10 colour-fade options (shown here in doe/moss) these longer On Running Logo Socks tick the hipster box. They are the perfect choice if you’re the kind of person who worries about your socks matching your kit.
But did they perform? Well, they certainly feel good quality with a nicely-padded area around the toes and under the heels, which made them super comfortable. The seams are well knitted in, too, which meant there was no annoying rubbing on longer runs. The middle of the sock is lighter, which kept them less sweaty, though they are sold for cold weather and were warmer than others here.
They’re expensive, but the fabric is mostly organic cotton and recycled polyamide, with a touch of elastane, so good from an eco point of view.
Best summer run socks

5. Inov-8 TrailFly Sock Mid (2-pack)
220 Triathlon verdict
Good value set of socks that were cool yet comfortable. Score: 90%
Pros
- Keenly priced
- Should last you
- Breathable and padded
- High propportion of recycled materials
Cons
- Nothing to mention
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | 68% recycled polyamide /29% polyamide /3% Lycra |
| Sizing | S, M, L |
Coming in a twin-pack (the other pair in purple) these are already good value for this test, coming in at $12 / £12 a pair. Plus, whoever only needs only one pair of running socks?!
I liked the mid cut, too, which sat just above the top of my trainers and prevented the socks slipping under the shoe’s collar, but didn’t come up too high, so kept things cool. Padding under the toes and heel was good, while the mesh construction on the socks’ larger panels felt cool and comfortable and very breathable over longer runs.
With slightly plusher construction in key contact areas (the darker areas on the soles) I also felt these socks would have good longevity. Fabrics are polyamide with 3% Lycra for stretch, 68% of which is made up of recycled materials.
Best value running socks

6. Asics Cushion Quarter Sock (2-pack)
220 Triathlon verdict
Lightweight and breathable sock. Not as plush as others, though. Score: 81%
Pros
- Low price
- Minimal weight
- Cool and airy
Cons
- Not the most padding
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | 98% polyamide, 2% elastane |
| Sizing | S-XL |
These twin-pack socks work out at as an absolute bargain. Okay, so they might look a little basic, and white wouldn’t be my first choice for socks as someone who does a lot of muddy trail running, but that’s a minor quibble – and they’re also available in black! You get a little padding on the toes and heel here, but they’re not in the same league as the Ons or Inov-8s.
The thin, breathable mesh on the midfoot and upper is comfortable and cool, though, and these would be a good choice if you’re a runner who doesn’t like thick running socks or who has slightly snug shoes. Fabrics are a mix of cotton and polyamide/elastane with no mention of recycled fabrics being used in the mix.
Best running socks for support

7. Darn Tough Grit Micro Crew Ultra-Light
220 Triathlon verdict
A great, supportive fit but comfort isn’t as good as others here. Score: 83%
Pros
- Very good fit
- Lots of support
- Seem long-lasting
Cons
- A bit short of padding and cushioning
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | 49% Merino Wool / 47% Nylon / 4% Lycra Spandex |
| Sizing | M-XL (men's), S-L (women's) |
One of the first things you notice after pulling these socks on is just how much support is on offer. There are multiple ‘zones’ and a particularly close fit, which is great for reducing the risk of blisters.
They’re also breathable and deal with moisture well, but aren’t quite as comfortable as, say, the Smartwool socks on test. That’s not to say that they’re uncomfortable, but they just don’t feel as plush against the skin or as nice around the toes. There isn’t any dedicated cushioning, either, which may or may not be a negative depending on your preferences.
Durability has proved good so far and, judging by my past experiences (and the lifetime guarantee), I see no reason why this wouldn’t continue. Ankle and quarter-length are also available.
Best running socks for breathability

8. Adidas Terrex Heat.Rdy Trail Running Agravic Crew
220 Triathlon verdict
Verdict: Great ventilation and moisture management, but fit wasn’t perfect. Score: 82%
Pros
- Wick sweat well
- Some arch support
- Light and thin
Cons
- Fit could be improved
- Durability is a concern
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | 74% polyester, 21% polyamide, 5% elastane |
| Sizing | XS-XL unisex |
These trail-running socks from Adidas Terrex look and feel great when on. The material, which is made out of recycled polyester, recycled nylon and elastane, is comfortable and wicks moisture well, while sections of lightweight mesh help with the ventilation.However, due to that lack of weight, we did wonder how durable the mesh would prove in the long run.
Support is also decent thanks to dedicated arch support, but the socks’ overall fit isn’t quite as tight as I would like, with a bit of movement in the fabric on the heel. Adidas says there’s also padding in all the right places and, while it felt fairly limited, I appreciated it all the same. Also available in white/orange colourway.
Best performance run sock

9. Smartwool Run Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Socks
220 Triathlon verdict
Eye-watering price but a pleasure to wear and run in. Score: 87%
Pros
- Stylish
- Very warm
- Great comfort
Cons
- Pretty pricey
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Materials | 55% Merino Wool, 13% Nylon, 29% Recycled Nylon, 3% Elastane |
| Sizing | S-XXL unisex |
The Run Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Socks (and breathe!) are super comfortable, look good and offer additional warmth compared to standard run socks, which is ideal for the winter months. The mix of Merino wool and nylon deliver strong thermal properties even when wet, and they’ve proved durable and supportive so far, too, but they’re not cheap! They’re available in blue and black.
How we tested
The running socks featured here have been tested by 220 Triathlon‘s editor, Helen Webster, and the magazine’s former content editor, Rob Slade.
Both have over 10 years of gear testing experience and have been running for even longer.
All of these socks have been tested over multiple runs, including varying distances and intensities.
We’ve also endeavoured to run in them in different weather conditions.
Our testing criteria included comfort, fit, moisture wicking, speed of pulling them on and breathability, but you can find out more on what we look for in running socks by scrolling to the next section of this article.
Anything that scores over 90% is among the best running socks on the market. Meanwhile, 80-90% represents a fantastic product, while 70-80% is still an option that will do the job well.
If an item scores below 70%, it means there are some quite significant flaws with the product.
Meet our testers
Rob Slade is an experienced triathlon gear tester and journalist. Previously part of the 220 Triathlon team as content editor, Rob regularly tests running and cycling kit for 220.
Helen Webster is the editor of 220 Triathlon and a long-time gear tester. Helen has ran several marathons and competed in multiple triathlons.
What features should I look for in running socks?

Length
As with most products, a lot comes down to personal preference. For example, running socks that venture above the ankle can be beneficial if your runs incorporate trails with long grass, brambles/nettles or loose terrain underfoot, helping fend off any debris getting into your socks and protecting your skin.
Fit
The best running socks need to fit well too, which means no movement between the material and your skin, as this can lead to blisters.
Heel tab
Many no-show or ankle socks also have a cushioned heel tab that helps keep them in place, eliminating the risk of them sliding down into your shoe.
Ventilation
Ventilation is also key, particularly in summer. You want your socks to breath, wick moisture away and dump heat well to keep your feet as dry and comfortable as possible.
Comfort
And then we come to comfort. Depending on the terrain and the running shoes you wear, you may want varying levels of cushioning.
Key locations for cushioning include the heel and ball of your foot, as this is where most of the impact is.
Frequently asked questions
The best socks for running are those that keep your feet dry, blister-free, and comfortable, mile after mile.That means opting for technical running socks made from synthetic blends like nylon, polyester, spandex, or a natural merino knit, to hit the right balance between lightweight, cushioned, and breathable.
Look for features like arch compression for support and targeted cushioning at high impact points like at the heel and forefoot. Style and length are largely personal choice, with ankle socks for a more minimal coverage, to crew and quarter-length options for more protection against off-road debris.
While you may be a fan of your soft, cotton socks for everyday use, it is not recommended to wear 100% cotton material for running. This is because cotton is highly absorbent, leading to soggy, sweaty socks that bunch and rub while running. Instead, opt for more performance-ready and breathable blends, like a mix of polyester, nylon, or even merino.
Sock choice, especially length, really depends on the terrain and climate of where you’re running, as well as personal preference. Short socks around ankle length are great for road running or hot weather, giving you that minimalist feel and maximum ventilation. But if you’re trail running, dealing with dense undergrowth or ticks, or want a bit more compression, crew or even quarter-length socks offer more protection.
Now, pair your running socks with the best running shorts for men and women.

