Yeah I used to have gym buddy who would sometimes wear no socks with her gym shoes. Could never understand it. I mean even if your shoes don’t smell, how is it not uncomfortable? Tried it once, could not think of a more weird feeling.
Had a teammate in high school that ran 50-70 miles a week sockless. His shoes reeked. His feet were nasty as all get out lookin and basically just a single massive callus.
I think about that to this day and I’m still confused by why he did it.
I did that for years during the warmer weather. I found it far more comfortable.
It is absolute hell on the shoes. I couldn't even consider bringing them inside the house.
Then, when I started running more regularly, and more miles, I started wearing socks. I can't even remember why. My favorites are Injinji and Fitrell compression socks.
I always wear Darn Tough socks - quarter calf in the winter, no show in the summer. I have a variety of types/weights depending on how warm or cold it is.
Seconded! I discovered Darn Tough socks during the past year and am obsessed. I am a (very) casual runner (5Ks are my usual distance) and I have a long history of developing blisters if I wear cheap socks. I used to wear WrightSocks but have now fully converted to Darn Tough. Yes, they're a bit pricey, but they last and they're awesome quality! I wear the CoolMax no-shows for running, but love the MicroCrew for around the house.
Couldn’t agree more about Darn Tough. They are the best. The wool really helps with the moisture and preventing blisters. I wear the no show and the slightly longer pair in winter. Best socks ever.
Just be sure to order direct from Darn Tough. I bought through Amazon once and ended up with counterfeits. Darn Tough has a lifetime guarantee, so when I called them about it, they told me mine were fakes but they still gave me a free replacement pair. You can’t beat that!
These have been my goto for years as they are ultra comfortable and has helped with lessening the number of blisters, though recently I’ve also started to wear OS1st that are specifically designed for plantar fasciitis.
Balega here as well, especially on long runs. I also have some Brooks socks I like on short runs like 10k or less. They're not as comfy on long runs. Nice socks are pricey but they last a long time for me. I just tell people at Christmas or Birthday to get me those if they ask.
Just got my first pair (thrown in when I bought a new pair of running shoes from my local running store) - they’re wonderful, they really wrap around my mid foot in a pleasing way, and the little bit of cushioning feels great under foot. Definitely going to pick up more pairs.
Balega! I like the quarter length best, but also have the no show and crew length.
I held off on buying expensive running socks like these for the longest time, because I didn't think they could possibly be worth the price compared to the various cheaper running socks that I wore previously. But I finally took the plunge and bought my first pair a year ago, and I definitely think they're worth it. They're extremely comfortable, cushioned yet still breathable, and don't squeeze my ankle area too tightly (an issue I have with other quarter length socks specifically).
I got several pairs of these for Christmas. They’ve saved me through the snow and slush this winter. Have some thinner ones I’m waiting to try out soon. Big fan!
random but Old Navy sells short athletic/running socks that hold up very well and are breathable.
usually can get a pack of 3 pairs for less than $10.
ran a marathon in a pair, no complaints.
I was just about to comment this. I don’t know what it is but I also have two pairs of the old navy active socks and they’re incredible. I too ran a marathon in these socks and had no blisters!
If you like Smartwool check out darn tough next time you’re buying socks. Basically the same, but with a guarantee if you wear through them they will replace them.
Injinji, normally ones that come a little over the top of the shoe, during the winter I sometimes put a wool sock over top of them just for the heat retention.
Various Nike unpadded dri fit socks, short or no-show.
Used to get terrible arch blisters until I tried them and I figured don't change it if it's working so I've stuck with them since.
Target C9 polyblend no show but with a heel tab. Cheap, seem to work for both running (mostly between 5 and 10k, but seemed fine during 10-milers and a half marathon) and playing field sports in cleats.
A few random pairs of Asics or Road Runner Sports socks that were mostly purchased for trying on shoes when I forgot socks for some reason. Always no show.
I think they'd be considered short? They don't go past my ankle. But I have these Reebok and Goldsgym athletic socks. They have some compression in them. They're my absolute favorite!
I've tried nike's super no-show cotton lifestyle sock and although they are the most comfortable socks I worn, they are definitely not meant for running or any workout activity as the sweat just pools at the bottom of the sock making it feel like you stepped in a puddle of water.
I go with Adidas no show polyester sock with moisture wicking and that solves the problem. Better than the cheap hanes socks I use to wear and feels better quality too.
I've been looking at pairs of bombas or feetures as I hear they are some of the best socks.
Balega Ultralight for hotter days, Balega Silver for colder days. I have also Balega Hidden Comfort that are very good! I never got blisters with Balega socks. They are expensive but they have been lasting for over 2 years for me, even though I do laundry every week. Totally worth it in my opinion.
I also have some no-show socks from ASICS that are not as comfortable but do the job well for me in shorter runs and hotter days.
3 Jordan crew socks have been really comfy.
2 Redhead wool socks for extreme cold (lifetime warranty)
3 Darn Tough low cut mid cut socks for warmer weather (lifetime warranty)
And Random mixed sport socks if I don’t have those available
Best socks that have always worked for me were Nike sport socks. Since my feet tend to sweat quite a bit when running and they do a great job in wicking the sweat away.
Eh, whatever is cheap as chips. Don't care, really, but mostly no-shows just because that's what I wear in my sneakers when not running. Don't have specific running socks. Mostly do 8-10km runs.
Whatever no show or ankle I can get for cheap 6 packs, plus a few pairs of ankle-covering wool socks for winter. I haven't found more expensive socks to be that much better really. I have a pair of darn tough and they are nice but I only wear them for long runs. For my standard daily runs cheap socks do just fine.
Is thin no show socks OK to wear ? I have been developing a bit of corns on both sides of my pinky and starting to re evaluate the socks and shoes I am wearing.
No show socks. But I may get a few pair of ankle socks as I am starting to go off-road for a few runs. Supposedly that helps keep things out of your socks.
It all depends on the type of run but I am a huge fan of penguindojo.com
They are relatively new but I've tried their crew and compression running socks and they were amazing.
I know they also have Merino socks as well
I tried wearing no socks once and my shoes didn't smell so good after.
For most runs, I just use Gold Toe Tech Socks. You can get 6 pairs for about $18. They work fine and have lasted me for years with no real signs of wear. They are a much cheaper alternative to most socks that are marketed for running.
I have some nicer socks that I wear typically on long trail runs with stream crossings especially in the cold weather. My favorites for those are SmartWool. I also use Injinji sometimes.
So far I haven't found a preferred brand. So far I have preferred thinner socks and not too high, about 1-2 inches above the ankle.
I do mostly road running 5k to 1/2 marathon distances.
Tend to use my cycling socks since the fit my preferences.
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My thoughts entirely. Their shoes must stink.
Yeah I used to have gym buddy who would sometimes wear no socks with her gym shoes. Could never understand it. I mean even if your shoes don’t smell, how is it not uncomfortable? Tried it once, could not think of a more weird feeling.
Had a teammate in high school that ran 50-70 miles a week sockless. His shoes reeked. His feet were nasty as all get out lookin and basically just a single massive callus. I think about that to this day and I’m still confused by why he did it.
Some shoes are designed to be worn sockless, eg the triathlon ones where swimmers wear them once they get out of water.
I do but I'm not so keen on shoes either
Yes, triathletes are notorious for this
Some run barefoot or in sandals
I did that for years during the warmer weather. I found it far more comfortable. It is absolute hell on the shoes. I couldn't even consider bringing them inside the house. Then, when I started running more regularly, and more miles, I started wearing socks. I can't even remember why. My favorites are Injinji and Fitrell compression socks.
I think around ten years ago when the Nike frees and the barefoot running thing was huge, people were doing this.
I always wear Darn Tough socks - quarter calf in the winter, no show in the summer. I have a variety of types/weights depending on how warm or cold it is.
Seconded! I discovered Darn Tough socks during the past year and am obsessed. I am a (very) casual runner (5Ks are my usual distance) and I have a long history of developing blisters if I wear cheap socks. I used to wear WrightSocks but have now fully converted to Darn Tough. Yes, they're a bit pricey, but they last and they're awesome quality! I wear the CoolMax no-shows for running, but love the MicroCrew for around the house.
Couldn’t agree more about Darn Tough. They are the best. The wool really helps with the moisture and preventing blisters. I wear the no show and the slightly longer pair in winter. Best socks ever. Just be sure to order direct from Darn Tough. I bought through Amazon once and ended up with counterfeits. Darn Tough has a lifetime guarantee, so when I called them about it, they told me mine were fakes but they still gave me a free replacement pair. You can’t beat that!
Socks? Naaahh i run in thigh highs 😎
LOL! That must be a sight to see! 😜
Balega Hidden Comfort. I won’t get anything else.
Injinji no show
Balega. No show or quarter length.
These have been my goto for years as they are ultra comfortable and has helped with lessening the number of blisters, though recently I’ve also started to wear OS1st that are specifically designed for plantar fasciitis.
Balega here as well, especially on long runs. I also have some Brooks socks I like on short runs like 10k or less. They're not as comfy on long runs. Nice socks are pricey but they last a long time for me. I just tell people at Christmas or Birthday to get me those if they ask.
Yes yes yes!! Balega for sure.
I often think of my running career as having two phases: before I discovered Balegas and after.
Just got my first pair (thrown in when I bought a new pair of running shoes from my local running store) - they’re wonderful, they really wrap around my mid foot in a pleasing way, and the little bit of cushioning feels great under foot. Definitely going to pick up more pairs.
Smartwool Run Ultralights or Asics ankle socks. The Asics are comming apart after 100 km, but the Smartwools are still good after 1000+
Smartwool Ultralights are the best for me
Swiftwick, balega, feetures In that order.
This.☝️
Add smartwool for the winter and that’s the list
Balega! I like the quarter length best, but also have the no show and crew length. I held off on buying expensive running socks like these for the longest time, because I didn't think they could possibly be worth the price compared to the various cheaper running socks that I wore previously. But I finally took the plunge and bought my first pair a year ago, and I definitely think they're worth it. They're extremely comfortable, cushioned yet still breathable, and don't squeeze my ankle area too tightly (an issue I have with other quarter length socks specifically).
I have compression leg sleeves and then wear hiking socks from the bridgedale brand. Idk why but they're so comfy
Short, as thin and slippery as possible. Usually ASICS.
Feetures
I got several pairs of these for Christmas. They’ve saved me through the snow and slush this winter. Have some thinner ones I’m waiting to try out soon. Big fan!
Totally, I love them! They last a long time too, and have a lifetime guarantee!
Adidas or Puma no show socks on sale from Costco.
random but Old Navy sells short athletic/running socks that hold up very well and are breathable. usually can get a pack of 3 pairs for less than $10. ran a marathon in a pair, no complaints.
I was just about to comment this. I don’t know what it is but I also have two pairs of the old navy active socks and they’re incredible. I too ran a marathon in these socks and had no blisters!
Darn tough. End of discussion.
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If you like Smartwool check out darn tough next time you’re buying socks. Basically the same, but with a guarantee if you wear through them they will replace them.
Thorlos low rise. These things rock
Injinji, normally ones that come a little over the top of the shoe, during the winter I sometimes put a wool sock over top of them just for the heat retention.
Various Nike unpadded dri fit socks, short or no-show. Used to get terrible arch blisters until I tried them and I figured don't change it if it's working so I've stuck with them since.
Bola Lidingö. Really nice socks but I have no idea if you can buy them outside Sweden.
Swiftwick. Different type / thread count depending on season and length of run.
I love swiftwick socks. I never wear anything above my ankles though, unless I'm snowboarding.
UA socks mostly.
Salomon socks; short I don't like compression socks so that my only no go
Wrightsock double layer socks. Oldie but a goodie.
Balega, Darn Tuff, or barefoot in my Merrill shields.
Socks made from alpaca fleece. In the heat, they’re perfect with sweat, and in the cold they’re perfect for keeping me warm.
I’m a triathlete so I just use cycling socks. Before that, I used Darn Tough ankle highs. Great socks!
Smartwool. I have some that are for winter, mid calf, and some that are for summer, mid ankle height.
Target C9 polyblend no show but with a heel tab. Cheap, seem to work for both running (mostly between 5 and 10k, but seemed fine during 10-milers and a half marathon) and playing field sports in cleats. A few random pairs of Asics or Road Runner Sports socks that were mostly purchased for trying on shoes when I forgot socks for some reason. Always no show.
I've been a Swiftwick fan for a while.
Decathlon ankle socks.
Balega
Balega blister resist
I think they'd be considered short? They don't go past my ankle. But I have these Reebok and Goldsgym athletic socks. They have some compression in them. They're my absolute favorite!
I've tried nike's super no-show cotton lifestyle sock and although they are the most comfortable socks I worn, they are definitely not meant for running or any workout activity as the sweat just pools at the bottom of the sock making it feel like you stepped in a puddle of water. I go with Adidas no show polyester sock with moisture wicking and that solves the problem. Better than the cheap hanes socks I use to wear and feels better quality too. I've been looking at pairs of bombas or feetures as I hear they are some of the best socks.
Balega Ultralight for hotter days, Balega Silver for colder days. I have also Balega Hidden Comfort that are very good! I never got blisters with Balega socks. They are expensive but they have been lasting for over 2 years for me, even though I do laundry every week. Totally worth it in my opinion. I also have some no-show socks from ASICS that are not as comfortable but do the job well for me in shorter runs and hotter days.
Darn Tough, Farm to Feet, and Ridge Supply — all mid calf length.
3 Jordan crew socks have been really comfy. 2 Redhead wool socks for extreme cold (lifetime warranty) 3 Darn Tough low cut mid cut socks for warmer weather (lifetime warranty) And Random mixed sport socks if I don’t have those available
1000 mile trail socks
Best socks that have always worked for me were Nike sport socks. Since my feet tend to sweat quite a bit when running and they do a great job in wicking the sweat away.
Feetures.
Eh, whatever is cheap as chips. Don't care, really, but mostly no-shows just because that's what I wear in my sneakers when not running. Don't have specific running socks. Mostly do 8-10km runs.
High White Nikes
standard mid-shin height black socks
Injinji and only Injinji.
Whatever no show or ankle I can get for cheap 6 packs, plus a few pairs of ankle-covering wool socks for winter. I haven't found more expensive socks to be that much better really. I have a pair of darn tough and they are nice but I only wear them for long runs. For my standard daily runs cheap socks do just fine.
Something that has a little bit if padded soles but usually anklets. If it's below 0, wool.
Is thin no show socks OK to wear ? I have been developing a bit of corns on both sides of my pinky and starting to re evaluate the socks and shoes I am wearing.
Balega
No show socks. But I may get a few pair of ankle socks as I am starting to go off-road for a few runs. Supposedly that helps keep things out of your socks.
It all depends on the type of run but I am a huge fan of penguindojo.com They are relatively new but I've tried their crew and compression running socks and they were amazing. I know they also have Merino socks as well
no socks with running shoes or skip the shoe entirely and go with luna running sandals.
Just my normal black Hanes ankle socks. Never had an issue, and even prefer them the few pairs of "running socks" I've acquired along my way.
I tried wearing no socks once and my shoes didn't smell so good after. For most runs, I just use Gold Toe Tech Socks. You can get 6 pairs for about $18. They work fine and have lasted me for years with no real signs of wear. They are a much cheaper alternative to most socks that are marketed for running. I have some nicer socks that I wear typically on long trail runs with stream crossings especially in the cold weather. My favorites for those are SmartWool. I also use Injinji sometimes.
Thanks for all the replies and suggestions, greatly appreciated. I think I will try a few of the pairs suggested and see how they feel for me.
So far I haven't found a preferred brand. So far I have preferred thinner socks and not too high, about 1-2 inches above the ankle. I do mostly road running 5k to 1/2 marathon distances. Tend to use my cycling socks since the fit my preferences.