What is the purpose of running socks?

So you bought a new pair of running shoes because you want to take care of your body while running. Good move. But have you considered how much of a difference running socks can make, too? Not all socks are created equal. In this article, we'll cover why running socks make a difference and what to look for when purchasing them.

Running socks are designed with synthetic materials to wick moisture away from your feet, increase ventilation to keep you comfortable, and offer support and compression in high-stress areas of your feet like your medial arch or heel. Running socks are very important when you want to break in your new running shoes.

Get technical

A general rule with any running gear is to simply avoid cotton. This certainly holds true with socks. Cotton holds moisture and can cause serious blisters on the feet and toes. Technical, synthetic materials like nylon, Lycra, polyester and spandex wick moisture away from your feet and drastically reduce your chances of getting those nasty blisters.

Many running socks are also designed with seamless construction, again to help avoid any friction that can, in turn, cause blisters. In addition to the technical aspects of synthetic material, just as importantly, they are much less likely to hold odour like cotton does.