Did you know that your running socks can make a big difference to your performance as well as to your comfort as you run? Finding the right running socks can protect your feet against common problems that runners develop, including blisters, rubbing and pain. If you’ve never experimented with running socks before, we recommend talking with our expert team at The Edge to find out about the different options available and trying several types of running socks to discover your preferences.
Here at The Edge, we have an extensive range of running socks, running shoes and running clothing, and we will always be happy to help you find the best options for your lifestyle. If you love running, you’ll know that having the right equipment can increase your enjoyment by ensuring that you are comfortable throughout your run, and this will inspire you to run further, faster and for longer.
Running Socks: Essential Features
The latest running socks make use of fabrics and technology that can benefit your body and make your workout more enjoyable. Your running socks can help to control the moisture on your feet, give you increased support while you run and reduce the friction in your shoes. We recommend looking for running socks with the following features:
- Great fabric choice. Paying attention to the fabric your socks are made of will give you a head start when you’re looking for a good solution for wearing inside your running shoes. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, spandex or nylon, are designed to wick away the moisture from the feet, drawing sweat away from the skin to the surface of the sock. This means that your feet will not become sweaty and wet as you run and you are less likely to suffer from blisters. Most running socks are made from synthetic materials, but some are made from Merino wool and this is another great option. Merino wool is a natural fibre that is great for wicking moisture away from the skin and helps to regulate the body temperature, keeping your feet warm when the weather is cold and helping to keep them cool when you’re running in higher temperatures. Merino wool is also breathable and helps to reduce foot odour as well as being a very comfortable choice. You should not wear cotton socks for running, as these are more likely to hold moisture against your skin, which can make your feet uncomfortable and lead to blisters.
- Extra cushioning. Just like in your running shoes, the amount of cushioning in your running socks is a personal preference and can make quite a significant difference to the way your feet feel as you run. You should consider the conditions you are running in, as you may be too hot if you opt for heavy cushioning in warm weather conditions, and think about your running style as this may affect your choice. If you prefer thinner socks, you may want to try light cushioning, which can offer increased protection without feeling restrictive on the feet. A higher level of cushioning will give you increased padding, especially in key areas such as the front of the foot and the heel, which may strike the road surface first when you are running. If you have a foot injury or are running very long distances, you may prefer a higher level of cushioning, for extra protection and comfort.
- Breathability. If your feet cannot breathe, you will feel uncomfortable and are much more likely to experience rubbing, blisters and foot odour. Many running socks are designed with mesh panels or ventilation panels that allow air to circulate more effectively as you run, enabling the feet to breathe and stay cool for comfort and protection.
- Seamless design. The seams on traditional socks can be uncomfortable when you are running, creating pressure on the feet that can lead to friction and cause blisters. Most running shoes today have a seamless design or use flat seams to reduce the risk of rubbing, blisters and soreness, and this is especially important if you are running long distances.
- Arch support. If you’ve never really explored the different designs of running socks, you may be surprised to hear that some socks contain built-in arch support that can make a big difference to your comfort level, providing extra stability as you run. If you have an existing foot problem, such as plantar fasciitis or pain in the foot, the additional compression in this area can make a big difference to the way your feet feel as you run.
- Compression element. If you have never tried compression socks for running, these can be an exciting discovery! Compression socks can aid your performance by giving your circulation a boost and providing extra support for your feet as you run. You might wish to try full compression socks, which usually come to the knee and are a popular choice for reducing muscle fatigue and improving blood flow in the lower legs and feet. These are often recommended to help with injury recovery and can be helpful for long-distance running. Short compression socks will give you more targeted compression in the arch of your foot and the ankle, which will help your feet to feel stable and well-supported during runs.
- The ideal length. Running socks are available in a variety of lengths and different fit styles so that you can choose the best options for your running habits. Many runners prefer ankle or trainer socks that help you to stay cool and protect your feet against rubbing on your running shoes but do not give a high level of support. Socks that come above the ankle are known as crew-length socks and these are often recommended for trail running, especially in cooler weather conditions. If you prefer more support around the ankle, these may be a good choice. Long socks will usually pull up to the knee and often contain compression technology, providing extra warmth and giving your circulation a boost.
- Reducing foot odour. When you exercise, your body will sweat and this can be problematic for runners as the feet can become wet, slippery and smelly if the sweat is not drawn away from the skin. Socks made from Merino wool or synthetic fabrics that contain antimicrobial treatment agents are designed to combat this problem, drawing sweat away from the skin and keeping your feet fresh, even on long runs.
Trying several different running socks can help you to work out what works best for you so that you can choose the most comfortable options that enhance your performance and feel great on your feet.
Running Socks can improve your personal best
Training for a long run or an endurance challenge can be exhausting and it’s good to know that your socks can help! Some of the running socks available today are designed with the most modern technology to give you a boost and improve your performance as well as reduce your risk of injury or foot pain. We recommend the following running socks:
- Stance Performance Lizard Tab is a great choice to protect against rubbing and foot pain, using FEEL 360 technology to give a superior feel. These trainer socks are designed to keep pace with you as you run, giving light support and utilising technology that can wick away sweat to keep your feet feeling fresh and energised.
- Hilly Marathon Fresh Anklet Neon socks use Polygiene technology, which contains anti-microbial silver salt to prevent bacterial and fungal growth in your socks. These socks provide a supportive fit with anatomical cushioning for optimum comfort and are fully breathable for freshness and good foot health.
- Feetures Elite Max Cushion No Show are running socks engineered with anatomical design using the latest technology and targeted compression to ensure that your feet are comfortable and reduce the risk of blisters. These adapt to the unique contours of your feet and use Max Cushion technology and a seamless design to protect against impact and irritation while you are running.
- The Mizuno DryLite Endura Trail Socks are a fantastic choice for trail runners, with extra padding on the toes and heel and around the Achilles tendon for improved impact absorption and comfort. These socks are designed to give you the protection you need on unpredictable surfaces and are popular with trail runners in Ireland for this reason.
Our range includes many different types of running socks and we’ll be happy to help you explore the options and find the best solutions for your feet and your running habits.
Great Quality Running Shoes and Socks at The Edge in Cork
Running is a great way to maintain your health and fitness, and wearing the right shoes and socks while you run will help to protect your body and your feet against injuries and damage. Our specialists can help you find shoes and socks that fit you well and provide the correct amount of support for your running style and your unique foot shape. Taking care of your feet becomes even more important with age, so it’s worth investing the time to find out what works for you as a runner.
Here at The Edge in Cork, we have an excellent selection of equipment for all your sports and activities outdoors, especially running, cycling, triathlon and open-water swimming. We also specialise in surfing equipment and bikes, with an extensive range of traditional bikes and electric bikes, including road bikes, hardtail mountain bikes and hybrid bikes. Pop into our store in Cork or visit our website today to find out more about our range.
