The 20 Best Workout Socks for Every Type of Exercise
Workout socks are often an afterthought to your activewear look — the result of a quick grab into your drawer before lacing up your favorite pair of running shoes or weightlifting shoes. But your socks are almost as important as your workout shoes for boosting performance. “With the right sock, you decrease friction within those shoes and help wick away some the excess moisture during a workout,” says Florida-based podiatrist Dr. Jay Seidel. Unfortunately, not all socks are created equal. Avid runners need different socks than people who perform CrossFit several times a week. Regular walkers might want an ankle sock to match their walking sneakers, while tall, thick socks can be the best match for your hiking boots.
What to look for in the best workout socks
Fabric: This is quite possibly the most important quality of your sock. Natural fibers like wool and cotton help with moisture management, while nylon is smooth. The thickness is also a factor to think about since you might want more padding when hiking and a lightweight fit for your cycling cleat. Also, consider buying styles that have anti-odor or anti-fungal properties to decrease the possibility of infection and keep feet smelling fresh.
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Style: The style of your workout socks is also a matter of preference, but the activity you’re performing can sway your selection. No-show socks that won’t peak out of your shoes can be a choice for running and work great with any indoor spin shoe. Mid-calf socks are excellent for cycling or cross-training for protection with weights. “Activities that include higher impact, such as jump rope, jogging and Zumba, would definitely benefit from additional cushioning to help alleviate heel pain,” Dr. Seidel states. “For activities such as basketball, soccer and tennis where you’re weight-bearing and putting greater strain on the ligaments and muscles on the bottom of your feet, you’ll want a sock that provides arch support and compression to alleviate arch discomfort.”
Fit: Your socks should have a snug fit while working out, so there isn’t any bunching or slipping. You want your feet to feel supported the minute you slip them on. Compression socks are tighter and increase circulation, making them great for longer activities and reducing muscle fatigue after a rigorous workout. Compression socks will also prevent swelling and alleviate pain.
Above all, when shopping for the best workout socks, “it’s important to keep in mind comfortability, durability and breathability,” says Kristen Pandolph, VP of product engineering and innovation at Bombas. These factors will make a difference during your workouts and with recovery.
Your drawer should also have a variety of socks to match all the different workouts you like. When it comes to tossing your socks, Dr. Seidel advises replacing them when they are no longer supportive. “When the compression is decreased due to stretching of the elastic fibers, or when the cushioning is worn thin or holes have developed, these issues prevent the technology from functioning as intended.” Socks are not an article of clothing you can donate, so consider finding a recycling program. Smartwool is collaborating with Material Return on its Second Cut Project to collect old socks and turn them into new things like dog beds.
Since you can’t try on socks before wearing them, we are here to help steer you in the right direction. Here are 20 of the best workout socks to buy now.
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Top Workout Socks
Best for Any Fitness Activity: Bombas Performance Running Ankle Socks
Best Ankle Socks: Saucony Unisex Inferno No Show Tab 3-Pack Socks
Best Anti-Blister Workout Socks: Balega Unisex Blister Resist No-Show Socks
Best for Tennis: Copper Fit Unisex Cushioned Ankle Energy Socks – 6 Pack
Best Workout Socks for CrossFit and Strength Training: Nike Unisex Everyday Plus Cushioned Socks – 6 Pairs
Best Workout Socks for Plantar Fasciitis: Feetures Unisex Plantar Fasciitis Relief Socks
Best Hiking Socks: Smartwool Men’s Everyday Hiker Street Crew Socks
Best Dance Socks: Bloch Women’s Blochsox Dance Socks
Best for Boosting Circulation: Incrediwear Unisex Circulation Socks
Best for Running Long Distances: rnnr Unisex Marathon Performance Running Socks
Best Workout Compression Socks: Comrad Unisex Recycled Cotton Compression Socks – 3 Pack
Best Cycling Socks: Bombas Performance Cycling Calf Socks 3-Pack
Also Consider Compression Socks: Gwyneth Paltrow X Copper Fit Women’s Energy Compression Socks
Best Workout Socks That Double for Everyday Wear: Feetures Women’s Everyday Ultra Light No-Show Socks
Best Yoga Socks: Tavi Noir Savvy Grip Socks
Best for Trail Running: Swiftwick Unisex Flite XT Trail Five Socks
Best Reflective Socks: Lululemon Power Stride Crew Socks
Best Spin Socks: Smartwool Bike Zero Cushion Low Ankle Socks
Best No-Show Workout Socks: Bandier Women’s Ultra No-Show Socks
Best Ski and Snowboard Socks: Stance Unisex Range Snow Otc Socks 2-Pack
Bombas Performance Running Ankle Socks
Best for Any Fitness Activity
Sizes: S-XL
Available in Bright Purple, Geranium, White, Black and Charcoal
For every pair purchased, the brand donates a pair
“After spending two years on research and development to make one pair of socks, we reimagined what our version of the sock could be,” Pandolf shares. “All of our socks have a number of features that make them unique and incredibly comfortable, such as the high-quality, premium materials used to make our products to our proprietary honeycomb arch support that feels like a hug around the foot and seamless toe to get rid of that annoying ridge across the top of a sock.” Anyone who has ever tried Bombas socks knows they are an all-around awesome pair of workout socks. Whether for running, spin or HIIT class, you’ll feel the support. They also last longer, so they’re worth the higher price point.
Courtesy of Bombas
Bombas Men’s Performance Running Ankle Socks
Bombas Women’s Performance Running Ankle Socks
Saucony Unisex Inferno No Show Tab 3-Pack Socks
Best Ankle Running Socks
Sizes: S-XL
Available in Charcoal, White, Grey Heather, Pink, Black/Grey, and Black/White
As far as workout ankle socks, this style from Saucony is on the top of the list. It’s especially ideal for running, since it has a seamless toe construction and arch support that will keep you focused on your miles, not your feet. A secure heel fit provides zero slippage and the socks also have venting for airflow and RunDry Pro technology to keep your feet dry and feeling fresh. And for runners who hate their socks peeking out of their sneakers, these are no-shows, meaning they’ll keep your look sleek and put together.
Courtesy of Amazon
Saucony Inferno No Show Tab 3-Pack Socks
Balega Unisex Blister Resist No-Show Socks
Best Anti-Blister Workout Socks
Sizes: S-XL
Available in 14 colorways, including Royal Blue, Pink/Purple, Grey/Blue, Black, White and Green Pepper
Every runner will encounter blisters at some point. While these can happen while you’re breaking shoes in, they’re often caused by wearing ill-fitting socks. This style from Balega, however, has technology that eliminates the risk of friction. It also has an extra-deep heel pocket to make these fit perfectly snug. This no-show sock will keep your feet cool and dry due to the South African Mohair material, acknowledged as one of the finest natural fibers. There’s no doubt your feet will thank you for buying these.
Balega Blister Resist No Show
Copper Fit Unisex Cushioned Ankle Energy Socks – 6 Pack
Best for Tennis
Sizes: S-XL
Available in White, Black, and Multi-Pack
Copper Infused and Odor Reducing
These Copper Fit socks are Dr. Seidel’s personal and professional favorites to wear with tennis shoes because they have it all. “They’re so comfortable and tick all the boxes; they’re copper-infused, compressive, comfortable and durable,” he says. The inclusion of copper prevents odor-causing bacteria from forming and aids in recovery. The cushioned heel tab provides extra protection against abrasions. Additionally, these offer a cloudlike yet responsive feeling underfoot, making them a great pair of tennis or even pickleball socks. In these, you’ll feel free to bounce around the court and make fast movements without worrying about your feet.
Courtesy of Amazon
Copper Fit Cushioned Ankle Energy Socks – 6 Pack
Nike Unisex Everyday Plus Cushioned Socks – 6 Pairs
Best Workout Socks for CrossFit and Strength Training
Sizes: S-XL
Available in White, Greys, Black, and Multi-Color
This six-pair set provides your week’s worth of socks, since you’ll need one day of rest from your workout routine. What sets these Nike styles apart is the additional padding under the heel and forefoot to support the arch. Reviewers appreciate the plush cushioning, mentioning that it makes a huge difference in terms of comfort. The mid-calf height makes these perfect to wear during jump boxes and squats, while the sweat-wicking, breathable material helps you push through the set.
Courtesy of Nike
Nike Everyday Plus Cushioned- 6 Pairs
Feetures Unisex Plantar Fasciitis Relief Socks
Best Workout Socks for Plantar Fasciitis
Sizes: M-XL
Available in Black and White
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the band that connects the heel bone and toes. Anyone who suffers from it knows how bad the stabbing pain can be in your arch and heel. This Feetures sock fits snugly to stabilize the condition and will provide compression in a targeted area to relieve the pain. It’s also anatomically designed with a lightweight fit that reduces blisters. Another highlight is seamless design that reduced the chance of rubbing.
Courtesy of Amazon
Feetures Plantar Fasciitis No-Show Socks
Smartwool Men’s Everyday Hiker Street Crew Socks
Best for Hiking
Sizes: M-XL
Available in Military Olive, Taupe, Black, Ash, and Light Gray
Made in the USA
For casual hikes or advanced week-long adventures, you’ll need the appropriate socks. Smartwool’s Everyday Hiker Street crew socks have built-in durable zones where your feet need reinforcement. Merino wool makes these odor-resistant, quick-drying and comfortable. The slightly higher height of these socks provides protection and make these perfect to wear with mid-calf hiking boots.
Courtesy of Amazon
Smartwool Men’s Everyday Hiker Street Crew Socks
Bloch Women’s Blochsox Dance Socks
Best Dance Socks
Sizes: XS-L
Available in Black, Charcoal, Cocoa and Sand
Leaps, jumps and turns can be executed on bare feet, but cold toes can be a distraction. Bloch has been creating dance shoes and accessories since the 1930s, so the brand is well-versed in how feet move while dancing. The label’s dance socks have a built-in spin spot for smooth turns and brake lines, strategically placed to help keep pirouettes sturdy. Grip control on the inside of the sock will further aid in mastering difficult positions, while a padded heel will protect bones during landings.
Courtesy of Amazon
Bloch Women’s Blochsox Dance Socks
Incrediwear Unisex Circulation Socks
Best for Boosting Circulation
Sizes: S-XL
Available in Grey and Black and in Crew and Quarter Lengths
Suffer from cold feet? You might have poor circulation. Embedded with semiconductor elements, this style from Incrediwear will effortlessly provide comfort. These socks can also help alleviate other foot issues like neuropathy, plantar fasciitis and vascular conditions. One review commented that these not only helped with her husband’s circulation but also with swelling. “They are comfortable and feel like a hug for your feet,” she shared.
Courtesy of Amazon
Incrediwear Circulation Socks
Rnnr Unisex Marathon Performance Running Socks
Best for Running Long Distances
Sizes: S-XL
Available in Unicorn (Pink/Blue/White)
For runners attracted to bright colors, this is the perfect pair of workout socks. The higher height is not only in style but helps keep your leg clean from dirt and mud. A cushioned footbed and arch support will keep feet cozy and snug while running so you can rack up the miles. As someone who has a few pairs of Rnnr socks in fun patterns, I appreciate the smooth fit. There is never any bunching or discomfort during wear.
Courtesy of rnnr
rnnr Marathon Performance Running Sock
Comrad Unisex Recycled Cotton Compression Socks 3 Pack
Best Workout Compression Socks
Made with recycled cotton
Sizes: S-L and wide
Available in Galaxy, Stargazer, Navy, and Rose
Compression socks improve circulation, relieve swelling and energize feet and legs. Wearing compression socks while being active can boost endurance during cardio and strength training activities like CrossFit. This Comrad style is made with recycled cotton for enhanced stretch and easy on and off access. The inclusion of natural fibers also makes these breathable, so your feet won’t overheat. What’s more, this pair has a contoured cuff and wider footbed, so these won’t pinch or leave any marks on your leg.
Courtesy of Comrad
Comrad Recycled Cotton Compression Socks
Bombas Performance Cycling Calf Socks 3-Pack
Best Cycling Socks
For every pair purchased, the brand donates a pair
Sizes: M-XL
Available in Ink White Mix and Pink Blue Mix
Pandolf shares that Bombas truly designs socks with specific activities in mind. Bikers can rest assured that these socks have everything they need. Made from performance-focused yarns with ventilation, these cycling socks will keep your feet comfy and dry. They also have the strategic cushioning Bombas socks are known for and sit higher on the leg for necessary protection against dirt, sticks and bike spikes. Bike commuters will also be a fan, since the taller height will work with jeans or work pants.
Courtesy of Bombas
Bombas Men’s Performance Cycling Calf Sock 3-Pack
Bombas Women’s Performance Cycling Calf Sock 3-Pack
Gwyneth Paltrow X Copper Fit Women’s Energy Compression Socks
Also Consider Compression Socks
Made in collaboration with Gwyneth Paltrow
Sizes: S/M-L/XL
Available in Twilight and Serenity
Compression socks can help your legs feel better after a long day, brutal workout or aggressive hike. Made in collaboration with Gwyneth Paltrow and her wellness-focused lifestyle brand Goop, these Copper Fit socks have a snug fit around the ankle and calf but are roomier at the knee so you can move freely. They also have extra cushion in the footbed to absorb shock and keep steps extra protected.
Courtesy of Copper Fit
Gwyneth Paltrow X Copper Fit Energy Compression Socks
Feetures Women’s Everyday Ultra Light No-Show Socks
Best Workout Socks That Double for Everyday Wear
Made with yarn made from recycled plastic
Sizes: S-L
Available in 12 colorways/prints, including Chevron Pink Chalk, Chevron Light Gray, Black and Fern Leaf Blue
These Feetures everyday socks are great to wear for a quick walk around the block or for support during regular morning miles. With a thin construction, these will provide a light and cool feel. They also have targeted compression for superior support and an enhanced fit to prevent blisters. The Silicone Heel Hugger technology combined with moisture-wicking fibers keep your feet comfortable. We recommend buying a few pairs of these staple socks so you can avoid frequent laundry days.
Courtesy of Feetures
Feetures Women’s Everyday Ultra Light No-Show
Tavi Noir Savvy Grip Socks
Best Yoga Socks
Sizes: S-XL
Available in 26 colors
If your feet get chilly during downward dog, grab some workout socks with grips on the bottom. The rubber traction details will help stabilize your poses and keep you upright during barre and pilates routines. Buyers love the fit, quality and fun patterns of these Tavi Noir yoga socks, which also feature added cushioning at the heel.
Courtesy of Tavi Noir
Tavi Noir Savvy Grip Socks
Swiftwick Unisex Flite XT Trail Five Socks
Best for Trail Running
Made with a natural fiber
Sizes: S-XL
Available in Heather and Coal
When you take your run off the treadmill or flat, hard pavement onto a trail, you’ll need to reevaluate your footwear. The Flite XT socks are technologically advanced, making them ideal to wear when running fast on rocky terrain. They offer extra support around the ankle to help with fast movements and keep you stable on uneven ground. Constructed with merino wool, the socks wick away moisture to keep your feet blister-free. The finishing touch is a v-shaped design in the heel to keep your foot snug and prevent bunching.
Courtesy of Swiftwick
Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Five
Lululemon Power Stride Crew Socks
Best Reflective Socks
Sizes: S-L
Available in Highlight Yellow, White, Flare, and Black
If you run or cycle in low-light environments, whether first in the morning or at dusk, some extra clothes or socks with reflective hints will help ensure you stay safe on the road. Lululemon’s Power Stride crew socks are designed with a PerformaHeel, which will provide stretch and cushion and keep the sock in place as you move. At the arch, you have 360-degree support, while at the toes you have a seamless construction.
Courtesy of Lululemon
Smartwool Bike Zero Cushion Low Ankle Socks
Best Spin Socks
Made with recycled Nylon
Sizes: S-L
Available in Medium Gray, Moonbeam, and Purple Eclipse
Whether you’re hopping on your Peloton bike at home or heading to a SoulCycle or CycleBar class, it’s important to slip into the right socks before getting your spin on. This Smartwool pair features a 4 Degree elite fit system, a Virtually Seamless toe construction and breathable mesh zones for airflow. The material is a merino wool blend that’s responsibly sourced, making these socks not only soft and odor-resistant but also better for the planet. Another awesome thing about this brand is that its women’s socks are made specifically for female feet.
Courtesy of Smartwool
Smartwool Men’s Bike Zero Cushion Low Ankle Socks
Smartwool Women’s Bike Zero Cushion Low Ankle Socks
Bandier Women’s Ultra No-Show Socks
One size fit Women’s size 5-10
Available in White, Heather Grey, and Black
Pack of three
As a fashion editor and stylist, I know the wrong sock can ruin your look. These no-show socks from women’s activewear retail site and store Bandier have a slim silhouette to protect your feet but not peak out past sneakers. These have a contoured fit, with no extra cushion to limit bunching. From HIIT or spin classes to afternoon walks, this will be your new go-to pair.
Courtesy of Bandier
Bandier Women’s Ultra No-Show Socks
Stance Unisex Range Snow Otc Socks 2-Pack
Best Ski and Snowboard Socks
Sizes: M-L
Available in Blue
Pack of two, over the calf coverage
When hitting the slopes, you want your socks to be tall, provide added coverage from the cold and be smooth and flat on your leg. Nothing can make your mountain experience more miserable than socks bunching inside your boot or experiencing cold toes. Thankfully, this Stance sock has it all. Stretching over the calf, it will cover your entire lower leg. Medium cushioning also keeps the fit snug and secure.
Courtesy of Stance
Stance Range Snow Otc Socks 2-Pack
Meet the Experts
Dr. Jay Seidel is a podiatric surgeon at South Florida Podiatry. He is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association and has been published in multiple peer-reviewed medical and surgical journals.
Kristen Pandolph is the vice president of product engineering and innovation at comfort-focused sock and apparel brand Bombas, which carries some of the best workout socks around. She was previously a hosiery and sock designer for Cole Haan and has also designed for L.L. Bean.
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